Forest Friends: Week 2
July 17-21
Pine Trees and Paint Brushes + Early Adventures
Day 1:
Today was the kick-off to week two of Forest Friends! The day started with feeding the Nature Center Deer, Autumn, and the owl. Our campers then split off into their two groups, the bees and the owls. The bees headed to the sugar bush where maple syrup is made to build forts and paint, while the owls went to the lookout tower/ hawks field to build fairy homes. After lunch, the owls and bees switched locations and projects so both groups got a chance to have fun with both activities. Then it was time to head home before day two!
Day 2:
Today we wrapped up Pine Trees and Paint brushes! This morning during arrival campers discovered an old log that was beginning to fall apart and used sticks and other materials to pull it apart. The animal feeding for today included the owl and Autumn, so the owls and bees got to switch and see both animals! The owls went for a hike today looking at the different trees in the Nature Center trails, while the Bees headed to the sugarbush for more painting. After lunch, The owls went to the docks to investigate the mud in the water using sticks and see what plants or insects they could find. During the mud investigation, the Bees went on a hike and shortly ventured into the sugarbush. Campers then headed home after lots of walking around!
Day 3:
Today we began Early Adventures with Forest Friends! Both our owl and our bee groups helped feed the Nature Center deer, Autumn. While the bees headed to hawk field hiking down trails, the owls went to the docks to use sticks to find different bugs and plants in the water. After lunch, the owls went down the trails to work on their mapping skills and learn about what makes a good map. The bees continued to hike down different paths and guide the exploration themself, discovering different plants, insects, and even spotting some squirrels!
Day 4:
Day two of Early adventures began in the outdoor classroom with animal pelts and wood blocks! There was no animal feeding, but campers did stop to see the Nature Center owl. Next, the bees went to the sugarbush to work on shelter building, while the owls spent time in the mud kitchen! After lunch, all groups met at the sugar bush where a lively discussion about forts and fairies ensued. The bees and owls split up once again so the bees would have a chance to go to the mud kitchen, while the owls went down the Fox Ridge Trail and searched for fairy homes! Unfortunately due to technical difficulties only one photo is posted for now but hopefully more will be posted soon!
Day 5:
It was the final day of camp for forest friends. Today we started with hikes making our way to the sugarbush. Campers spent lots of time climbing different logs and stumps they found along the way! Once both the owls and bees got to the sugarbush, we learned about fire starting and the materials needed. Campers gathered all the small twigs they could find to use and helped set up the pit. Everyone got to eat a special Friday lunch around the campfire! After lunch, marshmallows and more were taken out to make s’mores! Campers got to roast their own marshmallows and make themselves a tasty treat before saying goodbye and heading home!
