Open 361 Days a Year: Admissions 10:00am – 3:30pm; park closes at 4:30pm

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Due to significant flooding and impassable roads in our region from Tropical Storm Helene, the WNC Nature Center is temporarily CLOSED.

All of our animals are safe and accounted for, and there is minimal damage to the habitats. However, Swannanoa River Road and the main bridge to the Nature Center were washed away, and it will take time to reopen. We will undoubtedly need your support as we rebuild. 

Donations can be made at www.wildwnc.org/donate.

Summer Camp

Summer camps at the WNC Nature Center are fun, educational experiences designed to involve campers in the wonders of the natural world!  All sessions include animal encounters, outdoor recreation, crafts, and group activities on and around the Nature Center grounds.  

Thank you to all of the families who attended our 2024 camp season! Details for summer 2025 will be posted in January. Stay tuned! 

QUESTIONS?
Contact Camp Director Libbie Dobbs-Alexander

ldobbs-alexander@ashevillenc.gov
(828) 259-8085

Camp Details

Please check back January 2025 for updated camp information, including camp dates and descriptions! 

Grade Level & Class Size
Registration is based on the child’s birthdate.  All camps are for children born between August 1, 2014 and August 31, 2018. Registration numbers may be limited in accordance with public health recommendations.

Fees  
Registration is $250 for each child per week. Friends of the WNC Nature Center Members receive a $25 discount. After Care is $75 per week for Members and Non-members. Fees include program instruction, activities, snacks, all materials, and a camp t-shirt.

Scholarships
The Friends of the WNC Nature Center is offering full scholarships for qualified families to attend 1 week long session of summer camp in 2024. Families that qualify for the Federal TRIO programs will be eligible to enroll in a lottery system for a chance to enroll in camp. Selected candidates will be able to register for camp and can add optional aftercare with no fees charged to the family. Qualifying participants will be chosen at random. The enrollment lottery for scholarships will open the week of February 5 to 9. This will be a separate lottery than the general summer camp enrollment lottery.

After Care   
Families can extend the camp experience with a pick-up time of 5:00 pm instead of 3:00 pm. Children in After Care generally swim at the Rec Park Pool unless the weather or other factors dictate a pool closing, in which case campers do crafts or explore the Nature Center.

Please PRE-REGISTER for this service when initially registering for camp. It cannot be prorated daily, so pre-register for the entire week and feel free to pick up your camper as it works for your schedule. After-care registration will be available on a first-come, first serve basis with capacity limits each week.

Programs
All program activities will be based on participants’ interests and engagement levels.  Enrolled families will receive detailed information for each camp session via email 2-3 weeks prior to the start date, including an outline for the week. All activities are subject to change during the course of the week due to weather conditions, timing, or other factors. 

Special Considerations     
Our primary goal is to provide a safe and positive camp experience for all. Camp staff is unable to provide one-on-one supervision for participants with disabilities, but we would be happy to assist the family in making those arrangements with a care facilitator of your choice. Parents/Guardians are asked to discuss their needs with Camp Director Libbie Dobbs-Alexander prior to registration.

Cancellations
A fee of $50 will apply to cancellations. 50% of the registration fee will be withheld for cancellations made less than three weeks prior to the session. Allow four to six weeks for refunds to be issued from the time of cancellation. 

Safety           
The wellbeing of our participants is paramount. We will follow all public health guidelines that are applicable when camp is in session. This may include mask wearing unless eating or drinking, washing and sanitizing hands regularly, social distancing, temperature monitoring, and sanitizing equipment and surfaces. Activities will be outdoors as much as possible. Indoor space will also be used and is available for inclement weather.