Looking for a summer camp where your child can unplug, explore, and come home salty, smiling, and full of stories?
James River Association’s camps take place in two incredible waterfront locations: along the James in Williamsburg and at the Hampton Marina. These hands-on camps immerse kids in tidal river and Chesapeake Bay ecosystems, helping them build confidence, scientific skills, and a deep connection to the water.
In Williamsburg, Mighty Sturgeon campers (ages 9–11) can explore creativity and ecology in full-day camps like Crafty Creatures art-focus camp and Growing Wild, where campers craft their own gardens and learn about plant anatomy. Older campers (ages 12–15) can dive into the full-day Exploring Ancient Virginia camp, which weaves together history, geology, paleontology, and archaeology, bringing ancient Virginia to life through engaging exploration and scientific Discovery.
For students in York Co or Williamsburg James City County schools, we also offer the popular Junior Ranger Angler Camp, where campers learn to fish, build paddling skills, and explore the river from our floating classroom. Reach out to your school for more information.
In Hampton, Soaring Osprey campers (ages 12–15) take learning onto the water aboard JRA’s floating classroom boat, The Longview. During Estuary Explorers and River Researchers, campers use real scientific tools — trawl nets, plankton nets, sediment samplers, microscopes, and water testing equipment — to study the tidal James River up close. They’ll encounter incredible wildlife, learn maritime skills, and even visit the VIMS aquaculture research lab.
Camps run in weekly sessions throughout the summer and are led by trained educators certified in river safety, CPR, and first aid, so parents can feel confident while kids explore.
If your child loves science, adventure, wildlife, and life on the water, this is their place.
Learn more and register at thejamesriver.org/camps. Spots fill quickly!
