Camp Bayou's Fall Fright Fest

On the lookout for nocturnal visitors

 Camp Bayou's Fall Fright Fest will be held on Saturday, October 3 from 5-9pm. Activity tables with fun fall crafts and bio-artifacts will be open from 5-7pm. Joining us will be Little Manatee State Park and South Shore Public Library. This year we will have a silent raffle auction with items donated from the community- door wreaths, science kits, books, plants and more! First walks will be for the young ones, beginning at 6:30pm, learning about our native crepuscular (twilight) wildlife. The 7pm and later walks will be stories about past misadventures at Camp Bayou and the spirits who can't rest. Then join us by the campfire for s'mores! A donation of $5 per person is requested to help cover the cost of supplies. This year, we ask for your reservation in advance by getting an online ticket at  https://square.link/u/PBaXyhiv . Each hike timeslot is limited to 20 people so please reserve your space soon. 

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. We are also looking to fill 2 director positions on the board. If you'd like to help guide Camp Bayou's future, consider joining us. Email Dolly for more info at campbayou@gmail.com.

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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Fall events at Camp Bayou!

 A special Observe the Moon Night Paddle will be offered on Saturday, September 19 starting 7:30pm.  To learn more about this international moon viewing event, visit https://science.nasa.gov/moon/observe-the-moon-night. The Camp Bayou paddle tour is $25 if you need to use one of our canoes or kayaks and $5 if you bring your own.  Registration required- email campbayou@gmail.com.

Save the Date: Our Fall Fright Fest will be held on Saturday, October 3 from 5-9pm. First walks will be for the young ones, beginning at 6:30pm, learning about our native wildlife. The 7pm and later walks will be stories about past misadventures at Camp Bayou and the spirits who can't rest. Then join us by the campfire for s'mores! A donation of $5 per person is requested to help cover the cost of supplies. Registration will open in September. UPDATE- now live! Reserve your spot at https://square.link/u/PBaXyhiv

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. We are also looking to fill a director position on the board. If you'd like to help guide Camp Bayou's future, consider joining us. Email Dolly for more info at campbayou@gmail.com.

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 Fall Fright Fest

 Camp Bayou Fall Fright Fest

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Camp Bayou 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 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.

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 Fall Activities

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

 

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 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 Activities Update

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Fall Activities at Camp Bayou

Daniel keeps the fire going for s'mores after a Camp Bayou Night Hike.

The next couple of months will be busy at Camp Bayou.

Saturdays in September and October are filled with the Coastal Module of the Florida Master Naturalist Program. Field trips include Emerson Point, Wolf Branch Creek and Cockroach Bay Preserves. Registration required- room is still available for just a few more adult students. Register at www.masternaturalist.org.

On Saturday, September 22 there will be a Night Hike, starting at 7:30pm. The hike is about 1 mile in length with no flashlights! The hike ends at the campfire, with s'mores and stories about the moon from around the world. This event is part of International Observe the Moon Night, 'Under the Same Moon'. Register at www.campbayou.org, maximum 20 participants. A $5 donation is requested to help cover the cost of supplies.

The Camp Bayou Photo contest will be accepting entries until October 20. Photos will be judged by artist Bruce Marsh. Contest rules are available at the Nature Notes blog- http://campbayou.blogspot.com- or at the Visitor's Center. The winning photos will be on display at the Fall Open House on Saturday, October 27 from 9am-1pm.

Details for the Fall Open House are still being finalized. The theme is 'Out of the Dark', with activities to highlight some of Florida's less cuddly creatures. Hands-on activities include 'Going Buggy' with Dr. George, 'Snake Spotlight' with Bettina and Xerxes, and a favorite 'down-under', Cockroach Races! Critter mask making will be ongoing throughout the morning and children are encouraged to wear their creations, or give their Halloween costume an early debut, during the Species Walk. More family friendly activities are in the works including some healthy treat alternatives at the Snack Station. Watch for updates on the blog or on the Camp Bayou's Facebook page.

This event is a Be Out There!, Get Outdoors Florida, "Let's GO"- Children and Nature, No Child Left Inside, and Let's Move Outside inspired initiative. Plus, this year we also celebrate Food Day 2012

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

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

Observe the Moon Hike- Sat., Oct 8

Participants after a previousNight Hike

Observe the Moon Night at Camp Bayou

Join the naturalists at the Camp Bayou Outdoor Learning Center on Saturday, Oct 8, from 7:30 -9pm for one of our 'No-Flashlight' Night Hikes. As always the hike will end at the fire circle with s'mores to enjoy after your adventure.  Pre-registration requested, limit 20 people, suitable for ages 6 through adults. A $5 program fee is requested to help cover costs of supplies. Contact Dolly at campbayou@gmail.com or call (813) 641-8545 to make reservations.

This night hike coincides with a couple of special night sky possibilities. 

- The International Observe the Moon Night (InOMN) is a world-wide celebration of our nearest neighbor, the Moon! Each year in the fall, millions of people from hundreds of locations in countries across the globe come together to view the Moon and learn about its diverse roles in culture, history, science, and exploration. 

- The Draconid meteor shower, so-named because its meteors appear to radiate from the northern constellation Draco, is normally a weak shower producing perhaps 10 meteors per hour. However, this shower has proved strongly variable in the past, in some years reaching hundreds per hour. Unfortunately this year's peak is expected between 1 and 2 pm EST on October 8, but we will hope for some stragglers during the hike.
- And last but not least, it is part of World Space Week !

This event is part of a Be Out There!-NWF, Get Outdoors Florida!, "Let's GO"- C&N,  No Child Left Inside, and Let's Move Outside inspired initiative. 

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

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

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Night Hike- Friday, Oct 8

Night Hike Join us on Friday, October 8 from 7-9pm for a Night Hike followed by stargazing and s'mores. The hike will show how effective our night vision is so no flashlights allowed without red filters. Around the campfire, we will talk about the fall constellations and some of the ancient stories that are associated with them. Learn about some of the space exploration missions currently in progress. This hike is an outreach event for the Solar System Ambassador program. For more on the program, visit http://www2.jpl.nasa.gov/ambassador/ . Night hike donation requested is $5 per person. Please RSVP to campbayou@yahoo.com or call 813-363-5438. Hike limited to 20 participants. Camp Bayou is nether a campground nor a summer camp. It was an RV park before the County's ELAP program purchased the land but it is now open for day use only, open to the general public. Through volunteers, donations, membership and grants, the RCDF offers pre-scheduled programs to schools, youth groups, adult groups and families plus it's open from Thursday- Saturday from 9am-2pm for passive recreational pursuits such as wildlife watching, nature photography and trail walks. General admission is still FREE. The Camp Bayou Outdoor Learning Center is a public- private partnership between the non-profit Ruskin Community Development Foundation, Inc. (RCDF) and Hillsborough County Parks, Recreation and Conservation. Camp Bayou is located 3 miles south of SR674 at the end of 24th St SE in Ruskin. More information is on the web at http://www.campbayou.org or call 813-641-8545. ###

media release- Camp Bayou

Night Hike   Join us on Friday, April 30 from 8-9:30pm for a Night Hike which includes an activity that is a representation of the solar system followed by stargazing and s'mores. The hike will show how effective our night vision is so no flashlights allowed without red filters. Around the campfire, we will talk about the constellations and some of the ancient stories that are associated with them. This is an introduction to our solar system, part of the Solar System Ambassador program recently promoted at Camp Bayou. For more on the program, visit http://www2.jpl.nasa.gov/ambassador/ . Night hike donation requested is $5 per person. Please RSVP to campbayou@yahoo.com or call 813-363-5438.   Camp Bayou is nether a campground nor a summer camp. It was an RV park before the County's ELAP program purchased the land but it is now open for day use only, open to the general public. Through volunteers, donations, membership and grants, the RCDF offers pre-scheduled programs to schools, youth groups, adult groups and families plus it's open from Thursday- Saturday from 9am-2pm for passive recreational pursuits such as wildlife watching, nature photography and trail walks. General admission is still FREE. The Camp Bayou Outdoor Learning Center is a public- private partnership between the non-profit Ruskin Community Development Foundation, Inc. (RCDF) and Hillsborough County Parks, Recreation and Conservation. Camp Bayou is located 3 miles south of SR674 at the end of 24th St SE in Ruskin. More information is on the web at http://www.campbayou.org or call 813-641-8545. ### Photo: previous night hike ends around the campfire

Camp Bayou closed Oct 22; Oct 23 night hike cancelled

UPDATE Friday, October 23:
The Waxing Moon night hike scheduled for Friday, Oct 23 has been cancelled due to still smoldering hot spots. Better safe than sorry. Please check back for future night hikes within the next few months.

Camp Bayou will be closed today, Thursday, October 22, due to a prescribed burn in progress. We will be open tomorrow, Friday, October 23 from 9am-2pm as usual unless there are any unforeseen complications.
Tomorrow night's Waxing Moon Hike may be cancelled depending on how the burn goes today. Some factors to consider based on experience from previous burns:
- smoke/particulates in the air may pose problems for anyone with respiratory issues.
- fire smoldering may cause concern for new flare-ups- not something you want to worry about in the dark.
- lingering smoke will cause the stars to be obscured which will prevent seeing Cygnus, part of the Great World Wide Star Count activity.

Waxing Moon Night Hike

Friday, October 23, 2009

Time: 6:00pm - 8:00pm

Location: Camp Bayou

City/Town: Ruskin, FL

Walk the trails, without flashllights, just after sunset. End at the campfire for s'mores and star-gazing. Final night for the Great World Wide Star Count. We'll be looking for Cygnus as well as other timely constellations. If possible, bring a reclining beach chair to make it easier to gaze skyward. $5 donation requested per person. 20 person limit.

RSVP at campbayou@yahoo.com. Directions at http://www.campbayou.org/ .

BTW, we are looking for donations of reclining beach chairs so we can keep a supply on hand for future star-gazing events. Contact Dolly- campbayou@yahoo.com .