Camp Bayou announces Night Paddle

Join the Camp Bayou volunteers on Saturday, October 25 for a Special Night Paddle. There will be just a sliver of a moon while we 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. Plan to arrive by 6pm so we can be on the river by 7pm. Registration required- call 813-641-8545, Thursday- Sunday between 9am and 2pm.

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.

Camp Bayou announces Fall events

Even if the temperature doesn't feel like autumn, it is just around the corner! Enjoy some fun activities at Camp Bayou this season:

Saturday, September 14- 7pm- Annual International Observe the Moon night paddle. 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.

Our Fright Fest will be held on Saturday, October 5 starting with some spooky crafts and activity tables at 4pm. First walks will start at 6pm 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 required- email Dolly at campbayou@gmail.com. Pay just $5 when you check in.

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.

Camp Bayou's Spring Fest celebrates 25 years!

Join Camp Bayou as it welcomes Spring and celebrates our 25th anniversary with some fun activities on Saturday, March 23 from 9am-noon. Some of the activities you can expect include nature activity tables, trail walks, tomato seedling giveaway, plant swap (no invasives, please) and cart tours.

Schedule of Events:
9am open
9:30 Cart tours begin
10:00 Fire Hike
10:30 Butterfly Habitat Q&A
11:00 Native Camp Tour
11:30 Fishing Cabin Talk
Noon ends

Joining us for morning shenanigans are the Paleo Preserve Fossil Museum, Raptor Center of Tampa Bay, Manatee Viewing Center, Little Manatee River State Park and Florida Forestry Service.

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, April 13- 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, 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.

 

Camp Bayou October Events

Are you brave enough to venture into the woods (or waterways) after dark? 

Join Camp Bayou guides at a rare night event- Creatures of the Night/Haunted Hike on Saturday, Oct 14th 2023.

Two options are available:

The hike at 6pm is for the little ones to explore the woods while looking for signs of native nocturnal critters.

The hikes starting at 7pm will include some interesting tales of the crypto creatures and restless spirits that lurk in the woods that might be a bit too scary for the young'uns. There will be a limit of 20 participants per hike, with tours running every 30 minutes or so.

Each hike is $5 per person (cash only please) and includes s'mores around the campfire at the end of the walk.

Space is limited, reservations are required  by completing this form: https://forms.gle/jvspZCAaPGCmXFLh8

On Saturday, October 21, Camp Bayou will have our Annual International Observe the Moon night paddle. Explore the Little Manatee River after dark- without flashlights! We'll watch for nocturnal animals such as owls, bats and fireflies while we enjoy a view of the moon and stars. The tour is $25 if you need to use one of our canoes or kayaks and $5 if you bring your own. 

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

Reservations required for all paddle tours. Call the office to reserve your space- 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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Camp Bayou by Moonlight- rescheduled!

Paddle the Little Manatee River on a special Night Paddle- no flashlights! Listen for owls; look for bats and lightning bugs while enjoying a different kind of experience. Your other senses are heightened when your night vision kicks in. 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 7:30pm on Saturday, April 9, to be out on the river by 8pm.

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- Sundday 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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October Events at Camp Bayou

 

Are you brave enough to venture into the woods after dark? Join Camp Bayou guides at a rare night event- Creatures of the Night/Haunted HIke on Saturday, Oct 9. Two options are available: The hike at 6pm is for the little ones to explore the woods while looking for signs of native noctural critters. The hike at 7pm will include some interesting tales of the crypto creatures that lurk in the woods that might be a bit too scary for the young 'uns. Each hike is $5 per person and includes s'mores around the campfire at the end of the walk. Space is limited, reservations are required by emailing campbayou@gmail.com .

Paddle the Little Manatee River on Observe the Moon Night- no flashlights! Listen for owls; look for bats and lightning bugs while enjoying a different kind of experience. Your other senses are heightened when your night vision kicks in. 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 6:30pm on Saturday, Oct 16, to be out on the river by 7pm.

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

Camp Bayou now offers merch in the online store. Check out the designs by 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- 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 Buzzzz! is online

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

​Camp Bayou looks toward Spring

 

Several changes have been happening over the past few months at Camp Bayou. In January, BOLD (the non-profit that partners with the County to provide programs) expanded its hours to include Sundays as well as Thursday- Saturday. All 4 days ​have operating hours of 9am-2pm. In addition, starting with a soft open at the beginning of February, employees from County Conservation and Environmental Lands Services have opened Camp Bayou on Monday- Wednesday from 8am-5pm.

​ ​The nature trails have expanded into the neighboring 39 acres. Look for ​ ​special activities during the Spring Equinox on March 20. Announcements are made on Facebook, the calendar, and the blog.

Golf cart tours of the trails are again available on Saturdays at 10am. Call to register- space is limited- 813-641-8545.

Registration is open for the Center's popular night paddles - this season on Saturday, March 13 and 27 . ​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. Regist​ration limited-​ call the office at 813-641-8545 or email campbayou@gmail.com. Paddlers should arrive at Camp Bayou by 6pm to be out on the river by ​6:30​pm.​ Daytime guided paddles are still scheduled each month on the third Saturday at 9am- registration required.​

Camp Bayou has expanded its youth programs with a newly revamped Family Naturalist Series, offered to individuals instead of groups. Bi-weekly Saturday sessions will be offered throughout the spring- check the calendar at campbayou.org for dates and times. Camp Bayou is still offering programs to scheduled groups from schools, ​summer camps, ​homeschoolers, and scouts. Check the website for more info.
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 ​campbayouvolunteers@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- S​un​day 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. ​F​or more information​,​ visit the website at http://www.campbayou.org/ or call 813-641-8545.


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Halloween Happenings at Camp Bayou

Want to do something different this Halloween? Paddle the Little Manatee River under a Full Blue Moon- no flashlights! Listen for owls; look for bats and lightning bugs while enjoying a different kind of experience. Your other senses are heightened when your night vision kicks in. 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 6:30pm on Saturday, Oct 31, to be out on the river by 7pm.

Camp Bayou is expanding its youth programs with a newly revamped Family Naturalist Series, offered to individuals instead of groups. The Series will kick off with a special Halloween themed program on Saturday, October 31 starting at 9:30am. Bi-weekly Saturday sessions will be offered throughout the fall and winter- check the calendar at campbayou.org for dates and times. Registration required, email Dolly at campbayou@gmail.com .

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.

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Fall 2020 Camp Bayou Buzzzz! e-newsletter!

 Camp Bayou's Fall 2020 e-newsletter has news from the Bayou! Check out the link on our webpage: campbayou.org or go directly here.

Photo credit: James Lingle (CC by NC)

Camp Bayou this Fall

Nothing is normal these days but Camp Bayou is adjusting to the challenges.

Our Observe the Moon Night paddle this year will be limited to 8 individuals- Saturday, Sept. 26 starting at 7pm. Email campbayou@gmail.com to register and secure space for your canoe or kayak. 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.

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 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 Summer e-newsletter at campbayou.org . 

Camp Bayou has also upgraded our Little Free Library. In addition to the free books for folks to read, we've added vouchers that can be redeemed in our visitor's center for a free school supply item. The annual Back to School event that we normally hold each August was cancelled this year so this provides a place to offer some  necessary school supplies for the current school year.

Cleanup days are still needed. The entire month of September is designated for individual cleanups through Keep Tampa Bay Beautiful. Register online and perhaps pick Camp Bayou as your cleanup site. Trash never ends, unfortunately, so our dedicated volunteers are always needed.

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.

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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

Camp Bayou this Winter

The days have been beautiful- just right for exploring the outdoors!

The Camp Bayou Guided Cart Tours will resume on Saturdays at 9:30 am, thanks to a generous donation from Sun City Golf Carts, Inc. This is a great way to experience the trails if you have difficulty getting around. The electric cart holds 7 passengers on a first come- first serve basis.

On Friday, March 15, there will be a Guided Moonlight Paddle starting at 7:30 pm. Night paddles are a totally different experience - listen to the sounds of the night and watch for nocturnal critters like owls and bats... hopefully fireflies as well! Cost is $25 to rent a 3 person canoe or single person kayak. Have your own canoe or kayak? We ask for a $5 donation if you bring your own. Reservations required: call 813-641-8545.

Did you know that Camp Bayou will be celebrating its 20th anniversary this year? There is a special event planned so save the date: Saturday, March 23, 2019. There will be local environmental organizations joining us in the celebration, with activities and displays - the Florida Aquarium, Little Manatee River State Park, Hillsborough County Parks, Recreation and Conservation, and Keep Tampa Bay Beautiful, just to name a few. Camp Bayou volunteers will be showcasing the many options at the Center, including youth programs, trail amenities and exhibits. A brief 20th Anniversary presentation will be followed by lunch, where winners of the raffles for wonderful prizes will be announced. More information will be announced in the coming weeks. Check out the updates on social media. #CampBayou20th #natureinyourneighborhood #EEinFlorida

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 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.

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 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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