THE FOLLOWING IS A VERMILION COUNTY CONSERVATION DISTRICT RELEASE
Danville, IL – The Vermilion County Conservation District is excited to open registration for their 2026 Summer Camp Programs. VCCD Summer Camps offer outdoor fun for children 3 to 18 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. Registration forms and information can be found at https://vccd.org/summer-programs/
Camps for Children 3-5 years old as of June 1, 2026
$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.
Grow Something Wild
June 16 at 10:00am or 2:00pm
June 17 at 10:00am
Learn how plants grow! Children will take home their own planted seed to watch grow.
Animal Hide-n-Seek
June 18 at 10:00am or 2:00pm
June 19 at 10:00am
Discover all the fascinating ways animals hide in nature.
Camps for Children 6-9 years old as of June 1, 2026
Wonder Bugs
$20/child
June 11 at 9:00am – 11:30am
Kennekuk Education Center, Kennekuk County Park
Explore the forest through books, activities, and a “Critter Crawl” activity. From rotting logs to tall trees, come out and discover how amazing forests can be!
Young Explorers
$35/child
June 23 at 9:00am – 3:00pm at the Kennekuk Education Center, Kennekuk County Park
June 25 at 9:00am – 3:00pm at the Gannett Education Center, Forest Glen Preserve
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.
Pioneer Kids
$20/child
July 14 or July 16 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 jump rope, and cook a sweet treat on the hearth to enjoy.
Camps for Children 10-13 years old as of June 1, 2026
Gone Fishin’
$20/child
June 9 at 9:00am – 11:30am
Horseshoe Pond, Kennekuk County Park
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.
Creek Stomping Camp
$20/child
June 10 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!
Junior Explorers
$35/child
June 24 at 9:00am – 3:00pm
Kennekuk Education Center, 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.
Paddling Around Lake Mingo
$20/child
July 21 or July 22 at 9:00am – 11:00am
Lake Mingo Boat Ramp, Kennekuk County Par
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.
NEW: Camp for Children 14-18 years old as of June 1, 2026
Trailblazers
$35/child
July 8 at 9:00am – 3:00pm
Gannett Education Center, Forest Glen Preserve
Teens will explore an on-and-off trail hike, try their hand at flint and steel fire-starting, and trek through the creek on a creek-walk. Trailblazers will get wet, muddy, and cook their lunch over an open fire.
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.
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 3-5 year old camps. The VCCD offers different program opportunities for families; Summer Camp programs are strictly for children.
Is the VCCD flexible with children attending 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.
