CREA Camp

CREA Camp logo (1)

Planning for the 2025 Season is in Progress.

Please visit again in January for more information. 

 

Our mission is to provide rich, nature-based experiences that cultivate delight, curiosity, respect for diversity and a strong sense of collaboration and stewardship in youth. At CREA, campers learn that nature is a wondrous place, filled with magic, mystery, and adventure!

CREA Camp 2025 Planning in Progress!

2024 Camper Sessions - 

Daily Hours: 8:30am - 4:00pm | Location: Cathance River Nature Preserve - Topsham, ME 

Registration for 2024 CREA Camp will use a lottery system. The lottery is closed.   

June 24 - 28

[FULL]

 

Rising 6th-8th Graders

$315

Nature Pathfinders

This immersive nature session is tailor-made for pre-teens and teens who thrive on outdoor exploration, relish the company of friends, and hunger for thrilling adventures. Get ready for a week filled with dynamic team quests that will challenge your skills, teamwork, and problem-solving abilities. Together, we'll learn to make a fire, cook up survival meals, navigate the preserve’s untouched paths, go fishing, and compete in obstacle courses. Camp is all about pushing boundaries and discovering new passions.

July 8-12

[FULL]

Ages: 6-10

$315

Wilderness Explorers

Get ready for a week of exhilarating outdoor exploration and skill-building at Wilderness Explorer Camp! Geared towards young adventurers with a passion for nature, this camp promises an action-packed experience filled with hands-on learning and exciting challenges. Teams of campers will embark on an exciting race to identify local plants and animals. Join us for a week of skill development, nature appreciation, and unforgettable adventures.

July 15-19

[FULL]

Ages: 6 - 10

$315

Nature Detectives: Unraveling the Mysteries of the Wild!

Embark on a thrilling adventure at Nature Detective Camp, where curious minds come together to solve the mysteries of the natural world! If you've ever pondered the secrets hidden within scratch marks, furry pellets, or mysterious tracks, this camp is tailor-made for you. Camp Nature Detective invites young explorers to join us for a week of intrigue, discovery, and nature-inspired investigations.

July 22-26

[FULL]

Ages: 6 - 10

$315

WildSense: Unleash Your Inner Animal Instincts!

Ever wondered what it's like to have the sensory prowess of a black bear's nose or the keen eyesight of an eagle? At CREA we invite campers to explore the extraordinary world of animal senses through wacky and immersive challenges that will put their own senses to the test. Step into the shoes (or paws) of your favorite wild creatures! Campers will engage in activities inspired by the natural world, unleashing their inner animal instincts.

July 29-Aug. 2

[FULL]

Ages: 6 - 10

$315

Herpetology Adventures: Dive into the World of Amphibians and Reptiles!

Calling all budding herpetologists and nature enthusiasts! Join us for an exciting week at Herpetology Adventure Camp, where campers will have the unique opportunity to explore the captivating science of herpetology through up-close encounters with a diverse array of fascinating species. Herpetology Adventure Camp promises a week of discovery, learning, and hands-on exploration.

Aug. 5- 9

[FULL]

Ages: 6 - 10

$315

Wild & Messy Nature Challenge Camp: Embrace the Messiness of Nature!

Get ready for a week of untamed fun and wild exploration at the Wild & Messy Nature Challenge Camp! If you thrive on the thrill of messy adventures and want to immerse yourself in the wonders of nature, this is the camp for you. Explore the art of blending in with your surroundings and test your creations throughout the week. We invite young adventurers to revel in the messiness of nature, where every challenge is an opportunity for discovery.

Aug. 12-16

[FULL]

Ages: 6 - 10

$315

Mammal Mania: Release the Wild Within!

Embark on a week-long adventure at Mammal Mania Camp, where campers will dive deep into the fascinating world of mammals – nature's warm, fuzzy, and food-seeking wonders! Join us as we explore the remarkable traits and adaptations that make mammals the masters of their environment. Engage in hands-on activities and games that showcase the adaptations that help mammals thrive in their diverse habitats.

"J had 2 weeks at camp and reports he only wants to do CREA next year. We love everything about it. Drop off and pick up are easy. The times are convenient. We love the nature immersion and facilities.” 

Every week at CREA: Campers hike into the Cathance River Nature Preserve, explore over 5 miles of trails within its 235 acres of forest; cool their toes in the Cathance River while hunting for frogs; fish in deep river pools, catching and releasing fresh-water fish; scoop pond muck in search of newts, tadpoles, and insect larvae; engineer boats and test them out in the river rapids; hunt for salamanders under rotting leaves and logs and so much more! 

Daily adventures at CREA Camp: In addition to exploring our beautiful forests, CREA campers will engage daily in nature-based art, hands-on science exploration, active games, and activities. Campers will explore new interests, develop new skills, and build friendships under the supervision of our experienced and lively camp team. Each week ends with a full day of hiking on the Preserve, including lunch on the bank of the river and wallowing in the cool clay-mud at Clay Brook – campers are sure to come home tired and dirty!

"I feel that CREA has enriched his life. He didn’t seem to have a single favorite experience, he enjoyed it all! He loves the outdoors and playing outside. CREA is an awesome privilege to have in a day where children only ever want to sit inside and watch YouTube.” 


2025 CREA Camp

Ages: CREA Camp is for youth ages 6 to 13 and CIT's 13-17 yrs.

Hours: 8:30am - 4:00pm.  Drop-off 8:30 - 9:00am | Pick up 3:45 - 4:00pm

Wilderness Wisdom Wednesdays: Each week, a local science/nature specialist will share a topic related to the week's theme. Presenters' information and details on their program will be shared with registered families prior to each camp week. 

Weekly Tuition: $315  | $25 discount for BTLT Members 

 

"We had a wonderful experience and are sure to join again next summer! My son couldn't say enough great things about the activities, counselors, and friends he met there.” 


If you have any questions regarding CREA Summer Camp, please contact:

Macy Galvan, Camp Director | | (207) 331 - 3202 x4

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We're Hiring! If you are an outdoor enthusiast or budding naturalist, enjoy working with children, describe yourself as creative, flexible, and energetic - we'd love to meet you! Send your resume and cover letter to  Camp Director, Macy Galvan at

Click HERE to learn more