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.

 

Spring Festival, Saturday, March 23, 2024

 

Back to School- Back to Nature 2023

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

Where: Camp Bayou Outdoor Learning Center

 

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

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

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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Volunteer Workday at Camp Bayou

 Volunteers sought for fun one day event at Camp Bayou

This Fall's storms have wreaked havoc on Camp Bayou's Native Camp. There will be a Volunteer Workday, Saturday, Nov 19 starting at 9am, to fix up/clean up the area, to again make it useful for the Native People's Youth Programs we offer during the year. Depending on the number of volunteers, we hope to renew the hut, food cache, barbacoa, drying and skinning racks and more. Learn a bit about the Native lifestyle while helping to bring the exhibit back to life. Please email campbayou@gmail.com if you are planning to help. Volunteers under 16 must be accompanied by an adult. This is a great opportunity to get some community service hours for Bright Futures but everyone is welcome to join us!

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

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

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

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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April is Citizen Science month.

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

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

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

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

Camp Bayou Celebrates 20 Years in Nature

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

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

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

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

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

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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11the Annual Back to School- Back to Nature event

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

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

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


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

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

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

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

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

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


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

Camp Bayou This Summer

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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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.

Back to School- Back to Nature

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

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

Third Saturday canoe day tours continue this summer. Paddlers should arrive at Camp Bayou by 8:45am. Canoes are available for rental for just $25 each or bring your own canoe or kayak for a small donation of $5 each. Register for all paddle trips by calling the office at 813-641-8545.

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

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

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

Camp Bayou This Summer

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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


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

Camp Bayou 2017

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

First six programs:

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

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

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

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

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

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

All programs are free but donations are always appreciated!

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

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

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

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

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

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

Back to School- Back to Nature

Camp Bayou's 9th Annual Back to School- Back to Nature event will be held on Saturday, August 6 from 9am- noon. The event is Free. Registered families can visit several nature stations where they will learn something about frogs, fossils, forests or other natural topics. Registration is requested but FREE online at www.campbayou.org .

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

There will be a Teacher Resource Exchange- an area for educators to leave materials they no longer need or pick up something new. A preview Teacher Workshop at 10am will introduce one activity from each of the various environmental education guides. Teachers can also learn about field trips to the Nature Center or Fossil Museum, upcoming teacher professional workshops, Florida Master Naturalist Program, League of Environmental Educators in Florida (LEEF) regional information and annual conference. Teachers who sign up for the e-newsletter will receive a goody bag of items to help in the classroom.

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

Hillsborough County Parks, Recreation and Conservation
Florida Aquarium
Little Manatee River State Park
Gulf Coast Research and Education Center
Paleo Preserve Fossil Museum
Florida Master Naturalist Program
League of Environmental Educators in Florida

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

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

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

This event is a Summer Learning Day, Be Out There!, Get Outdoors Florida, FYCCN, Vitamin N Challenge, No Child Left Inside, and Let's Move Outside inspired initiative.

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

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

National Trails Day- Morning Meanderings

National Trails Day^® Beckons Americans to the Outdoors

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

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

Guided trail activities at Camp Bayou:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Spring Nature Fest- April 16, 2016

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