VERO BEACH — Registration is now open for Camp McKee at McKee Botanical Garden. Camp McKee offers children ages 5 to 9 a week-long adventure filled with activities that will bring them closer to nature.
Camp will take place over two weekly sessions: July 6-10 and July 13-17. During each session, campers will be introduced to a variety of subjects found in nature such as plants, animals, soil and seeds. Campers will take part in daily nature walks through the Garden, observe plant and insect specimens, learn about the care and maintenance of McKee’s waterlilies, create art and craft projects, and gain knowledge about the environment and its resources.
Campers will also get to interact with native wildlife species during live demonstrations where they will observe, pet and learn more about the habitats of a variety of animals.
Finally, firefighters from the Indian River County Fire Department will be on site to give campers a lesson in fire safety. Campers will get to tour the interior cabin of a real fire truck and participate in a fire hose demonstration.
“Camp McKee provides a safe and stimulating environment where children can deepen their connection to the natural world while exploring the Garden,” said McKee Executive Director Christine Hobart. “Through a variety of activities, we hope to inspire a new generation of nature enthusiasts and get children excited about the outdoors.”
Serving as camp instructor for a third consecutive year is Lucie Burke. A Florida Certified Naturalist and Certified Permaculture Designer, Burke taught garden and art at Sungrove Montessori School for 14 years. She also co-developed McKee’s Garden Discovery Backpacks program.
The hours for Camp McKee are 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. daily. Cost is $200 per week and includes a Camp McKee t-shirt along with lunch, snacks and all activities. To download a registration form, please visit www.mckeegarden.org or call (772) 794-0601.
Camp McKee is generously supported by the Disney Vero Beach Resort. McKee Botanical Garden is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization whose mission 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 Highway 1 in Vero Beach. Summer admission rates are $10 adults, $9 seniors, $5 children ages 3 to 12. Admission is free for members and children under 3. Hours of operation are Tuesday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday, 12 to 5 p.m. The Garden is closed Mondays.