Missoula Parents

Camp

Nature Detectives

By Montana Natural History Center

Listed under Nature and wildlife camps

An instructor points up to the trees while a group of children wearing backpacks observes the outdoors.
Photo from montananaturalist.org
  • An instructor teaches two young girls about an aquatic creature caught in a net while standing in a stream.
  • A woman instructs a group of children in a museum gallery about Montana's ecosystems.
  • A teacher stands in front of a class of students in a school room.
  • A photograph of the Montana Natural History Center building featuring a large dragonfly mural.

About this camp

Step into a week of discovery as campers become Nature Detectives, uncovering the hidden stories of the outdoors. Through explorations, hands-on investigations, and creative activities, young adventurers will build their curiosity, deepen their understanding of local ecosystems, and connect with the natural world in meaningful ways.

How to join

Ask about next season: Nature Detectives at Montana Natural History Center

Eligibility

Ages or grades
Pre-K – Kindergarten (4 and up); 1st – 2nd Grade; 3rd – 5th Grade
Adaptive program
Yes
Counselor ratio
Group size is limited to 13 campers and 2 counselors.

Cost help

Montana Natural History Center publishes scholarships, sliding fees, or other financial aid. Ask the provider how to apply, or see Help paying.

Past seasons

Published dates from previous seasons, kept so families can compare programs between years.

View 3 past sessions
What the provider published for past seasons
SessionDatesCost
Nature DetectivesMon, Jun 8, 2026–Fri, Jun 12, 2026

9:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m.

$385 for members, $405 for non-members per camp.
Pay-Per-DayWed, Jun 10, 2026–Fri, Jun 12, 2026

Single-day registration is available Wednesday through Friday (June 10–12).

$70 for MNHC members / $75 for non-members
Nature DetectivesMon, Jul 20, 2026–Fri, Jul 24, 2026

9:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m.

$385 for members, $405 for non-members per camp.

  • Nature Detectives

    Dates
    Mon, Jun 8, 2026–Fri, Jun 12, 2026

    9:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m.

    Cost
    $385 for members, $405 for non-members per camp.

  • Pay-Per-Day

    Dates
    Wed, Jun 10, 2026–Fri, Jun 12, 2026

    Single-day registration is available Wednesday through Friday (June 10–12).

    Cost
    $70 for MNHC members / $75 for non-members

  • Nature Detectives

    Dates
    Mon, Jul 20, 2026–Fri, Jul 24, 2026

    9:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m.

    Cost
    $385 for members, $405 for non-members per camp.