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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Camp Bayou Spring Fest 2025

Join Camp Bayou as it welcomes Spring with some fun activities on Saturday, March 22 from 9am-noon. Some of the activities you can expect include nature activity tables, trail walks, tomato seedling giveaway, and cart tours. 

Schedule of Events:

9am open

9:30 Cart tours begin

10:00 Trail walk

10:30 Butterfly Habitat Q&A

11:00 Native Camp Tour

11:30 Fishing Cabin Talk

Noon Final raffle- event ends

Joining the Camp Bayou Nature Center for a morning of fun is the Paleo Preserve Fossil Museum, Manatee Viewing Center, Suncoast Youth Conservation Center, Hillsborough County Parks, Rec and Conservation, Little Manatee River State Park, Alafia River State Park and Florida Forestry Service.

Some of the crafting activities planned:

- pine cone bird feeder

- vine wreaths

- nature journals

- seed bead jewelry

- 'Camp Bayou' t-shirts

All supplies provided.

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

While you are marking your calendar, save the date- Saturday, March 29- for a night paddle to 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, its 200 acres 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.

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.

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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Camp Bayou Welcomes Fall

There are cleanups, night hikes plus some day and night paddles coming up this Fall. Enjoy some fun activities at Camp Bayou this season.

Experience the trails at Camp Bayou while helping cleanup, fixup and monitor the environment during National Public Lands Day on Saturday, September 28 from 9am-noon. A special BioBlitz will document plants and wildlife through iNaturalist.org while we pick up trash. No registration needed, just come out, check in and enjoy the morning at Camp Bayou.

Our Fright Fest will be held on Saturday, October 5 starting with some spooky crafts and activity tables at 5pm. Joining the activities are Hillsborough County Environmental Protection Commission, Hillsborough County Conservation and Environmental Lands Management, Little Manatee River State Park, and Girl Scout Troop 30349.  First walks will start at 6:30 pm for the young ones, learning about our native nocturnal wildlife. The 7pm and later walks after dark 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 is not required but we'd appreciate an email to Dolly at campbayou@gmail.com so we can be sure we have enough supplies for s'mores. Pay just $5 to get your ticket when you check in on-site.

Saturday, October 19- 7pm-  Special Night Paddle (postponed from September). Explore the Little Manatee River after dark- without flashlights!  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.

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.

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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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 Buzzzz! is online

Check out the Spring 2019 edition of the Camp Bayou Buzzzz!
https://mailchi.mp/67f8fd488dca/spring2019campbayoubuzzzz

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 Fall

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

October 6- Birdwatching Basics with Patty.
November 3- Photography walk with Becki
December 1- Holiday Nature decorations with Dolly
All programs begin at 9:30am, unless otherwise noted, and are free- donations are always appreciated! 

 

Take a Child Outside Week starts September 24-30. Get outside and enjoy all that nature has to offer with the kids!

Saturday canoe day tours continue this year. Check the online calendar for days and times.
Special Night Paddle on Saturday, September 29, leaves the dock at 7:30pm. Registration required. Please plan to arrive by 7pm.

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 email Dolly at campbayou@gmail.com .

Camp Bayou will again be offering sessions for kids at the Florida Birding and Nature Festival on October 13. Visit the website for more information: https://www.floridabirdingandnaturefestival.org/.

There will be a guided Night Hike on Saturday, October 20 starting at 6:30pm. Experience the night without flashlights- a totally different experience! The hike ends at the fire circle, with s'mores and story-swapping about the night sky for Observe the Moon night. Registration requested to ensure enough supplies for s'mores. Sign up at https://goo.gl/forms/sYRnDNZCEdlN64JJ2 .

Camp Bayou will also be participating in Little Manatee River State Park's 'Spirit of the River' event on Saturday, October 27. Check it out at https://www.floridastateparks.org/events/spirits-river-gathering .

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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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.

Spring Nature Fest- April 16, 2016

Camp Bayou presents our First Annual Spring Nature Fest!
(formerly known as our Spring Open House)

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.

​

 

Upcoming events at Camp Bayou

Entries for the Annual Photo contest will be accepted through October 10.

Camp Bayou has several events planned for the next couple months. Be sure to mark your calendar for these activities:

On Saturday, September 19, join us for the International Coastal Cleanup from 8:30am to noon. We will be cleaning trails and waterways so volunteers are needed on foot and by canoe or kayak. Register with Keep Tampa Bay Beautiful- http://keeptampabaybeautiful.org . If you miss this volunteer workday, the following Saturday, September 26, is National Public Lands Day. Starting at 9am there's more opportunities to work on trails, native plant nursery, native gardens and more. Call 813-641-8545 to sign up.

On September 19, starting at 7pm, there will be a paddle/hike for International Observe the Moon Night (http://observethemoonnight.org ). Pre-registration is required by calling 813-641-8545 or email campbayou@gmail.com. Canoe rental is $25 for a 3 person canoe or join us with your own canoe or kayak for a $5 donation. The evening will end with s'mores around the campfire and favorite moon stories from near and far.

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 (pre-Columbus), then contact our volunteer coordinator, Jeri Hundertmark, at 813-641-8545 to get started. A Teacher Workshop for new and returning educational volunteers is set for Saturday, October 3 from 9am-noon.

Donations of landscape tools such as weed-eaters, grass clippers, lawn-edger and the like are being sought to help with Center maintenance.

Save the date- Fall Open House, Saturday, October 17 from 9am-1pm. The theme is Nature Crafts with scheduled sessions on making vine wreaths, candle shells, crochet coral and forest-bathing, plus a variety of tables with other great nature crafts. The lunchtime fundraiser will be foods with a nature theme such a 'spider' hot dogs and 'porcupine' meatballs.

These events are a Be Out There!, Get Outdoors Florida, FYCCN, Let's GO- 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's Spring Open House- Happy Pi Day- 3/14/15!

Join Camp Bayou volunteers for their Spring Open House with a Pi Day theme!

Saturday, March 14, 2015, 9am-1pm.

This year, the Camp Bayou Outdoor Learning Center Open House will be all about circles, cycles, spiral, spheres and other topics related to pi - 3.141592653...

Ongoing demonstrations and hands-on activities will show visitors how nature and pi coincide.

The morning activities include:

9am: Activity tables open

9:26:53am: Celebrate this special Pi Day moment with Bubbles!

10am: GPS tortoise burrow scavenger hunt with Daniel

10:30am: Speaker- Joann from C.A.R.E.

11am: Storytime in the Round

11:30am: Brunch $5 fundraiser- circle foods: pancakes and more!

12pm: Loop trail hike with Becki or canoe around the oxbow (special $10 rental per canoe)

12:30pm: Final door prize drawing

Other organizations joining in the morning activities include:

C.A.R.E, Ruskin Pack 662, Paleo Preserve Fossil Museum, Ruskin Library, Little Manatee River State Park, Tampa Bay Conservation Society, League of Environmental Educators in Florida (LEEF) and Florida Master Naturalists. Camp Bayou's parent non-profit, BOLD (Bayou Outdoor Learning and Discovery, Inc.) will present their annual report.

Door prizes will be awarded every half hour including books, water testing kits and t-shirt/hat, among other possibilities. Door prize tickets are free and available at the Camp Bayou display table to all who sign up for our e-newsletter. A free tomato plant will also be given to the first 50 people who sign up.

This event is a Children's Week, 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. Check out the Camp Bayou Facebook page and for more information visit the webpage at http://www.campbayou.org/ or call 813-641-8545.

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Cockroach Races at Fall Open House

All cockroach racers must be in a closed container before the race-
even if your pet cockroach normally roams around with your pet mouse.

Camp Bayou's Fall Open House will have a new event as part of the morning activities- Cockroach Races!

While there will be several resident cockroach racers to cheer on, visitors are invited to bring their own cockroach that they think will win. There are a few guidelines to keep in mind if you wish to BYOC:
- All cockroaches must be palmetto bugs as shown in the photo above, not the smaller german cockroaches.
- All cockroaches must remain in a closed container until race time.
- All visitors who wish to race their cockroaches must check in at the Membership table by 9:45am to register their cockroach and be assigned a number. If your cockroach has a name, be sure to note it on the registration form.
- All visitors, whose cockroaches are racing, must be on hand at the finish circle to help secure the racers so they can run another race.
If you've  never heard of cockroach races, check out the rules at the long running Cockroach Races held in Australia. Their rules are slightly different.

Hints for keeping your cockroach alive and well until race day:
- Put cockroach in a covered container. If you want to be extra sure it won't escape, put a ring of petroleum jelly along top rim of container.
- Cockroaches can live for quite some time eating only dry dog food and having access to a supply of water.
- Cockroaches like dark spaces so provide a place to hide, crumpled newspaper or paper towel tube.
Questions? Visit Camp Bayou, Thursday- Saturday, from 9am- 2pm to learn more about Florida's critters.

Camp Bayou Fall Open House

Camp Bayou Fall Open House

Enjoy a creeping, crawling morning while learning
about nature's much maligned critters

Saturday, October 27, 2012
9am-1pm
FREE family-friendly event
Registration not required but appreciated


The theme, 'Out of the Dark', highlights a variety of creatures, dispelling myths about some while revealing the need to respect others. Throughout the morning, there will be several activity tables, some with live critters to handle, such as millipedes and ant lions. Games such as the Spider Scavenger Hunt and crafts such as Animal Masks will provide lots of fun and educational things to do. Other non-profits, such as ConserveItForward.org
and the Paleo Preserve Fossil Museum will be also be offering nature-based activities.

Schedule:
9am- Activity tables open
9:30am- Going Buggy. Discover the wonders of the invertebrate world with Dr. George, our entomologist.
10am- Off to the races... Cockroach races! Pick one of Camp Bayou's resident Cockroach Racers or bring your own to see which can scurry the fastest! All cockroaches (large Palmetto bugs only) entering the race must be registered at the membership table by 9:45am. Check the Nature Notes blog for details.
10:30am- Snake Stroll. Look for Bettina and Xerxes, the albino corn snake, who will be out and about for a breath of fresh autumn air. Xerxes will be back in the Nature Center after the 11am Species Walk for his weekly mouse if anyone wants to join him for lunch.
11am- Species Walk. Make an animal mask in the morning or wear your Halloween costume, then join others in a guided tour along the trails and through the old fishing cabin and meet Dan the Fisherman. All those who take part in the Species Walk will receive a small token for participating. Cabin restoration volunteer, Frank, will be on hand to answer questions about the work completed on these restored Giant's cabins and what more is in store for them in the future.
11:30am- National Food Day Buffet- For a small fee, several alternative treats to typical Halloween sweets will be available for a good-for-you snack,
Activity tables will stay open until 1pm.

Registration is not required but encouraged. Door prizes will be drawn on the half hour from the list of all participants who register online at campbayou.org . Door prizes include Seminole pumpkin seedlings, goody bags and other surprises.

The winning entries for the 2012 Camp Bayou Annual Photo Contest will be on display at the Fall Open House. There is still time to submit those perfect nature photos taken at Camp Bayou. Deadline is Saturday, Oct 20, to be judged by artist Bruce Marsh. For information contact campbayou@gmail.com or call 813-641-8545.

Nature Nook Books will also be on hand with books for sale for children and adults. Sponsors include "24th Street Neighbors" and Sweetbay Supermarket in Ruskin.

Enjoy what you're seeing? Help others to see by donating your unwanted eyeglasses in the Plant City Lion's Club collection box, located at the membership table.

These activities are part of a Get Outdoors Florida, Children and Nature, No Child Left Inside, Be Out There!-NWF, Let's Move Outside, National Food Day, Make a Difference Day,  inspired initiative.

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, 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 Camp Bayou Outdoor Learning Center is managed by the newly created, non-profit Bayou Outdoor Learning & Discovery, Inc. (BOLD), in a public- private partnership with the non-profit 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 www.campbayou.org or call 813-641-8545.
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Kids love to investigate those creeping crawling critters. Lots to discover at Camp Bayou's Fall Open House!
--
Dolly Cummings
Camp Bayou OLC
www.campbayou.org

Camp Bayou Holiday Open House

Trail rides on the half hour on our 7-passenger cart

Reminder that our Annual Holiday Open House is this Saturday, December 4 from 9am-2pm. In addition to our always yummy Member BBQ, and this year's Compost and Rainbarrel workshops conducted by Hillsborough County Coop Ext, there will be a variety of natural and eco-crafts vendors with offerings to suit that 'green-minded' person on your gift list. Be sure to stop in to see all the friendly craftspeople and be entered into a free drawing for a bag of items that can be used on your next outdoor adventure! Vendors will include:

- Wandering Whimsy by Avalon

- Basketry by Alma Rushnell

- Morning Glory Heirloom Seeds and more

- Worm's Way gardening products

- Green Gulf Gems offering jewlery made from recycled materials

- Beautyberry Books with watercolor notecards

- Camp Bayou Native Plants

and don't forget our White Elephant Sale with a number of gently used items that may be just exactly what you are looking for, whether you knew it or not!

For a complete schedule of events click here.

This event is also a Be Out There!, Get Outdoors Florida, Children and Nature and No Child Left Inside inspired initiative.

Camp Bayou is nether 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, the RCDF 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. General admission is still FREE.

The Camp Bayou Outdoor Learning Center is a public- private partnership between the non-profit 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 www.campbayou.org or call 813-641-8545.

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Crafters invited to Open House 12/4

Making pine cone feeders during summer crafting workshop Hello everyone, Just a reminder invitation to anyone who 'crafts naturally' that we will have a craft section at our annual Holiday Open House on Saturday, Dec 4, 9am-2pm. There is no charge to have a space where you can demonstrate and/or sell your favorite nature-crafting creations. Just 20 spaces available- let me know if you'd like to reserve a space this year. Check out the flyer at the link on www.campbayou.org .

July Crafting Naturally workshops

Crafting continues through July


Camp Bayou continues its "Crafting Naturally" workshops each Friday from 9:30-10:30am. Each session, held in the air-conditioned classroom, will introduce one or more craft techniques using or highlighting a natural element. Crafts are varied and will interest participants with skill levels from beginner to intermediate. Advanced crafters are welcome to attend to share their knowledge and expertise. Since there will be at least two crafts offered each session, one geared for kids and the other for adults, this workshop is appropriate for crafters aged 5 to 95. A one-time donation of $5 helps pay for craft supplies Participants may then come to one or all of the summer sessions. Children must be accompanied by an adult.

July schedule:
7/2: intro to basketweaving ('pre-colombian coasters') and cornhusk people
7/9: intro to crochet (repurposed t-shirt rug) and pinecone feeder
7/16: air potato stamps w/intro to Letterboxing and leaf/bark rubbings
7/23: candles and collage
7/30: Solar dyeing and solar prints (if you'd like to have a wearable item to take home on this last day, bring a white cotton t-shirt to Camp Bayou by 7/23 (write your name on it with indelible laundry marker) so I can pre-set the mordant (dye fixative) in the fabric. On 7/30 you can pick which one of the solar dyes we set up on 6/25 that you like to finish the project.)

Crafters will be invited to display and/or sell their creations at our Holiday Open House to be held on Saturday, December 4, 2010. Participation in the Open House is not required but encouraged.
Don't forget our Nature Photography contest. For details, check out our newsletter at http://campbayou.org/newsletters/2010summer.pdf . For information on any of the programs at Camp Bayou contact Dolly at campbayou@yahoo.com or call 813-363-5438. See the June schedule for past sessions.

Camp Bayou is nether 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, the RCDF 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. General admission is still FREE.

The Camp Bayou Outdoor Learning Center is a public- private partnership between the non-profit 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.

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