Frequently Asked Questions

Do you have a cancellation policy?
If your child is unable to attend camp, we can issue a full refund minus registration processing fees as long as we are notified one month prior to the first day of the session. If cancellation occurs after that date, a full refund minus processing fees will be given only if we are able to fill your child’s spot in the session or your child cannot attend due to illness or injury (physician’s note required).

May my child register with a friend?
We aim to provide balanced groups that meet the needs of campers and staff for their week together at camp. As such, we will do our best to accommodate friend requests submitted during registration, but reserve the right to group campers as makes the most sense for our program and activities.

How are campers supervised?
Campers are assigned to a group of 10–15 other participants and led by an experienced Camp Educator and supported by other camp staff. Camp Director, Coordinator, NOAA and Washington Sea Grant liaisons, and multiple volunteer NOAA staff are also on site daily and working directly with campers.  Science activities are introduced by Camp Educators and then led by NOAA scientists with specialties in multiple disciplines of science. NOAA scientists and staff volunteer their time to camp annually and enjoy meeting the campers.

NOAA Science Camp Educators and Assistants are dynamic individuals with experience in teaching youth in formal and informal settings. They participate in multi-day staff trainings, where they work with NOAA scientists and Washington Sea Grant employees to ensure safe, educational, and fun experiences for campers. All staff must be certified in CPR and Emergency First Aid.

Do you provide scholarships?
The goal of NOAA Science Camp is to provide opportunity for all interested youth to attend. Generous sponsors provide scholarships for those who would not otherwise be able to attend because of financial need.

Parents, guardians, or other youth representatives may apply for partial and full scholarships available for individual campers. Community groups may inquire about multiple scholarships and travel stipends. Funding availability varies from year to year.

To apply for a scholarship, please contact Maile Sullivan at noaacamp@uw.edu for further information.