Are your kids curious about the world around them? Do they love being outdoors, exploring the woods, and learning about wild animals and ecosystems? This summer, give them a chance to connect with nature in a whole new way at Camp WildSide—an immersive, hands-on experience designed for various ages!
Camp WildSide full-week day camps are the perfect place for middle schoolers (ages 12-15) to connect with nature and grow a lifelong respect for the great outdoors. Weekend Family Camps can be a whole family event, including kids ages 4-17 and parents/guardians! Learn how animals survive, adapt, and thrive in this world—and what we can do to protect them.
Created and run by staff at Dane County Humane Society’s Wildlife Center, Camp WildSide shares knowledge from our experienced wildlife rehabilitators.
Explore. Discover. Learn.
Camp WildSide offers an exciting week filled with outdoor adventures and various interactive learning opportunities. Campers will explore the woods and wetlands while learning how to identify local trees, native flora, and invasive plant species, and they can learn to recognize the unique characteristics of different natural environments. With the help of naturalists and camp leaders, they’ll build real-world skills, expand their scientific knowledge, and have time to express their creativity.
Each day brings a new theme, from identifying bird calls and animal tracks to understanding what to do (and what not to do!) when encountering a wild animal. Campers will learn how to use binoculars and scopes for wildlife observation, dive into the hidden world of parasites and diseases that affect wildlife, and even get a behind-the-scenes look at how our rehabilitators monitor animals in the wild—like checking nest boxes used by native bird species. Days will also involve arts and crafts, from drawing bird feathers to painting with watercolors or completing projects like building songbird nest boxes or seed feeders, and making enrichment treats for our wildlife patients.
Special Event: Bird Banding
The highlight of each week is on Thursday morning (and select Sundays) where campers get to participate in bird banding up close! A permitted federal bird bander will demonstrate how they safely catch, band, and release birds while gathering data to track population trends. Campers can help record information and learn how banders determine age and gender for each bird. This rare opportunity offers an unforgettable, real-time look at wildlife research in action.
Why Choose Us?
- Engaging outdoor activities with exploration
- Creative outlet for arts and crafts
- Learn from naturalists and wildlife educators
- Encourages environmental stewardship and critical thinking
Whether your child is a budding biologist, an animal lover, or just looking for a fun and meaningful wildlife experience, Camp WildSide is the perfect way to ignite their passion for nature and conservation.
Spots are limited—register today and let the adventure begin!
