Backyard Critters Week Summer Camp at Georgia College & State University
Backyard Critters Week at Bobcat Explorers Summer Camp invites young nature lovers to explore the fascinating world of insects, animals, and outdoor ecosystems on the Georgia College & State University campus in Milledgeville, Georgia, near Lake Sinclair. This hands-on nature and science summer camp for kids encourages curiosity, observation, and environmental awareness through engaging outdoor activities.
Throughout the week, campers discover the tiny creatures and wildlife that share our environment. Through interactive exploration and guided learning, children gain a deeper understanding of how different animals and insects contribute to healthy ecosystems.
Camp activities include:
Observing insects and backyard wildlife
Exploring local habitats and ecosystems
Learning how animals and bugs support the environment
Hands-on science and nature discovery activities
Outdoor exploration and environmental learning
By the end of the week, campers leave with new knowledge, greater confidence, and a stronger appreciation for the natural world around them.
Collaboration with GCSU Academic Outreach
Backyard Critters Week is presented in collaboration with Georgia College & State University Academic Outreach, bringing educational expertise and engaging learning experiences to campers. This partnership helps provide meaningful science exploration while keeping activities fun and age-appropriate.
Part of the Bobcat Explorers Summer Camp Program
This specialty week is part of the Bobcat Explorers Summer Camp program at Georgia College, one of the most engaging summer camps for kids in Milledgeville and the Lake Sinclair area.
In addition to nature exploration, campers enjoy a well-rounded summer camp experience that includes:
Recreational games and outdoor activities
Creative arts and crafts
Daily swim time in the campus outdoor pool (weather permitting)
Social activities that build friendships and teamwork
The combination of hands-on environmental learning and traditional summer camp fun makes Bobcat Explorers a memorable experience for children across the Lake Country region.
Camp Instructor
GCSU Academic Outreach Staff
Georgia College & State University
Experienced educators guide campers through engaging nature activities designed to spark curiosity and encourage discovery.
Whether your child loves bugs, animals, science, or outdoor adventure, Backyard Critters Week at Georgia College offers an exciting nature summer camp near Lake Sinclair and Milledgeville, GA.
Daily Recreation & Swimming
In addition to expert-led programming, campers also enjoy daily recreation and swim time in the outdoor campus pool (weather permitting).
Certified lifeguards supervise all swim sessions to ensure camper safety.
Important swim information:
Campers must pass a swim test to swim without a life jacket
Life jackets are required for campers who do not pass the swim test
Pool time is supervised by certified lifeguards
Flexible Weekly Registration
One of the highlights of Bobcat Explorers Summer Camp at Georgia College is its flexible week-by-week registration. Families can choose the weeks that work best for their schedule while allowing campers to explore a variety of themed activities throughout the summer.
This flexible structure makes it one of the most convenient summer camps near Lake Sinclair and Milledgeville.
Daily Camp Schedule
Ages 9–12
Morning
Drop Off: 8:00 am – 8:30 am
Weekly Specialty Activities: 8:30 am – 11:30 am
Midday
Lunch: 11:30 am – 12:30 pm
Afternoon
Day Camp Activities: 12:30 pm – 3:30 pm
Pick Up: 3:30 pm – 4:00 pm
Ages 5–8
Morning
Drop Off: 8:00 am – 8:30 am
Day Camp Activities: 8:30 am – 11:30 am
Midday
Lunch: 11:30 am – 12:30 pm
Afternoon
Weekly Specialty Activities: 12:30 pm – 3:30 pm
Pick Up: 3:30 pm – 4:00 pm
Camp Location & Dates
Georgia College & State University
Milledgeville, Georgia
Summer Camp Dates:
Weekdays from June 1 – July 10, 2026
Daily Programming Hours:
8:00 am – 4:00 pm
No camp on June 19.
Drop-Off & Pick-Up Location
Back of the Georgia College Wellness and Recreation Center
(Signage will be posted on campus)
Drop-Off: 8:00 am – 8:30 am
Pick-Up: 3:30 pm – 4:00 pm
A guardian must walk each camper to the designated drop-off and pick-up area where a counselor will check them in and out. Please bring a photo ID for pickup.
What Campers Should Bring
To help campers have a fun and comfortable day at Bobcat Explorers Summer Camp, please bring:
Closed-toe shoes and comfortable clothes that can get messy
Water bottle
Packed lunch
Extra snack (one snack is provided daily)
Towel and swimsuit
Life jacket (if needed for swimming)
Wet bag for pool items
Bug spray
Sunscreen
Please do not bring electronics.
Be sure to label all camper belongings with first and last name.