Summer Space Camp FAQs

Summer Space Camp FAQs


Please click on the questions below for more information about 2024 Summer Space Camp.

What are the dates and hours of camp?

The 2024 summer space camp seasons runs each week this summer from June 17 to August 30. Each camp sessions runs Monday through Friday from 9am to 1pm.

Do camp sessions fill up? Is there a wait list for camp?

We recommend early registration. Registration opens March 13 at 8am.

To be placed on the waitlist for a specific Summer Space Camp session, please email  us at programs@snco.org.

I’m a member of Sunriver Nature Center & Observatory. Do I receive a discount?

Yes! Members receive a 20% discount on summer camp registration while logged in. If your discount did not correctly apply please contact us after you register.

I have the old membership, where can I find my member discount code for registration?

Member discount codes are be sent out in our weekly email newsletter. If you need to recover your discount code, please email programs@snco.org or call 458-292-9995.

What is the dress code for camp?

We recommend dressing for active outdoor play – shorts and t-shirt.  Comfortable, rugged clothing that can get dirty is recommended. Sturdy closed-toed shoes are required (e.g., sneakers). No flip-flops, Crocs, sandals or other open-toed shoes. A hat is highly recommended. Please note that this camp has indoor and outdoor components. Face masks requirements for summer camp will be based on the current state guidelines at the time.

Is lunch provided?

No. Campers need to bring their own lunches to camp each day. We recommend packing lunches in a soft-sided insulated bag to keep lunches cool. Lunches not packed in insulated bags will be stored in a cooler until lunchtime.

What does my child need to bring to camp?

Please send your child to camp with a refillable water bottle labeled with their name; sunscreen and sun protection; a non-perishable snack (non-peanut products preferred); and lunch. A small backpack (preferred) or tote bag for the above items is recommended.

What should campers leave at home?

To avoid loss or damage, please do not send your child to camp with cell phones, toys, electronic devices, money or other valuable items. There is no place to store items at the Nature Center.

Where do I drop off and pick up my camper?

Please drop your camper off at the Pozzi Education Building across from the Nature Center. This is also the pick-up location.

Please arrive at least 10 minutes early for your camper’s first session to allow for check-in.

If anyone other than a parent/guardian will pick up your child, you must sign a note at drop-off. We will not release your child to anyone other than a parent or guardian without prior notification.

What if it rains?

If it rains, we get wet and keep exploring! If rain is in the forecast, feel free to send your camper with a poncho or rain jacket.

In cases of inclement weather such as thunder/lightening or heavy rain, we will head for cover or inside.

What is the age range and capacity for Summer Space Camp?

Summer Space Camp is designed for Upper Elementary and Middle School aged children ages 8 through 12 years old.

Each camp session will consist of no more than 12 children.

Who are the staff?

Camps are staffed at a ratio of 6 campers to 1 adult staff Camp Specialist. Adult camp staff are trained in First Aid and are CPR certified. Trained volunteers may assist with camps.

Do you supply insect repellent or sunscreen?

No. We do not supply either insect repellent or sunscreen. We ask that parents apply a liberal amount of sunscreen to their children before camp each day and to make sure your camper is dressed for sun protection (e.g. hat with brim). The staff can remind and help campers reapply throughout the day if you provide sunscreen. Please let the staff know if your child is especially sensitive to the sun.

We do not apply insect repellent and ask that you spray your camper’s clothing before arriving for camp.

What if my child is sick before or during the camp day?

If your child is not feeling well, please keep them home and call us to report their absence. If your child becomes ill during the camp day, we will call you; early pick up may be necessary.

What is your healthcare/medication policy?

Sunriver Nature Center & Observatory does not stock any medication. It is the policy of Sunriver Nature Center & Observatory and its personnel not to physically administer any medication to participants. If your child will require medication during a camp session, please let us know beforehand.

What if my child is going to be absent or late?

If your child is going to be absent or arriving after 9am for ANY reason, please contact us at 541-593-4394.

What is your registration policy?

Online registration is our preferred method for week long camps. Registration can also be done over the phone by calling 458-292-9995.

Members of Sunriver Nature Center & Observatory receive a 20% discount on Summer Camps. To receive the discount, members must log in on the registration page or use the appropriate discount code when registering online.

What is your cancellation policy?

For cancellations received more than five business days prior to the program date, a full refund, minus a 20% cancellation fee, will be issued. Refunds and exchanges will not be issued for missed programs or cancellations made five or fewer business days prior to the program date. No partial refunds, credits, or exchanges will be offered for unattended sessions in a camp series.

To cancel or modify your registration, please contact us at 458-292-9995 or email programs@snco.org.

Can you tell me more about the nighttime program included with this camp?

Space Campers are invited to a private observatory night program for just us! This 1-hour program will happen Friday night on the last day of camp. Start time will be 8:30 or 9:00pm depending on the month. Each camper is allowed to bring one adult chaperone if desired.

I have a question not covered in the FAQs. Who do I contact?

Please contact the Education Department at 458-292-9995 or programs@snco.org.