Children entering first through eighth grades in the fall can attend the ISU Extension’s Taste of Camp program, designed to let youth explore and submerge themselves in the camping experience in a safe, fun and welcoming environment.
This summer’s Taste of Camp will happen at the Iowa 4-H Camping Center near Madrid. Children do not need to be members of the 4-H Youth Development program in order to attend.
The camping adventure is jointly hosted by the Iowa State University Extension and Outreach offices in Polk, Dallas, Madison and Warren counties. Last year, 40 of the 101 campers were from Dallas County.
Camp activities include archery, building a campfire, exploring a marsh, performing skits, singing songs, hiking in nature, splashing in the swimming pool and the option, for the Full Camp only, to zip line or climb a 65-foot wall.
“It’s really fun all the games they have us play like the teambuilding and all the cabin trust exercises,” said past Dallas County camper Carly.
Lily, another Dallas County camper, added, “I like meeting new friends there and then still staying in contact after camp. Sometimes our whole cabin still texts.”
Youth entering fifth through eighth grades may attend Full Camp from Wednesday, June 22 at 4 p.m. to Saturday, June 25 at 11 a.m.
Youngsters entering first through fourth grades may attend Mini Camp from Friday, June 24 at 8 a.m. to Saturday, June 25 at 11 a.m.
Taste of Camp fosters in young people an expanding interest, appreciation and knowledge of the natural environment and sciences, according to a program spokesperson. Children develop confidence and leadership skills as they discover, learn and grow.
Family members are invited to attend the closing ceremony and campfire lunch on Saturday, June 25 at 10:30 a.m.
Cost is based on a three-tier system, which allows for a free-will system for families to pick the level of price that is comfortable and affordable. Tier prices for the Mini Camp: Tier 1: $105, Tier 2: $120 or Tier 3: $140. Prices for the Full Camp: Tier 1: $253, Tier 2: $260 and Tier 3: $285.
Financial assistance is also available through the Iowa 4-H Foundation.
For more information or to register, visit the Taste of Camp website or contact Regional 4-H Youth Specialist Jeff Macomber at 515-975-2677 or jmacombe@iastate.edu.
