Back to School- Back to Nature 2025

The 17th Annual Camp Bayou Back to School- Back to Nature event will be held this year on Saturday, August 9 from 9am-noon! As always, the event is free. Stop by a table to learn something new about nature and receive a free school supply item, while supplies last. A free raffle for all children will offer larger prizes such as backpacks, lunch packs and more. Other organizations that are participating this year include: Paleo Preserve Fossil Museum, Alafia River State Park, Keep Tampa Bay Beautiful, Hillsborough County Conservation & Environmental Lands, and Florida Aquarium.

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.

Save the Date: Our Fall Fright Fest will be held on Saturday, October 4 from 5-9pm. First walks will be for the young ones, beginning at 6pm, learning about our native nocturnal wildlife. The 7pm and later walks will be stories about past misadventures at Camp Bayou and the spirits who can't rest. Then join us by the campfire for s'mores! A donation of $5 per person is requested to help cover the cost of supplies. Registration will open in September.

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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Back to School- Back to Nature- Saturday, August 3

 The 16th Annual Back to School- Back to Nature event will be held this year on August 3 from 9am-noon! As always, the event is free. Stop by a table to learn something new about nature and receive a free school supply item, while supplies last. A free raffle for all children will offer larger prizes such as backpacks, tents, journals and more. Other organizations that are participating this year include: Paleo Preserve Fossil Museum, Florida Forest Service, TECO Manatee Viewing Center, Little Manatee River State Park, Scout Pack 609, Troop 606 and Girl Scout troop 30349.

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.

Save the dates- 

Saturday, September 14- 7pm- Annual International Observe the Moon night paddle. Explore the Little Manatee River after dark- without flashlights! 

Our Halloween Hike will be held on Saturday, October 5 starting at 6pm. First walks will be for the young ones, learning about our native nocturnal wildlife. The 7pm and later walks will be stories about past misadventures at Camp Bayou and the spirits who can't rest. Then join us by the campfire for s'mores!

Registration for both events will open in September.

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.

Back to School- Back to Nature 2023

When: Saturday, August 5, 2023, 9am-noon

Where: Camp Bayou Outdoor Learning Center

 

Learn a bit about Florida flora, fauna and ecosystem management, then earn a free school supply item. Additional organizations that will join the fun include Florida Forestry Service, Manatee Viewing Center, Girl Scouts and Sun Coast Youth Conservation Center.

Registration is free. Please fill out this form so we know how many guests to expect. https://forms.gle/hEhH347GzKddFSHw5

Camp Bayou News to Use- Summer 2022

Camp Bayou has been busy this spring and ready for summer! Volunteers have been helping upgrade and improve various areas of the preserve.

Two Eagle Scout projects and a focused Bright Futures student have produced 3 beautiful and useful additions to Camp Bayou. There are 2 new seating areas, an irrigation upgrade to the native plant nursery and new easels for the Storybook trail- see photos. A huge thank you to all involved in the efforts!

The Annual Back to School- Back to Nature event, held this year on July 30 from 9am-noon, is now taking reservations at campbayou.org ! As always, the event is free. Other organizations that are participating this year include: Suncoast Youth Conservation Center, Florida Forest Service, Manatee Viewing Center, Gulf Coast Research and Education Center, and Raptor Center of Tampa Bay.

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 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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Pictured:
Eagle project: Covered seating crew, Troop 83- Dawson, Crue and Casey

Eagle project: Nursery irrigation crew, Life Scout Troop 610- Zach, Aiden, Alex, Brandon, Ethan and Jadyn

Bright Futures project: Storybook Trail easels- Richard and Daria

 

Back to School- Back to Nature is Back!

It's time again for Camp Bayou's Back to School- Back to Nature event!

Plan to visit Camp Bayou on July 31, from 9am to noon, for the 14th Annual Back to School-Back to Nature event- a free summer morning activity that gets kids outdoors to learn a bit about nature, then receive a free school supply item. In addition to the free supplies at each nature station, there will be a free raffle ticket drawn every half hour for larger items such as backpacks. Register online at www.campbayou.org.

In addition to the Camp Bayou and Paleo Preserve volunteers, there will be visiting organizations to provide lots of opportunities to experience nature, including Hillsborough County Conservation & Environmental Lands Management, Raptor Center of Tampa Bay, Little Manatee River State Park, Gulf Coast Research and Education Center, Suncoast Youth Conservation Center, Florida Fish and Wildlife/Poject WILD, Manatee Viewing Center, West- Central Girl Scouts, Boy Scout Troop 610, League of Environmental Educators in Florida and more!

There will be a Teacher Exchange table where teachers can give away educational resources they don't need anymore and pick up other interesting new resources. Let us know you are a teacher and receive an educator goody bag in appreciation of all you do!

We welcome donations of school supply items or funds to purchase them for this event. Drop off items at Camp Bayou any Thursday- Sunday from 9am-2pm or email for pickup to campbayou@gmail.com.

At noon, there will be an Intro to Paddling session from noon until 1:30pm, where families can try their hand at paddling a canoe or kayak. Just $5 per person for 20 minutes on the water, children must be accompanied by an adult. Participation limited- first come, first served.

Cart tours have returned! Stop in any Saturday morning and ask for a ride along the trails.

Canoe/kayak guided tours continue this year, now on the first and third Saturdays each month. 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.

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- 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.

Camp Bayou gets ready for summer!

There's lots of sun and fun this season as Camp Bayou gets ready for summer!

Saturday, June 1 is National Trails Day. There will be cart tours, scavenger hunts and other activities. New this year is our guided Fern Walk, starting at 9:00am. Explore the wild west side of Camp Bayou, for a trail that is less traveled. No registration necessary. An 8am Fun Run will hit the trails for an easy 5K. Registration requested online (https://forms.gle/bVvX2HR3vqdvEMzY7) Those who complete the run will be treated to ice cold watermelon slices as a reward.

The Third Saturday Paddle Tours continue through the summer, as weather conditions allow. Be sure to reserve your space if you wish to join the group- just call 813-641-8545. You can rent a canoe or kayak for just $25 or bring your own for a $5 donation. Please arrive by 9:00am for a 90 minute tour.

Save the Date: Saturday, August 3, 2019 is our annual Back to School- Back to Nature event, 9am- noon. Kids visit various nature stations and get a free school supply item, plus raffles for backpacks, binders and more!

Teachers- the school year may be just about over but it's never to early to book your field trips for the fall. Fill out the form online at http://www.campbayou.org/environmental-education/youth-programs to secure your preferred day.

Camp Bayou is always looking for a few good volunteers to help with youth programs, plus other tasks that keep the Center running smoothly. If you are interested in volunteering, fill out the form at http://www.campbayou.org/about-us/donations-appreciated/like-to-help .

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. #CampBayou20th #natureinyourneighborhood #EEinFlorida

11the Annual Back to School- Back to Nature event

It's time again for Camp Bayou's Back to School- Back to Nature event!

Plan to visit Camp Bayou on August 4, from 9am to noon, for the 11th Annual Back to School-Back to Nature event- a free summer morning activity that gets kids outdoors to learn a bit about nature, then receive a free school supply item. Register online at www.campbayou.org. 

In addition to the Camp Bayou and Paleo Preserve volunteers, there will be visiting organizations to provide lots of opportunities to experience nature, including Little Manatee River State Park, Gulf Coast Research and Education Center, Florida Aquarium, TECO Manatee Viewing Center, Hillsborough County Environmental Protection Commission, Keep Tampa Bay Beautiful, Girl Scout troop #30349, League of Environmental Educators in Florida and more! There will be a Teacher Exchange table where teachers can give away educational resources they don't need anymore and pick up other interesting new resources. Let us know you are a teacher and receive an educator goody bag in appreciation of all you do!


We welcome donations of school supply items or funds to purchase them for this event. Drop off items at Camp Bayou any Thursday- Saturday from 9am-2pm or email for pickup to campbayou@gmail.com. Always a great turnout with the kids having fun while learning something new!

Sign up for the PLT teacher workshop on Saturday, September 8 from 9am-4pm. Participants will receive the PLT guide, lots of great activities and freebies. Register online at campbayou.org.

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. 

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 This Summer

Monthly one hour programs cover a special topic on the first Saturday of each month.
June 2: National Trails Day- trail walks and more! Special early start for Fun Run at 8am!
July 7: World Firefly Day- yes, we do have fireflies in Florida! Learn about these uncommon inhabitants of our environment.
August 4: Back to School- Back to Nature, 9am -noon. Free but please register online at www.campbayou.org .

Cart tours have returned! Stop in any Saturday morning and ask for a ride along the trails.

All programs begin at 9:30am, unless otherwise noted, 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. 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 Barbara 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 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 or Twitter pages and for more information visit the webpage at http://www.campbayou.org/ or call 813-641-8545.

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Back to School- Back to Nature

On August 5 from 9am to noon, Back to School-Back to Nature is a free summer event that gets kids outdoors to learn a bit about nature then receive a free school supply item. Registration online at www.campbayou.org. In addition to the Camp Bayou volunteers, there will be visiting organizations to provide lots of opportunities to experience nature, including Hillsborough County Parks, Recreation and Conservation, Little Manatee River State Park, Suncoast Youth Conservation Center, Florida Forest Service and more!

From noon to 4pm, the back to school theme continues with a free Schoolyard Wildlife Teacher Workshop for the adults. For more information and to register, go to http://bit.ly/schoolyard8517.

Third Saturday canoe day tours continue this summer. Paddlers should arrive at Camp Bayou by 8:45am. 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.

For those who are interested in helping at the Center, 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 This Summer

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

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

July 1: Beat the heat with some nature crafts indoors. Wreath making, paint sticks, weaving, and more.

August 5: Back to School-Back to Nature- our free summer event gets kids outdoors, learn a bit about nature then receive a free school supply item- 9am to noon. Registration online at www.campbayou.org.

All programs begin at 9:30am, unless noted, and are free but donations are always appreciated!

Third Saturday canoe day tours continue this summer. Paddlers should arrive at Camp Bayou by 8:45am. Our special night paddle will be held on June 2 starting 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.

There are still days available this summer for youth nature programs for your summer camp. Check out Camp Bayou's online calendar to see which days might work for your group.

Throughout the year, Camp Bayou will have special activities related to various nature-themed, nationally recognized days. See what's in store for: June 3 (National Trails Day), June 10 (National Get Outdoors Day), June 17 (National Fishing Week) , June 24 (National Pollinator Week). 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.

Back to School- Back to Nature

Camp Bayou's 9th Annual Back to School- Back to Nature event will be held on Saturday, August 6 from 9am- noon. The event is Free. Registered families can 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 Teacher Resource Exchange- an area for educators to leave materials they no longer need or pick up something new. A preview Teacher Workshop at 10am will introduce one activity from each of the various environmental education guides. 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:

Hillsborough County Parks, Recreation and Conservation
Florida Aquarium
Little Manatee River State Park
Gulf Coast Research and Education Center
Paleo Preserve Fossil Museum
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, photo contest, activities and events.

New this year, a guided canoe trip will begin at noon, weather permitting. Canoe rentals are $25 for a 3 seater canoe. If you own a canoe or kayak, you can join us for just a $5 donation per person. Call 813-641-8545 to reserve your space.

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, Vitamin N Challenge, 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.

Back to School- Back to Nature

Camp Bayou's 8th Annual Back to School- Back to Nature event will be held on Saturday, August 1 from 9am- noon. The event is Free. Registered families can 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 Teacher Resource Exchange- an area for educators to leave materials they no longer need or pick up something new. A preview Teacher Workshop at 10am will introduce one activity from each of the various environmental education guides. 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:

Hillsborough County Parks, Recreation and Conservation
Florida Aquarium
Little Manatee River State Park
Florida Forestry Service
Keep Tampa Bay Beautiful
Girl Scout Troop 349
Paleo Preserve Fossil Museum
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, photo contest, activities and events.

New this year, a guided canoe trip will begin at noon, weather permitting. Canoe rentals are $25 for a 3 seater canoe. If you own a canoe or kayak, you can join us for just a $5 donation per person. Call 813-641-8545 to reserve your space.

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, Plutopalooza 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.

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. 

 

Get Ready for Back to School-Back to Nature

Pictured: Bob Burkhahn from Cargill presents a donation check for Camp Bayou to

George Shambaugh, Camp Bayou volunteer and BOLD board member.

Some of these funds will go toward the annual Back to School- Back to Nature event.

Back to school is right around the corner- time for Camp Bayou's annual event!

In preparation for the Back to School- Back to Nature event, Camp Bayou is collecting school supply items such as loose-leaf paper, binders, rulers, lunch boxes, backpacks and other typical school supply items. Also acceptable are pens and pencils with company logos so show your corporate pride and support! All donations will be acknowledged during the event and in social media coverage before and after the event.

On Saturday, July 28 from 9:30-10:30am volunteers will be making tie-dyed table covers to be used during the Back to School event. If you are interested in tie-dye, please stop in and learn how to make your own. If you bring a clean white t-shirt, you can try making your own creation after the table covers are complete. There is no charge for this activity.

Camp Bayou's Annual Back to School- Back to Nature event will be held on Saturday, August 4 from 9am- noon. Registered families will visit several nature stations where they will learn something about frogs, fossils, forests or one of several nature topics. This year there will also be a station with information about NASA's Curiosity rover and its expected landing on Mars on August 5. As in past years,registration is requested but FREE, online at www.campbayou.org .

Some of the organizations that will be participating in this year's event include:
Keep Tampa Bay Beautiful
Florida Division of Forestry
ConserveItForward.org
League of Environmental Educators in Florida

There is still room for more stations. If your organization would like to participate, please contact Dolly at campbayou@gmail.com .

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 now open for day use only, open to the general public. Through volunteers, donations, membership and grants, BOLD offers programs to pre-registered schools, youth groups, adult groups and families. Camp Bayou is open from Thursday- Saturday from 9am-2pm for passive recreational pursuits such as wildlife watching, nature photography and trail walks. Genera admission is still FREE.

The Camp Bayou Outdoor Learning Center is a public- private partnership between Bayou Outdoor Learning and Discovery, Inc. (BOLD)., Ruskin Community Development Foundation, Inc. (RCDF) 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.