Middle School Science Camp

Summer Science with NOAA

This week-long day camp introduces students to earth and ocean sciences and science careers through hands-on activities emphasizing solutions to real-world problems. During the week, campers may participate in the following activities:

  • Try on SCUBA diving gear and simulate a dive in a hyperbaric chamber

  • Identify different marine mammals by looking at tags and skulls

  • Analyze water samples and see how buoys help predict large-scale climate events

  • Learn to use marine navigation charts and practice charting skills

  • Learn about hazardous substances and respond to a hypothetical spill

  • Interact with NOAA scientists

Campers spend the first part of the week visiting a variety of NOAA science offices, where they participate in activities that highlight the scientists’ work. Later in the week, campers work together with NOAA scientists to solve an environmental mystery. Between activities with scientists, campers have fun participating in team-building exercises and outside games.

NOAA Science Camp Engages Middle School Youth

Students entering sixth, seventh or eighth grade in the fall may attend. Campers come from public, private, and home schools with varying levels of science background. Since the program is aligned with grade-specific learning objectives, students in other grades are not eligible to attend. Students are permitted to attend for more than one year, but please be aware that the camp is similar from year to year and not intended for returning campers.

Two Camp Sessions to Choose From

There are two camp sessions each summer (both weeks have the same content), usually the second and third weeks in July. NOAA Science camp is a day camp program only; camp runs from 9 AM to 4 PM during weekdays. Online registration typically opens in mid-March. For more information, please send an email to noaacamp@uw.edu.

Join Us at NOAA Western Regional Center

NOAA’s Sand Point Facility on Lake Washington: 7600 Sand Point Way NE, Seattle, Washington. Unfortunately, NOAA Science Camp is unable to provide lodging for campers from outside the area.

Camper Registration

Registration opens in mid-March. The cost for each student is $250 plus online registration fee. Scholarships are available.

Please note: International registrants must register no later than one month prior to the start date of camp in order to allow sufficient time to address federal security requirements.