Earth Heroes camp is crafted for participants 6 to 9 year old and appeals to all kids who love exploring the outdoors.
Our goal is to foster an understanding of and appreciation for our urban parks and the life that thrives in them. We will discover and explore the magic of our surroundings, diving into diverse eco systems and learning to identify the plants and animals and their roles in each. This unique opportunity provides professional instruction and guidance in learning to explore and enjoy the natural world around us through activities like hands-on experiences with flora, nature-inspired games, and captivating art projects, all focusing on discovery and fun.
Campers will also be swimming and exploring in the James River itself. Life jackets will be worn while swimming. From rock hopping along the river banks and discovering what lives in the shallow pools on the river’s edge, to identifying trees in the forest, to witnessing an osprey on the hunt, this camp is all about learning to love and value our natural spaces right here in the city. Camp is led by experienced environmental and outdoor educators, and many of our activities tie in with Virginia SOLs.
Earth Heroes campers will also get to do one of our most popular climbing elements – the Flying Squirrel! As always, our climbing elements are challenge-by-choice, and Flying Squirrel is completely customizable to give each camper the exact level of excitement they want!
Earth Heroes Camp will be from 9:00 A.M. to 4:00 P.M., with a flexible pickup window between 3:30 and 4:00. Camp is held in Forest Hill Park and the James River Park System, Monday through Friday.
6-9
9:00 AM - 4:00 PM
For real-time capacities, please click “Register Now” to enter the enrollment portal.
June 2-6
June 9-13
June 16-20
June 23-27
July 7-11
July 14-18
July 21-25
July 28 – Aug 1
Aug 4-8
A sliding scale is a tool to help increase access to experiences like summer camp, while acknowledging differences in financial resources. We ask for your active participation in deciding your contribution. We do not require proof of income but ask that you take a moment to thoughtfully reflect and choose the option that best represents your situation.
We want to give a huge thank you to those who were able to opt for our highest sliding scale tier last year; you helped 32 kids attend camp at a lower rate in 2024!
If you do not wish to pay in full upon registration, we offer 2 payment plans:
Our Scholarship Program:
Donations: There is an option to donate to the scholarship fund during the registration process. All scholarship funds go directly towards camp spots for scholarship recipients. In 2024, the money raised through these donations funded 8 additional completely free camp spots! Thank you to everyone who donated!
Recipients: If none of the sliding scale choices are affordable to you, please email us at riversidecamps@gmail.com to ask about our scholarship program. In order to offer assistance without increasing barriers, we do not require proof of income, but ask that you only request scholarship funds if you’re not able to attend otherwise.
Sapling activities include arborist-style tree climbing, high ropes activities, giant tree swings, creative games, river exploration and even a rafting trip!
Age: 6-9 | |
Price: $525-$695 |
Oak activities include arborist-style tree climbing, high-ropes activities, giant tree swings, creative games, river exploration and whitewater rafting!
Age: 9-12 | |
Price: $525-$695 |
Earth Heroes camp activities include exploring Richmond's awesome forests and river, wildly fun hands-on science activities, nature-themed art and games, and natural outdoor fun!
Age: 6-9 | |
Price: $525-$695 |
Rappelling, rafting, and unique tree climbing elements are just some of the experiences you can expect from this camp!
Age: 12-16 | |
Price: $525-$695 |
River Shredders campers will have a one-of-a-kind experience learning to paddle a variety of different crafts on the James River, as well as learning about river ecology, hydrology, and river safety.
Age: 12-16 | |
Price: $525-$695 |