DEC camps introduce young people to the outdoors while teaching practical skills, the fun of the outdoors and a respect for nature that can last a lifetime. Photo by Forrest Fisher

For many kids today, summer often means more time indoors — on phones, tablets or video games. But across New York, there’s a long-running program designed to give young people something far more memorable: a week exploring the forest, paddling quiet lakes and streams, catching their first fish, and discovering wildlife up close.

The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation Summer Camp Program returns for 2026, offering week-long residential conservation camps for youth ages 11 to 17. Registration opens Sunday at 1 p.m., and families interested in sending their kids should be ready. These camps are popular and many sessions fill quickly.

For generations, DEC camps have introduced young people to the outdoors while teaching practical skills and a respect for nature that can last a lifetime. The program operates at four scenic locations across New York State: Camp Colby in the Adirondacks, Camp DeBruce in the Catskills, Pack Forest Camp, and Camp Rushford here in Western New York. Each location hosts seven one-week sessions beginning June 28, with campers arriving Sunday and heading home Friday.

While every camp setting is unique — from mountain forests to quiet streams and lakes, the goal is the same: connect kids with nature while building confidence, outdoor skills, and an understanding of conservation.

Campers spend their days learning about fishing, canoeing, hiking forest trails and how wildlife and ecosystems work. Programs also include outdoor cooking, camping skills, environmental science activities and plenty of classic camp fun that helps kids build friendships and independence. The kids have many choices.

Many weeks also offer optional state-certified hunter education courses in hunting, bowhunting or trapping. These programs focus on safety, ethics and responsible wildlife management, giving interested campers the opportunity to earn certifications while learning about conservation traditions in New York.

The program remains one of the most affordable residential camps in the state. The cost is $350 per child, which covers five nights of lodging, all meals, field trips, outdoor instruction and a camp T-shirt. In many cases, local conservation clubs help sponsor young campers, sometimes covering part or even all of the cost so more kids can attend. There are many conservation clubs in Chautauqua County. Drop me a note for a list.

Sessions are divided between two age groups — 11 to 13 and 14 to 17–and campers must meet the minimum age requirement by December 2026.

For parents who want their children to experience the outdoors, but may not have the time, equipment, or experience to make it happen themselves, DEC summer camps provide a welcoming and exciting introduction to the natural world.

For many kids, it’s more than just a week at camp — it’s the start of a lifelong connection to the outdoors. With registration opening Sunday, families are encouraged to mark their calendars and sign up early before spots are gone. You will want to pre-register to help assure the camp of your choice for the timeframe of your choice. For more, visit https://www.dec.ny.gov.

Gotta love the outdoors.

CALENDAR

March 17: Erie County Fish Advisory Board, monthly meet, 7 p.m., Bison City Rod/Gun, 511 Ohio St., Buffalo.

March 17: Children in the Stream, Youth Fly Fishing program, free, Costello Room, Rockefeller Art Center, SUNY Fredonia, 7-8:30 p.m., 12 years old and older, info: 716-410-7003 (Alberto Rey).

March 21: Erie County Federation of Sportsman’s Clubs, Annual Banquet, Kloc’s Grove, 1245 Seneca Creek Road, West Seneca. $45 includes dinner, social hour. Info: Diane Steel, (716) 998-5137.

March 21: Hanover Fish & Game Club, Shots for Gold — sporting clays, 780 Overhiser Road, Forestville. 716-525-5160.

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Submit calendar items to forrestfisher35@yahoo.com at least 10 days in advance.