Environmental Summer Camp

The main focus of the camp is to familiarize campers with natural resources and environmental concepts so that they will be better informed citizens of tomorrow. The campers participate in fun educational courses in the field of:  

  • forestry
  • archery
  • environmental education
  • health education
  • aquaculture education
  • fishing
  • sports
  • crafts and pottery
  • etiquette education
  • leadership skills 
  • Aside from courses the camp includes activities such as camp fires, swimming (where trained staff offer swimming lessons), and eco scavenger hunts.

4-H Environmental Summer Camp is staffed by highly trained University of Florida faculty. Nestled on the banks of Lake Francis in Highland County, the camp’s open spaces and abundant fishing allow for playing and learning in a safe and enjoyable environment. 4-H Environmental Summer Camp provides the perfect escape from the noise and clutter of city life and an opportunity to appreciate nature and work in a relaxed atmosphere.

The camp’s “Discovery Lab” is equipped with nets, seines and microscopes to explore the Lake Francis depths. In addition, 4-H Camp has acquired a 25-acre tract of swamp/upland habitat adjacent to the main facility. Boardwalks and interpretive stations meander throughout, to enable campers to explore this piece of wild Florida . Groups of campers observe, explore and interact with nature in an informal setting of experiential learning.

   Meet Your Camp Staff

Steve Cooper - Resident Director

Steve has worked for Florida 4-H Camping for 22 years. He began as the Cherry Lake Camp Director from 1985-88. He has been the Director at Camp Cloverleaf since 1988. Steve also has worked and trained in Challenge Adventure and 4-H Shooting Sports Programs. He served on the State 4-H Camping Advisory Board from 2005-07. He was a State of FL Certified Security Officer from 1995-00. Steve also holds a State of FL Certified Security Officer License . He has also been substitute teaching in Highlands County since 1996.

Parents

As a parent, you can expect your child to have a safe and happy camp experience.  No one can guarantee that your child will not get hurt, but we do all we can to minimize the risks at the 4-H center. While swimming, there will be a qualified lifeguard and two adult chaperones for every 50 campers in the swimming area.

A first aid station is located on the grounds. Medications for allergies or other illnesses are kept in a safe location and monitored by the camp nurse. Arrangements have been made with local hospitals for emergency care.  It is the responsibility of the parents to notify 4-H agents of any medical conditions which apply to their child. Professional and summer staff receive training in safety procedures and program areas. 

Please do not call your child at camp or instruct her/him to call you.  If an emergency arises, you may reach your County Extension agent through the camp office.

Your camper will be expected to attend activities as scheduled.  There is a variety of classes that offer flexibility and choice of activities.

What to Bring

  • Bedding (pillow, 2 sheets or sleeping bag or blanket)
  • Comb/brush
  • Soap
  • Shampoo/Conditioner
  • Toothbrush
  • Toothpaste
  • Drinking Glass
  • Insect Repellent
  • Sun Block (waterproof is suggested)
  • Tennis
  • Tennis Shoes
  • Pajamas
  • Bathing Suit (ONE 2 pieces for girls)
  • Clothes for 5 days
  • Cap/Hat/Visor
  • Sunglasses
  • Towel
  •  Washcloths
  • Flashlight
  • Stationary
  • Stamps
  • Pencil/Pen
  • Lunch for the drive over to camp!

 

What Not to Bring

  • Electronic Games
  • Radios, CD or tape player
  • Chewing gum
  • Food
  • Fireworks
  • Alcohol or tobacco products
  • Guns, knives (including pocket knives) or any other items that could cause harm to another camper

Campers

As a camper, you can expect to:

  • Participate and have fun.
  • Enjoy good meals in the dining hall.
  • Feel a little tingle up your back at the flag ceremonies.
  • Do a variety of hands-on activities in all classes.
  • Become good friends with your counselors and other campers .
  • Spend time in the water.
  • Be outside and learn about nature, the environment, and wildlife.
  • Sing and play games around a campfire.
  • Make a variety of crafts.

Important Dates and Information

For camp information call 4-H Office

  • 305-592-8044

Cost

Campers, Ages 8-13:

Counselors, Ages 14-18: Free (limited Space)

Cost is reduced for youth on “free or reduced School meal plans.” Cost includes: transportation, meals, snacks, fun educational hands on learning activities, and camp activities lead by University of Florida Staff staff.  

Downloads

After School Programs, City Parks, Schools, and Other Organizations

4-H Environmental Summer Camp is managed by the Miami-Dade County Cooperative Extension Service The mission of the 4-H Youth Development program in Miami-Dade is to provide local educators and parents with the research based solutions that create positive change in youth, families, and communities.

If you are an institutional youth coordinator looking to provide a safe, fun and educational camp experience to your youth but do not have the expertise or resources to develop your own environmental summer camp; simply incorporate your summer program into our 4-H Environmental Summer Camp. 4-H Environmental Summer Camp can easily be incorporated into your already existing summer programming, and has been the summer camp of choice for many city parks.

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