THE FOLLOWING IS A VERMILION COUNTY CONSERVATION DISTRICT RELEASE
Danville, IL – The Vermilion County Conservation District is excited to open registration for their 2025 Summer Camp Programs. VCCD Summer Camps offer outdoor fun for children 3 to 13 years old. With almost 5,000 acres between Kennekuk County Park and Forest Glen Preserve, children will gain appreciation and knowledge of wildlife and the great outdoors. Guided by experienced camp counselors, the activities will help children explore their natural world through hands-on discoveries, hiking excursions, and art.
Camps for Children 3-5 years old as of June 1, 2025
$5.00/child/session, 1.25 hours
Kennekuk Education Center, Kennekuk County Park
Introduce young children to the natural world by exploring through stories, activities, crafts, and more with a parent or guardian. Each class is organized around a theme and emphasizes active learning through sensory experiences, and movement activities. Toddlers may sign up for one camp or both.
Feathered Flyers
June 17 at 10:00am or 2:00pm
June 18 at 10:00am
Let’s learn and explore the feathers, sounds, and colors of our local birds!
Wonderful Wetlands
June 19 at 10:00am or 2:00pm
June 20 at 10:00am
Pond dipping and more will be explored as we learn about our wetland habitats
Camps for Children 6-9 years old as of June 1, 2025
Wonder Bugs
$20/child June 24 at 9:00am – 11:30am
Kennekuk Education Center, Kennekuk County Park
Explore the wonderful wetlands of Kennekuk through books, activities, and a nature hike. Kids will get an up close, hands-on, aquatic experience with the plants and animals of the wetlands!
Young Explorers
$35/child
June 26 at 9:00am – 3:00pm at the Gannett Education Center, Forest Glen Preserve
July 15 at 9:00am – 3:00pm at the White Oak Barn, Kennekuk County Park
During this fun-filled classic summer camp, kids will participate in a nature hike, roast a hot dog for lunch, discover wildlife, and create an arts and craft project. Camp activities are the same at each park.
Pioneer Kids
$20/child July 22 or July 23 at 9:00am – 11:30am
Gannett Education Center, Forest Glen Preserve
What was it like to be a kid in the 1850’s? Join us for Pioneer Kids Camp to find out! Campers will hike to the Pioneer Homestead, make a pioneer craft, and cook a sweet treat on the hearth to enjoy.
Camps for Children 10-13 years old as of June 1, 2025
Creek Stomping Ecology Camp
$20/child June 12 at 9:00am – 11:30am
Gannett Education Center, Forest Glen Preserve
Follow our Naturalists on an adventure in Willow Creek while searching for aquatic life and observing animal tracks along the way. Participants must wear closed-toed shoes and clothes that can get wet and muddy. Campers will get wet!
Gone Fishin’
$20/child
July 1 at 9:00am – 11:30am at Horseshoe Pond, Kennekuk County Park
July 2 at 9:00am – 11:30am at Maple Grove Lodge, Forest Glen Preserve
Practice fishing from start to finish: bait your hook and care for your fish after the catch. Learn to identify common Illinois fish. Campers will see a live ethical demonstration on how to clean, cut, and prepare fish after catching. All fishing equipment will be provided.
Paddling Around Lake Mingo
$20/child July 9 or July 10 at 9:00am – 11:00am
Lake Mingo Boat Ramp, Kennekuk County Park
Learn about the diversity of fish, birds, mammals, and more that call Lake Mingo home with District Naturalists. Kayaking basics will be covered. All participants are required to wear a provided life jacket.
Junior Explorers
$35/child July 17 at 9:00am – 3:00pm
White Oak Barn, Kennekuk County Park
Junior Explorers will be able to enjoy a classic summer camp program, similar to our Young Explorers camp, but with nature adventure activities geared more to their age range. Explorers will take a hike, roast a hot dog for lunch, discover wildlife, and create a unique art and craft project.
VCCD Summer Camp Frequently Asked Questions
How do I register?
Mail or drop off the registration form found on our website www.vccd.org, or at the Kennekuk and Forest Glen offices. All fees are due at the time of registration. Camp placement is not confirmed until fees have been paid. Fee includes the listed program, craft materials, and snacks.
How will I know my child is registered for the camp?
Registration confirmations will be sent to the email provided on the form. Please legibly print your email and check spam/junk folders if you do not receive a confirmation.
Can an adult or guardian stay with child during the camp?
NO adults, parents, or guardians are allowed to stay during camp with the exception of the toddler camps. The VCCD offers different program opportunities for families; Summer Camp programs are strictly for children.
Are the camp counselors CPR/First Aid/AED Trained?
Yes, VCCD camp counselors are trained. Camps will have a 10:1 campers to staff/volunteer ratio.
Are you flexible with children attending different camps outside their age range?
It depends on the camp and age of child. Contact Lara at ldanzl@vccd.org, 217-442-1691 to discuss.
Please call Kennekuk at 217-442-1691 if you have any additional questions regarding our camp programs.
