Highlands Center Nature Camp
Highlands Center Nature Camp is a meaningful way for children of all ages to spend time immersed in nature discovering the wonders of the Central Highlands. From the animals to plants to fungi and everything in between, our hope is to inspire children to develop a deeper sense of place and understanding of the natural world around them.
Spring Break Nature Camp
Monday, March 15th – Friday, March 19th
Nature Camp is a fully outdoor program. Campers spend most of each day hiking, exploring, and learning on Prescott National Forest trails and natural areas, often on uneven terrain and in varying weather conditions.
Ages 6-10: 8:00 am to 4:00 pm
Seedlings – Ages 3.5-5: 8:30 am to 1:00 pm
*Seedlings must be fully restroom independent.*
Families are encouraged to contact us before registering to discuss any medical, behavioral, mobility, or other special needs. Following registration, our staff review camper health information and work with families to determine whether accommodations can be safely provided within our outdoor camp setting.
A Milestone for Nature Camp!
A Commitment to Quality, Safety & Meaningful Experiences.. We’re excited to share that Highlands Center for Natural History is officially an ACA Accredited® Camp!
Accreditation through the American Camp Association (ACA) means that Highlands Center submitted to a thorough review of its camp operations against up to 266 standards, covering everything from staff qualifications and training to emergency management.
ACA collaborates with experts from the American Academy of Pediatrics, the American Red Cross, and other youth-serving agencies to ensure that current camp practices reflect the most up-to-date, research-based standards in camp operations.
But what does that mean for our campers and their families?
It means that the care and preparation behind your child’s camp experience matter just as much as the adventures themselves. ACA accreditation provides families with additional confidence that important practices and procedures have been independently reviewed, including:
- Qualified, trained staff: Standards for staff qualifications, screening, training, supervision, and appropriate staff-to-camper ratios help ensure children are cared for by prepared and attentive adults.
- Health and safety: Established practices address camper health, first aid, medication management, supervision, and the overall well-being of participants.
- Emergency preparedness: Camps are evaluated on emergency plans, communication procedures, and staff preparedness to respond to unexpected situations.
- Thoughtful programming: Standards also address activity planning, appropriate supervision, and creating meaningful experiences that support children’s growth and development.
We believe children deserve opportunities to explore, take healthy risks, build confidence, and discover the natural world in an environment where their health, safety, and well-being are prioritized.
We’re proud to be part of a community of accredited camps committed to creating enriching experiences in an environment dedicated to health, safety, and well-being.
Learn more about what ACA accreditation means for families here: American Camp Association
