Marine Science Day Camp 2026

Student holding crab after seining.

Discover Marine Science: Summer Camp at NJSGC

Dive into the wonders of the ocean at the Marine Science Summer Camp hosted by the New Jersey Sea Grant Consortium (NJSGC). Perfect for children in grades 3 through 9 who are curious about marine life and ocean science, this exciting camp offers four weeks of hands-on learning and outdoor adventures in Summer 2026. Each week is tailored to specific age groups, ensuring an engaging and age-appropriate experience.

Located in the scenic Fort Hancock Historic District of Gateway National Recreation Area – Sandy Hook, campers will explore the ocean beach and bay through scientific methods, observe live marine animals, conduct laboratory experiments, and enjoy fun educational games and crafts. With a small instructor-to-camper ratio of 1:6 and a maximum of 30 campers per session, every child receives personalized attention and a safe, enriching experience.

NJSGC is committed to the health and safety of all participants and will follow New Jersey Department of Health guidelines throughout the camp.

COST: Each camp week is $350.00 per camper. 

Session 1: July 6-10 | 9:00 a.m. — 3:00 p.m | Sea Creatures and Shore Adventures

For: Grades 3-5

Introduce your child to the fascinating world of sea creatures and the vibrant ecosystems of the Jersey Shore. This week is packed with exciting activities that inspire curiosity and a love for nature. Campers will:

  • Collect and identify seashells while learning about the animals that create them.
  • Discover the anatomy and behaviors of local marine life.
  • Explore the science of sand and its role in coastal ecosystems.
  • Discover the importance of our marine ecosystems through hands-on activities and experiments.
  • Play games and create fun crafts inspired by the ocean and its inhabitants.

Session 2: July 13-17 | 9:00 a.m. — 3:00 p.m | Ocean Exploration

For: Grades 6-8

Give your child a week of hands-on ocean discovery at beautiful Sandy Hook. This week invites middle school students to explore the wonders of the marine environment through engaging activities, experiments, and outdoor exploration. Campers will:

  • Investigate buoyancy and hydrodynamics through fun experiments.
  • Design and test their own ocean engineering projects to solve real-world problems.
  • Explore the biological, chemical, physical, and geological aspects of Sandy Hook.
  • Observe and analyze the marine environment like true ocean explorers.
  • Build confidence and curiosity through teamwork and problem-solving

Session 3: July 20-24 | 9:00 a.m. — 3:00 p.m | Marine Science Explorers

For: Grades 4-6

Get ready to explore, discover, and investigate! During this week, campers become coastal explorers as they adventure through beaches and bay environments, uncovering the secrets of this unique shoreline. Throughout the week, campers will:

  • Explore Sandy Hook’s beaches and bays like true field scientists
  • Discover marine life, water, and coastal habitats through hands-on investigations
  • Enjoy hands-on fun with ocean-themed games and creative marine science crafts woven into each day’s discoveries
  • Learn how to protect the ocean while building teamwork, confidence, and curiosity

Session 4: July 27-31 | 9:00 a.m. — 3:00 p.m | Oceanography 101

For: Grades 7-9

Dive into the fascinating world of oceanography with this immersive week of ocean exploration. Designed for middle schoolers and those ready to enter high school, campers will have the opportunity to:

  • Compare and contrast different marine habitats, from the bay to the beach.
  • Monitor water quality and learn how it impacts marine life and ecosystems.
  • Conduct animal investigations and explore the behaviors and adaptations of marine species.
  • Learn how to draw scientific conclusions and develop creative solutions to protect the ocean and its habitats.
  • Explore the importance of conservation and sustainability for future generations.

Give your child the gift of discovery and adventure this summer! Whether they’re fascinated by sea creatures or eager to explore the science behind the ocean, NJSGC’s Marine Science Summer Camp is the perfect opportunity to learn, grow, and have fun. Spots are limited, sign up today and let your child embark on an unforgettable journey into the world of marine science!

Online Registration starts March 15, 2026

REFUND POLICY:

Refunds will be given up until June 1 minus a $50.00 processing fee.  After June 1 all camp fees are NON-REFUNDABLE. There will be no refunds issued from missed days or early departures. Please contact Mindy Voss by email at mvoss@njseagrant.org for more information.