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For seven weeks this June and July, a crew of curious campers explored Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary’s boardwalk and beyond. 69 local youth, aged 6-16, laughed, learned, and formed lifelong connections to the nature that makes Southwest Florida so special. About one-third of those campers returned for multiple weeks as topics covered everything from birds to fungus to camouflage. Activities ranged from using scientific tools to practice observation skills to engaging imaginations through improv games. Participants also used natural materials to create take-home masterpieces.

No matter the theme, each week’s learning concluded with a family showcase to reflect the campers’ newfound knowledge. Sometimes, this meant campers channeling their inner animals for a theatrical production. Other times, campers traded sunhats for spatulas to cook a fungus feast. No matter the project, fun was in abundance. 

But a summer full of wild Florida adventures doesn’t just happen. It took the work of two incredibly dedicated seasonal staffers, a dozen faithful Volunteers, and the backing of the entire Sanctuary team. Whether it was a presentation from a special guest scientist or a Visitor Center Assistant patiently price-checking items during Nature Store shopping excursions, the Sanctuary’s team ensured every interaction was meaningful. Staff even turned a prescribed burn into an opportunity for an interactive parade—talk about core memories. 

And all that hard work didn’t go unnoticed. Parents showered staff with compliments like, “We found a gem with this camp and can’t wait until next year,” and “My son doesn’t like anything, but he loved this!” Campers left each Friday wearing wide smiles, but not before requesting staff autographs and asking when they could come back and visit again. We know we’ve done our jobs when the leaders of tomorrow are clamoring for more time in the swamp.