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Explore the volcanic landscape of Mount St. Helens with the whole family! Family Adventure Camps inspires curiosity about Mount St. Helens and build confidence in exploring the outdoors. We hike, play, create art, and get our hands dirty. Activities are designed for youth and intergenerational teams. So, strap on your boots, roll up your sleeves and come explore the Pacific Northwest's most active volcano.
WHO |
Families with youth of all ages. We welcome families of all ages, backgrounds, and structures. We welcome children and families with special needs; please contact learn@mshinstitute.org to discuss accommodations. Youths 4 years of age or younger may attend for FREE. Youth are the responsibility of a parent or guardian at all times. |
WHAT |
2-night overnight camp from Friday to Sunday. All of the camp and our activities take place in the blast zone created by the May 18, 1980 eruption. Activities include hiking, playing, creating art, and exploring the geology and ecology of Mount St. Helens. Camp includes "Choose-Your-Own-Adventure" time dispersed with activities and free time. Meals are provided. Read our program policies, including COVID-19 pandemic-specific policies. |
WHERE |
Camp at the Mount St. Helens Science and Learning Center Coldwater Campground with spectacular views of Mount St. Helens, Coldwater Lake, and the Mount Margaret backcountry! Campground includes picnic tables, tent pads and a portable toilet. Fires are not permitted. The campground has NO running water. The campsite is within walking distance (~1/4 mile) from the Science and Learning Center, where indoor restrooms with running water are available. |
WHEN |
Friday, July 7, 2023, at 12:00 PM - Sunday, July 9, 2023, at 3:00 PM |
COST |
$215 per person. Youths 4 years of age or younger may attend for FREE. A limited amount of need-based financial assistance for summer camps will be available. Review our financial assistance eligibility criteria and apply for financial assistance here. |
What are examples of activities that take place during camp? Camp activities include guided hikes, arts & crafts activities, science & engineering activities. Activity blocks are structured in a "Choose your own Adventure" format to allow maximum flexibility for participants and to best meet participant needs.
What else can I do before or after my camp at Mount St. Helens? There is so much to explore and learn in the landscape around Mount St. Helens. View our interactive Google map of Attractions & Amenities around Mount St. Helens to explore and plan your trip.
Are there materials to help my family learn about Mount St. Helens at home before or after camp? Yes! Check out our free online Volcano Tuesdays series as well as Teaching Resources Page.
Is financial assistance available for summer camps? Yes! A limited amount of need-based financial assistance for summer camps will be available. Review our financial assistance eligibility criteria and apply for financial assistance here.
Does camp include a visit to Johnston Ridge Observatory? Yes! Participants in Family Adventure Camp receive wristbands to visit the U.S. Forest Service Visitors Center at Johnston Ridge Observatory for free before, during or after your camp.
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Mount St. Helens Institute operates under a special use permit from the US Forest Service, WA State Parks and is honored to work on the Traditional Cultural Property, ancestral and present day lands of the Cowlitz Indian Tribe and the Confederated Tribes and Bands of the Yakama Nation. Mount St. Helens Institute is an equal opportunity provider.
