Hours & Admissions
DirectionsVMNH Summer Adventure Camps
This summer, the museum is offering 4 separate week-long, day camps (2 camps for ages 6-8 and 2 camps for ages 9-11). Each camp takes place from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., with optional before and after camp care available. A full lineup, with links to online registration, can be found below.
RegistrationEach camp requires pre-registration 2 weeks prior to the camp's start date. The fee per camp is $140/camper. VMNH Members receive a $10 discount. A limited number of needs-based scholarships are also available. More information regarding scholarships can be found below. The registration fee includes a morning and afternoon snack, as well as activities, such as take-home crafts and projects. Campers should bring a packed lunch, water bottle, sunscreen, and insect repellant.
The fun never stops during the museum's Summer Adventure Camps!
Camp Scholarships
A limited number of scholarships are available for Summer Adventure Camps. Scholarships will be awarded on a need basis and applicants must meet certain requirements. The scholarship application form (including requirement thresholds) can be found here.
In an attempt to help as many children as possible, the museum will provide registration for one (1) week of camp per accepted applicant. If you believe you qualify or are interested in learning more, please contact us at discover@vmnh.virginia.gov.*Please note that those who qualify for a scholarship will be required to pay a $25 deposit (cash or credit), which will be returned after your child has completed the camp. If your child does not attend, the deposit is non-refundable. Scholarship applications are due by the camp registration deadline (2 weeks prior to the camp).
Before and After Care
To help accommodate your busy schedule, the museum is pleased to offer optional before and after care for your child during our camps. Before Care is from 8 a.m. to 9 a.m. and After Care is from 4 p.m. to 5 p.m. Each type of care is offered at the rates of $40/week or $8/day. While care is optional, please note that the following fees will be assessed, if you do not select care:4 to 4:15 p.m.
Grace period
4:15 – 5:00 p.m.
$8 fee assessed for each 15 minute block
5:00 p.m. and later
$1 for every minute after 5:00 p.m.
2025 Summer Adventure Camp Lineup
Camps for Ages 6 - 8
The Friendliness of Nature (CAMP CAPACITY REACHED)
June 9 - 13
Ages 6-8
Did you know that things we use every day come from nature? In this summer camp for creative minds explore how we benefit from nature and how we can help nature thrive! Get hands on with outdoor themed activities from plants, to water, to wildlife!
Register for 'The Friendliness of Nature' Now!
Critters Found in Virginia (CAMP CAPACITY REACHED)
July 7 - 11
Ages 6 - 8
Explore common and not so common mammals, reptiles, amphibians, and invertebrates found all across Virginia! You never know who could be living in your back yard. Young wildlife biologists will embark on an adventure to learn about and observe as many critters as possible during this 5-day interactive camp. Campers will engage with specimens and live animals behind the scenes at the museum. Hands on field work will also be conducted as this camp includes a field trip.
Register for 'Critters Found in Virginia' Now!
Camps for Ages 9 - 11
The Science Behind It (CAMP CAPACITY REACHED)
June 23 - 27
Ages 9 - 11
Get to know the science and history behind many different goods and tools we use every day and some innovative inventions that spark curiosity! Get your creative brains ready because we might create a cool new invention or two of our own!
Register for 'The Science Behind It' Now!
Earth Explorers
August 4 - 8
Ages 9-11
What does Earth do for you? What can you do for Earth? Become an Earth Explorer and determine all the things Earth provides and does for us. Explore ways that we can give back and help Earth. Learn to compost, reduce, reuse, and recycle. Discover where your food comes from and many of the goods, processes, and services we receive from Earth and nature. This camp includes a field trip to display one of these services in real life.
