Camp Bayou Fall Fright Fest

 Camp Bayou Fall Fright Fest

The 4th annual Fall Fright Fest will be held on Saturday, October 4 starting with some spooky crafts and activity tables at 5pm. Activity tables open until sunset. Joining us is Little Manatee River SP, Honeymoon Island SP, EPC of HC, HC Conservation and Enviro Lands Management, and more! Then, since it's also International Observe the Moon Night, we'll set up the telescope to see what we can see in the night sky. https://moon.nasa.gov/observe-the.../resources/moon-map/

The Crepuscular Animals Hike (non scary) starts at 6:30pm; Haunted Hike will be stories about past misadventures at Camp Bayou and the spirits who can't rest, starting at 7pm. Each hike limited to 15 participants, first come, first served. Additional hikes will be added as needed on the half hour. Each hike ends with s'mores around the campfire. $5 per person- cash only please. Email campbayou@gmail.com if you have questions or concerns.

Camp Bayou continues to offer day paddle trips on the first and third Saturdays each month at 9am.  The tour is $25 if you need to use one of our canoes or kayaks and $5 if you bring your own. Registration required- call 813-641-8545.. 

For those who are interested in helping with registered groups, Camp Bayou is looking for enthusiastic volunteers who love the outdoors and want to pass along that passion to others through hands-on activities, walks and canoe tours, as well as help with maintenance and exhibits. Contact Becki at 813-641-8545 or fill out the form at campbayou.org. We are mainly looking for folks to help teach school groups K-6 but there are other opportunities as well.

Camp Bayou Outdoor Learning Center is neither a campground nor a summer camp. It was an RV park before the County's ELAP program purchased the land but it is now open for day use only, open to the general public. Through volunteers, donations, supporters and grants, the managing non-profit- B.O.L.D. - offers pre-registered programs to schools, youth groups, adult groups and families. The Center is open from Thursday- Sunday from 9am-2pm for passive recreational pursuits such as wildlife watching, nature photography and trail walks.  General admission is still FREE.

The Camp Bayou Outdoor Learning Center is a public- private partnership between Bayou Outdoor Learning and Discovery, Inc. (B.O.L.D.), and Hillsborough County Conservation & Environmental Lands Management. Camp Bayou is located 3 miles south of SR674 at the end of 24th St SE in Ruskin. Check out the Camp Bayou Facebook page and for more information visit the website at http://www.campbayou.org/ or call 813-641-8545.

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Spring Nature Fest

Spring is a great time to see gopher tortoise babies!

Join Camp Bayou as it welcomes Spring with some fun activities on March 25 from 9am-noon

- unveiling of refurbished Storybook Trail

- visit restored Giant's Fishing Cabins with commemorative signage

- nature crafts for everyone- vine wreaths, pine bird feeders, and more

- Special Camp Commemoration Craft- stencil a t-shirt or bandana (while supplies last) for just $5 or bring your own cotton material

- Butterfly habitat, bee research and prescribed fire exhibits

- Paleo Preserve Fossil Museum is open

- Tree-planting in memory of Sandy Council

Joining us for morning shenanigans are Hillsborough County EPC, Manatee Viewing Center, Florida Forestry Service and more!

No registration required and it’s free! Come out and experience all that Camp Bayou has to offer.

Later that same day, explore the Little Manatee River after dark- without flashlights! Canoes and kayaks are available for $25 per boat; $5 if you have your own vessel. Plan to arrive by 7pm to be out on the water by 7:30pm. Registration required, email campbayou@gmail.com or call the office 813-641-8545. Camp Bayou continues to offer day paddle trips on the first and third Saturdays each month at 9am, reservations required. 

Camp Bayou Outdoor Learning Center is neither a campground nor a summer camp. It was an RV park before the County's ELAP program purchased the land but it is now open for day use only, open to the general public. Through volunteers, donations, supporters and grants, the managing non-profit- B.O.L.D. - offers pre-registered programs to schools, youth groups, adult groups and families. If you are interested in volunteering with us, please contact us! The Center is open from Thursday- Sunday from 9am-2pm for passive recreational pursuits such as wildlife watching, nature photography and trail walks.  General admission is still FREE.

The Camp Bayou Outdoor Learning Center is a public- private partnership between Bayou Outdoor Learning and Discovery, Inc. (B.O.L.D.), and Hillsborough County Conservation & Environmental Lands Management. Camp Bayou is located 3 miles south of SR674 at the end of 24th St SE in Ruskin. Check out the Camp Bayou Facebook page and for more information visit the website at http://www.campbayou.org/ or call 813-641-8545.

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New Year's Day Paddle

Start the new year off right with a ​naturally refreshing paddle on New Year's Day at Camp Bayou starting at 9am.  Canoes or kayaks are available for rental for just $25 each or bring your own canoe or kayak for a small donation of $5 each. Register by calling the office at 813-641-8545 or emailing campbayou@gmail.com. Paddlers should arrive at Camp Bayou by ​8:30am.

Camp Bayou continues to offer day paddle trips on the first and third Saturdays each month at 9am. Registration required.

For those who are interested in helping with registered groups, Camp Bayou is looking for enthusiastic volunteers who love the outdoors and want to pass along that passion to others through hands-on activities, walks and canoe tours. Contact Becki at 813-641-8545 or email campbayou@gmail.com. We are mainly looking for folks to help teach school groups K-6 but there are other opportunities as well.

Camp Bayou Outdoor Learning Center is neither a campground nor a summer camp. It was an RV park before the County's ELAP program purchased the land but it is now open for day use only, open to the general public. Through volunteers, donations, supporters and grants, the managing non-profit- B.O.L.D. - offers pre-registered programs to schools, youth groups, adult groups and families. The Center is open from Thursday- Saturday from 9am-2pm for passive recreational pursuits such as wildlife watching, nature photography and trail walks.  General admission is still FREE.

The Camp Bayou Outdoor Learning Center is a public- private partnership between Bayou Outdoor Learning and Discovery, Inc. (B.O.L.D.), and Hillsborough County Conservation & Environmental Lands Management. Camp Bayou is located 3 miles south of SR674 at the end of 24th St SE in Ruskin. Check out the Camp Bayou Facebook page and for more information visit the website at http://www.campbayou.org/ or call 813-641-8545.

 

Camp Bayou Buzzzz! is online

 The Fall issue of the Camp Bayou Buzzzz! e-newsletter is available online. Check out the news from the Bayou! 

Family Naturalist Program

The fall schedule for the Family Naturalist Program:

Nov 7 : Wildlife Walk- Take a hike to observe signs of wildlife- a different teachable moment is possible in every trip!

Nov 21: Gopher Tortoise- Learn about our special inhabitant in the uplands and why it is called a ‘keystone’ species’.

Dec 5- Tour the Native Camp– take a stroll around the native camp to hear what life might have been like more than 500 years ago.

Dec 19- Weaving– Learn fibre-craft the way the native people might have done it. Make and take a palm ‘mat’.

Description:Our Family Naturalist Series will present a new topic every other week (with a couple exceptions). The topics parallel our youth programs offered to school groups- see campbayou.org for the potential list. Scheduled programs will be posted on the blog at campbayou.blogspot.com. Program cost $5 per person. Reservations required. Space limited. Contact Dolly at campbayou@gmail.com to save your spot or for more information. Masks and social distancing are required until further notice.

Camp Bayou Fall Activities

Join Camp Bayou volunteers for a walk after dark. Experience another side of nature using only your night vision- no flashlights allowed! Walk will end with a socially distanced campfire. Reservations required- limited to 10 participants. Contact campbayou@gmail.com to secure your space. Donation requested, $5 each, includes s'mores fixings.

Cart tours have returned! Reservations for Saturday morning rides along the trails can be made by emailing campbayou@gmail.com.

Third Saturday canoe day tours continue this fall. Check the online calendar for days and times. Paddlers should arrive at Camp Bayou by 8:45am. Canoes or kayaks are available for rental for just $25 each or bring your own canoe or kayak for a small donation of $5 each. Register for all paddle trips by calling the office at 813-641-8545 or emailing campbayou@gmail.com.

Camp Bayou has started a video series so folks can get a glimpse of all Camp Bayou has to offer... with plenty of space to maintain social distancing. Check out the Camp Bayou YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/user/campbayou . In addition to videos, the Camp Bayou wiki, http://campbayou.pbworks.com,  has instructional activities that range from plants to animals to Native American culture. More items will be added as the year progresses.

Youth programs are still being offered although the number of students allowed per day has been reduced.  Camp Bayou has a number of responsible social distancing practices in place. You can see all the changes in our Fall e-newsletter at campbayou.org.  

Camp Bayou now offers merch in the online store. Check out the designs by Camp Bayou volunteers- perfect for that shirt, mug or face mask you didn’t know you needed: https://campbayou.threadless.com/ .

For those who are interested in helping with registered groups, Camp Bayou is looking for enthusiastic volunteers who love the outdoors and want to pass along that passion to others through hands-on activities, walks and canoe tours. Contact Becki at 813-641-8545 or email campbayou@gmail.com. We are mainly looking for folks to help teach school groups K-6 but there are other opportunities as well.

Camp Bayou Outdoor Learning Center is neither a campground nor a summer camp. It was an RV park before the County's ELAP program purchased the land but it is now open for day use only, open to the general public. Through volunteers, donations, supporters and grants, the managing non-profit- B.O.L.D. - offers pre-registered programs to schools, youth groups, adult groups and families. The Center is open from Thursday- Saturday from 9am-2pm for passive recreational pursuits such as wildlife watching, nature photography and trail walks.  General admission is still FREE.

The Camp Bayou Outdoor Learning Center is a public- private partnership between Bayou Outdoor Learning and Discovery, Inc. (B.O.L.D.), and Hillsborough County Conservation & Environmental Lands Management. Camp Bayou is located 3 miles south of SR674 at the end of 24th St SE in Ruskin. Check out the Camp Bayou Facebook page and for more information visit the website at http://www.campbayou.org/ or call 813-641-8545.

 

April is Citizen Science month.

We hope everyone is finding a way to get through this alarmingly unique time in history. Between sheltering in place, quarantine, curfews, not to mention home schooling, working from home and job interruption, there are so many new experiences that we all need to navigate.

While Camp Bayou is closed to vehicular traffic, there is always the opportunity to explore the nature in your backyard and neighborhood. This Saturday, we had planned a BioBlitz at Camp Bayou. While the on site event has been cancelled, we encourage everyone to participate right from their own homes and yards. Visit SciStarter to view the project. You'll need to create an account, if you don't already have one, at iNaturalist.org . This is an excellent opportunity to learn about what is living right under your nose!

If you are looking for more environmental education activities- during this crisis and beyond- we have collected some great resources on the Camp Bayou website.

Visit http://www.campbayou.org/beyond-the-bayou/teacher-resources/ to discover some fun and educational activities.

What's New at Camp Bayou?

The winter is a perfect time to visit Camp Bayou! In the next few weeks, there will be several special events in store for sharing nature in your neighborhood.

- Firefly Paddle- Saturday, March 7 starting at 6pm. Join our guided paddle around the island south of Camp Bayou in search of fireflies. $25 per canoe or kayak- limited availability, reserve your space at 813-641-8545 or email Dolly at campbayou@gmail.com . You can join us if you have your own canoe or kayak with a $5 donation, please call to reserve your space.

- Hiking Spree Send-Off Party- Saturday, March 14, 5-9 pm. Guided late afternoon/evening hikes, ending with firefly walk and s'mores.

- Project WET teacher workshop- Saturday, April 4. Teacher workshop through SWFWMD, Karen Johnson facilitating. If interested in registering, contact  Kfolsom65@gmail.com or Katherine.Munson@WaterMatters.org

or call 813-245-9110.

- Citizen Science- Make it Count- Saturday, April 18, 9am-noon. Help Camp Bayou document wildlife and plant biodiversity using the iNaturalist app. Reservations required for 9am instruction activity for those who are new to the app- https://forms.gle/HXExAgLwFB3Ao4aE9

- Great American Cleanup- Saturday, April 25, 8-11am. Register at http://www.keeptampabaybeautiful.org

For those planning ahead for summer activities, Camp Bayou will offer Nature Craft Saturdays in June. Each week, the morning workshop will offer a variety of nature-themed crafts in the classroom. Registration is required as well as a $5 donation- call 813-641-8545 to reserve your space.

Cart tours have returned! Stop in any Saturday morning and ask for a ride along the trails.
Third Saturday canoe day tours continue this year. Check the online calendar for days and times. Paddlers should arrive at Camp Bayou by 8:45am. Canoes or kayaks are available for rental for just $25 each or bring your own canoe or kayak for a small donation of $5 each. Register for all paddle trips by calling the office at 813-641-8545.

The visitor's center has some new donation perks. Choose from air-plant planters, vine wreaths and lichen terrariums with your $10-$20 donation.
For those who are interested in helping with registered groups, Camp Bayou is looking for enthusiastic volunteers who love the outdoors and want to pass along that passion to others through hands-on activities, walks and canoe tours. Contact Becki at 813-641-8545 or email campbayou@gmail.com. We are mainly looking for folks to help teach school groups K-6 but there are other opportunities as well.

Camp Bayou Outdoor Learning Center is neither a campground nor a summer camp. It was an RV park before the County's ELAP program purchased the land but it is now open for day use only, open to the general public. Through volunteers, donations, supporters and grants, the managing non-profit- B.O.L.D. - offers pre-registered programs to schools, youth groups, adult groups and families. Monthly canoe tours are now available by reservation only. Check the online calendar for trip dates. The Center is open from Thursday- Saturday from 9am-2pm for passive recreational pursuits such as wildlife watching, nature photography and trail walks. General admission is still FREE.

The Camp Bayou Outdoor Learning Center is a public- private partnership between Bayou Outdoor Learning and Discovery, Inc. (B.O.L.D.), and Hillsborough County Conservation & Environmental Lands Management. Camp Bayou is located 3 miles south of SR674 at the end of 24th St SE in Ruskin. Check out the Camp Bayou Facebook page and for more information visit the website at http://www.campbayou.org/ or call 813-641-8545.

Camp Bayou Celebrates 20 Years in Nature

Did you know that Camp Bayou Outdoor Learning Center has been around for 20 years? A  special anniversary event on
Saturday, March 23, 2019 from 9am-1pm
will celebrate this milestone! There are a few scheduled activities plus other ongoing fun throughout the morning.

Schedule:
9:00- Activities, displays, photo slideshow and raffle station open.
9:30- Start of the "Camp Bayou Stroll"- every 10 minutes the stroll will move to another great component of Camp Bayou. Learn about the history of the Nature Center, Native Camp, Butterfly Habitat, Paleo Preserve and more. Join in any time!
10:00- Cart tours of trail begin
11:00 Presentation- "Celebrating 20 years" in the screened pavilion.
11:30 Lunch- "A Taste of Ruskin" offers samples of classic Ruskin eateries for just $5 per person. Businesses that are participating include Marion's Subs, The Fish House, The Dog House, and HydroHarvest Farms.
1:00- The main celebration ends but the anniversary activities will continue through the year.

There will be local environmental organizations joining the celebration, with activities and displays, including the Paleo Preserve Fossil Museum, Florida Aquarium, Little Manatee River State Park, Hillsborough County Conservation and Environmental Lands Management, Girl Scout Troop 30349 and Keep Tampa Bay Beautiful, just to name a few. Camp Bayou volunteers will be showcasing the many youth program options at the Center. A 'Photo Trail', consisting of 4 posters depicting 5-year press and photos, will lead visitors to the pavilion where the photo slideshow is running. A raffle will be ongoing through the morning with fun prizes such as books, t-shirts, cookies, and more. Tickets are $1 each or 6 for $5. Winners will be announced before lunch. All event attendees will receive a young Everglades tomato plant to take home in appreciation of your spending your morning celebrating with Camp Bayou. Check out the updates on social media. #CampBayou20th #natureinyourneighborhood #EEinFlorida 

Camp Bayou Outdoor Learning Center is neither a campground nor a summer camp. It was an RV park before the County's ELAP program purchased the land but it is now open for day use only, open to the general public. Through volunteers, donations, supporters and grants, the managing non-profit- B.O.L.D. - offers pre-registered programs to schools, youth groups, adult groups and families. Monthly canoe tours are now available by reservation only. Check the online calendar for trip dates. The Center is open from Thursday- Saturday from 9am-2pm for passive recreational pursuits such as wildlife watching, nature photography and trail walks.  General admission is still FREE.

The Camp Bayou Outdoor Learning Center is a public- private partnership between Bayou Outdoor Learning and Discovery, Inc. (B.O.L.D.), and Hillsborough County Conservation and Environmental Lands Management. Camp Bayou is located 3 miles south of SR674 at the end of 24th St SE in Ruskin. Check out the Camp Bayou Facebook page, follow @campbayou on Twitter, camp_bayou on Instagram, and for more information visit the website at http://www.campbayou.org or call 813-641-8545.

Enjoy the Outdoors this Holiday Season

Making holiday wreaths

With the busy holidays upon us, be sure to enjoy some time outdoors to re-energize and refresh your mood. The First Saturday Nature Topic for December will create holiday decorations with natural materials. The hour long workshop, starting at 9:30am, is suitable for all ages. Participants will have the option to create a grapevine wreath, pine cone ornaments or other holiday themed nature craft. There's no fee to attend but please RSVP at this link: https://goo.gl/forms/HKgvUMdRCJjHu7kK2

HCC students

December 1 is also the grand opening of the Enchanted Forest Storybook Trail. Students at Hillsborough Community College at SouthShore, enrolled in the Honors Institute, are completing their Service Learning project at Camp Bayou Outdoor Learning Center. As undergraduates enrolled in an Honors Leadership class, they are learning about career theories that emphasize understanding of oneself as a unique individual which will serve as the basis for developing effective leadership abilities. The group , pictured, includes: Alexa Perez, Maria Brunelo, Ramey Johnson, Tara Perreault, and Zoe Valente. They chose to do their project at Camp Bayou based on their mutual interest and love of the outdoors. The group reached out to Camp Bayou after learning of their need for additional help around the nature preserve in an area known as the "Enchanted Trail". The trail will be open for guests starting at 9am.


Did you know that Camp Bayou will be celebrating its 20th anniversary next year? There is a special event planned so Save the Date: Saturday, March 23, 2019.


Camp Bayou is also looking for enthusiastic volunteers who love the outdoors and want to pass along that passion to others through hands-on activities, walks and canoe tours. Contact us at 813-641-8545 or email campbayou@gmail.com. We are mainly looking for folks to help teach school groups K-6 but there are other opportunities as well.


Camp Bayou Outdoor Learning Center is neither a campground nor a summer camp. It was an RV park before the County's ELAP program purchased the land but it is now open for day use only, open to the general public. Through volunteers, donations, supporters and grants, the managing non-profit- B.O.L.D. - offers pre-registered programs to schools, youth groups, adult groups and families. Monthly canoe tours are now available by reservation only. Check the online calendar for trip dates. The Center is open from Thursday- Saturday from 9am-2pm for passive recreational pursuits such as wildlife watching, nature photography and trail walks. General admission is still FREE.

The Camp Bayou Outdoor Learning Center is a public- private partnership between Bayou Outdoor Learning and Discovery, Inc. (B.O.L.D.), and Hillsborough County Parks, Recreation and Conservation. Camp Bayou is located 3 miles south of SR674 at the end of 24th St SE in Ruskin. Check out the Camp Bayou Facebook page and for more information visit the webpage at http://www.campbayou.org or call 813-641-8545.

Camp Bayou This Spring

Join us for our Wildlife BioBlitz on April 14 or 28.

Monthly one hour programs cover a special topic on the first Saturday of each month.

April 7: Learn about Butterflies and their habitat with Donna

May 5: River netting with Dolly

June 2: National Trails Day- trail walks and more!

Special this April 14 from 9am to noon- Celebrate Citizen Science Day and March for Science with a Camp Bayou Wildlife BioBlitz. Observe wildlife, then take photos, gps coordinates and mark the time- or just use the iNaturalist app on your smartphone- to record all the wildlife we see that morning. Reservations not required but if you have questions, contact Dolly at campbayou@gmail.com.

If you can't make the BioBlitz on April 14, plan to join us on April 28 for another round, to finish out National Environmental Education Week!

The Great American Cleanup will take place on Saturday, April 28 as well, starting at 8am. Sign up with Keep Tampa Bay Beautiful to help clean up along the road and trails.

Cart tours have returned! Stop in any Saturday morning and ask for a ride along the trails.
All programs begin at 9:30am and are free- donations are always appreciated!

Saturday canoe day tours continue this year. Check the online calendar for days and times. Paddlers should arrive at Camp Bayou by 8:45am. Our next special night paddle will be held on March 31st. Canoes or kayaks are available for rental for just $25 each or bring your own canoe or kayak for a small donation of $5 each. Register for all paddle trips by calling the office at 813-641-8545.

For those who are interested in helping with registered groups, Camp Bayou is looking for enthusiastic volunteers who love the outdoors and want to pass along that passion to others through hands-on activities, walks and canoe tours. Contact Jeri at 813-641-8545 or email campbayou@gmail.com. We are mainly looking for folks to help teach school groups K-6 but there are other opportunities as well.

Camp Bayou Outdoor Learning Center is neither a campground nor a summer camp. It was an RV park before the County's ELAP program purchased the land but it is now open for day use only, open to the general public. Through volunteers, donations, supporters and grants, the managing non-profit- B.O.L.D. - offers pre-registered programs to schools, youth groups, adult groups and families. Monthly canoe tours are now available by reservation only. Check the online calendar for trip dates. The Center is open from Thursday- Saturday from 9am-2pm for passive recreational pursuits such as wildlife watching, nature photography and trail walks. General admission is still FREE.

The Camp Bayou Outdoor Learning Center is a public- private partnership between Bayou Outdoor Learning and Discovery, Inc. (B.O.L.D.), and Hillsborough County Parks, Recreation and Conservation. Camp Bayou is located 3 miles south of SR674 at the end of 24th St SE in Ruskin. Check out the Camp Bayou Facebook page and for more information visit the webpage at http://www.campbayou.org/ or call 813-641-8545.

Camp Bayou falls into Fall

Camp Bayou is grateful to have a fund that was created a few years ago to get kids outdoors who would not otherwise be able to afford it. It is Joanie’s Student Nature Learning Fund which was created in memory of the donor's sister-in-law who was a teacher who loved to share her love of learning outdoors with her students.

The fund currently would cover a school group of up to 80 kids (our maximum number per day). It is available to Title 1 schools only, grades K-6, in Hillsborough County. The funds do not cover the cost of busing or lunch. If a teacher or administrator from a Title 1 school is interested in this opportunity, please fill out the form at http://bit.ly/CampBayoustudentfund . If anyone is interested in contributing to keep this fund going, donations can be made online .

Camp Bayou is participating in the International Coastal Cleanup on Saturday, September 16 starting at 8:30am. Interested volunteers should sign up at http://www.keeptampabaybeautiful.org . Want more volunteer opportunities? Join the Camp Bayou BioBlitz on National Public Lands Day, September 30, starting at 9am. Bring your iNaturalist app-enabled smartphone to take photos of the flora and fauna at Camp Bayou. How many species, do you think, can be found?

Camp Bayou is continuing its First Saturday Nature Topics through the end of the year. October's topic is "Fall Birding" with Mr. James Lingle on October 7. This will be a nice introductory birding opportunity before the Florida Birding and Nature Festival, Oct 13-15 at HCC Southshore in Ruskin. Camp Bayou will be conducting the Kid's Sessions at the Festival on Saturday, Oct 14 from 10am-4pm. Interested parents should register their children online- FREE- at http://bit.ly/kidsessionreg .

Canoe tours continue through the year on the third Saturday, starting at 9am. A special 'Observe the Moon Night paddle' is scheduled for October 28 starting at 6:30pm. Please register for all paddle tours- 813-641-8545. Canoe- and now kayaks!- can be rented for $25 each or bring your own with just a $5 donation.

Camp Bayou Outdoor Learning Center is neither a campground nor a summer camp. It was an RV park before the County's ELAP program purchased the land but it is now open for day use only, open to the general public. Through volunteers, donations, supporters and grants, the managing non-profit- B.O.L.D. - offers pre-registered programs to schools, youth groups, adult groups and families. Monthly canoe tours are now available by reservation only. Check the online calendar for trip dates. The Center is open from Thursday- Saturday from 9am-2pm for passive recreational pursuits such as wildlife watching, nature photography and trail walks. General admission is still FREE.

The Camp Bayou Outdoor Learning Center is a public- private partnership between Bayou Outdoor Learning and Discovery, Inc. (B.O.L.D.), and Hillsborough County Parks, Recreation and Conservation. Camp Bayou is located 3 miles south of SR674 at the end of 24th St SE in Ruskin. Check out the Camp Bayou Facebook page and for more information visit the webpage at http://www.campbayou.org/ or call 813-641-
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Camp Bayou First Saturday Nature Topics and more!

Monthly one hour programs cover a special topic on the first Saturday of each month. 

May 6: Join Jeri in a wonderful exploration of one of the most overlooked critters in our natural world- the Ant Lion. Discover what those circles in the sand really hold.
June 3: Becki will take visitors on a photography themed walk to help celebrate National Trails Day.
All programs begin at 9:30am and are free but donations are always appreciated!

Third Saturday canoe day tours continue this spring. Paddlers should arrive at Camp Bayou by 8:45am. Our special evening paddles will be held on May 12 at 7pm and June 2 at 8pm. Canoes are available for rental for just $25 each or bring your own canoe or kayak for a small donation of $5 each. Register for all paddle trips by calling the office at 813-641-8545.


We have opened our Archaeology Dig program to the public, not just for special pre-registered groups. For a $5 donation, kids can be an archaeologist for an hour or so, learning a bit about the process of discovery and finding their own 'artifiacts' in our simulated shell midden. Piece the fragments together and take home your find! Ask the volunteer in the visitor's center for more information and to get your 'dig' kit.


Throughout the year, Camp Bayou will have special activities related to various nature-themed, nationally recognized days. See what's in store for April 29 (Citizen Science Day), May 13 (International Migratory Bird Day), May 20 (Endangered Species Day), May 27 (Sunscreen Day). Check the Camp Bayou calendar for special days throughout the year.


For those who are interested in helping with registered groups, Camp Bayou is looking for enthusiastic volunteers who love the outdoors and want to pass along that passion to others through hands-on activities, walks and canoe tours. Contact Jeri at 813-641-8545 or email campbayou@gmail.com. We are mainly looking for folks to help teach school groups K-6 but there are other opportunities as well.


Camp Bayou Outdoor Learning Center is neither a campground nor a summer camp. It was an RV park before the County's ELAP program purchased the land but it is now open for day use only, open to the general public. Through volunteers, donations, supporters and grants, the managing non-profit- B.O.L.D. - offers pre-registered programs to schools, youth groups, adult groups and families. Monthly canoe tours are now available by reservation only. Check the online calendar for trip dates. The Center is open from Thursday- Saturday from 9am-2pm for passive recreational pursuits such as wildlife watching, nature photography and trail walks. General admission is still FREE.
The Camp Bayou Outdoor Learning Center is a public- private partnership between Bayou Outdoor Learning and Discovery, Inc. (B.O.L.D.), and Hillsborough County Parks, Recreation and Conservation. Camp Bayou is located 3 miles south of SR674 at the end of 24th St SE in Ruskin. Check out the Camp Bayou Facebook page and for more information visit the webpage at http://www.campbayou.org/ or call 813-641-8545.

Camp Bayou 2017

Camp Bayou is welcoming the new year with a new series of monthly programs to replace our quarterly events. Each one hour program will cover a special topic on the first Saturday of each month. All programs begin at 9:30am and are suitable for all ages unless otherwise noted.

First six programs:

January 7: Take an informative walk with our volunteer entomologist, Dr. George, as he leads an enlightening talk about our native ant species.

February 4: Patty will lead a tour through the wonderful fossil exhibits at the Paleo Preserve Fossil Museum.

March 4: Learn about a variety of citizen science programs with Dolly. Citizen science is a way for the public to make real contributions to scientific research.

April 1: Donna will take guests on a tour through the Butterfly Habitat, created and maintained by the Eagle Audubon of Sun City Center.

May 6: Jeri will lead an Ant Lion Safari to discover what lives at your feet.

June 3: Becki will take visitors on a photography themed walk to help celebrate National Trails Day.

All programs are free but donations are always appreciated!

The third Saturday of each month is still our Guided Canoe Tour. Canoes are available for rental for just $25 each or bring your own canoe or kayak for a small donation of $5 each. Register by calling the office at 813-641-8545. Watch for special evening paddles starting in March when the fireflies are abundant!

Starting on January 28, 2017, Camp Bayou will host the Uplands Module of the Florida Master Naturalist Program on 5 consecutive Saturdays. Registration required online at www. masternaturalist.org .

A Project Learning Tree Teacher Workshop is scheduled for Saturday, March 25, 2017 from 9am-3pm at Camp Bayou. Due to a generous sponsor, there is no charge for the workshop. Limited to 15 participants and suitable for formal and non-formal educators. Register online at www.campbayou.org or email campbayou@gmail.com .

Environmental educators, both formal and informal, are encouraged to register for the Spring 2017 LEEF mini-conference to be held at the Suncoast Youth Conservation Center in Apollo Beach on Saturday, March 18, 2017. For more information and to register, visit http://leef-florida.org .
For those who are interested in helping with registered groups, Camp Bayou is looking for enthusiastic volunteers who love the outdoors and want to pass along that passion to others through hands-on activities, walks and canoe tours. Contact Jeri at 813-641-8545 or email campbayou@gmail.com. We are mainly looking for folks to help teach school groups K-6 but there are other opportunities as well.

Camp Bayou Outdoor Learning Center is neither a campground nor a summer camp. It was an RV park before the County's ELAP program purchased the land but it is now open for day use only, open to the general public. Through volunteers, donations, supporters and grants, the managing non-profit- B.O.L.D. - offers pre-scheduled programs to schools, youth groups, adult groups and families. Monthly canoe tours are now available by reservation only. Check the online calendar for trip dates. The Center is open from Thursday- Saturday from 9am-2pm for passive recreational pursuits such as wildlife watching, nature photography and trail walks. General admission is still FREE.

The Camp Bayou Outdoor Learning Center is a public- private partnership between Bayou Outdoor Learning and Discovery, Inc. (B.O.L.D.), and Hillsborough County Parks, Recreation and Conservation. Camp Bayou is located 3 miles south of SR674 at the end of 24th St SE in Ruskin. Check out the Camp Bayou Facebook page and for more information visit the webpage at http://www.campbayou.org/ or call 813-641-8545.

National Trails Day- Morning Meanderings

National Trails Day^® Beckons Americans to the Outdoors

What: National Trails Day- Morning Meanderings
Where: Camp Bayou Outdoor Learning Center, Ruskin
When: Saturday, June 4, 2016, 9am-noon.

Enjoy the Florida outdoors while learning about the wonderful examples of nature around us everyday! Each year for the past 24 years American Hiking Society, along with local outdoors clubs, businesses, conservation organizations, and parks have invited the public to attend special trail events on National Trails Day.

Guided trail activities at Camp Bayou:

9am- Guided canoe paddle with Daniel and Kaitlyn. Rent one of our 3-seater canoes for $25 or bring your own for a $5 donation. Registration required- call 813-641-8545.

9:30am- Wildlife walk with Dolly. Explore the flora and fauna on the Camp Bayou trails and discover some fun citizen science apps along the way.

10am- Butterfly walk with Dr. George. Accompany our volunteer butterfly monitor on his trail walk to record butterfly sightings at Camp Bayou.

11am- Outdoor themed snacks will be the fundraiser for the event: watermelon slices, s'mores and more.

The Paleo Preserve Fossil Museum and the Nature Center will be open as usual, 9am-2pm.

A drink cooler will be on hand to help keep participants hydrated with free cups of water, compliments of Bayou Outdoor Learning and Discovery, Inc. (BOLD) plus information about Center programs, activities and events.

Camp Bayou is also requesting donations of school supplies or cash to purchase them for our August 6 event- Back to School-Back to Nature. Children visit nature stations then receive a free school supply item at each stop. Your donation allows the Center to continue to provide these types of events for free. Expected attendance is approximately 200 children. Please contact 813-641-8545 or email campbayou@gmail.com to arrange a drop off or pick up.

This event is a Be Out There!, Get Outdoors Florida, FYCCN,  Children and Nature, No Child Left Inside, and Let's Move Outside inspired initiative.

Camp Bayou Outdoor Learning Center is neither a campground nor a summer camp. It was an RV park before the County's ELAP program purchased the land but it is now open for day use only, open to the general public. Through volunteers, donations, supporters and grants, the managing non-profit, B.O.L.D., offers pre-scheduled programs to schools, youth groups, adult groups and families. Monthly canoe tours are now available by reservation only. Check the online calendar for trip dates. The Center is open from Thursday- Saturday from 9am-2pm for passive recreational pursuits such as wildlife watching, nature photography and trail walks.  General admission is still FREE.

The Camp Bayou Outdoor Learning Center is a public- private partnership between Bayou Outdoor Learning and Discovery, Inc. (B.O.L.D.)., and Hillsborough County Parks, Recreation and Conservation. Camp Bayou is located 3 miles south of SR674 at the end of 24th St SE in Ruskin. More information is on the web at http://www.campbayou.org or call 813-641-8545.

Camp Bayou Activities Update

Camp Bayou is still busy with activities through the end of the year. Be sure to mark your calendar for these activities:

On Saturday, November 21, starting at 9 am, there will be a guided canoe tour around the island south of Camp Bayou.  Canoe rental is $25 for a 3 person canoe or join us with your own canoe or kayak for a $5 donation.

A Night Hike is scheduled for Saturday, December 5, 5:30 -7 pm.Experience the forest using only your natural night vision- no flashlights will be used. Hike will end with a campfire and s'mores. A donation of $5 is requested to help cover the cost of supplies.

Pre-registration is required for both these activities, please call 813-641-8545 or email campbayou@gmail.com.

Camp Bayou is looking for volunteers to help with nature programs during school field trips. If you like spending time outdoors, observing our natural world and sparking an interest in the science of nature and/or Florida's native people, then contact our volunteer coordinator, Jeri Hundertmark, at 813-641-8545 to get started.

A Project Learning Tree (PLT) Teacher Workshop will be held on Monday, January 18, 2016 (MLK Day), 9am- 3pm. PLT offers a variety of materials for use with youth in grades PreK-8 including curriculum materials developed for use nationwide and supplementary materials created specifically for Florida educators. An emphasis on correlations to citizen science opportunities will also be presented. Sponsors are being sought to cover the cost of curriculum guides and materials. Teachers must pre-register at campbayou@gmail.com or call 813-641-8545.

The Freshwater Wetlands module for the Florida Master Naturalist Program will begin at Camp Bayou in January 2016. For more information and to register, visit http://masternaturalist.org .

Camp Bayou Outdoor Learning Center is neither a campground nor a summer camp. It was an RV park before the County's ELAP program purchased the land but it is now open for day use only, open to the general public. Through volunteers, donations, supporters and grants, the managing non-profit, B.O.L.D., offers pre-scheduled programs to schools, youth groups, adult groups and families. Monthly canoe tours are now available by reservation only. Check the online calendar for trip dates. The Center is open from Thursday- Saturday from 9am-2pm for passive recreational pursuits such as wildlife watching, nature photography and trail walks.  General admission is still FREE.

The Camp Bayou Outdoor Learning Center is a public- private partnership between Bayou Outdoor Learning and Discovery, Inc. (B.O.L.D.)., and Hillsborough County Parks, Recreation and Conservation. Camp Bayou is located 3 miles south of SR674 at the end of 24th St SE in Ruskin. More information is on the web at http://www.campbayou.org or call 813-641-8545.

Camp Bayou Fall Open House

Camp Bayou's Annual Fall Open House will be held on Saturday, October 17, 2015 from 9am-1pm. The theme this year is Nature Crafts. As always, there will be an educational spin for each craft table. There will be crafts for all skill and age levels so there's something for everyone!

Schedule of activities:
9 am           Photo Contest Awards
9:30 am      Experiencing the Forest
10 am         Fairy house creations
10:30          Nature candles
11 am         Fund-raising lunch*
11:30 am     Vine wreaths
12:30 pm     Ruth’s Memorial Tree Dedication

A previous Open House- Ruth is seated on the left. We will have a memorial tree dedication for her at 12:

Craft tables for making bird feeders, solar prints, nature weaving, primitive paint brushes and other natural crafts will be set up on the 'Big Lawn', plus activity tables with Paleo Preserve Fossil Museum, C.A.R.E., Little Manatee River State Park, and more...

*Fundraising lunch just $5 per person- choice of either:
- ‘Spider’ w/web (all beef hot dog & kraut)
- ‘Porcupines’ (turkey meatballs w/rice)
Plus a side of ‘Brain Coral’ (mac and cheese), beverage and dessert

Contact Camp Bayou at 813-641-8545 or email campbayou@gmail.com  for more information.
Camp Bayou Outdoor Learning Center is neither a campground nor a summer camp. It was an RV park before the County's ELAP program purchased the land but it is now open for day use only, open to the general public. Through volunteers, donations, supporters and grants, the managing non-profit, B.O.L.D., offers pre-scheduled programs to schools, youth groups, adult groups and families. Monthly canoe tours are now available by reservation only. Check the online calendar for trip dates. The Center is open from Thursday- Saturday from 9am-2pm for passive recreational pursuits such as wildlife watching, nature photography and trail walks.  General admission is still FREE.

The Camp Bayou Outdoor Learning Center is a public- private partnership between Bayou Outdoor Learning and Discovery, Inc. (B.O.L.D.)., and Hillsborough County Parks, Recreation and Conservation. Camp Bayou is located 3 miles south of SR674 at the end of 24th St SE in Ruskin. More information is on the web at http://www.campbayou.

​

 

What's coming up at Camp Bayou

The monthly guided canoe tours at Camp Bayou Outdoor Learning Center continue through the Spring.

- Saturday, March 28, 9am-11am

- Saturday, April 18, 9am-11am

- Saturday, May 30, 9am-11am

Reservations are required for all canoe tours. Three-seater canoe rentals are available for $25 each. Bring your own canoe or kayak and join the tour for a $5 donation. Call the office at 813-641-8545 or email campbayou@gmail.com to make reservations or for more information.

Save the Date for Camp Bayou's National Trails Day event on the morning of Saturday, June 6. Guided tours on land and water will be offered from 9am-noon with a fundraising BBQ lunch of pulled pork, side dish, beverage and dessert.

There will be a free teacher workshop on Saturday, June 20 from 9am- 3pm. Activities from FWC's Schoolyard Wild and Schoolyard Ecosystems will be presented. Participants will receive at least 2 curriculum guides at the end of the workshop. Workshop suitable for public and private school teachers, youth group leaders and homeschool parents. For more information, visit http://myfwc.com/education/educators/schoolyard-wildlife.

These activities are part of Get Outdoors Florida, Children and Nature, No Child Left Inside, Be Out There!-NWF, Let's Move Outside, inspired initiatives.

Camp Bayou is neither a campground nor a summer camp. It was an RV park before the County's ELAP program purchased the land but it is accessible for day use only, open to the general public. Through volunteers, donations, supporters and grants, the Center offers pre-scheduled programs to schools, youth groups, adult groups and families plus it's open from Thursday- Saturday from 9am-2pm for passive recreational pursuits such as wildlife watching, nature photography and trail walks. The Paleo Preserve Fossil Museum is open most Saturdays- please call before you visit.

The Camp Bayou Outdoor Learning Center is managed by the non-profit Bayou Outdoor Learning & Discovery, Inc. (BOLD), in a public- private partnership with Hillsborough County Parks, Recreation and Conservation. Camp Bayou is located 3 miles south of SR674 at the end of 24th St SE in Ruskin. More information is on the web at http://www.campbayou.org/ or call 813-641-8545.
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2014 Year in Review2014

2014 Year in Review infographic at Camp Bayou Outdoor Learning Center

7th Annual Back to School- Back to Nature- Sat., Aug 2

Learn something at a Nature Station and earn a free school supply item!

Camp Bayou's 7th Annual Back to School- Back to Nature event will be held on Saturday, August 2 from 9am- noon. The event is Free. Registered families will visit several nature stations where they will learn something about frogs, fossils, forests or other natural topics. Registration is requested but FREE online at www.campbayou.org .

 

Enjoy the Florida outdoors while learning about the wonderful types of nature around us everyday! Before leaving each station, children will be given a free school supply item! For a possible extra bonus, children will be given a free raffle ticket after their family signs in at the registration table. Tickets will be drawn every 30 minutes for other items, including backpacks, journals, lunch bags, and more. 

 

There will be a LEEF Teacher Resource Exchange- an area for educators to leave materials they no longer need or pick up something new. Teachers can also learn about field trips to the Nature Center or Fossil Museum, upcoming teacher professional workshops, Florida Master Naturalist Program, League of Environmental Educators in Florida (LEEF) regional information and annual conference. Teachers who sign up for the e-newsletter will receive a goody bag of items to help in the classroom.

 

Organizations that will be participating in this year's event include:

Lowry Park Zoo

Little Manatee River State Park

Keep Tampa Bay BeautifulUnited States Coast Guard Auxiliary Flotilla 75

ConserveItForward.org
Paleo Preserve
Heather Nikole Photography
Florida Youth Conservation Centers Network

Florida Master Naturalist Program

League of Environmental Educators in Florida

 

A drink cooler will be on hand to help keep participants hydrated with free cups of water, compliments of Bayou Outdoor Learning and Discovery, Inc. (BOLD) plus information about Center programs, activities and events.

Camp Bayou is still accepting donations of school supplies or cash to purchase them. Your donation allows the Center to continue to provide these types of events for free. Expected attendance is approximately 200 children. Please contact 813-641-8545 or email campbayou@gmail.com to arrange a drop off or pick up.

This event is a Summer Learning Day, Be Out There!, Get Outdoors Florida, FYCCN,  "Let's GO"- Children and Nature, No Child Left Inside, Solar System Ambassador and Let's Move Outside inspired initiative.

Camp Bayou Outdoor Learning Center is neither a campground nor a summer camp. It was an RV park before the County's ELAP program purchased the land but it is now open for day use only, open to the general public. Through volunteers, donations, supporters and grants, the managing non-profit- B.O.L.D. - offers pre-scheduled programs to schools, youth groups, adult groups and families. Monthly canoe tours are now available by reservation only. Check the online calendar for trip dates. The Center is open from Thursday- Saturday from 9am-2pm for passive recreational pursuits such as wildlife watching, nature photography and trail walks.  General admission is still FREE.

The Camp Bayou Outdoor Learning Center is a public- private partnership between Bayou Outdoor Learning and Discovery, Inc. (B.O.L.D.)., and Hillsborough County Parks, Recreation and Conservation. Camp Bayou is located 3 miles south of SR674 at the end of 24th St SE in Ruskin. More information is on the web at http://www.campbayou.org/ or call 813-641-8545.