The Clifton Institute

Piedmont Polliwogs Camp
2022-06-20 - 2022-06-24 | The Clifton Institute, 6712 Blantyre Road, Warrenton, VA, 20187, United States
During Piedmont Polliwogs camp, your early learner will explore and engage with nature on our beautiful 900-acre field station. We aim to inspire feelings of curiosity and wonder for the natural world, while promoting healthy minds and bodies as children play and learn outside. A typical morning will include an outdoor story time, a short nature walk, snack time (please bring snack from home), and a craft project or related activity. A camp day will run from 9am to 12pm. Students in Piedmont Polliwogs Camp must be accompanied by an adult caregiver.
Ages: 4-6 at the time of camp.
Cost: $95.00. Please note that the ticket will appear as “Free” until registration opens.
Cancellation Policy: Cancellations prior to 30 days before the start of camp will receive a full refund, minus a $50 nonrefundable registration fee. Notice of cancellation must be submitted in writing. Cancellations within 30 days of camp start date forfeit full tuition.
Paperwork: Within 3 days of registration, you will be emailed liability, medical, and emergency contact forms to be filled out and returned by April 15, 2022. If you do not submit your paperwork by this date, you will be refunded all but the $50 and the spot will be offered to the next person on the wait list. Paperwork is important for us to plan! Please send it to camps@cliftoninstitute.org upon completion!
Vaccination Policy: All staff and campers aged 5 and above must be fully vaccinated for COVID-19, in addition to being up-to-date with all Virginia Board of Health School Immunization requirements for the appropriate age (found here).
Mask Policy: All campers and staff are required to have a mask with them at all times. We enforce mask wearing when social distancing is not possible and if inside due to inclement weather.
Scholarships: If you are interested in a scholarship, please fill out this Scholarship Application Form and email a completed copy (or photo of it) to camps@cliftoninstitute.org before registering so that we can ensure you are not charged full price.

Young Scientists Research Experience
2022-06-27 - 2022-07-01
During this unique experience, students will explore and carry out their own research project. Young Scientists will engage in inquiry-based, hands-on learning as they develop their own research questions, collect and analyze data, and present their results, all under the guidance of an experienced mentor. This opportunity is perfect for middle and high school students with an interest in the environmental and natural sciences and the desire to experience ecological fieldwork. We welcome motivated students who are excited to spend the week at our beautiful, 900-acre field station in the northern Virginia Piedmont in the company of like-minded peers.
Example research questions include:

How does road noise affect the singing of birds, frogs, and other animals?
Where on the field station is there the most evidence of deer and other mammals?
Are there more insects on plants that are native to Virginia or on exotic plants?

Ages: 13-18 at the time of camp.
Cost: $350. Please note that the ticket will appear as “Free” until registration opens.
Cancellation Policy: Cancellations prior to 30 days before the start of camp will receive a full refund, minus a $50 nonrefundable registration fee. Notice of cancellation must be submitted in writing. Cancellations within 30 days of camp start date forfeit full tuition.
Paperwork: Within 3 days of registration, you will be emailed liability, medical, and emergency contact forms to be filled out and returned by April 15, 2022. If you do not submit your paperwork by this date, you will be refunded all but the $50 and the spot will be offered to the next person on the wait list. Paperwork is important for us to plan! Please send it to camps@cliftoninstitute.org upon completion!
Vaccination Policy: All staff and campers aged 5 and above must be fully vaccinated for COVID-19, in addition to being up-to-date with all Virginia Board of Health School Immunization requirements for the appropriate age (found here).
Mask Policy: All campers and staff are required to have a mask with them at all times. We enforce mask wearing when social distancing is not possible and if inside due to inclement weather.
Scholarships: If you are interested in a scholarship, please fill out this Scholarship Application Form and email a completed copy (or photo of it) to camps@cliftoninstitute.org before registering so that we can ensure you are not charged full price.

Young Explorers Camp: Session 1
2022-07-18 - 2022-07-22
Each day at Young Explorers camp, children will explore the field station with our naturalists and learn about the plants and animals that live in the northern Virginia Piedmont. In the afternoon, children will enjoy crafts and games that will expand their knowledge of ecology and the environment. Campers will gain a deep understanding of our natural surroundings and the confidence they need to continue spending time outdoors for years to come. We will do a different set of activities each week so campers can have interesting and enriching experiences by coming to either week individually or both weeks. Families are welcome and encouraged to register for both weeks but must pay for each session separately. Students will bring their own snacks and lunches from home.
Ages: 7-12 at the time of camp.
Cost: $215.00. Please note that the ticket will appear as “Free” until registration opens.
Cancellation Policy: Cancellations prior to 30 days before the start of camp will receive a full refund, minus a $50 nonrefundable registration fee. Notice of cancellation must be submitted in writing. Cancellations within 30 days of camp start date forfeit full tuition.
Paperwork: Within 3 days of registration, you will be emailed liability, medical, and emergency contact forms to be filled out and returned by April 15, 2022. If you do not submit your paperwork by this date, you will be refunded all but the $50 and the spot will be offered to the next person on the wait list. Paperwork is important for us to plan! Please send it to camps@cliftoninstitute.org upon completion!
Vaccination Policy: All staff and campers aged 5 and above must be fully vaccinated for COVID-19, in addition to being up-to-date with all Virginia Board of Health School Immunization requirements for the appropriate age (found here).
Mask Policy: All campers and staff are required to have a mask with them at all times. We enforce mask wearing when social distancing is not possible and if inside due to inclement weather.
Scholarships: If you are interested in a scholarship, please fill out this Scholarship Application Form and email a completed copy (or photo of it) to camps@cliftoninstitute.org before registering so that we can ensure you are not charged full price.

Young Explorers Camp: Session 2
2022-07-25 - 2022-07-29

Nature Camp For Grownups
2022-08-27 10:00 - 17:00 (America/New_York)
Hey grownups! Have you ever wished you could come to one of our nature camps? Well, now you can! This August we are offering our second annual weekend-long Nature Camp for Grownups. Activities will start on the morning of August 27, go through a campfire that night, resume on the morning of August 28, and conclude that afternoon. Activities will include nature walks, nature journaling, introductory lessons about Virginia’s plant and animals, crafts, and more. And of course we’ll be making friends and having fun the whole time! We’ll provide dinner and s’mores on Saturday night and some sweet treats and coffee on Sunday morning; you’ll bring bag lunches both days. All materials for crafts and other projects will be included. This is not sleep away camp – at least not yet – so you’ll go home to your own bed on Saturday night.
Times: 10:00AM – 9:00PM on August 27 and 10:00AM to 5:00PM on August 28

Cost: $125 ($100 for Friends of the Clifton Institute).

Age: Adults only.

Bring: Lunch, snacks, water bottle, a nature journal if you have one.

Weather policy: Rain or shine except in case of extreme weather (e.g. thunderstorm or significant snow fall).

COVID-19 Information: This program will be entirely outdoors (an outside porta potty will be available). We require that everyone have a mask with them in case we need to go inside during inclement weather, to administer first aid, or for other reasons. Please do not attend if you are experiencing or have experienced in the last two weeks any symptoms associated with COVID-19 (fever, cough, shortness of breath, etc.).

Registration is REQUIRED.

Cancellation policy: If you register and can no longer attend this event, please let us know as soon as possible so that we can open your spot to someone else. No refunds will be given upon registrant cancellation.

Before attending this event, please read the information included on our liability release form (click here).

We look forward to seeing you at the Clifton Institute!

Young Scientists Research Experience (June 19 - 23)
2023-06-19 09:00 - 2023-06-23 16:00
During this unique experience, students will explore and carry out their own research project. Young Scientists will engage in inquiry-based, hands-on learning as they develop their own research questions, collect and analyze data, and present their results, all under the guidance of an experienced mentor. This opportunity is perfect for middle and high school students with an interest in the environmental and natural sciences and the desire to experience ecological fieldwork. We welcome motivated students who are excited to spend the week at our beautiful, 900-acre field station in the northern Virginia Piedmont in the company of like-minded peers.
Example research questions include:

How does road noise affect the singing of birds, frogs, and other animals?
Where on the field station is there the most evidence of deer and other mammals?
Are there more insects on plants that are native to Virginia or on exotic plants?

Ages: 13-18 at the time of camp.
Time: 9AM – 4PM, Monday – Friday*
*There will be a presentation of student research projects on Friday evening, open to friends and families.
Cost: $350.00. Please note that the ticket will appear as “Free” until registration opens.
Cancellation Policy: Cancellations prior to 30 days before the start of camp will receive a refund, minus a $50 nonrefundable registration fee. Cancellations within 30 days of camp start date forfeit full tuition.
Paperwork: Within 1 week of registration, you will be emailed liability, medical, and emergency contact forms to be filled out and returned by May 31st, 2023. If you do not submit your paperwork by this date, you will be refunded all but the $50 and the spot will be offered to the next person on the wait list. Paperwork is important for us to plan! Please send it to camps@cliftoninstitute.org upon completion!
Vaccination Policy: All staff and campers aged 5 and above must be fully vaccinated for COVID-19, in addition to being up-to-date with all Virginia Board of Health School Immunization requirements for the appropriate age (found here). Masks will be provided and required to be worn by all staff and campers should we need to be indoors during inclement weather or while administering first aid.
Scholarships: If you are interested in a scholarship, please email camps@cliftoninstitute.org before registering so that we can send you a scholarship application. We don’t want financial limitations to get in the way of your child attending camp!

Young Explorers Camp (June 26 - 30)
2023-06-26 09:00 - 2023-06-30 12:00
During Young Explorers camp (previously Piedmont Polliwogs), your early learner will explore and engage with nature on our beautiful 900-acre field station. We aim to inspire feelings of curiosity and wonder for the natural world, while promoting healthy minds and bodies as children play and learn outside.
Each day has a different theme, which is explored through hands-on activities, a children’s book, and a short sensory walk. Returning campers should note that this is now a drop-off program, so each day will also include elements that build independence, such as learning how to open snack, asking for help, and helping others!
Ages: 5-6 at the time of camp. *This is a drop-off program*
Time: 9AM – 12PM, Monday – Friday
Cost: $95.00. Please note that the ticket will appear as “Free” until registration opens.
Cancellation Policy: Cancellations prior to 30 days before the start of camp will receive a refund, minus a $50 nonrefundable registration fee. Cancellations within 30 days of camp start date forfeit full tuition.
Paperwork: Within 1 week of registration, you will be emailed liability, medical, and emergency contact forms to be filled out and returned by May 31st, 2023. If you do not submit your paperwork by this date, you will be refunded all but the $50 and the spot will be offered to the next person on the wait list. Paperwork is important for us to plan! Please send it to camps@cliftoninstitute.org upon completion!
Vaccination Policy: All staff and campers aged 5 and above must be fully vaccinated for COVID-19, in addition to being up-to-date with all Virginia Board of Health School Immunization requirements for the appropriate age (found here). Masks will be provided and required to be worn by all staff and campers should we need to be indoors during inclement weather or while administering first aid.
Scholarships: If you are interested in a scholarship, please email camps@cliftoninstitute.org before registering so that we can send you a scholarship application. We don’t want financial limitations to get in the way of your child attending camp!

Nature Camp for Grownups
2023-08-26 10:00 - 2023-08-27 15:30
Hey grownups! Have you ever wished you could go to summer camp? Well, now you can! This August we are offering our third annual weekend-long Nature Camp for Grownups. Now with an overnight option!
Activities will start on the morning of August 26 and conclude on the afternoon of August 27. Activities will include short workshops (for example on insect orders or plant families), nature walks, nature journaling, crafts, and more. And of course we’ll be making friends and having fun the whole time!
We will tent camp near the farmhouse. Campers will have access to a bathroom in the farmhouse but not a shower. If you prefer to go home on Saturday night you can meet back up with us for or after breakfast on Sunday morning. We will provide simple lunches, dinner, and breakfast. All materials for crafts and other projects will be included.
Times: 10:00AM on August 26 and 10:00AM to 3:30PM on August 27

Cost: $150 ($125 for Friends of the Clifton Institute).

Age: Adults only.

Bring: Snacks, water bottle, a nature journal if you have one. If you will be camping, please bring a tent, sleeping bag, sleeping pad, and any other equipment you need to be comfortable. We have a small number of tents and sleeping bags we can loan out, but not enough for everyone.

Weather policy: Rain or shine except in case of extreme weather.

COVID-19 Information: This program will be mostly outdoors, but we will be inside while preparing meals. We are requiring all participants to be fully vaccinated. We will ask to see vaccination cards. Please do not attend if you are experiencing or have experienced in the last two weeks any symptoms associated with COVID-19 (fever, cough, shortness of breath, etc.). (an outside porta potty will be available).

Registration is REQUIRED.

Cancellation policy: If you register and can no longer attend this event, please let us know as soon as possible so that we can open your spot to someone else. No refunds will be given upon registrant cancellation.

Before attending this event, please read the information included on our liability release form (click here).

We look forward to seeing you at the Clifton Institute!

Young Explorers Camp (June 10-14)
2024-06-10 09:00 - 12:00
*If you are registering multiple campers, it is easier if you check-out one at a time (i.e., select +1 ticket, fill out the forms and pay, then go back and +1 again. For some reason, our website software is bewildered by getting info for 2 people on the same transaction. Sorry for the inconvenience!*
During Young Explorers, campers spend the morning learning about the natural world through hands-on activities and pure adventuring over our beautiful 900-acre field station. Topics may vary from insects to pond life to the science of smell! The small group of campers is led by 2 Clifton instructors, who will help students learn how to prepare for being outdoors and work with others in addition to the natural history of the Piedmont. Campers must bring their own snacks and reusable water bottles.
Ages: 5-6 at the time of camp. *This is a drop-off program*
Time: 9AM – 12PM, Monday – Friday
Cost: $95.00. Please note that the ticket will appear as “Free” until registration opens.
Cancellation Policy: Cancellations prior to 30 days before the start of camp will receive a refund, minus a $50 nonrefundable registration fee. Cancellations within 30 days of camp start date forfeit full tuition.
Paperwork Deadline: You should receive a confirmation email upon registration, which will contain a link for filling out your camper’s emergency contact form and liability waiver. The deadline for submission of paperwork will be May 1st, 2024. If you do not submit your paperwork by this date, you will be refunded all but the $50 and the spot will be offered to the next person on the wait list. Paperwork is important for us to plan!
Vaccination Policy: All staff and campers aged 5 and above must be up-to-date with all Virginia Board of Health School Immunization requirements for the appropriate age (found here).
Scholarships: If you are interested in a scholarship, please email camps@cliftoninstitute.org before registering so that we can send you a scholarship application. We don’t want financial limitations to get in the way of your child attending camp!

Young Scientists Research Experience (June 24 - 28th)
2024-06-24 09:00 - 16:00
*If you are registering multiple campers, it is easier if you check-out one at a time (i.e., select +1 ticket, fill out the forms and pay, then go back and +1 again. For some reason, our website software is bewildered by getting info for 2 people on the same transaction. Sorry for the inconvenience!*
During this unique experience, students will explore and carry out their own research project. Young Scientists will engage in inquiry-based, hands-on learning as they develop their own research questions, collect and analyze data, and present their results, all under the guidance of an experienced mentor. This opportunity is perfect for middle and high school students with an interest in the environmental and natural sciences and the desire to experience ecological fieldwork. We welcome motivated students who are excited to spend the week at our beautiful, 900-acre field station in the northern Virginia Piedmont in the company of like-minded peers.
Example research questions include:

How does road noise affect the singing of birds, frogs, and other animals?
Where on the field station is there the most evidence of deer and other mammals?
Are there more insects on plants that are native to Virginia or on exotic plants?

Ages: 13-18 at the time of camp.
Time: 9AM – 4PM, Monday – Friday.
*There will be a presentation of student research projects on the evening of Friday, 6/28, open to friends and families.
Cost: $350.00 for regular YSRE 5-day course. Please note that the ticket will appear as “Free” until registration opens.
Cancellation Policy: Cancellations prior to 30 days before the start of camp will receive a refund, minus a $50 nonrefundable registration fee. Cancellations within 30 days of camp start date forfeit full tuition.
Paperwork Deadline: You should receive a confirmation email upon registration, which will contain a link for filling out your camper’s emergency contact form and liability waiver. The deadline for submission of paperwork will be May 1st, 2024. If you do not submit your paperwork by this date, you will be refunded all but the $50 and the spot will be offered to the next person on the wait list. Paperwork is important for us to plan!
Vaccination Policy: All staff and campers aged 5 and above must be up-to-date with all Virginia Board of Health School Immunization requirements for the appropriate age (found here).
Scholarships: If you are interested in a scholarship, please email camps@cliftoninstitute.org before registering so that we can send you a scholarship application. We don’t want financial limitations to get in the way of your child attending camp!

Young Naturalists Camp: Week 1 (July 8-12)
2024-07-08 09:00 - 16:00
*If you are registering multiple campers, it is easier if you check-out one at a time (i.e., select +1 ticket, fill out the forms and pay, then go back and +1 again. For some reason, our website software is bewildered by getting info for 2 people on the same transaction. Sorry for the inconvenience!*
Each day at Young Naturalists camp, children will explore the field station with our skilled staff and learn about the plants and animals that live in the northern Virginia Piedmont. Each week will follow a different theme, so you can sign up for both weeks and still learn new things!
Each day begins with a Morning Workshop where campers dive deep into the subject for the day, which prepares them for the rest of the morning which is spent exploring Clifton’s 900-acre preserve. After a picnic lunch on the front lawn, students are given the chance to cool down by playing in the hose before getting ready for Afternoon Choices. Afternoon Choices give campers agency in shaping their camp experience by picking what they prefer to do from a set of 3 options which are different each day. These could include things like water coloring at the beaver pond, hiking to the lichen rocks, playing camouflage, or foraging for wine berries! Lastly, we give each camper a journal and conclude each day by sitting and reflecting in small groups before ending with Closing Circle–a chance to share what we liked, what we were challenged by, and things we’re looking forward to.
Families are welcome and encouraged to register for both weeks but must pay for each session separately. Students will bring their own snacks and lunches from home each day.
Ages: 7-12 at the time of camp.
Time: 9AM – 4PM, Monday – Friday
Cost: $215.00. Please note that the ticket will appear as “Free” until registration opens.
Cancellation Policy: Cancellations prior to 30 days before the start of camp will receive a refund, minus a $50 nonrefundable registration fee. Cancellations within 30 days of camp start date forfeit full tuition.
Paperwork Deadline: You should receive a confirmation email upon registration, which will contain a link for filling out your camper’s emergency contact form and liability waiver. The deadline for submission of paperwork will be May 1st, 2024. If you do not submit your paperwork by this date, you will be refunded all but the $50 and the spot will be offered to the next person on the wait list. Paperwork is important for us to plan!
Vaccination Policy: All staff and campers aged 5 and above must be up-to-date with all Virginia Board of Health School Immunization requirements for the appropriate age (found here).
Scholarships: If you are interested in a scholarship, please email camps@cliftoninstitute.org before registering so that we can send you a scholarship application. We don’t want financial limitations to get in the way of your child attending camp!

Young Naturalists Camp: Week 2 (July 15-19)
2024-07-15 09:00 - 16:00
*If you are registering multiple campers, it is easier if you check-out one at a time (i.e., select +1 ticket, fill out the forms and pay, then go back and +1 again. For some reason, our website software is bewildered by getting info for 2 people on the same transaction. Sorry for the inconvenience!*
At Young Naturalists camp, children will explore the field station with our skilled staff and learn about the plants and animals that live in the northern Virginia Piedmont. Each week will follow a different theme, so you can sign up for both weeks and still learn new things!
Each day begins with a Morning Workshop where campers dive deep into the subject for the day, which prepares them for the rest of the morning which is spent exploring Clifton’s 900-acre preserve. After a picnic lunch on the front lawn, students are given the chance to cool down by playing in the hose before getting ready for Afternoon Choices. Afternoon Choices give campers agency in shaping their camp experience by picking what they prefer to do from a set of 3 options which are different each day. These could include things like water coloring at the beaver pond, hiking to the lichen rocks, playing camouflage, or foraging for wine berries! Lastly, we give each camper a journal and conclude each day by sitting and reflecting in small groups before ending with Closing Circle–a chance to share what we liked, what we were challenged by, and things we’re looking forward to.
Families are welcome and encouraged to register for both weeks but must pay for each session separately. Students will bring their own snacks and lunches from home each day.
Ages: 7-12 at the time of camp.
Time: 9AM – 4PM, Monday – Friday
Cost: $215.00. Please note that the ticket will appear as “Free” until registration opens.
Cancellation Policy: Cancellations prior to 30 days before the start of camp will receive a refund, minus a $50 nonrefundable registration fee. Cancellations within 30 days of camp start date forfeit full tuition.
Paperwork Deadline: You should receive a confirmation email upon registration, which will contain a link for filling out your camper’s emergency contact form and liability waiver. The deadline for submission of paperwork will be May 1st, 2024. If you do not submit your paperwork by this date, you will be refunded all but the $50 and the spot will be offered to the next person on the wait list. Paperwork is important for us to plan!
Vaccination Policy: All staff and campers aged 5 and above must be up-to-date with all Virginia Board of Health School Immunization requirements for the appropriate age (found here).
Scholarships: If you are interested in a scholarship, please email camps@cliftoninstitute.org before registering so that we can send you a scholarship application. We don’t want financial limitations to get in the way of your child attending camp!

Nature Camp for Grownups
2024-08-31 10:00 - 2024-09-01 15:30
Hey grownups! Have you ever wished you could go to summer camp? Well, now you can!
Camp will start on the morning of August 31 and conclude on the afternoon of September 1. Activities will include short workshops (for example on insect orders or plant families), nature walks, nature journaling, crafts, campfires, and more. And of course we’ll be making friends and having fun the whole time!
There will be the opportunity for campers to…well…camp! For those who don’t have camping equipment, we have plenty to loan. Campers will have access to a bathroom in the farmhouse but not a shower. If folks prefer to go home on Saturday night, they can meet back up with us for or after breakfast on Sunday morning. We will provide simple lunches, dinner, and breakfast. All materials for crafts and other projects will be included.
Times: 10:00AM on August 31 to to 3:30PM on September 1

Cost: $150 ($125 for Friends of the Clifton Institute).

Age: Adults only.

Bring: Snacks, water bottle, a nature journal if you have one. If you will be camping, please bring a tent, sleeping bag, sleeping pad, and any other equipment you need to be comfortable. We have a small number of tents and sleeping bags we can loan out, but not enough for everyone.

Weather policy: Rain or shine except in case of extreme weather.

COVID-19 Information: This program will be mostly outdoors, but we will be inside while preparing meals. Please do not attend if you are experiencing or have experienced in the last two weeks any symptoms associated with COVID-19 (fever, cough, shortness of breath, etc.).

Registration is REQUIRED.

Cancellation policy: If you register and can no longer attend this event, please let us know as soon as possible so that we can open your spot to someone else. No refunds will be given upon registrant cancellation.

Before attending this event, please read the information included on our liability release form (click here).

We look forward to seeing you at the Clifton Institute!

Young Explorers Camp (Ages 5-6)
2025-06-09 09:00 - 12:00
*Please note that the website will say that it is “full” until registration opens on 15th Feb.*
During Young Explorers, campers spend the morning learning about the natural world through hands-on activities and pure adventuring over our beautiful 900-acre field station. Topics may vary from insects to pond life to the science of smell! The small group of campers is led by 2 Clifton instructors, who will help students learn how to prepare for being outdoors and work with others in addition to the natural history of the Piedmont. Campers must bring their own snacks and reusable water bottles.
Ages: 5-6 at the time of camp. *This is a drop-off program*
Time: 9AM – 12PM, Monday – Friday
Cost: $155.00 for first camper, $125 for each additional camper.
Cancellation Policy: Cancellations prior to 30 days before the start of camp will receive a refund, minus a $50 nonrefundable registration fee. Cancellations within 30 days of camp start date forfeit full tuition.
Paperwork Deadline: You should receive a confirmation email upon registration, which will contain a link for filling out your camper’s emergency contact form and liability waiver. The deadline for submission of paperwork will be May 19th, 2025. If you do not submit your paperwork by this date, you will be refunded all but the $50 and the spot will be offered to the next person on the wait list. Paperwork is important for us to plan!
Vaccination Policy: All staff and campers aged 5 and above must be up-to-date with all Virginia Board of Health School Immunization requirements for the appropriate age (found here).
Scholarships: If you are interested in a scholarship, please fill out this 2025 Scholarship Application BEFORE buying a ticket. We don’t want financial limitations to get in the way of your child attending camp!

Young Scientists Research Experience (Ages 13 - 18)
2025-06-23 09:00 - 2025-06-27 16:00
*Please note that the website will say that it is “full” until registration opens on 15th Feb.*
During this unique experience, students will explore and carry out their own research project. Young Scientists will engage in inquiry-based, hands-on learning as they develop their own research questions, collect and analyze data, and present their results, all under the guidance of an experienced mentor. This opportunity is perfect for middle and high school students with an interest in the environmental and natural sciences and the desire to experience ecological fieldwork. We welcome motivated students who are excited to spend the week at our beautiful, 900-acre field station in the northern Virginia Piedmont in the company of like-minded peers.
Example research questions include:

How does road noise affect the singing of birds, frogs, and other animals?
Where on the field station is there the most evidence of deer and other mammals?
Are there more insects on plants that are native to Virginia or on exotic plants?

Ages: 13-18 at the time of camp.
Time: 9AM – 4PM, Monday – Friday (June 23-27). There will be a presentation of student research projects on the evening of Friday, 6/27, open to friends and families.
Cost: $350.00 for first camper, $280 for each additional camper.
Cancellation Policy: Cancellations prior to 30 days before the start of camp will receive a refund, minus a $50 nonrefundable registration fee. Cancellations within 30 days of camp start date forfeit full tuition.
Paperwork Deadline: You should receive a confirmation email upon registration, which will contain a link for filling out your camper’s emergency contact form and liability waiver. The deadline for submission of paperwork will be June 2nd, 2025. If you do not submit your paperwork by this date, you will be refunded all but the $50 and the spot will be offered to the next person on the wait list. Paperwork is important for us to plan!
Vaccination Policy: All staff and campers aged 5 and above must be up-to-date with all Virginia Board of Health School Immunization requirements for the appropriate age (found here).
Scholarships: If you are interested in a scholarship, please fill out this 2025 Scholarship Application BEFORE buying a ticket. We don’t want financial limitations to get in the way of your child attending camp!

Young Naturalists Camp: Week 1 (Ages 7 - 12)
2025-07-07 09:00 - 16:00
*Please note that the website will say that it is “full” until registration opens on 15th Feb.*
At Young Naturalists camp, children will explore the field station with our skilled staff and learn about the plants and animals that live in the northern Virginia Piedmont. Each day of each week will focus on a different topic, so you can sign up for both weeks and still learn new things!
Each day begins with a Morning Workshop where campers dive deep into the subject for the day, which prepares them for the rest of the morning which is spent exploring Clifton’s 900-acre preserve. After a picnic lunch on the front lawn, students are given the chance to cool down by playing in the hose before getting ready for Afternoon Choices. Afternoon Choices give campers agency in shaping their camp experience by picking what they prefer to do from a set of 3 options which are different each day. These could include things like water coloring at the beaver pond, hiking to the lichen rocks, playing camouflage, or foraging for wine berries! Lastly, we give each camper a journal and conclude each day by sitting and reflecting in small groups before ending with Closing Circle–a chance to share what we liked, what we were challenged by, and things we’re looking forward to.
Families are welcome and encouraged to register for both weeks but must pay for each session separately. Students will bring their own snacks and lunches from home each day.
Ages: 7-12 at the time of camp.
Time: 9AM – 4PM, Monday – Friday
Cost: $275 for first camper, $220 for each additional camper.
Cancellation Policy: Cancellations prior to 30 days before the start of camp will receive a refund, minus a $50 nonrefundable registration fee. Cancellations within 30 days of camp start date forfeit full tuition.
Paperwork Deadline: You should receive a confirmation email upon registration, which will contain a link for filling out your camper’s emergency contact form and liability waiver. The deadline for submission of paperwork will be June 16th, 2025. If you do not submit your paperwork by this date, you will be refunded all but the $50 and the spot will be offered to the next person on the wait list. Paperwork is important for us to plan!
Vaccination Policy: All staff and campers aged 5 and above must be up-to-date with all Virginia Board of Health School Immunization requirements for the appropriate age (found here).
Scholarships: If you are interested in a scholarship, please fill out this 2025 Scholarship Application BEFORE buying a ticket. We don’t want financial limitations to get in the way of your child attending camp!

Young Naturalists Camp: Week 2 (Ages 7 - 12)
2025-07-14 09:00 - 16:00
*Please note that the website will say that it is “full” until registration opens on 15th Feb.*
At Young Naturalists camp, children will explore the field station with our skilled staff and learn about the plants and animals that live in the northern Virginia Piedmont. Each day of each week will focus on a different topic, so you can sign up for both weeks and still learn new things!
Each day begins with a Morning Workshop where campers dive deep into the subject for the day, which prepares them for the rest of the morning which is spent exploring Clifton’s 900-acre preserve. After a picnic lunch on the front lawn, students are given the chance to cool down by playing in the hose before getting ready for Afternoon Choices. Afternoon Choices give campers agency in shaping their camp experience by picking what they prefer to do from a set of 3 options which are different each day. These could include things like water coloring at the beaver pond, hiking to the lichen rocks, playing camouflage, or foraging for wine berries! Lastly, we give each camper a journal and conclude each day by sitting and reflecting in small groups before ending with Closing Circle–a chance to share what we liked, what we were challenged by, and things we’re looking forward to.
Families are welcome and encouraged to register for both weeks but must pay for each session separately. Students will bring their own snacks and lunches from home each day.
Ages: 7-12 at the time of camp.
Time: 9AM – 4PM, Monday – Friday
Cost: $275 for first camper, $220 for each additional camper.
Cancellation Policy: Cancellations prior to 30 days before the start of camp will receive a refund, minus a $50 nonrefundable registration fee. Cancellations within 30 days of camp start date forfeit full tuition.
Paperwork Deadline: You should receive a confirmation email upon registration, which will contain a link for filling out your camper’s emergency contact form and liability waiver. The deadline for submission of paperwork will be June 23rd, 2025. If you do not submit your paperwork by this date, you will be refunded all but the $50 and the spot will be offered to the next person on the wait list. Paperwork is important for us to plan!
Vaccination Policy: All staff and campers aged 5 and above must be up-to-date with all Virginia Board of Health School Immunization requirements for the appropriate age (found here).
Scholarships: If you are interested in a scholarship, please fill out this 2025 Scholarship Application BEFORE buying a ticket. We don’t want financial limitations to get in the way of your child attending camp!

Nature Camp For Grownups
2025-10-11 10:00 - 2025-10-12 15:30
Hey grownups! Have you ever wished you could go to summer camp? Well, now you can! This October we are offering our fifth annual weekend-long Nature Camp for Grownups!
Activities will start on the morning of October 11 and conclude on the afternoon of October 12. Activities will include short workshops (for example on insect orders or plant families), nature walks, nature journaling, crafts, and more. And of course we’ll be making friends and having fun the whole time!
We will have the option to tent camp overnight near the farmhouse. Campers will have access to a bathroom in the farmhouse but not a shower. If you prefer to go home on Saturday night you can meet back up with us for or after breakfast on Sunday morning. We will provide simple lunches, dinner, and breakfast. All materials for crafts and other projects will be included.
Times: 10:00AM on October 11 to 3:30PM on October 12
Cost: $150 ($125 for Friends of the Clifton Institute).
Age: Adults only.
Bring: Snacks, water bottle, a nature journal if you have one. If you will be camping, please bring a tent, sleeping bag, sleeping pad, and any other equipment you need to be comfortable. We have a small number of tents and sleeping bags we can loan out, but not enough for everyone.
Weather policy: Rain or shine except in case of extreme weather.
Registration is REQUIRED.
Cancellation policy: If you register and can no longer attend this event, please let us know as soon as possible so that we can open your spot to someone else. No refunds will be given upon registrant cancellation.
Before attending this event, please read the information included on our liability release form (click here).
We look forward to seeing you at the Clifton Institute!
