Oconee 4-H Creepy Crawly Critter Camp 2026

Catch, scoop, and explore insects and creek critters across three wild locations—build skills, empathy, confidence, curiosity, & knowledge.
About this Event

Creepy Crawly Critters Camp: Bugs, Water, and Wild Discoveries

Get ready to explore the small creatures that make a big impact! This three-day 4‑H camp is all about building curiosity, respect, and hands-on skills while learning about insects and other invertebrates—on land and in water.

Dates & Time:
June 30, July 7, and July 14
9:00 AM – 12:00 PM

REGISTRATION NOTE: You MUST get a ticket for each day, but only pay once !

Who:
Open to all 4‑H members (all ages)
Limited to 15 participants

Where:
Each day brings a new setting as we explore different habitats:

• Oconee Extension Office & nearby outdoor areas
• Wildcat Picnic Area & creek in Clemson University Forest
• Oak Grove 4‑H Center & Barn
  (Exact plans may shift slightly depending on weather.)

This camp will be co-led by Emily Riquelme, Walhalla High School Spanish teacher and 4‑H Volunteer Leader.

Over three mornings, participants will investigate the world of invertebrates through hands-on exploration, simple scientific techniques, and creative activities. We’ll focus on how to observe, identify, and understand these creatures, and why they matter.

Camp experiences may include:

• Learning what makes an insect an insect (and what doesn’t!)
• Catching, observing, and identifying insects and other invertebrates
• Practicing ethical collection, observation, and release techniques
• Using microscopes and tools to take a closer look
• Exploring aquatic ecosystems and creek life
• Creating simple tools like observation containers
• Building projects inspired by insect life cycles and habitats
• Participating in a group bioblitz to document what we find

Participants will spend time both indoors and outdoors, working within habitats (but really, what isn't a habitat?!) whenever possible. We’ll get curious, ask questions, and take a closer look at creatures that are often overlooked—or misunderstood.

Our goal is simple: to help young naturalists feel confident exploring, noticing, and understanding the living world around them.

TO BRING:
Dress to get messy—we’ll be outdoors and in the water. Generally wear closed-toe shoes and bring a refillable water bottle and your favorite snack (basic snacks provided). We'll send emails after each session and before the next starts to confirm location and with any additional information.

All core materials are provided. Some scholarship funding is available.

__________________________________

Refund statement: Full payment is due upon registration. No refunds will be issued after participation in the event has started.

Membership requirement: Current 4-H membership in is required for participation in this event.

Custodial Care: Please note that this event and its coordinators do not assume custodial care of youth in attendance. Adults (parents, guardians, volunteers, coaches, teachers, or other chaperones) must be present for the supervision of youth participants.

Civil Rights Statement