For Campers in 1st through 5th Grades

Winter in Iowa provides a wonderful opportunity to explore the wildlife adapted to survive in cold temperatures. From black-capped chickadees to white-tailed deer and other furry mammals, winter wildlife is all around us. 

At Snowy Owl Camp, we will explore the winter wildlife through various activities including building our own wildlife viewing blinds, tracking animals at Macbride Nature Recreation Area, and songbird banding with professionals permitted by the U.S. Geological Survey's Bird Banding Laboratory. Other activities include Rock Climbing at the CRWC climbing wall. 

Drop-off and Pick-up 

• Drop-Off - 7:45 am - 8:30 am at the Athletics Hall of Fame 
• Pick - Up - 3:45 pm - 4:15 pm at the Athletics Hall of Fame 

No late-stay option will be provided for this camp. Pick-up and drop-off will ONLY be at the Athletics Hall of Fame. 

Cost for Winter Break Camp registration is tiered pricing. Below are the three price options: 

Tier 1, $335 - This price covers the direct cost of our program for your camper. It also contributes to costs that enhance your camper’s experience such as maintaining the spaces they will visit, providing funds needed to maintain and grow our program, and making camp more accessible to all families. 

Tier 2, $285 - This price most accurately reflects the direct cost of our program for your camper. 

Tier 3, $235 - This is our subsidized rate for families that find the full cost out of their budget.

For Campers in 1st through 5th Grades

Come experience the first waves of spring at Vulture Camp. From early migrators to changes in other animal behavior, see who is waking up with the warmth of the season.

At Vulture Camp campers will explore what spring means for our wildlife and natural landscapes through various activities, including wildlife viewing at Macbride Nature Recreation Area as well as other public lands in and around Iowa City. Campers will participate in raptor surveys, and songbird banding with professionals permitted by the U.S. Geological Survey’s Bird Banding Laboratory. Other activities include crafting shelters out of natural materials.

Drop-off and Pick-up

• Drop-Off - 7:45 am - 8:30 am at the Athletics Hall of Fame
• Pick - Up - 3:45 pm - 4:15 pm at the Athletics Hall of Fame

No late-stay option will be provided for this camp. Pick-up and drop-off will ONLY be at the Athletics Hall of Fame.

Cost for Vulture Camp registration is tiered pricing. Below are the three price options:

Tier 1, $335 - This price covers the direct cost of our program for your camper. It also contributes to costs that enhance your camper’s experience such as maintaining the spaces they will visit, providing funds needed to maintain and grow our program, and making camp more accessible to all families. 

Tier 2, $285 - This price most accurately reflects the direct cost of our program for your camper. 

Tier 3, $235 - This is our subsidized rate for families that find the full cost out of their budget.

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Details coming soon! 

Session 1 – Seeds to Sprouts: A Growing Adventure 

Campers can sign up for one week of Session 1 at Harrier Camp. 

This camp is available during the following weeks: 

Week 1: June 16 - 20 
Week 2: June 23 - 27 
Week 3: June 30 - July 2 (3-day camp) 

Get ready to dig into the world of plants at Harrier 1: Seeds to Sprouts. This hands-on camp is all about exploring the wonderful world of plants – from planting seeds to learning about the life cycle of plants. Little gardeners will discover how plants develop, discover the layers of soil that help them thrive, and learn the steps that lead to strong, healthy plants. By the end of the week, your little gardener will be a true plant expert—ready to grow a greener world!

Session 2 – Tadpole Expedition: Discovering Pond Life 

Campers can sign up for one week of Session 2 at Harrier Camp. 

This camp is available during the following weeks: 

Week 4: July 7 - 11 
Week 5: July 14 - 18 
Week 6: July 21 - 25 

During Harrier 2: Tadpole Expedition campers will spend their days exploring local ponds and creeks, searching for tadpoles, frogs, fish, and other fascinating creatures. With hands-on activities and guided exploration, children will learn about the ecosystems of these waterways while getting up close with nature. From wading through the creek to discovering pond life, every day offers a new discovery. Join us for an unforgettable expedition into the heart of our local waterways! 

Harrier Camp is available for campers going into 1st and 2nd Grade in the fall of 2025.

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Session 1 – Tiny Tracks, Big Adventures 

Campers can sign up for one week of Session 1 at Chickadee Camp. 

This camp is available during the following weeks: 

Week 1: June 16 - 20 
Week 2: June 23 - 27 
Week 3: June 30 - July 2 (3-day camp) 

Embark on a wildlife adventure at Chickadee 1: Tiny Tracks, Big Adventures. This camp gives kids the chance to search for and observe Iowa's wildlife in their natural habitats. Campers will learn to read the clues animals leave behind, from tracks and scat to nests and signs of feeding. 

Through hands-on exploration, they’ll discover how to identify different species and understand their behaviors. Whether tracking tiny critters or spotting bigger animals, this camp offers an exciting way to connect with nature while learning how to protect Iowa’s wildlife.

Session 2 – Tallgrass Trekkers: Exploring Iowa’s Prairies 

Campers can sign up for one week of Session 2 at Chickadee Camp.

This camp is available during the following weeks: 

Week 4: July 7 - 11 
Week 5: July 14 - 18 
Week 6: July 21 - 25 

Get ready for an adventure through the waving grasses of the prairie at Chickadee 2: Tallgrass Trekkers! Designed for curious campers, Chickadee Camp invites young explorers to discover the wonders of tallgrass ecosystems. Through hands-on activities like bug catching, wildflower spotting, and storytelling in the open prairie, campers will learn about the plants and animals that call this habitat home. Daily nature hikes and creative crafts inspired by prairie life ensure plenty of fun and discovery. Join us for a week of adventure, imagination, and a deeper connection to the great outdoors. 

Chickadee Camp is available for campers going into 1st or 2nd Grade in the fall of 2025. 

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Specialty Camp – Avian Adventurers 

Campers can sign up for one week of Avian Adventurers. 

This camp is available during the following weeks: 

Week 7: July 28 - August 1 
Week 8: August 4 - 8 
Week 9: August 11 – 15 

Soar into the world of birds with Avian Adventurers! For the curious camper, this camp introduces young nature lovers to the fascinating lives of our feathered friends. Campers will enjoy hands-on activities like birdwatching, learning to identify bird songs, and assisting professionals as they band birds for research. Join us for a week of wonder and winged discoveries! 

Avian Adventurers is available for campers going into 1st or 2nd Grade in the fall of 2025.

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Session 1 – Creekside Critters: Life by the Water 

Campers can sign up for one week of Session 1 at Eagle Camp. 

This camp is available during the following weeks: 

Week 1: June 16 – 20
Week 2: June 23 - 27 
Week 3: June 30 - July 2 (3-day camp)

Dive into the wonders of aquatic life at Eagle 1: Creekside Critters! This exciting camp takes adventurers canoeing along the scenic shores of Lake Macbride, where they’ll explore the rich ecosystems that thrive at the water’s edge. Campers will wade into prairie ponds to search for frogs, snakes, and aquatic invertebrates, uncovering the secrets of life below the surface. With hands-on activities, shoreline hikes, and plenty of water fun, this camp offers a perfect mix of adventure and discovery. Join us for a week of splashing, paddling, and learning all about life by the water. 

Session 2 – Scales & Tales: Stories from Nature’s Creatures 

Campers can sign up for one week of Session 2 at Eagle Camp.

This camp is available during the following weeks: 

Week 4: July 7 - 11 
Week 5: July 14 - 18 
Week 6: July 21 - 25 

Get ready to dive into the fascinating world of reptiles, amphibians, and the ecosystems they call home! Eagle 2: Scales & Tales is a week-long adventure where campers will meet scaly friends up close and explore their important roles in nature. Through hands-on activities, creative storytelling, and outdoor exploration, campers will discover how creatures with scales and tails inspire conservation efforts and spark our imagination. Perfect for young nature enthusiasts eager to connect with wildlife and uncover the secrets of these amazing animals. 

Eagle Camp is available for campers going into 3rd-5th Grade in the fall of 2025.

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Specialty Camp – Winged Warriors 

Campers can sign up for one week of Winged Warriors. 

This camp is available during the following weeks: 

Week 7: July 28 - August 1 
Week 8: August 4 - 8 
Week 9: August 11 - 15

Embark on an adventure at Winged Warriors, where conservation meets outdoor survival skills. Campers will explore the natural world while learning essential outdoor skills like fire building, shelter construction, and orienteering. Along the way, they’ll discover the connections between these skills and the conservation of our wild spaces. Through hands-on activities and team challenges, campers will become true Winged Warriors, ready to protect nature and thrive in the great outdoors. 

Winged Warriors is available for campers going into 3rd – 5th grade in the fall of 2025.

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Session 1 – From Forest to Fork: An Outdoor Cooking Adventure 

Campers can sign up for one week of Session 1 at Falcon Camp. 

This camp is available during the following weeks: 

Week 1: June 16 - 20 
Week 2: June 23 - 27 
Week 3: June 30 - July 2 (3-day camp) 

Dive into a week of adventure and flavor at Falcon 1: From Forest to Fork! This immersive camp invites participants to explore the natural world while learning the art of outdoor culinary skills. 

Discover the secrets of sustainable foraging as you identify and harvest wild ingredients, then transform them into delicious meals cooked over an open fire. Each day features hands-on workshops in fire-building, cast iron cooking, and preparing rustic, gourmet dishes. Campers will taste-test their creations and connect with fellow food enthusiasts around a campfire. Perfect for nature lovers and aspiring outdoor chefs! 

Session 2 – Roots & Threads: Weaving Nature into Art 

Campers can sign up for one week of Session 2 at Falcon Camp. 

This camp is available during the following weeks: 

Week 4: July 7 - 11 
Week 5: July 14 - 18 
Week 6: July 21 - 25 

Immerse yourself in the beauty of the natural world at Falcon 2: Roots & Threads. This camp combines creativity and connection to nature through hands-on artistic exploration. Learn to harvest natural fibers to craft cordage, shape raw clay into unique pottery, and create stunning paintings inspired by the landscapes around you. Daily activities blend artistic techniques with an appreciation for the sustainable materials we will use. Perfect for artists, nature lovers, and anyone eager to weave the outdoors into their art!  

Falcon Camp is available for campers going into 3rd-5th Grade in the fall of 2025.

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Specialty Camps – Talon Troupe 

Campers can sign up for one week of Talon Troupe. 

This camp is available during the following weeks: 

Week 7: July 28 - August 1 
Week 8: August 4 - 8 
Week 9: August 11 - 15 

Take center stage in nature with Talon Troupe! This unique camp blends conservation exploration with the magic of theatre arts. Campers will spend the week discovering the natural world, playing fun improv games, and collaborating to create an original production inspired by their outdoor adventures. The week culminates in a performance where campers showcase their creativity and newfound knowledge to other campers in the Friday afternoon “Talon Show.” Perfect for budding actors and nature enthusiasts alike, Talon Troupe is where imagination meets the great outdoors! 

Talon Troupe is available for campers going into 3rd – 5th grade in the fall of 2025.

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Session 1 – Bio-Inspired: Designing Like Nature 

Campers can sign up for one week of Session 1 at Osprey Camp. 

This camp is available during the following weeks: 

Week 1: June 16 - 20 
Week 2: June 23 - 27 
Week 3: June 30 - July 2 (3-day camp) 

Explore the genius of nature at Osprey 1: Bio-Inspired! This camp invites you to discover biomimicry—the art of designing inspired by the natural world. Dive into hands-on activities like building shelters and sculptures using locally sourced natural materials, while learning architectural techniques inspired by nature’s own designs. Through creative projects and guided exploration, you’ll uncover how plants, animals, and ecosystems solve challenges and translate these ideas into your own functional and artistic creations. Perfect for aspiring architects, designers, and nature enthusiasts ready to think like nature and build with purpose! 

Session 2 – Living on the Edge: Ecotones and Biodiversity

Campers can sign up for one week of Session 2 at Osprey Camp. 

This camp is available during the following weeks: 

Week 4: July 7 - 11 
Week 5: July 14 - 18 
Week 6: July 21 - 25 

Step into the dynamic world of ecotones—where ecosystems meet and biodiversity thrives—at Osprey 2: Living on the Edge! This camp takes you on an immersive journey to explore these vibrant transitional zones, from forest edges to wetlands and prairies. Engage in hands-on activities like wildlife observation, habitat mapping, and exploring the interconnected web of species. Through guided hikes, field experiments, and creative projects, you’ll uncover the critical role ecotones play in supporting life. Perfect for budding ecologists, nature enthusiasts, and anyone curious about the rich diversity found at the edges of our natural world! 

Osprey Camp is available for campers going into 6th or 7th grade in the fall of 2025.

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Specialty Camps – Raptor Rangers 

Campers can sign up for one week of Raptor Rangers. 

This camp is available during the following weeks: 

Week 7: July 28 - August 1 
Week 8: August 4 - 8 
Week 9: August 11 – 15 

Join the ranks in Raptor Rangers and dive into the world of raptor conservation in Iowa! Campers will explore the lives of hawks, falcons, and owls through hands-on activities like assisting with hawk trapping and banding for research. They’ll visit the Iowa Raptor Project, meet professionals in the field, and learn about the ancient art of falconry. This camp offers a unique opportunity to connect with these majestic birds of prey while gaining a deeper understanding of their role in the ecosystem.       

Raptor Rangers is for campers going into 6th – 8th grade in the fall of 2025.

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Owl Camp – Adventures in Conservation 

Experience the perfect blend of conservation and adventure at Owl Camp! Each week, campers will dive into local environmental topics through hands-on activities, expert guidance, and participation in meaningful conservation projects. They’ll collaborate with peers to create their own outreach initiatives and take field trips to nearby labs, parks, and wildlife areas tied to the week’s theme. Alongside conservation work, campers will embark on exciting outdoor adventures, trying new activities that immerse them in Iowa’s diverse natural habitats. Thursday will include an overnight campout at Macbride Nature Recreation Area. From making a difference to exploring the wild, Owl Camp offers a week of learning, fun, and unforgettable experiences! 

To read more information about Owl Camp’s schedule and details about the overnight campout, click here.

Session 1: Wildlife Management Practices + Archery 

Week 1: June 16-20, 2025  
Week 2: June 23-27, 2025 

Session 2: The Driftless Region + Rock Climbing 

Week 3: June 30 - July 2, 2025 
Week 4: July 7-11, 2025 

Session 3: Fisheries in Iowa + Lake & River Kayaking 

Week 5: July 14-18, 2025 
Week 6: July 21-25, 2025 

Owl Camp is available to campers going into 7th or 8th grade in the fall of 2025.

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Peregrine Trip Program - An Iowa Journey 

Peregrine Trip Program offers high school students the opportunity to explore the natural beauty of Iowa through a week-long overnight trip. Over the course of this trip, campers will develop outdoor skills like camping, backpacking, canoeing, fishing, foraging, and more, all under the guidance of experienced instructors. The camp is designed to introduce young people to the outdoor recreation activities available in Iowa, while also providing challenges that help build confidence and a deeper appreciation for nature. Whether you're new to outdoor activities or looking to strengthen your skills, Peregrine Trip Program will help you connect with Iowa’s natural spaces in meaningful ways. Join us for an adventure in the great outdoors! 

For more information about the schedule, gear provided by Iowa Wildlife Camps, activity level and more, click here. 

Trout Fishing at Yellow River State Forest 
Campers will embark on a 5-day camping trip at Yellow River State Forest, learning about foraging, camping, backpacking, how to fish for trout in the cold, clear waters of Paint Creek, and much more. 

Week 1: Sunday - Friday, June 15 - 20 – for campers going into 9th & 10th Graders 
Week 8: Sunday - Friday, August 3 - 8 – for campers going into 11th & 12th Graders 

Canoeing on the Upper Iowa River 
Spend a week paddling through some of the beautiful scenery in Iowa. Campers will enjoy 4 days and 4 nights canoeing and camping on the river, hopping out to explore the public lands and natural wonders around them. Along the way they will learn essential skills, techniques, and gear needed for successful paddling trips. 

Week 4: Sunday - Friday, July 6-11 – for campers going into 11th & 12th Graders 
Week 6: Sunday - Friday, July 20-25 – for campers going into 9th & 10th Graders 

Peregrine Trip Programs are available for campers going into 9th – 12th grades in the fall of 2025.

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Kestrel Corps - Leadership in the Wild 

Kestrel Corps is a leadership development program designed for students entering 11th or 12th grade, offering a unique opportunity to grow as leaders while connecting with nature. Participants will develop their skills as conservation educators and budding naturalists by facilitating outdoor exploration for younger campers. Under the mentorship of the Kestrel Corps Coordinator and professional educators, Kestrels will gain hands-on experience and meaningful insight into outdoor education and leadership. 

Kestrel Corps is available every week during the summer (Monday – Friday, June 16 – August 15). Participants can register for any number of weeks of Kestrel Corps. Space is limited to 10 Kestrels each week. 

Cost: $150 (one-time fee) 

Kestrel Corps is available for participants going into 11th – 12th grade in the fall of 2025.

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During camp registration, you will be asked to select a drop-off and pick-up location for each session. Please plan to use the same location for both drop-off and pick-up each day. If you need to make any changes, contact us at 319-467-3287 or via email at coe-IWC@uiowa.edu. 

Macbride Nature Recreation Area Map

Photo ID Requirement: A photo ID must be shown every day when picking up a camper. Camp staff will match the photo ID with the list of authorized pick-up people in your registration account. Please ensure your photo ID is shown to staff before taking your camper home each day.  

Updating Authorized Pick-Up List: You can view or update the list of authorized pick-up people in your camp registration account. To add a new person, update the list directly in your registration account. If you need to add someone less than a week before camp starts, please email us at coe-iwc@uiowa.edu 

Thank you for helping us maintain a safe and secure check-out process! 

Camper Expectations
Campers are expected to be respectful to themselves, others, and nature. If a camper does not follow these guidelines, staff will communicate it to families. Staff will also notify families if a camper becomes ill or injured at camp. The Director reserves the right to dismiss any camper whose choices or conduct becomes detrimental to the program, others, or themselves. No refunds will be made for dismissed campers.

Attendance
In case of emergency or to notify us of an absence, please call our UI WILD office at 319-467-3287. Refunds will not be issued for missed days of camp.

Camp Activities
All camp activities are subject to change in the event weather conditions or other unforeseen circumstances prevent safe participation in planned activities. Alternative activities will be prepared for these circumstances.

Registration will open on Monday, January 23, 2023 at 6 a.m.

Create an account to register for Iowa Wildlife Camps:

1. Go to our Registration Site.
2. Select New User or Log–In to your existing account.
3. If you are creating a new account, fill out all the required fields to create your account.
4. Once you are in your account you can take the following steps:
   • Select Add Person - this is where you should add the campers you will be registering this summer. You can add multiple people (campers) here.
   • Select Alternate Contacts - this is where you should add the contact information for additional emergency contacts.
   • Select Pick-Up Authorizations - this is where you should add the contact information for trusted adults that are approved to drop-off and pick-up your camper.
5. Explore session by selecting Reservations, then select Explore Sessions.
6. Sessions can be filtered by Session Name, Grade, and Dates. Select Filters to filter sessions.

Because we spend most, if not all, of our time in the outdoors you should come prepared for sun, rain and everything nature may bring. We recommend either wearing or bringing:

• Sunscreen
• T-shirts verses tank tops to prevent sunburned shoulders
• Raincoat or poncho
• Proper shoes are important. This could be a pair of tennis shoes, hiking boots or sandals that stay on feet snugly and are designed for hiking and exploring outside

Please label all items!

• Campers should bring their own snack, lunch, and water bottle. Additional water will be provided. We’ve seen a reduction of non-recyclable waste generated at lunchtime. We would love to see this continue. If possible, avoid over-packaged products and bring reusable containers.
• We will follow a carry-in/carry-out policy.

Please label all items!

You may print or digitally save a copy of your dependent care receipt by following these steps:

• Login to your account.
• Select the menu bar in the upper left side of your screen.
• Select My Account.
• Select Finances.
• Select Print a Statement.
• Select the year and print or save the document.

Our Federal Identification Number is 42-600-4813

Owl Camp Weekly Schedule:

Monday – Welcome to Owl Camp at Macbride Nature Recreation Area 

Tuesday & Wednesday – Field Trips to local parks, labs, and wilderness areas to explore the conservation topic and adventure rec activity of that week 

Thursday – Create Outreach Projects at location determined by project needs (MNRA, the Lindquist Center) 

*Thursday Overnight – Campers will spend the night camping at Macbride Nature Recreation Area 

Friday – Outreach Project Presentations for Wildlife Camps campers at Macbride Nature Recreation Area 

*Thursday Overnight Campout Information 

Thursday morning drop off will be at the same location & time as the rest of the week. There will be NO pickup Thursday afternoon. Campers & instructors will camp overnight in tents at Macbride Nature Recreation Area. 

Three meals will be provided: Thursday dinner, Friday breakfast, & Friday lunch. Campers & instructors will cook each meal with camping stoves or over the fire outdoors. 

Pick up on Friday afternoon will be at the same location & time as the rest of the week. Campers will need to arrive Thursday morning with lunch & snack for Thursday, clothes & toiletries for Friday, and a sleeping bag & pillow. A full packing list will be provided for campers and families after registration.

Arrival and Departure Times 

• Check in (Sunday) at 4:30pm at Macbride Nature Recreation Area at the Social Center 
• Check out (Friday) at 3:00pm at Macbride Nature Recreation Area at the Social Center 

*Late Stay option available for Friday Check Out until 4:15pm 

Pre-Trip Meeting 
Campers and families are invited to a pre-trip meeting on the Wednesday before the trip. At the pre-trip meeting we will discuss details about the trip itinerary, meals, the packing list and instructions for packing, and get the chance to meet the instructors going on the trip. Campers will receive gear on Sunday at the beginning of their trip, but as available, campers can try on gear at the pre-trip meeting. See the gear list below to know what items will be provided. A packing list will be shared at time of registration. 

Camper Readiness – Physical Requirements 
Peregrine Trips may include hiking 3-5 miles per day, carrying gear up to 20lbs in a backpack, and/or paddling a canoe for up to 3 hours. Campers and staff will be primarily in a “backcountry” setting, away from toilets and running water. Campers are expected to carry all necessary items into campsites not accessible by vehicles. This includes all personal belongings as well as portions of group items to be divided up upon arrival at camp (tent parts, food, etc.). Campers will assist in setting up camp, cooking, and other tasks as part of this program. 

Itinerary Subject to Change 
Peregrine Trip Program itineraries and locations may change based on weather and environmental conditions. In cases of major changes to our plans, campers and families will be notified as each decision is made. 

• Provided Gear 
  Gear and supplies provided by Iowa Wildlife Camps includes: 
• Internal Frame Backpack (40-60l) with pack cover 
• Tent with rainfly 
• Camp stoves & cooking supplies 
• Food for all meals during the trip 
• Fishing gear (provided for Yellow River State Forest trip) 

Gear & supplies NOT provided by Iowa Wildlife Camps: 

• Sleeping Bag 
• Sleeping Pad 

For questions about the Peregrine Trip Programs, reach out to Phoebe Yetley at phoebe-yetley@uiowa.edu.