VIMS

Summer Programs

  • Sea Squirts
    Sea Squirts   Sea Squirts have fun crabbing on the pier!   Photo courtesy of CBNERR
  • Estuary Explorers
    Estuary Explorers   During Estuary Explorers camp, 7th and 8th grade students test water quality at many sites along the Eastern Shore.   Photo by Sarah Nuss
  • Bay Buddies
    Bay Buddies   3rd and 4th graders explore the VIMS Teaching Marsh   Photo by Sarah Nuss
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Summer Programs Iformation

CBNERR and VIMS conduct multi-day programs during the summer for students going into grades 3-high school. These hands-on camps will enable students to learn about the Chesapeake Bay and are tailored to meet the learning stages of each age group. Camps are free, thanks to support from private donors. Camps cover themes such as wetlands, environmental stewardship, and general Chesapeake Bay exploration.

2023 Summer Camp 

We are no longer accepting applications for the 2023 camps. Applications were due April 2nd.

The following camps will be offered this summer on the dates provided. Camp applications, and more information about each camp, are available below. All camps (except Estuary Explorers) are located in Gloucester Point, VA and take place from 9am-4pm each day. Estuary Explorers will take place on the VIMS Eastern Shore campus from Sunday afternoon through Friday. Applications are due April 2nd.

For more information about the 2023 camps, see the attached flyer!

Bay Buddies (rising 3rd and 4th Grade) - June 26-30, 2023 

Chesapeake Champions (rising 5th and 6th Grade) - July 31- August 5, 2023 

Estuary Explorers (rising 7th and 8th Grade) - August 13-18, 2023 

**Note: High school students interested in volunteering as a Junior Counselor can also apply, but may be asked to also interview in person as part of round two applications.

The following is a list of Frequently Asked Questions.  If your question is not answered in the FAQ's, please contact the NERRS Education Coordinator with any questions about the summer programs. 

Sarah McGuire Nuss
Education Coordinator
Chesapeake Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve in Virginia
804-684-7878
mcguire@vims.edu