Oregon’s Salmon run depends on the vitality of hundreds of water springs in the Gorge that trickle to the Columbia River. We will hike up to waterfalls to learn about the habitats and geology that support salmon and visit a fish hatchery with thousands of fish ready to start their journey to the sea. Come learn about the ecology, geology and cultural significance of the Columbia River on this exciting search for wildlife!
We will form a deeper understanding of nature by exploring different ways of observing and experiencing the natural world that surrounds us. We will sketch shapes that come to life near the creek and create projects inspired by the forest and all of the amazing things that we observe. Spring is the perfect time to draw inspiration from nature’s colors – from blooming flowers and native plants to colorful songbirds returning from their winter homes, so come on out and create the day away!
They range from microscopic to bigger than your hand and science estimates that there are millions of species on the planet! Insects and their arachnid cousins can be bizarre, funny looking, beautiful but also powerful. This camp is all about learning the basic science behind what makes bugs one of the greatest evolutionary successes in nature! Head out into the forest with your magnifying glass in hand to seek out some of these tiny inhabitants that call our Sanctuary home.
Band together with fellow campers to learn the ins and outs of wilderness survival while we hike around local trails. Throughout the day you will discover the answers to all your survival questions. Things like: Where might you find water when needed and how could you make sure it is safe to drink? How to can you navigate the trails to ensure you don’t get lost? What are items that are essential for survival? These important skills will help build outdoor confidence all while having fun and making new friends!
“Become a bird biologist this week! The thrill of the search and the satisfaction of identifying the birds you find are sure to hook you on this awesome endeavor. Investigate bird specimens to learn about their amazing adaptations, learn how to find birds with binoculars, recognize their field marks and observe their behavior in this action-packed camp!
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Knock knock, hoot’s there? OWLS, that’s who who! Come search the forest for signs of owls as we learn about these illusive forest creatures. Investigate specimens, dissect owl pellets and learn about all of the amazing owls that call the Pacific Northwest home.
Portland is home to some of the most forested habitat in a city in our country! Come out and learn about why having forests in our cities is so important to wildlife, plant life and human life. Hike the trails, learn about local efforts to conserve green spaces and use your newfound knowlege to take action to protect all that is green and beautiful.
Apex predators are those at the top of food chains like Wolves, Cougars, Orcas and Eagles. They are magnificent in size, fierce and armed with lethal hunting skills, yet they are vulnerable and depend on healthy ecosystems to survive. Join us in learning about apex predators’ unique adaptations through the study of real skulls and pelts. Search the forest to look for signs on the trail that would tell you if these animals have visited our Sanctuary.”
Have you ever wondered how different animals use their wings so differently? Some birds fly quietly while others are fast, some use it for courtship while others fly above the clouds. Come learn about all of the special adaptations that our wonderful winged friends have while examining birds bones, wings, tallons and owl pellets. Walk through the forest looking for these creatures of the sky and test yourself on how many different species you can find!
Grow your gardening skills and become a master of plants! Join us for a Spring day filled with hands-on gardening fun for those who love both nature and creativity. We will learn about native plants and flowers through colorful crafts. Let’s have fun, get a little dirty and help nature thrive!