Family & Adult Programs
Camps and workshops at the Wilds are an experience in Wildlife Conservation like
no other. Learning about native and international wildlife, habitats,
biodiversity, ecology, field skills and conservation happens here in
field studies that plug you into the everyday conservation work at the
Wilds.
Our camp experiences are not just for kids! Families and adults
can enjoy the Wilds' "living laboratory" at our overnight
safari camps and workshops.
2011 FAMILY and ADULT PROGRAMS
WINTER SAFARI GOES TO THE BIRDS (Families and Adults)
AVIAN PHOTOGRAPHY WORKSHOP (Adults Only)
7th ANNUAL BIRDING BY EAR WORKSHOP (Adults Only)
RAPTOR PHOTO SHOOT (Adults Only)
WINTER SAFARI GOES TO THE BIRDS
January 29, 2011 - FULL
March 5, 2011 ***New Date Just Added***
Learn about raptors – birds of prey like hawks, eagles, kestrels and owls – during this program designed to help sharpen your birding skills. Activities begin with a live bird presentation by the Columbus Zoo & Aquarium. Participants will see native and non-native raptors up close and learn about their distinguishing features and behaviors. After the presentation, enjoy a light lunch prepared by the Wilds' professional chef at the Overlook Cafe. Then take a guided safari tour through the open-range pastures where we will look for threatened and endangered species from around the world, as well as unique raptors that winter at the Wilds including northern harriers, northern rough-legged hawks and magnificent golden eagles. Apply information about native raptors while touring including how they sit, fly, and act; where their habitats are; when to expect to see them; and looking for distinguishing markings. The day wouldn’t be complete without a stop at 2 exciting animal facilities to see cheetahs, wild dogs and rhinoceros.
The Wilds, located near Cumberland in Muskingum County, has been designated an Important Bird Area by the Audubon Society. Some of the common raptor species at the Wilds include American kestrel, northern harrier, Cooper’s hawk, red-tailed hawk, and short-eared owls. Golden eagles and rough-legged hawks are also common during winter. A total of 21 species of raptors have been sighted at the Wilds, including the rarer bald eagle, merlin, and peregrine falcon.
Time: 10:30 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.
Cost: $35 Adults; $25 Children 12 and under; $5 off for Wilds members. (price includes lunch)
Pre-registration and pre-payment required. 740-638-5030 x2286, reservations@thewilds.org, or register online at www.thewilds.org. We recommend early registration, as tour seating is limited.
Cancellations: Program is subject to cancellation based on weather, or if minimum attendance requirements are not met. Participants will be notified of weather cancellation by noon on the Friday before the program; and by noon on the Wednesday before the program if the cancellation is based on attendance.
Refunds: Reservation fees will be refunded less a $15.00 processing fee if cancellations are made at least five business days in advance. Reservation fee will not be refunded if cancellation is made less than five days in advance. Reservation fees will be fully refunded if the Wilds cancels based on weather or minimum attendance.
Preparation: Be prepared to spend time outside. Please dress appropriately for the cold weather.
For your convenience: The Wilds Gift Market will be open during Winter Safari Tour programs.
AVIAN PHOTOGRAPHY WORKSHOP
May 20 - 22, 2011
Head out on safari in search of migrating birds amid spectacular scenery -- without ever leaving Ohio -- at the Wilds, designated "An Important Bird Area" by the Audubon Society. At a pace that allows ample time to explore the decisive visual moments, you'll learn photo techniques from expert photographers and build your portfolio of stunning flora, landscapes, and wildlife during this exclusive opportunity. Facilitated by Jerry Jividen and Barbara Jividen of Naturally Wild Photo Adventures. Complete Avian Photography with an exclusive Raptor Photo Shoot. See event details below.
This camp is designed for those age 18 or older.
Time: Friday 6 p.m. – Sunday 12 p.m.
Cost: $299 per person
Refunds: Reservation fees will be refunded less a $25.00 processing fee if cancellations are made at least 4 weeks in advance. Reservation fee will not be refunded if cancellation is made less than 4 weeks in advance.
Meals included: Friday evening snacks; Saturday breakfast, lunch, dinner; Sunday breakfast.
Make your reservation online or call 740-638-5030 between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m.
ANNUAL BIRDING BY EAR WORKSHOP
May 20 - 22, 2011
Come one, come all! Classes and activities are available for beginner, intermediate, and expert birders. This workshop is a great way to learn bird vocalizations, meet new birding friends, see abundant grassland birds, learn to connect habitats with their inhabitants, and explore the uncharted bird spots on the Wilds!
Learn from regional experts on birding research and sound ID, find new list birds for the un-birded Wilds, search for owls and whippoorwills after dark, and enjoy quiet nights around a campfire. We are lucky enough to have Al Parker back as the featured presenter for the 7th Annual Birding by Ear event. Al is an accomplished naturalist, professionally trained wildlife biologist and owner of Canoe Creations. Complete Birding By Ear with an exclusive Raptor Photo Shoot. See event details below.
This camp is designed for those age 18 or older.
Time: Friday 6 p.m. – Sunday 12 p.m.
Cost: $299 per person
Refunds: Reservation fees will be refunded less a $25.00 processing fee if cancellations are made at least 4 weeks in advance. Reservation fee will not be refunded if cancellation is made less than 4 weeks in advance.
Meals included: Friday evening snacks; Saturday breakfast, lunch, dinner; Sunday breakfast.
Make your reservation online or call 740-638-5030 between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m.
REGISTRATION DEADLINE: TWO WEEKS PRIOR TO THE PROGRAM.
RAPTOR PHOTO SHOOT
May 22, 2011
During this exclusive opportunity, build your raptor identification skills and your portfolio of stunning raptors in natural landscapes, courtesy of the Columbus Zoo’s live birds of prey. Observe key characteristics of these magnificent birds with the help of professional raptor caretakers. Learn photo techniques from expert photographers, Jerry Jividen and Barbara Jividen of Naturally Wild
Photo Adventures. A portion of event fees support bird of prey conservation efforts.
This camp is designed for those age 18 or older.
For those joining us from the Avian Photography Weekend or Birding By Ear Weekend Workshop, lunch is provided at no extra cost.
Time: 1 p.m. to 3:30 p.m.
Cost: $99 per person
Refunds: Reservation fees will be refunded less a $25.00 processing fee if cancellations are made at least 4 weeks in advance. Reservation fee will not be refunded if cancellation is made less than 4 weeks in advance.
Make your reservation online or call 740-638-5030 between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m.
FAMILY CAMP
June 24 - 26, 2011
July 2 - 4, 2011
Aug. 12 - 14, 2011
Summer camp for the entire family! Adults, too, can now experience life at the Wilds' yurt education camp, muckin' in the marsh, fishing backcountry lakes, rappelling, canoeing, wildlife watching, Safari tours, and all the fun learning opportunities of WildeCamp!
Our Family Camp programming is designed to be enjoyed as a shared, hands-on experience between youth and adults in a natural setting. We regret that this camp is not suitable for those age 3 and under.
Time: Arrival 6 p.m. First Day of Camp; departure 1 p.m. Last Day of Camp.
Cost: $150 per person; Members - $125 per person
Refunds: Reservation fees will be refunded less a $25.00 processing fee if cancellations are made at least 4 weeks in advance. Reservation fee will not be refunded if cancellation is made less than 4 weeks in advance.
Meals included: Friday evening snacks; Saturday breakfast, lunch, dinner; Sunday breakfast.
Make your reservation online or call 740-638-5030 between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m.
SAMPLE FAMILY CAMP WEEKEND ITINERARY
WILDS PHOTO CAMP
Sept. 16 - 18, 2011
Sept. 23 - 25, 2011
Head out on safari in search of Asian rhinos, African antelope, soaring raptors and spectacular scenery -- without ever leaving Ohio! At a pace that allows ample time to explore the decisive visual moments, you'll learn photo techniques from expert photographers and build your portfolio of stunning flora, landscapes, and wildlife during this exclusive opportunity. Facilitated by Jerry Jividen and Barbara Jividen of Naturally Wild Photo Adventures.
This camp is designed for those age 18 or older.
Time: 6 p.m. Friday – 12:00 p.m. Sunday
Cost: $299 per person
Refunds: Reservation fees will be refunded less a $25.00 processing fee if cancellations are made at least 4 weeks in advance. Reservation fee will not be refunded if cancellation is made less than 4 weeks in advance.
Meals included: Friday evening snacks; Saturday breakfast, lunch, dinner; Sunday breakfast.
Make your reservation online or call 740-638-5030 between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m.
PRIVATE SAFARI CAMPS
April-May & mid-August-October
Your whole family or group can join in the learning and enjoyment of the wildlife and wild places by scheduling a private safari camp. The safari camp includes a safari tour and a Conservation Educator who will spend time with your group and lead programs such as canoeing, wilderness survival and astronomy. See our Education Programs for details on program seasons, grade level recommendations, standards alignment, and duration.
The Wilds requires at least 1 adult chaperone for every 8 children to attend with your group.
Capacity: 15-48 (The Wilds requires at least 1 adult chaperone to attend for every 8 youth with your group).
Cost: $80 per person (1 chaperone/8 youth free)
Lodging in the Wilds' yurt Conservation Education Camp.
Meals included: Day 1 dinner and snack, Day 2 breakfast and lunch.
Pre-registration and pre-payment required. 740-638-5030 x2286 or reservations@thewilds.org.
Reservations required at least 4 weeks in advance. Confirmation and final count required 14 business days prior to visit. There will be a $200.00 processing fee for cancellations less than 14 business days in advance.
YURT VILLAGE RENTAL
April-October
Rent the Robert W. Teater Conservation Education Camp for an overnight or a whole weekend. Cook on a campfire and enjoy the peace, and quiet and simplicity of life on the Wilds. The yurt village rental includes use of the facility and one Conservation Educator to assist your group and lead hikes. Programs (including equipment) and tours are available at an additional fee. See our Education Programs for details on program seasons, grade level recommendations, standards alignment, and duration.
Capacity: 48 (The Wilds requires at least 1 adult chaperone to attend for every 8 youth with your group).
Cost: $250 per night
Refunds: Reservation fees will be refunded less a $25.00 processing fee if cancellations are made at least 4 weeks in advance. Reservation fee will not be refunded if cancellation is made less than 4 weeks in advance.
Lodging in the Wilds' yurt Conservation Education Camp.Meals included: None. (Catered meals are available for an additional fee).
Reservations required at least 4 weeks in advance. Confirmation and final count required 14 business days prior to visit. There will be a $50.00 processing fee for cancellations less than 14 business days in advance.
Pre-registration and prepayment required. Call 740-638-5030 x2286 or e-mail reservations@thewilds.org.
Prices and availabilty are subject to change