Camps

Registration is done on a first-come, first-served basis. Deadline for registration is one week before the start date for each camp. Full payment of camp fees is due upon registration. Spots are only guaranteed once the Camper Registration Form AND your payment are received. Phone registrations are not accepted. Payment and registration must be done online.

Requests for cancellation must be made at least one month prior to start of camp to qualify for a refund. All requests for cancellations will be assessed a $50 processing fee per camp cancelled. No refunds will be issued for requests made less that one month to the start of the camp. No substitutions or transfers will be permitted.

Camps are staffed by highly trained naturalists, with the assistance of interns and youth volunteers. All camps will strive to maintain a 1 to 10 ratio of staff to students entering 1st and 2nd grade and a 1 to 12 ratio for those entering 3rd through 8th grade. Students requiring supervision beyond the nature center’s student to staff ratio may need to provide a personal aide at their own expense.

There is a zero tolerance policy for physical and verbal violence. DNC has the right to dismiss a camper without a refund for violating the center’s no tolerance policy concerning physical and verbal violence.

Campers should come prepared to be outside. Camps will not be cancelled due to inclement weather; activities will be adjusted for the safety of the children.

Check-in is from 8:15 a.m. – 8:30 a.m. Check-out is at 3 p.m. – 3:15 p.m.
Campers will be checked in and out at the Dodge Main Office Entrance #1 at 365 Marie Ave. W in West St. Paul unless your camp description specifies a different location. Please note that some camps take place at Dodge’s Shepard Farm Property, 894 70th Street South, in Cottage Grove, MN.

Dodge Nature Center is committed to serving families from all economic backgrounds. Families are encouraged to inquire about assistance in order to make camp affordable. Scholarships are available to those who qualify.

Scholarship Form

There is a late charge of $5 per 5 minutes after the time camp ends.