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Summer and Winter Camps

Research Camps for High School

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Both the Wildlife and Marine Biology Research Camps are unique, intensive programs where students engage in wildlife study and conduct experiments at a college level. The programs are fast paced with a full schedule and includes a student research project. Some days require early morning wake-up or late night activities. We encourage students to apply who have an active interest in field science and who are highly motivated.

girls with bat starfish

Marine Biology Research Camp

University of California
Bodega Marine Lab
June 12–17, 2010 (6 days)
Grades: 9–2
$995 (LHS members) $1040 (non members)
Enrollment:  20–24 campers
LHS Orientation: May 26, 7:00 p.m.

Discover firsthand the field and laboratory skills used in marine biology. The University of California Bodega Marine Lab, at Bodega Bay on the Sonoma County coast, is one of the most richly diverse marine environments in the world. Rocky tide pools, mudflats, estuaries, coastal dunes, and sandy beaches surround this modern research station. Students develop their observational and inquiry skills as they work side by side with LHS instructors and scientists. Supervised evening activities offer time to relax, make friends, and play volleyball on the beach.

Activities include:

  • Visiting a different tidal area each morning at low tide
  • Learning new ways to collect, identify and observe marine organisms
  • Maintaining your own saltwater aquarium for a project on marine organisms of your choosing
  • Identifying and preserving Pacific Coast seaweeds
  • Using different sampling methods to document population changes of local and introduced marine species and their ecosystems

Facilities include research labs, classrooms, auditoriums, many large aquaria, a computer lab, and a library overlooking the Pacific Ocean. Transportation from LHS to Bodega, meals, and dormitory-style housing are provided.

Marine Biology Research Camp photos


kids with funnel net

Wildlife Biology Research Camp

University of California
Sagehen Creek Field Station
August 9–14, 2010 (6 days)
Grades: 9–12
$895 (LHS members) $940 (non members)
Enrollment: 20–24 campers
LHS Orientation: May 26, 7:00 p.m.

Participate in wildlife investigations usually available only to research scientists! The University of California Sagehen Creek Field Station, located 20 miles north of Lake Tahoe, has long been a favorite with wildlife researchers. Alpine meadows, pristine streams, the Sierra’s best fens, and lush forests teeming with wildlife surround this extensive research station. Students learn numerous field research techniques as they take on exciting wildlife biology projects.

Activities include:

  • Setting traps to capture, measure, hold, and release flying squirrels and chipmunks
  • Finding elusive animals by using remote cameras, infrared sensors, night-vision binoculars, track traps, and fluorescent powders that glow under UV light.
  • Using a variety of sampling equipment to measure the health of different ecosystems
  • Working with an entomologist to collect and identify insects and aquatic invertebrates
  • Investigating wildflowers with a botanist
  • Learning tricks for identifying birds with an ornithologist

Students take turns helping to prepare meals. During free time, they can pursue specific interests such as working on research projects, fishing, or simply relaxing with fellow campers. Facilities include research labs, a library, an underwater trout-viewing lab, and cabins overlooking Sagehen Creek. Food and transportation from LHS to the site are provided.

Wildlife Biology Research Camp Photos