Summer camp can be one of the most memorable experiences of a child’s life. It’s a time to make new friends and pursue interests in a fun, supportive environment. Cub Creek Science and Animal Camp is keeping that tradition going strong, even with the uncertainty of the pandemic. Located on a 300-acre exotic animal ranch just north of Rolla, Missouri, it offers children ages 7 to 17 a summer of both adventure and education.
Cub Creek held camp at reduced capacity in 2020. Assistant camp and creative director Ari Farley says the administration realized it was important to open even in difficult circumstances. “In the spring, we had families call to cancel, but we also had many parents checking to make sure their kids could have something to do in the summer,” she says. “While we had to adjust or postpone some activities, it ultimately was rewarding to see our campers interact with the animals, engage with each other and explore the outdoors.” Along with fewer campers at each session, safety adjustments included face covering and distancing guidelines.
The camp will apply the lessons it learned last year to its one-week sessions this summer from May 30 to Aug. 7. Farley notes that campers and staff alike will have a better understanding of COVID-19 safety protocols. “We’re coming in with knowledge and experience, and we’re thankful for the opportunity to run camp even better,” she says. “It’s important that kids can be happy and do normal things in these abnormal times. We’ve found new, safe ways to help them create special memories.”
One thing campers still can look forward to is hands-on animal encounters. Cub Creek is home to more than 300 creatures, including birds, insects, reptiles, amphibians and mammals. Through supervised lessons, kids and teens learn about proper handling and care along with important scientific concepts. Beyond practical skills and knowledge, they also develop lasting connections with the animals. “Our camel Malachi joined us 10 years ago as a baby, so many of our campers have grown up alongside him,” Farley says. “The kids bond just as much with the animals as with each other.”
The camp also is renowned for its STEM program, which includes chemistry, physics and ecology. This year, it’s adding even more outdoor activities to its roster to give campers the chance to directly engage with nature. “We’re very proud of our animal and science programming, but we also do many traditional camp activities, from making friendship bracelets and hiking to archery and cave exploring,” Farley says. “There is so much to do, you couldn’t possibly get it done in one week.” Cub Creek also has a ropes course, which includes climbing walls and a zip line.
Parents should start planning for summer activities now, according to Farley. While many families wait until spring, reaching out to camp administrators sooner will give you the opportunity to share your unique circumstances and concerns. “With the pandemic, everyone has their own distinct dynamic and challenges, so that means they have different questions,” she notes. “We love hearing from our families about their specific needs and what they want to happen this summer. It helps ensure that we can do what is best for all of our campers.”
Located on a 300-acre exotic animal ranch just north of Rolla, Missouri, Cub Creek Science and Animal Camp offers children ages 7 to 17 more than 100 activities and hands-on encounters with more than 100 species of animals. For more information, call 573.458.2125 or visit cubcreeksciencecamp.com.
Cover design by Julie Streiler
Cover photo courtesy of Cub Creek Science and Animal Camp
Pictured at top: Campers experience hands-on encounters with animals.
Photo courtesy of Cub Creek Science and Animal Camp