VERO BEACH — Young naturalists will soon be embarking on a week-long adventure that introduces them to plants, ecology, and various members of the animal kingdom at Camp McKee.
For the fifth consecutive year, McKee Botanical Garden will host Camp McKee for children age 5-9 years old. The next session will take place from July 30-August 3.
This weekly session will provide campers with an opportunity to increase their knowledge and appreciation for the natural world through a variety of fun, age-appropriate activities.
Campers will take nature walks through the garden, observe plant and insect specimens, learn about the care and maintenance of McKee’s waterlilies, make butterfly kites, decorate bird houses, and take part in a scavenger hunt.
Additionally, camp will feature weekly visits from Arnold’s Wildlife, The Treasure Coast Wildlife Center, and Florida Parrot Rescue offering campers the chance to see, touch, and learn about native wildlife.
Firefighters from the Indian River County Fire Department will teach campers the basics of fire safety as they tour the interior cabin of a real fire truck. Afterwards, campers will get to cool off under the spray of a fire hose.
“At Camp McKee, children can experience the wonders of nature firsthand through a variety of activities that are fun and meaningful to them,” stated McKee Executive Director Christine Hobart.
“The goal of Camp McKee is to instill a curiosity and passion for the outdoors that campers carry with them long after they leave the Garden,” Hobart added.
Camp McKee will take place from 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. daily.
Camp McKee is generously supported by the Kahle Foundation and Disney Vero Beach Resort.
The mission of McKee Botanical Garden is to nurture and enhance a historic garden in a unique tropical setting for the education, enjoyment and enrichment of all.
McKee Botanical Garden is located at 350 US 1 in Vero Beach.
Summer admission fees are $7 adults, $6 seniors, and $4 children ages 3 to 12. Admission is free for members and children under 3.
Hours of operation are Tuesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday from Noon to 5 p.m.
The Garden is closed on Mondays and select holidays.