FONZ Nature Camp
A premier, accredited residential camp instilling a sense of respect and appreciation for the natural world to inspire the next generation of environmental stewards.
Founded on the concept that what we do has an impact and makes a difference, FONZ Nature Camp reunites its residents with nature through exploration of the outdoors. Our campers are provided a secure, non-competitive environment where they are able to expand upon their skills and knowledge related to science, nature, and the environment. In the morning they partake in daily hikes through areas of the Shenandoah Valley honing their field identification skills while engaging in ecological studies of native wildlife. Then in the afternoon they have the opportunity to see conservation science in action through behind-the-scenes tours of our animal breeding centers and lectures with Smithsonian scientists.
And don't worry, if that isn't enough there is plenty more fun to be had as well with weekly swimming trips to the local pool and a camp-out under the stars on the top of Race Track Hill! Plus, this year campers will be encouraged to come back and show their families the wonders of SCBI with complimentary tickets to the Autumn Conservation Festival held in October!
Read our camper testimonials!Registration
Dates
- Campers entering grades 5 and 6 in the fall: July 7 - 13
- Campers entering grades 7 and 8 in the fall: July 14 - 20 or July 21 - 27
- Campers entering grade 9 and 10 in the fall: July 28 - August 10
Capacity
The maximum is 52 campers per week with a ratio of one staff member per six campers.
Staff
Camp counselors have a background in the biological sciences and experience in outdoor or informal education. All camp staff is certified in CPR and First Aid, and at least one staff member is a certified lifeguard.
Location
The Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute (SCBI) is in Front Royal, Virginia, about 70 miles from Washington, D.C.
Accomodations
Campers will be staying in the new dormitories of the Smithsonian-Mason School of Conservation (SMSC). Each room has a private bath and can accommodate up to 3 individuals. Boys and girls will be separated via 1st and 2nd floor.
Food
Meals will be served in the new SMSC dining hall. Vegetarian options will be available for each meal.
Transportation
Parents are responsible for transportation to and from camp. Directions will be emailed with the confirmation package.
Confirmation Package
Once your registration is complete we will send you a confirmation email containing orientation information, as well as, a series of participant forms. Please be aware that medical forms require a physician's signature and all forms must be returned to FONZ by May 1, 2013.
Fees
One-week session:
- FONZ Member: $895
- Non-member: $995
Two-week session:
- FONZ Member: $1,795
- Non-member: $1,995
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation requests received at least four weeks prior to the start of the session will receive a 75-percent refund. Transfer requests received at least four weeks prior to the start of the session will be charged a 10-percent administration fee. Requests must be received via email. No refunds or changes will be made with less than four weeks notice.
