Looking for something fun this summer? Look no further than your community’s backyard. In addition to its miles of nature trails, butterfly garden, and hands on experiences, Camp Bayou has family friendly activities all summer.
Visit on Saturday, August 4 for Camp Bayou’s Back to School, Back to Nature event. This event runs from 9 a.m. to 12 Noon and is free to all, but participants must register by visiting www.campbayou.org. Families can enjoy interactive experiences with insects, fossils, amphibians and reptiles as well as receive free school supplies as they progress through the activity stations.
Not one to want to walk? Cart tours have returned. Stop in any Saturday morning and ask for a ride along the trails. All programs begin at 9:30 a.m., unless otherwise noted, and donations are always appreciated. On Facebook, Nicole Licor said this of the events: “We had a delightful Earth Day, planting sunflowers and Geocaching at Camp Bayou. The butterflies and native plant life were captivating. We visited with a turtle and tree frog. As we followed the last winding trail around an inlet, we observed a young alligator swimming in the Little Manatee River. The trails are always an adventure.”
Saturday canoe day tours continue this year. Check the online calendar for days and times. Paddlers should arrive at Camp Bayou by 8:45 a.m. Canoes or kayaks are available for rental for just $25 each or bring your own canoe or kayak for a small donation of $5 each. Register for all paddle trips by calling the office.
For those who are interested in volunteering, Camp Bayou is looking for enthusiastic individuals who love the outdoors and want to pass along that passion to others through hands-on activities, walks and canoe tours. Contact Barbara at 641-8545 or email campbayou@gmail.com. We are mainly looking for folks to help teach school groups K-6 but there are other opportunities as well.
Camp Bayou is located three miles south of SR674 at the end of 24th St SE in Ruskin. Visit on Facebook www.facebook.com/CampBayou or at www.campbayou.org. Call 641-8545.
