OWLS at the Everglades Youth Conservation Camp

The EYCC will be offering four OWLS for families with school-age children. Each weekend will focus on one of our core themes: paddle sports, wildlife discovery, shooting sports and fishing. Housing, meals and all the equipment for the weekend are provided. Families will participate in a variety of sessions to learn and improve their skills in each of the recreational programs. Patches for each program will be awarded to all participates at the conclusion of each seminar.

Paddle Sports Weekend

Florida has a variety of award winning paddling trails on the state’s abundant lakes, rivers and meandering coastline. It’s easy to get kids interested in canoeing or kayaking. Children possess a curiosity that, with a little bit of encouragement and a sturdy canoe or kayak, will make them want to get on the water and explore! They may spot an otter scooting through the water, an osprey diving for a fish or perhaps an alligator basking in the sun. Join us this weekend to learn paddling skills for canoes, kayaks, and paddleboards to make your next adventure on the water more enjoyable.

Wildlife Discovery Weekend

Imagine pitching a tent in one of Florida’s lush forests, camping along the shores of a sparkling lake or taking in the views from a beachfront site. There’s no better way to nourish a child’s sense of outdoor adventure and teach them life skills than camping. And there’s no better place to get off the beaten path and discover nature than Florida. Want your kids to experience a star-filled night, the smell of a campfire and the hoot of an owl? You can! Join this weekend to learn the basics of camping and how to make a weekend excursion with your family an exciting adventure. Discover the outdoors and create quality time with your family. Our excursions will include hiking, outdoor cooking, nature photography and crafts. Each family will need to bring a tent for this weekend.

Shooting Sports Weekend

Archery has become a very popular sport. It’s an activity that anyone can succeed at. It’s not about strength- It’s more about focus and good form. Archery also is one of the most accessible activities for people with disabilities. It’s fun, safe and a great way to socialize with friends and family. Plus, when new shooting skills are mastered, participants get a big boost in self-confidence. Join us to learn how to shoot a bow and arrow, as well as rotate through our other shooting sports including rifles, shotgun, and black powder. (Children must be 8 year of age to participate.)

Fishing Weekend

With 3 million acres of freshwater lakes, ponds and reservoirs and 12,000 miles of fishable rivers, streams and canals, Florida is THE fishing capital in the world. Whether you’re fishing from a bank, a dock or over the side of a john boat, it can be both relaxing and exciting all at the same time! The time spent fishing is time spent soaking in the world around us, and learning to appreciate Florida’s plenteous wildlife that survive in and around these precious freshwater bodies. Join us to learn everything you need to know to about fishing from equipment, skills and getting it to the table. We will conclude this adventure with a fishing tournament, boat races and a fish fry. Each child will receive a rod and reel provided by the Fish Florida grant program.

Cost for each weekend

• $100 per adult
• $75 for children 12 to 18 years
• $50 for children 5 to 11 years

Sleeping Accommodations

Families can choose to stay in our cabins, bring their own tent or borrow a tent. EYCC tents are limited and will be on a first-come, first-serve basis. Our cabins are air-conditioned with 10 bunk beds in an open room. Families will be sharing the cabins with other families. Bath houses are separate from the cabins.

Tentative Schedule

Friday (Dinner is not provided Friday Evening)
6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. – Arrival/Registration/Settle into tents and cabins
7:30 p.m. – Welcome / Introductions /Presentation
9:30 p.m. – Free Time / Off to Bed

Saturday
8:30 a.m. – Breakfast
9:30 a.m. – Activity Rotation
12:30 p.m. – Lunch/Free Time
2:00 p.m. – Activity Rotation
5:30 p.m. – Free Time
6:30 p.m. – Dinner
7:30 p.m. – Evening Program

Sunday
8:30 a.m. – Breakfast
9:30 a.m. – Activity Rotation
12:30 p.m. – Lunch and Closing Ceremony
2:00 p.m. – Departure

Questions?

Please contact the camp director, Janice Kerber, at Janice.kerber@myfwc.com or 561-624-6929 for more information.