"In the midst of winter, I found there was, within me, an invincible summer."-Albert Camus

Winter Exploration Camp 2025!

Get ready for snowy adventures, wilderness survival skills, hot cocoa, snowshoeing, animal tracking, science experiments, guest speakers, winter games, and more!

We’re offering a special overnight tent camping opportunity on the night of December 31st, where campers can celebrate the New Year with s’mores, stargazing, and outdoor cooking!  Enjoy one overnight camping experience and a New Year’s Eve party! Campers can choose to tent camp outside or sleep inside the visitor center. Dinner on New Year’s Eve, breakfast, and lunch the next day are provided.

Camp Details

Location: Galena Creek Visitor Center

Dates: Monday December 29th -Friday January 2nd

Ages: 9-13

Drop Off: 9:00-9:30AM  Pickup: 3:30-4:00PM

1 Night of Overnight Camping: Wednesday December 31st inside the Visitor Center! Dinner the 31st and Breakfast and Lunch January 1st will be provided.

Cost: $325 per camper

Campers will need to bring a lunch from home and any snacks needed for each camp day. 

 

Watch the video below!

Please note a completed registration form is required at the time of payment, and a camper’s spot will only be held once payment has been received.

Got Questions?

Thank you for registering for Galena Creek Exploration Camps! You can expect to receive an email within one week of camp with further details about your camp experience.
 

If you have any questions in the meantime, please feel free to reach out to us at visitorcenter@thegreatbasininstitute.orgWe’re here to help and look forward to an exciting camp adventure!

We offer limited camp scholarships provided by generous donors. Scholarships are based on availability and specific eligibility requirements. If you have questions regarding your application, please contact the Camp Director, Ashley Morales, at ashmorales@thegreatbasininstitute.org Please allow 2-3 weeks for application reviewal. 

Packing List for Campers

 Spend 1 night at Galena Creek Visitor Center!

Join us for a fun-filled overnight stay at Galena Creek Visitor Center during Winter Camp! Campers will enjoy cooking hot dogs, making s’mores, and watching a movie inside the visitor center. Options include tent camping (weather permitting) or sleeping indoors at the Visitor Center. Embrace the beauty of the forest and the magic of the stars on this unforgettable night at Galena!

Food Allergy Information

At Galena Creek Winter Exploration Camp, the safety and well-being of all our campers are our top priorities. Please be aware that our camp is not a peanut- or nut-free facility. While we make reasonable efforts to promote safe practices, campers may bring foods or products that contain peanuts or other nuts, and we cannot guarantee an allergen-free environment.

Families of campers with food allergies should carefully consider this information and take appropriate precautions. We appreciate your cooperation and understanding as we work to create a safe and inclusive experience for all campers.

About Camp Staff

Each staff member brings a passion for outdoor education and a commitment to creating a safe, fun, and engaging experience for all campers.

All Naturalists and Camp Counselors are trained in First Aid and CPR, have completed driver training, and are mandated reporters, ensuring a secure environment for every child. Their energy and commitment help to create an amazing outdoor adventure for all campers.

Refund Policy

Full payment is due at the time of registration to secure your child’s spot. If a refund is requested, a full refund will be provided only if the notice is given at least 14 days prior to the selected camp’s start date. Cancellations made within 14 days of the start date will not be eligible for a refund.

Galena Exploration Camps Zero Tolerance Bullying Policy

 

At Galena Exploration Camps, we are committed to providing a safe, inclusive, and respectful environment for all campers, staff, and visitors. Bullying of any kind, whether physical, verbal, cyber, or relational, will not be tolerated under any circumstances.

Our policy is clear:

  • Any form of bullying is strictly prohibited.
  • All reports of bullying will be taken seriously and investigated promptly.
  • Offenders will face appropriate consequences, which may include sitting out of camp activities, parental involvement, or removal from the camp program.

We believe that everyone deserves to feel safe and valued. We encourage campers, staff, and Guardians to speak up if they witness or experience bullying. Together, we can create a positive and supportive camp community where everyone can thrive.