Camps
Explore our exciting camp options below! For Spring Break, we have both day-long and week-long spots available, each featuring a unique marine theme every day. Our Summer Camp runs throughout the season and promises engaging marine science activities that will create unforgettable experiences for your child.
Estuary Quest Summer Camp
Two locations, one summer camp adventure to remember! Estuary Quest is all about diving into the amazing world of Tampa Bay in a fun, hands-on way. Each week has its own animal theme, but no matter when you come, you can always count on snorkeling, science experiments, games, boat rides, eco-friendly art, and tons of exciting activities.
Our Auer Marine Education Center in Tierra Verde, Florida, is the perfect spot for water lovers. Want to get muddy in the mangroves or paddle a kayak through the bay? This is your place!
Over at the Discovery Center on the St. Pete Pier, you’ll explore Tampa Bay Watch’s interactive exhibits, enjoy creature meet and greets, and cool off at Spa Beach or the Splash Pad.
No matter which location you choose, Estuary Quest is all about making lasting memories, connecting with nature, and learning something new every step of the way!
Registration opens March 10, 2025 at 9:00 AM!
Summer Camp 2025 Parent Info Packet: Click here to download
Cost: $360 per week (members receive 10% off, please call (727) 867-8166 ext. 241 for more information)
Ages: 6 - 15, we also offer a Counselor in Training Leadership Program for ages 13-18
Time: M-F 9:00 AM- 4:00 PM
Location:
Discovery Center: 700 2nd Ave NE, St Petersburg, FL 33701
or
Auer Marine Education Center: 3000 Pinellas Bayway S, Tierra Verde, FL 33715
Questions? Please send an email to education@tampabaywatch.org – we’re happy to help!
Camp Scholarships: Tampa Bay Watch is dedicated to ensuring that environmental learning experiences are accessible to everyone in our community. This year, we will host a free pop-up camp program to accommodate families in need of financial assistance. If you would like to receive more information about this opportunity, please click here to complete our request form.
June 2 - August 8, 2025
Our Summer Camp 2025 theme is Nature’s Superpowers!
Is it a bird? Is it a plane? No, it’s summer camp at Tampa Bay Watch! This summer, campers will dive into the amazing world of Tampa Bay’s wildlife, discovering how local animals use their superpowers to survive and thrive. From the lightning-fast hunting skills of sharks to the regenerative abilities of sea stars, campers will explore how these creatures have mastered their environments. We’ll uncover the secrets behind a sea turtle’s tough shell, an otter's talent for teamwork, and a dolphin's echolocation. Through hands-on activities, games, and outdoor adventures, let’s discover nature’s true superheroes and learn how we can protect them. Get ready for an action-packed summer of adventure, discovery, and fun in the sun!
Discovery Center
Camp
Schedule
Ages 6-8
June 9-13
Sea Stars: Ready, Set, Regenerate!
June 23-27
Dolphins: Echolocation Experts
July 21-25
Turtles: Shell and Tell
August 4-8
Pelicans: Determined Divers
Ages 9-12
June 2-6
Manatees: Super Snackers
June 16-20
Rays: Tide Riders
July 7-11
Sharks: Teeth and Tactics
July 28-August 1
Otters: Playful Prowlers
Ages 13-15
July 14-18
Bay Futures: Guardians of the Gulf
Click here to learn more!
Auer Marine Education Center Camp Schedule
Ages 6-8
June 2-6
Pelicans: Determined Divers
June 16-20
Turtles: Shell and Tell
July 14-18
Dolphins: Echolocation Experts
July 28-August 1
Sea Stars: Ready, Set, Regenerate!
Ages 9-12
June 9-13
Otters: Playful Prowlers
June 23-27
Sharks: Teeth and Tactics
July 21-25
Rays: Tide Riders
August 4-8
Manatees: Super Snackers
Ages 13-15
July 7-11
Bay Futures: Guardians of the Gulf
Click here to learn more!
REGISTER
The registration button will become active when camp registration opens. No space left in the week of your choice? Don’t worry, there’s a waitlist!
NEW! Bay Futures Counselor in Training Leadership Program
Teens ages 13-18 with a passion for marine science, leadership, and working with kids are invited to apply for our Bay Futures Counselor-in-Training (CIT) Leadership Program. Gain hands-on experience guiding younger campers while honing key skills in communication, teamwork, and problem-solving—plus, earn volunteer hours! This exciting opportunity is available at both Tampa Bay Watch locations. Click here to learn more - your teen can apply today through our website and take the first step toward becoming a future leader!
The cost to participate is $180 per week, due at time of acceptance, which supports the supplies and dedicated staff time necessary to deliver a high quality learning experience.
PLEASE NOTE!
Full-face snorkel masks are not permitted during snorkeling excursions or other water-based Tampa Bay Watch programs. Safety is our top priority, and there are a number of risks associated with this type of equipment. Clean, sanitized traditional-style masks and snorkels are available for participants to borrow upon request.
FOUL WEATHER POLICY:
We do our best to ensure that all planned activities are accomplished throughout the camp day, but safety is our first priority, and camp staff and captains reserve the right to change the daily schedule based on weather conditions (e.g. rain, high winds).
CANCELLATION/ REFUND POLICY:
If you notify Tampa Bay Watch of your intent to cancel at least 14 days before your child's camp session, the camp registration fee will be assessed for a full or partial refund at the camp coordinator’s discretion and a $25 administrative fee will be held against any refunds provided. No refunds will be issued for cancellations made less than14 business days before your camper’s session start date, if your camper does not show up for their camp session, or if your camper is dismissed from camp by camp staff for behavioral issues. If you have questions about a refund, please email education@tampabaywatch.org.
In the event of an unavoidable emergency or medical concern, a full refund will be issued. Tampa Bay Watch reserves the right to modify or discontinue programs due to inclement weather or to maintain safe operations. In in the unlikely event of a cancellation, a full refund will be issued. If you have questions about cancellations and/or refunds please contact education@tampabaywatch.org.
Spring Break Camp
March 17 - 21, 2025
Let's get artsea! This spring, we're going to mix a splash of science with a dash of creativity for a unique week of ocean art camp you won't want to miss. As always, Tampa Bay Watch campers will embark on exciting adventures, participating in engaging labs, boat trips, and ecosystem explorations to discover the fascinating creatures that call our waters home.
But that’s just the beginning! Each day will also be infused with crafts, music, and movement, ensuring a fun-filled experience that brings the Bay’s animal inhabitants to life. Drop in for a day or two or register for the whole week. No matter what, you’ll leave with new knowledge, some art projects worth keeping, and a deeper connection to our ocean environment.
Registration opens January 13, 2025 at 9:00 AM!
View our Spring Break 2025 Information Packet to learn more.
Cost: $75 per day
Ages: 6 - 10
Time: 9:00 AM- 4:00 PM
Location:
Discovery Center: 700 2nd Ave NE, St Petersburg, FL 33701
or
Auer Marine Education Center: 3000 Pinellas Bayway S, Tierra Verde, FL 33715
Questions? Email: education@tampabaywatch.org
Discovery
Center
Camp Schedule
Monday
Alligator
Tuesday
Squid
Wednesday
Snook
Thursday
Seahorse
Friday
Snake
REGISTER
Auer Marine Education Center Camp Schedule
Monday
Octopus
Tuesday
Parrotfish
Wednesday
Shark
Thursday
Dolphin
Friday
Scallop
“My son said he actually did not have a least favorite part of camp… he liked everything! We were incredibly pleased with this camp from start to finish. Caring and knowledgeable team of teachers, wonderful facilities, incredible experiences, creative and intentional plans each day. We cannot wait to be a part of this next summer!”