Ocean Explorers Camp - 2026 - Explorer Lab Summer Camps

Explorer Lab Summer Camps are back at the Ocean Discovery Academy! 

2026 SUMMER CAMP SCHEDULES- CLICK HERE!

This year, we are excited to offer 10 weeks of day camps for school aged kids to learn about marine science through hands-on activities, interactive experiments, and a whole lot of fun! 

Each week of camp will run from 9am - 3pm, Monday to Friday, with the exception of stat holidays. We have two different camp offerings, Junior Explorers (K-Grade 2) and Senior Explorers (Grades 3-6). Ages are based on the grade they are in this spring. If you wish to register your child slightly outside of the range, please contact us. 

We are excited to be partnering with Campbell River Whale Watching to offer two  exclusive whale watching offerings during our Senior Explorers Camp! Our Senior Explorer Camps running from August 17-21 and August 31- Sept will feature a 3-hour zodiac whale watching tour with the Naturalists from Campbell River Whale Watching! Please note that there is a slight price increase for these weeks and a required age of Grades 3-6. There will be the option for a limited number of parent chaperones on the Whale Watching Tours ($75.00 fee). If you are interested in purchasing a chaperone spot, please indicate on the registration form and we will randomly select the spots from the pool of those interested.

 

A little about our 2026 camp themes:

Animal Explorers Camp

Dive into the amazing animals of the Discovery Passage!

From tiny plankton drifting in the currents to giant whales cruising our coast, campers will discover the incredible creatures that call our ocean home. Throughout the week, explorers will investigate tide pools, meet fascinating sea stars, learn about the salmon life cycle, and uncover the hidden world of plankton and seaweeds.

Through hands-on science activities, crafts, outdoor exploration, beach visits, games, and touch tank experiences, campers will build a deeper connection to the ocean while having fun alongside new friends.

Highlights may include*:

• Tide pool exploration
  
• Plankton collection and microscope investigations
  
• Sea star experiments and touch tanks
  
• Whale-themed games and activities
  
• Salmon survival challenges
  
• Crafts inspired by local marine life
  

Perfect for curious young ocean lovers who want to learn more about the animals living just beyond our shores.

 

Journey to the Bottom of the Sea Camp

How deep can you go?

Join us for an unforgettable adventure as we journey from the rocky shoreline to the deepest parts of the ocean. Throughout the week, campers will explore the different ocean zones, discovering how animals survive in habitats ranging from sunny coastal waters to the dark and mysterious abyss.

Each day brings a new depth to explore and new creatures to meet. Campers will learn about fascinating marine adaptations, investigate local ocean habitats, create ocean-inspired crafts, and participate in hands-on science activities, games, and outdoor adventures.

Highlights may include*:

• Exploring local intertidal habitats and tide pools
  
• Visiting the Discovery Passage Aquarium
  
• Creating glowing bioluminescent artwork
  
• Designing deep-sea creature crafts
  
• Participating in sensory challenges inspired by life in the deep ocean
  
• Building a giant collaborative mural that follows our descent from shore to the abyss
  

Through discovery, creativity, and exploration, campers will uncover the wonders hidden beneath the waves and learn what it takes to survive at every depth of the sea.

Perfect for curious explorers who love ocean mysteries, strange sea creatures, and underwater adventures.

 

*Weeks that are shortened due to statutory holidays will omit some activities.

2026 SUMMER CAMP SCHEDULES- CLICK HERE!

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Once payment is complete, we will email you our registration paperwork and other important information! Be sure to submit your email when booking so we may reach you in advance. Registration forms must be returned before camps begin to secure your spot. 

Cancellation Policy:

>30 days before camp		Full refund
10-29 days before camp		75% refund
<9 days before camp		50% refund
After camp start date		No refunds. Transfers to a later summer camp may be possible if space is available.

Our summer camps are designed to inspire a love of nature and science through fun, hands-on learning. To ensure everyone has the opportunity to enjoy and grow from the experience, we expect all participants to follow basic behavior guidelines and show respect for others, staff, and the environment.

If you have any questions, please contact our Education and Stewardship Coordinator, Anna at education@discoverypassageaquarium.ca