Summer Camps
Our summer camps combine summer fun with nature-based science education activities. We offer a variety of camps for ages 7 to 15. Campers will take on the roles of naturalists, scientists, and adventurers as they explore the Forest and the creatures that inhabit it. Traditional summer camp fun will round out the experience, inspiring exploration and creating an adventure to remember for a lifetime.
2024 Online Registration Going Live February 1st
Summer camp registration will be integrated with Metro Parks Class Registration System, WebTrac. Parents will be able to create their family household, select multiple camps for multiple children, check out, all under one transaction. We recommend using a computer vs mobile device to register given the user interface.
When creating an account, be sure to include everyone you intend to register under your household account before selecting camps. After you are signed in, you can follow the Summer Camp Registration Link below to see this season’s offering. Alternatively, you can click “Registrations” and then search for “jmf” .
*Please note that you will have to complete our waiver/accommodations page for each camp, for each child before checkout.
*Please note that we are no longer accepting registration via mail. Registrations can also be made over the phone or in person during business hours Mon-Sat, 830am-400pm
For registration questions, contact our Welcome Center at 502-368-5404.
For summer camp questions, contact our Program Office at 502-366-5432.
Summer Day Camps
What makes Jefferson Memorial Forest Camps special?
- A great counselor-to-camper ratio! We have 2 counselors for every 12 campers.
- Highly trained, enthusiastic staff.
- Hands-on nature adventures exploring outdoors.
- Multiple camp options throughout the summer to suite your child’s needs.
- Campers learn new skills and build confidence in the natural world.
Some important information about our summer camps:
- Because this camp is about exploring the natural world, campers should be able to walk on trails, walk up and down hills, and traverse both flat and uneven ground.
- Campers should be prepared to be outdoors all day.
- Because campers work cooperatively together in small groups, it is necessary that your child has the ability to maintain appropriate self-control in social situations.
- Parents with questions regarding the ability of Jefferson Memorial Forest staff to meet their child’s needs should contact the Camp Director at 502-368-6856 well in advance of the start of camp. We are happy to make reasonable accommodations to ensure all campers have the best experience.
Adventure Camp
Ages 7-12 • $175/Week
Is your child an adventurer, ready to explore what’s around the next bend in the trail? If so, then Adventure Camp is the ideal camp for your child. Campers explore the trails deep in the forest, shoot bows and arrows, use a map and compass to discover buried treasure, and learn outdoor survival skills.
Wilderness Survival Camp
Ages 7-12 • $175/Week
Shelter-Water-Fire-Food: These are the four basic human needs for survival in a natural setting. In training for the ultimate survival challenge on Friday, campers will develop their ability to build a shelter, start a fire, and find food and water in the wilderness. Teams will be challenged to complete their survival skills and obtain their shelter, water, fire, and food emblems to make them ultimate survivors.
Water Wonders
Ages 7-12 • $140/Week
There’s an exciting world within ponds, lakes, streams and rivers just waiting to be discovered. Campers explore a lake by canoe, play in a flowing creek, and hike through a forest to a winding stream. And of course, no water-themed camp is complete without water games! Personal flotation devices (PFDs) are provided to each camper, and trained staff accompany the campers for our canoe excursion and creek play day. Parents are welcome to join their child for the canoeing excursion.
Camp Cryptid
Ages 12-15 • $175/Week
Fairies, Trolls and Gnomes
Ages 7-10 • $175/Week
Enter a magical, hidden world in the Forest, where creatures of the imagination live. Campers use their creativity and natural materials to craft an enchanted land where anything is possible, while learning about the plants and animals of the forest. Campers will help create a play to be performed on Friday and enjoy a Woodland Fairy Tea Party!
Registration and Payment Information
Prices include all camp supplies and field trip admissions.
Registration is now available online Feb 1st via https://tinyurl.com/3xefhyfd
Please read the above instructions for further information.
Registrations can also be made over the phone or in person during business hours Mon-Sat, 830am-400pm.
All camps are subject to maximum and minimum enrollment requirements.
Special Requests
If you would like your child to be grouped with a sibling or friend, please indicate this on the registration form. This cannot be guaranteed if the children are in different age groups or if space is not available. Campers are grouped according to age. This allows for an optimum learning experience.
Refunds
A cancellation must be received in writing no less than two weeks before the first day of camp. A refund (less a $25 processing fee) will be made. If the camp is canceled by Louisville Parks, a full refund will be made.
Refunds cannot be made due to weather. Forest Staff will make additions, omissions, and or adjustments to the schedule in the interest of group safety, well-being, and minimum staffing requirements.
Special Needs
It is the intent of Louisville Parks to make all facilities accessible to individuals with disabilities; if an accommodation is necessary for your participation, please advise us of the needed service in advance. Call 502-456-8148 (Voice) or 502-456-8183 (TDD).