Turtleback Summer Program 2026

CAMP REGISTRATION IS OPEN!

Our summer camp is a conservation-based environmental education program held exclusively outdoors. Our themes vary weekly but favorite daily activities and routine procedures structure the day. We incorporate nature studies, conservation projects, running games, art, and cultural studies into our week. We embrace diversity in people and our environment. We are a small nature camp, allowing for individualized attention and lower camper-to-counselor ratios. Space is limited. You may register your child for one week or more, we no longer offer per day drop-ins.

WHY CHOOSE TURTLEBACK NATURE CAMP?

• SAFETY IS OUR PRIORITY! We have a low camper to counselor ratio that is below NYS standards: 5:1 for younger ages, 7:1 for older ages. Our staff are First Aid and CPR certified.

• ENHANCED CAMP EXPERIENCE: Due to our small camp size, we are able to focus on the social-emotional development of your child, providing more individual attention. We foster inclusivity and teamwork, encouraging campers to build confidence and stronger friendships. We understand the importance of creating a supportive environment to help children navigate challenges, provide opportunities for leadership, and develop a sense of community.

• DISCONNECT FROM TECHNOLOGY: Electronic devices are not permitted at this camp. This includes mobile phones, smart watches, electronic toys, and gaming devices. Immersion into nature and connecting with peers is fostered.

• BULLY-FREE: We uphold a zero-tolerance approach to bullying. If a student continues to struggle with respectful behavior after guided conflict-resolution support from our staff, they may be asked to stay home until they can return ready to participate positively.

AGES 5-12: Children ages 5-6 must be entering Kindergarten or First Grade. Please email us if you have a four-year-old-turning-five who would attend with an older sibling and entering Kindergarten.

CIT Program: We also welcome 13-15 year olds who are interested in participating as a CIT (Counselor in Training). NOTE: CIT’s are veteran campers who have attended our summer program for multiple years.

Please feel free to inquire about whether this camp is suitable for your child: EMAIL.

HOURS: 9:00-2:00 (Aftercare is available until 3:00 PM for an additional fee.)

DATES: June 29-August 28th

FEE: $500 per week, per child (5% Sibling Discount available)

Extended Day (Aftercare): $100 per week, per child

Deposit: $125 per week, per child (non-refundable)

Balance: All balances are due by April 1st.

Refund: Refunds are available prior to May 1st, minus the non-refundable deposit. After May 1st, the cancellation fee is $100 per week cancelled (per child), in addition to the non-refundable deposit.

Locations: All camp weeks will be held in MATTITUCK this year!

Special Guests: We have visitors each week with a presentation or activity that ties into the week’s theme.

SWIMMING: Are you interested in swimming lessons for your child? Please fill out this short SURVEY.

WEEK 1 June 29 - July 3 Horseshoe Crabs, Veterans Memorial Park, Mattituck

WEEK 2 July 6-10 Bay Scallops & Eel Grass, Veterans Memorial Park, Mattituck

WEEK 3 July 13-17 River Otters & Alewife, Veterans Memorial Park, Mattituck

WEEK 4 July 20-24 Endangered Shorebirds, Veterans Memorial Park, Mattituck

WEEK 5 July 27-31 Diamondback Terrapins, Veterans Memorial Park, Mattituck

WEEK 6 Aug 3-7 Bald Eagles & Ospreys, Bailie Beach, Mattituck

WEEK 7 Aug 10-14 Marine Mammals (Whales, Dolphins, and Seals), Bailie Beach, Mattituck

WEEK 8 Aug 17-21 Wilderness Survival, Bailie Beach, Mattituck

WEEK 9: Aug 24-28 Oysters, Bailie Beach, Mattituck WAITLIST

CAMP OUT TO BE DETERMINED!

EARLY BIRD DISCOUNT: Register for camp between January 15 and February 15 and receive a 10% discount.