Young Scientists Research Experience (Ages 13 - 18)

During this unique experience, students will explore and carry out their own research project. Young Scientists will engage in inquiry-based, hands-on learning as they develop their own research questions, collect and analyze data, and present their results, all under the guidance of an experienced mentor.  This opportunity is perfect for middle and high school students with an interest in the environmental and natural sciences and the desire to experience ecological fieldwork. We welcome motivated students who are excited to spend the week at our beautiful, 900-acre field station in the northern Virginia Piedmont in the company of like-minded peers.
Example research questions include:

How does road noise affect the singing of birds, frogs, and other animals?
Where on the field station is there the most evidence of deer and other mammals?
Are there more insects on plants that are native to Virginia or on exotic plants?

Ages: 13-18 at the time of camp.
Time: 9AM – 4PM, Monday – Friday (June 22-26). There will be a presentation of student research projects on the evening of Friday, 6/26, open to friends and families.
Cost: $350 for first camper, $280 for each additional camper.
Cancellation Policy: Cancellations more than 3 weeks before the start of camp will receive a full refund. Cancellations less than 3 weeks before the start of camp or failure to submit paperwork by the deadline made less than 3 weeks before the start of camp will receive a refund minus a $50 registration fee.
Paperwork Deadline: You should receive a confirmation email upon registration, which will contain a link for filling out your camper’s emergency contact form and liability waiver. The deadline for submission of paperwork will be June 1st, 2026. If you do not submit your paperwork by the deadline, you will be refunded all but the $50 and the spot will be offered to the next person on the wait list. Paperwork is important for us to plan!  
Vaccination Policy: All staff and campers aged 5 and above must be up-to-date with all Virginia Board of Health School Immunization requirements for the appropriate age (found here). 
Scholarships: If you are interested in a scholarship, please fill out this 2026 Scholarship Application and wait for staff to contact you. If approved, we will register your campers from our end so that you are not charged the full fee. We don’t want financial limitations to get in the way of your child attending camp!