A. R. C. Natural History Day Camp-2011
Panorama Farms, Earlysville
Visit the Camp Website
Contact the Camp Director: Kevin Murphy (434) 263-4630

Junior Session: $200.00
Entering grades 2 - 3
June 20 - 24 weekdays - 9:00am to 3:00pm

Regular Session: $300.00
Entering grades 4 - 5
June 20 - July 1 weekdays - 9:00am to 3:00pm

About the Camp
This summer marks the 27th season for A.R.C. Camp. Initiated in 1984 by the Piedmont Environmental Council's Wildlife Education Committee, it is one of seven Natural History Day camps in Virginia. The camp is locally sponsored by the Garden Clubs of Albemarle, Rivanna, and Charlottesville, thus the name A.R.C.

The camp is located on the back acres of Panorama Farms, in Earlysville, eight miles north of Charlottesville on the Rivanna Reservoir. Its many fields, diverse forests, and abundant creeks and ponds provide an ideal setting for exploring the natural history of the area.

The purpose of the camp is to teach young people how to be observant, inquisitive, sensitive, and resourceful. Discovery is the key to a fun learning experience, and each day we explore a different habitat - pond, creek, meadow or forest - to see what each area has to offer. Natural History is studied through observation, tracking, field experiments, and games. Campers are encouraged to record their experiences through drawings and other artistic expressions in their journals.

Other events may include a presentation from a wildlife biologist, an artist, or a forester. We also play camp games which involve role playing and team building. An all camp favorite, capture-the-flag, rounds out many of the afternoons. Rainy weather usually does not dampen the enthusiasm for romping through forests and streams. Activities continue in all but severe weather.

Camp Director
The camp is directed by Kevin Murphy, camp director for the past 22 seasons. He teaches science at J.T. Henley Middle School. Other staff members are experienced educators or college students. High School and college interns and one qualified adult accompany each group of eight campers. For additional information and/or brochures, please contact Kevin Murphy.

Registration
To register, print out the application form and return it before June 1st. A $20.00 non-refundable deposit is required with your application which is credited towards the total fee. Further information will be provided upon receipt of your application