Wildwood launches new camp for Linn, Miami county children

LA CYGNE – Wildwood Outdoor Education Center announced on Wednesday, March 13, that it is launching a new day camp for 200-plus youth from Linn and Miami counties this summer. The camp is for children entering first to sixth grades.

Camp spokesperson Jane Blakeley said that the cost of the camp will range from $25 to $275 weekly per child based on the family’s income. Free bus service will be provided from La Cygne Library to the camp, which is located just east of U.S. Highway 69 on 399th Road in Miami County. Miami County bus stops include Osawatomie High School, Osawatomie Middle School, and the Walmart parking lot.

“The camp is designed to maximize outdoor fun, learning, and friendship. Campers will participate in a variety of activities, including canoeing and kayaking, fishing, archery, swimming, high-ropes activities (giant swing, rock climbing), outdoor games, tie-dye, Makerspace design, and more,” Blakeley said in a release. 

To meet the needs of working parents, camps will be offered on a “pay what you can” basis. Wildwood day camps will run weekly with Monday to Friday sessions from June 12 to July 26, 2024. 

Campers can register for more than one week, according to Blakeley. "Most campers attend between four and seven weeks," she said.

To register, go to the camp's website, https://wildwoodctr.org and click on the "Register" button. On the registration page, scroll down to the "Day Camp, entering grades 1 to 6" section and click on "New Camper Registration."

The center receives grant funding from the Patterson Family Foundation and other philanthropic partners to make Wildwood Day Camp possible. That funding enables generous financial assistance to families.

“Wildwood Outdoor Education Center is a non-profit organization dedicated to providing enriching outdoor experiences for youth. Through summer camps, educational programs, and community partnerships, Wildwood aims to foster a love for nature, personal growth, and positive community connections,” the release said. 

Its mission is to bring kids outside to learn and grow together, transforming summer into a season of learning, youth development, and outdoor adventure for low-income area youth.