Galena Creek Spring Exploration Camp 2026

Spring Exploration Camp!

Join us this spring for an exciting adventure at our Spring Exploration Camp! Designed for young explorers, this camp offers hands-on activities to discover the beauty and mysteries of nature. From exciting hikes and nature scavenger hunts to outdoor crafts and wildlife observation, campers will learn about local ecosystems while having fun in the great outdoors. Whether you're a budding botanist, wildlife enthusiast, or simply love exploring, our camp is the perfect way to connect with nature this spring. Sign up today and unleash your inner explorer!

We’re offering a special overnight tent camping opportunity on the night of Thursday April 2nd, where campers can celebrate the night with s'mores, stargazing, and outdoor cooking!  Enjoy one overnight camping experience! Campers can choose to tent camp outside or sleep inside the visitor center. Dinner April 2nd and Breakfast and Lunch April 3rd will be provided.

 

Limited spots available, so register now below!

• Day Camp located at Galena Creek Regional Park's Visitor Center.
• Monday–Friday,  Drop off 9:00AM-9:30AM. Pickup 3:30PM-4:00PM. 
• Monday March 30th -Friday April 3rd
• Ages 9–13
• 13-year-olds can apply to be a Counselor-in-Training. Email AshMorales@thegreatbasininstitute.org for more info.
• Campers pack their own lunch and snacks from home. Dinner April 2nd and Breakfast and Lunch April 3rd will be provided.
• Cost: $325 per camper.
• Tents and sleeping bags are provided for camper use. Campers may be asked to share tents with campers of same gender anad similar age. 

 

 

At Galena Creek Exploration Camp, the safety and well-being of all our campers are our top priorities. Please be aware that our camp is not a peanut- or nut-free facility. While we make reasonable efforts to promote safe practices, campers may bring foods or products that contain peanuts or other nuts, and we cannot guarantee an allergen-free environment.

Families of campers with food allergies should carefully consider this information and take appropriate precautions. We appreciate your cooperation and understanding as we work to create a safe and inclusive experience for all campers.

Please upload only 1 of the following documentation related to your child's allergies

• A current allergy action plan from a licensed healthcare provider
• A detailed letter from your child's physician outlining their allergies and recommended precautions
• Any additional medical documents that specify your child's allergies and required treatments

Medical Release and Authorization

As Parent and/or Guardian of the named camper, I hereby authorize the diagnosis and treatment by a qualified and licensed medical professional, of the minor child, in the event of a medical emergency, which in the opinion of the attending medical professional, requires immediate attention to prevent further endangerment of the minor’s life, physical disfigurement, physical impairment, or other undue pain, suffering or discomfort, if delayed.

Permission is hereby granted to the attending physician to proceed with any medical or minor surgical treatment, x-ray examination and immunizations for the named child. In the event of an emergency arising out of serious illness, the need for major surgery, or significant accidental injury, I understand that every attempt will be made by the attending physician to contact me in the most expeditious way possible. This authorization is granted only after a reasonable effort has been made to reach me.

Permission is also granted to the Great Basin Institute Staff  to provide any needed emergency treatment prior to the child’s admission to the medical facility.Release authorized on the dates and/or duration of the registered season.This release is authorized and executed of my own free will, with the sole purpose of authorizing medical treatment under emergency circumstances, for the protection of life and limb of the named minor child, in my absence.

Informed Consent and Acknowledgement

I hereby give my approval for my child’s participation in any and all activities prepared by The Great Basin Institute during the selected camp. Once approved for admission by The Great Basin Institute, I assume all risk and hazards incidental to the conduct of the activities, and release, absolve and hold harmless The Great Basin Institute and all its respective staff from any and all liability for injuries to said child arising out of traveling to, participating in, or returning from selected camp sessions. In case of injury to said child, I hereby waive all claims against The Great Basin Institute including all staff, and, if applicable, owners and lessors of premises used to conduct the event. There is a risk of being injured that is inherent in all activities.

I acknowledge and understand that participation in these activities involves inherent risks, including but not limited to those associated with outdoor adventures, hiking, nature exploration, water activities and various physical activities. I understand that these activities may expose my child to natural hazards, such as uneven terrain, wildlife encounters, changing weather conditions, and potential physical injuries. I consent to my child using camp transportation to go on communicated field trips or to other camp locations located in Galena Creek Regional Park.

In the case of any injury or medical emergency, I authorize The Great Basin Institute staff to seek medical attention on my behalf and understand that I will be responsible for any medical expenses incurred as a result. Furthermore, I waive any right to make claims against The Great Basin Institute or Staff for any injuries that may occur, including those resulting from the actions or inactions of any other participants. I confirm that my child is in good health and physically fit to participate in the activities planned. I also acknowledge the importance of adhering to safety guidelines and instructions provided by The Great Basin Institute staff throughout the duration of camp.

By signing this document and allowing my child’s participation, I accept and assume all risks and responsibilities associated with their involvement. I acknowledge that, once my child is approved for admission, I release, absolve, and hold harmless The Great Basin Institute, its staff, volunteers, agents, and representatives from any and all liabilities, claims, demands, or actions that may arise from injuries, damages, or losses sustained by my child while traveling to, participating in, or returning from camp sessions.I have thoroughly read, understood, and voluntarily accept this informed consent and acknowledgement, and I agree to its terms. I hereby certify that I am the legal guardian of the child named below and have the authority to enter into this agreement.

Behavior Agreement

At The Great Basin Institute, we expect all campers to demonstrate respect for themselves, others, and the camp environment. Campers are encouraged to practice conflict resolution skills and must adhere to our camp standards. Guardians and campers are both expected to maintain positive conduct on camp grounds, promoting a safe and inclusive atmosphere for everyone. Disciplinary actions for rule violations may include verbal warnings, parental notifications, a break from participating in camp activities, or discussions with camp staff and guardians to establish a behavioral plan. If problematic behavior continues despite these interventions, the camper may be asked to leave the camp. In cases of immediate expulsion, this will be at the discretion of the Camp Director, particularly for violations of camp rules, consistent unsafe behavior or bullying, possession of prohibited items, or any actions that physically harm staff or fellow campers. Parents will be notified in a timely manner of any incidents that occur.

I have read and reviewed Camp Rules and The 7 Outdoor Ethics with my child prior to camp.  I understand that if my child breaks camp rules, standards or expectations it will be up to the discretion of camp staff whether my child can continue attending camp. 

Cell Phone and Electronics Disclaimer

Campers will have designated times to use cell phones, specifically during breaks or free time and after lunch. Phones must be stored securely while engaging in camp activities to minimize distractions.

Technology Disclaimer -Camp is a time for campers to immerse themselves in nature, build friendships, and engage in activities without distractions. To facilitate this, personal electronic devices, including cellphones, smartwatches, tablets, and laptops, are discouraged during camp activities. Campers are allowed to bring cellphones; however, their use should be limited to communication with parents or guardians in case of emergencies.

Respect for Privacy- Campers are expected to respect their peers' privacy. Taking photos, videos, or sharing any content involving other campers without permission is strictly prohibited.

Lost and Found-

GBI’s Exploration Camps and Staff are not responsible for personal items broken, lost, or stolen during camp activities. A 'Lost and Found' area will be maintained at the Visitor Center for items turned in, and can be retrieved when the Visitor Center is open to the Public. Items will be held for two weeks before being donated or discarded. Guardians are encouraged to remind campers about the importance of keeping track of their belongings. 

Camp staff will not be held responsible for lost, stolen, or damaged items. Guardians are encouraged to discuss appropriate phone or smartwatch use with their children prior to camp. 

Refund Policy:

Full payment is due at the time of registration to secure your child’s spot. If a refund is requested, a full refund will be provided only if the notice is given at least 14 days prior to the selected camp's start date. Cancellations made within 14 days of the start date will not be eligible for a refund.

Late Pickup Policy:

Guardians are expected to ensure timely pickups. In the event a Guardian is late, the camp will implement a late fee of $10 for each 15 minutes past the designated pickup time, per camper paid at the time of pickup. Staff will supervise late campers until picked up. Repeated instances of late pickup may lead to a review of the camper’s enrollment status.

By submitting this form you will be automatically signed up for our Camp Newsletter with important information about your upcoming Camp. You can expect this email a week prior to your chossen camp. For any questions email visitorcenter@thegreatbasininstitute.org.

PAY HERE OR Return to the Spring Camp Webpage to Pay.