Registration for Summer 2025 will open in mid-January!
Our Award Winning Outdoor Summer Camps
Schoolhouse of Wonder has served North Carolina children and families for over 30 years, and we’ve been selected as Indy’s Best of the Triangle for 12 straight year in one or more Triangle counties.
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Chapel Hill Summer Camp
At Schoolhouse of Wonder, we love that every person, young or old, is different. We celebrate diversity and encourage campers to embrace their unique identities and perspectives. We believe that this creates a richer, more vibrant community where everyone can learn from and inspire one another. Whether your child is outgoing and loves to make new friends or is more introverted and prefers to explore the world around them at their own pace, our Chapel Hill County summer program is designed to help them discover their full potential.
The “Dirty, Tired, Happy” Guarantee at Schoolhouse of Wonder
Our camps present a unique opportunity for children to grow and learn. While we’re confident and proud of our camps, we realize that no one community is a perfect fit for every child. So we offer you our “Dirty, Tired, Happy” Guarantee to build trust. We will return your child dirty, tired, and happy, or refund your child’s remaining camp registration.
Learn About our Chapel Hill Summer Camp
At Schoolhouse of Wonder, we believe that summer camp is more than just having fun and enjoying the outdoors. We’re committed to creating a space where every child can play, learn, and grow into their best selves.
Chapel Hill Camp Location
Brumley Forest Nature Preserve
Summer Camp Programs in Chapel Hill
Schoolhouse offers award-winning summer day camps at Brumley Forest Nature Preserve. Nature-based themes change each week so a new adventure is always on the horizon.
5–6 Year Olds
- Cost: $324 per week with optional Aftercare at $100 per week (for a 5-day camp)
- Camp week’s days and times: Monday through Friday 9:00am to 3:00pm
- Check-in time: 8:00am to 9:00am.
- Pick-up time: 3:00pm to 3:30pm.
- Aftercare pick-up time: 5:00pm to 5:30pm
7–9 Year Olds
- Cost: $432 per week
- Camp week’s days and times: Monday through Friday 9:00am to 5:00pm.
- Check-in time: 8:00am to 9:00am.
- Pick-up time: 5:00pm to 5:30pm.
- Alternative early pick up: 3:00pm to 3:30pm (advance notice required)
10–12 Year Olds
- Cost: $432 per week
- Camp week’s days and times: Monday through Friday 9:00am to 5:00pm.
- Check-in time: 8:00am to 9:00am.
- Pick-up time: 5:00pm to 5:30pm.
- Alternative early pick up: 3:00pm to 3:30pm (advance notice required)
Why Send Your Child to Schoolhouse of Wonder this Summer?
If you’re looking for a summer camp that offers more than just fun and games, Schoolhouse of Wonder is the place for you. Join us for a summer of adventure, exploration, and growth, and discover why every kid matters here.
We strive to create a culture of inclusion and acceptance, where every child feels valued and supported. Our goal is to help your child develop the skills, confidence, and resilience they need to navigate the challenges of the world around them and become their best selves.
Here are some of the many reasons to send your child to Schoolhouse of Wonder summer camp:
- Schoolhouse of Wonder offers summer camps that go beyond fun and games
- A culture of inclusion and acceptance is fostered at our camps
- Each week has a new nature-based theme, offering a summer of adventure and exploration
- Our experienced staff helps campers develop important life skills and confidence
- A sense of community is created to ensure that every child feels like they belong
- The camps are committed to kindness and respect, believing they go hand in hand with learning
- Lifelong memories are created through the wide range of activities offered at the camps.
Chapel Hill Outdoor Camp Activities
Each week at our Orange County summer program features a nature-based theme, so a new adventure is always on the horizon at our outdoor camp. However, camps typically include any number of the following types of activities for campers to enjoy.
Wilderness & Homesteading Skills
From primitive fire building to navigating with a compass and map to tracking animals, our outdoor camp activities are both educational and exciting. With activities like candle making, sewing, and finding edible plants, your child will develop the tools they need to be self-sufficient in the wilderness.
Adventurous Play
We offer many opportunities for adventure– from tomahawk throwing to tree climbing to whittling, our activities are designed to help campers develop new skills, build confidence, and take risks in a safe and supervised environment.
Projects
We know that creativity and innovation are essential skills for the 21st century. That’s why we offer a range of exciting projects that are both educational and fun. From tracking and cataloging wildlife to building forts to making camouflage, our projects are designed to stimulate the imagination and help campers develop new skills.
Games
Games are an essential part of any summer camp experience. Our games range from classic favorites like Kick the Can to unique Schoolhouse originals like Six Feathers and Windigo. With a wide range of games to choose from, your child is sure to find something they love.
Stories
Storytelling is more than just a tradition– it’s an art form we believe everyone can master. We invite our campers to immerse themselves in the magical world of storytelling by listening to old tales and spinning new ones. Whether they’re learning the tricks of the trade from our experienced staff or sharing their own stories with newfound friends, campers are sure to develop their storytelling skills and create memories that will last a lifetime.
Music
Our summer camp knows that music is a universal language that brings people together. Our campers have the opportunity to craft their own instruments, write nature-inspired songs, and participate in classic sing-alongs that are sure to get them moving and grooving. With the beautiful natural surroundings of our outdoor summer camp, it’s easy to be inspired to create music that reflects the beauty of the world around us.
Arts & Crafts
Our outdoor camp attendees can explore their creativity and hone their artistic skills by crafting unique nature art projects. From leaf art to rock stacks to monster masks, there’s no limit to what our imaginations can create. With the guidance of our experienced staff, your child will have the opportunity to express themselves and create one-of-a-kind works of art that reflect their love of nature.
Water-Play
Water play is an essential part of any summer camp experience. Our campers can explore the many waterways that surround us, from canoeing and rock skipping to building stick boats. They’ll also have the chance to learn about the animals that call these waterways home and even observe and handle them up close. There’s plenty of time for wading, splashing, and floating in the cool refreshing water.
Animals & Insects
Our summer program includes studying and learning about the amazing creatures that inhabit our world at our outdoor camp. That’s why we offer a range of activities that focus on animals and insects, including finding and identifying local critters like crawfish, salamanders, snakes, turtles, toads, and deer. With proper identification and handling techniques for some animals, like snakes, your child will develop a deep respect and appreciation for these incredible creatures.
Team-building
We know that trust falls and other outdated activities just don’t cut it. That’s why we offer a range of fun and engaging team-building challenges, such as getting your group through a “spider web” or walking together on skis. These activities not only build stronger bonds between campers but also promote communication, problem-solving, and teamwork skills.
Campfire Cooking
Great food is an essential part of any camping experience. That’s why we offer a range of exciting campfire cooking activities that are sure to satisfy even the pickiest eaters. From slicing and dicing veggies to making hobo packets, pita pizzas, pancakes, and doughboys, our campfire cooking activities are both fun and delicious. And of course, we can’t forget our favorite campfire treat—s’mores!
Plant Identification
We offer plant identification activities that allow campers to discover the amazing plant life that surrounds them as part of our summer program. Our expert instructors teach campers to identify different plants, including those that are edible or have medicinal qualities. And with our interactive activities, campers get to put their new knowledge to good use, by creating natural dyes, bite and sting soothers, and more.
The Mission, Vision, and Core Values at Schoolhouse of Wonder
At Schoolhouse of Wonder, we’re guided by a set of beliefs that inform everything we do, from our programming to our plans for the future.
- Our Mission: To create kind, curious, and confident kids through nature-based outdoor adventures.
- Our Vision: We believe that every child deserves a safe, supportive, and inclusive environment where they can explore their interests, discover new passions, and develop lifelong skills.
- Our Values: Through the promotion of self-awareness, empathy, and celebrating individuality, we demonstrate that everyone is unique, with their own set of strengths and challenges.
Our Summer Camp’s Non-Discrimination Policy
At Schoolhouse of Wonder, we’re committed to creating an environment that is inclusive and supportive of all marginalized groups. This includes women, people of color, and LGBTQ+ people. We do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, age, sex, disability, national or ethnic origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws.
Schoolhouse of Wonder FAQs
At Schoolhouse of Wonder, we understand that you may have questions about our Chapel Hill outdoor summer camp programs. That’s why we’ve compiled the most frequently asked questions (and their answers) right here for your convenience.
However, if you have a question that’s not covered in our FAQ, don’t hesitate to call us at 919-477-2116 or email us at schoolhouse@schoolhouseofwonder.org anytime.
Where are Chapel Hill summer camps held?
Schoolhouse offers award-winning summer day camps at Brumley Forest Nature Preserve. Nature-based themes change each week so a new adventure is always on the horizon.
Can you guarantee my child’s safety at camp and what are your safety precautions?
At Schoolhouse of Wonder, your child’s safety is our outdoor camp’s top priority. We maintain a safe and secure environment by adhering to strict safety protocols and guidelines. Our staff members are trained in first aid and CPR, and we conduct background checks on all employees before they are hired. Additionally, we boast a staff to camper ratio of 1:8. This ensures that your child is well cared for and has immediate access to our trained staff when they are in need. In case of emergency, we have access to shelter and medical assistance. While we cannot guarantee that accidents will never happen, we take every precaution to minimize risks and maintain a safe environment for all our campers.
Are there discounts available for sessions at Schoolhouse of Wonder?
Yes! Most programs are eligible for a discount when you register for two or more programs for the same child in the same order. Discounts automatically apply, so you don’t need to get too into the math side of things. Please note that discounts only apply to camps that are included in the same order.
- Multi-camp discounts: Did you add a camp to your cart? Did you add another? You will automatically receive a $20 discount off the cost of a second and any additional camp seat purchased in the same order.
What do I, as a parent, need to know in order to prepare my child for camp?
Our camper’s parents can benefit greatly from reviewing our Parent Handbook. For any additional questions, please call 919-477-2116 or email us at schoolhouse@schoolhouseofwonder.org.
Does Schoolhouse of Wonder offer scholarships?
At Schoolhouse of Wonder, we believe that every child deserves the chance to experience the joy and growth that come with summer camp, regardless of their financial situation. That’s why we partner with individuals, businesses, and community organizations to offer scholarship funds for both campers and CITs. You can learn more about our scholarship program here.
Is it worth joining a waitlist if the camp session I’m interested in is full?
Don’t lose hope if the camp session you wanted for your child is already full. Join our waitlist and there’s a good chance that a seat might become available. Additionally, we may even schedule more staff and groups if there is enough interest in advance. So, go ahead and join our waitlist to secure a chance at a summer camp experience for your child.
What is your “Dirty, Tired, Happy” guarantee?
We offer a refund for any remaining days of camp tuition if your child decides to leave camp before the end of the week for any reason, as long as they were not removed for violating camp policies.
If my child is unhappy with camp, how do I receive a prorated refund?
To request a refund through our “Dirty, Tired, Happy” guarantee, all you need to do is send us a written request within a week stating that our camp is not suitable for your child and that you want a refund for the remaining days of the camp week. It’s a straightforward process, and we’re committed to making it as hassle-free as possible.
Schoolhouse of Wonder in Chapel Hill Guarantees Growth, Inclusion, and Excitement this Summer!
We are thrilled to offer a summer camp experience that guarantees growth, inclusion, and excitement for all campers. Our nature-based outdoor adventures are designed to inspire kind, curious, and confident kids through hands-on exploration and learning.
Contact our Chapel Hill summer camp by calling us at 919-477-2116, emailing us at schoolhouse@schoolhouseofwonder.org, or filling out our contact form below.