Summer Camps at Middle Fork

Encourage the young people in your life to explore, learn, and grow, with our one-day summer camps at one of Champaign County's most biodiverse and unqiue natural landscapes, Middle Fork River Forest Preserve! Check out three great options for different camps that teach about nature, history, and outdoor skills. 

Wilderness Explorers

Wednesday, June 10, Middle Fork River Forest Preserve | Register here

Time: 10 AM - 12 PM
Age: 6-12 years
Fee: $10 

Questions: 217-896-2455, [email protected]

Investigate nature through woodland expeditions, scavenger hunts, and games! We'll hike through the forest preserve’s natural features and learn about artifacts that tell the history and culture of the environment around us. 

This program is also happening at Homer Lake and Lake of the Woods Forest Preserve on seperate dates.

Teen Outdoor Adventure Camp

Wednesday, June 24, Middle Fork River Forest Preserve | Register here

Time: 10 AM - 2 PM
Ages: 12-17 years old
Fee: $20 
Questions: Patrick Ahasic, 217-896-2455 or [email protected]

This camp will allow teens to learn about local wildlife and develop a deeper appreciation of the nature around us. Throughout the day your teen will hone plant and animal identification, practice essential wilderness survival skills, and connect with their peers in a setting made with them in mind. Campers will participate in hands-on activities which promote teamwork and foster a deeper connection with nature.  

Historical Mythbusters

Thursday, June 25, Middle Fork River Forest Preserve | Register here

Time: 10 AM-11:30 AM
Age: 13-15 years
Fee: $10

Questions: 217-586-2612, [email protected] 

This program will prompt campers to investigate a series of popular local myths throughout history. From bigfoot to local hauntings and UFO sightings, we will learn about myths, how they originate, and how to challenge them. Working in groups, campers will be tasked with proving or disproving a claim through a series of activities engaging in critical thinking and scientific research skills.

*** Click here to see an overview of summer camps.***