Matagorda Bay Nature Park
summer Camp On the Coast
Matagorda, TX
Just south of Bay City, Matagorda Bay Nature Park has miles of both beach and river access where your child can experience outdoor adventures at weekly summer camps.
Day camps are $250 per week. Full payment is required at the time of registration. Visa, MasterCard and Discover cards are accepted.
What you'll Get
Starting June 1, children ages 5-12 can attend up to three weeks of day camp. Camps are Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., with each week’s activities revolving around a different outdoor theme.
1 Week
of outdoor fun and education
1 Camp T-Shirt
custom designed for coastal campers
Camp Sessions
SURVIVAL MoDE
June 1-5 (Week 1)
Gear up for a thrilling week full of grit and teamwork. From hands-on challenges to real-life survival techniques, campers will test their physical and mental skills while learning what it takes to thrive in the wild.
- Ready, set, build. Construct survival shelters using only natural materials gathered onsite.
- Eyes on the prize. Solve clues and find hidden items during a scavenger hunt across the park.
- Let’s talk safety. Learn about natural risks and how to stay safe in wild environments.
- What a catch! Build primitive traps or ‘prey-capture’ setups to understand how to catch food in the wilderness.
- Get crafty. Weave baskets using natural fibers and traditional techniques.
- Harness the sun. Build a solar oven and test out the power of renewable heat.
- Field trip! Enjoy the day at the pool in Bay City, Texas to keep the vibes rolling.
YoUNg, WILD and FREE
June 8-12 (Week 2)
Step into the groovy era of the 70s! This bright, energetic week will invite campers to express themselves, discover their talents and celebrate kindness, creativity and confidence.
- Color explosion! Tie-dye your own shirt and rock your new creation all week long.
- It’s showtime. Daily after lunch, campers perform or cheer on others in a fun and supportive talent showcase.
- Feel the rhythm. Build homemade instruments and come together for a music jam session.
- Apply the Golden Rule. Learn about acceptance, kindness and what it means to be part of a supportive community.
- Bust a move. Warm-ups and dance-offs kick off each morning with energy and laughter.
- Field trip! Enjoy the day at the pool in Bay City, Texas to keep the vibes rolling.
cSI: coASTAL STUDIES INVESTIgATIoN
June 15-19 (Week 3)
Dive into the world of coastal science and marine discovery. Campers will explore ocean ecosystems, uncover scientific mysteries and learn about the importance of protecting our shorelines.
- Deep dive. Explore marine biology topics, coastal habitats and the many jobs that protect these ecosystems.
- Hear from experts. Enjoy a special presentation from Tom Bolfing about the U.S. Coast Guard Colorado Jetty Navigation Tower project.
- Yo, Ho, Ho. Learn about shipwreck history such as French explorer Robert de La Salle’s La Belle.
- Wind-power wonders. Campers create their own miniature wind turbine and learn about renewable energy.
- STEM meets art. Get hand-on with science-themed arts and crafts that spark creativity and curiosity.
- Aye, Aye, Captain! A special guest from the maritime world will share insights about life on the water.
- Field trip! Enjoy the day at the pool in Bay City, Texas to keep the vibes rolling.
Camp Activities
Beachcombing
wIldlIfe vIewIng
Games
fIshIng
Way FIndIng
kayakIng
OptIonal shuttle servIce
For $25 per week, a shuttle service is available at four convenient locations in Matagorda County.
BegIns at Matagorda County FaIrgrounds
Matagorda County Fair Grounds | Bus arrives at 7:45 a.m. & 5:00 p.m.
Word of Life Church in Wadsworth | Bus arrives at 8:15 a.m. & 4:45 p.m.
T-section at Zipprian Way & Sel Kirk Rd. | Bus arrives at 8:30 a.m. & 4:30 p.m.
Matagorda ISD | Bus arrives at 8:45 a.m. & 4:15 p.m.
No refunds will be given for cancellations after May 30. For cancellations made on or before May 30, your tuition will be refunded minus a $35 processing fee for each camp session canceled. Cancellations should be made by emailing [email protected]. Include the camper’s name and the session(s) you wish to cancel. A confirmation email will be sent to you after the refund is processed.
After registration is complete, campers may transfer to a different session by paying a $10 transfer fee. Email [email protected] to request a transfer. Include the camper’s name and session(s) to which you want to transfer. We will do our best to accommodate transfers. You will receive an email notifying you of the status of your request.
Educational, fun and safe activities for our son during the summer!
My children have been attending camp since they were eligible and have enjoyed every minute. Whether it’s crabbing, fishing or simply picnicking, they return home everyday with stories and more!
All of the staff were pleasant and professional. My son loved the camp so much! He keeps asking if he can go again. He enjoyed everyday and couldn't wait to go for the next day.