an exploration of our curiosity!

2025 Summer Camp

Get ready for a wild and artsy adventure!

Our campers are grouped by age and embark on exciting hikes and explorations around East Falls, turning natural treasures into incredible artwork. From the lush McMichael Park to the winding Wissahickon Trail and beyond, we're on a mission to explore and create!

It's not just about the destination; it's about the incredible journey itself. With most of our days spent outdoors, our camp is the ultimate way for children to unplug and rediscover the joy of the outdoors!

New in 2025: Separate “Big Kid” age group!

BASICS:

  • AGES GROUPS — “Littles” 5 to 7 years old & “Bigs” 8 to 11 years old

  • DATES — June 16 to Aug 22

  • SCHEDULE — 8:30AM to 3PM

  • EXTENDED CARE — 7:30AM to 5:30PM

PRICING:

  • WEEKLY CAMP — $425/week (discounts below)

  • BEFORE CARE — $10/day (7:30-8:30)

  • AFTER CARE — $20/day (3:00-5:30)

  • SINGLE DAY (when available) — $85/day

DISCOUNTS:

  • BOOK BEFORE FEB 28 — Use discount code “EARLYBIRD” for $50/week savings*

  • SIBLINGS (book in one transaction) — 10% Discount (available AFTER early bird special period)

  • ALL SUMMER (book all 10 weeks, in one transaction) — 15% Discount* (Save $638!)

NOTE: Discounts cannot be combined. No Early Bird discount for our PEAK WEEK of Aug 18 or July 4th short week. Extended Care bookings are not eligible for discounts.

IMPORTANT:

  • No camp on July 4; the 4-Day Rate for Week #3 is $350.

  • Schedule Extended Care between now and 7 days prior to the week.

  • Book Extended Care By-the-Day or By-the-Week.

  • There is a 2% service charge fee on all bookings.

  • We offer pay-in-full or payment plan options.

  • We have a limited amount of sliding scale tuition spots available. This is 100% funded by Rutabaga and is on a first come, first serve basis. Please email us at camp@RutabagaPhilly.com for information on how to apply.

LOCATION DETAILS:

Nature Arts Base Camp — 3800 Vaux Street, Philadelphia, PA 19129

Our summer “Base Camp” is East Falls Presbyterian Church, located at that corner of Vaux St. and Midvale Ave. in East Falls. We have exclusive access to their facilities during camp, including the auditorium, classrooms, and outdoor space.

Sample Schedule:

  • 8:30-9:30 — Arrivals @ Nature Arts Home Base (3800 Vaux Street, 19129)

  • 9:30-10:00 — Morning Meeting // Ice-Breaker Games // Announcements

  • 10:00-12:00 — Small Groups // Morning Activity & Exploration

  • 12:00-12:45 — Lunch // Quiet or Down Time

  • 12:45-2:15 — Small Groups // Afternoon Activity & Exploration

  • 2:15-2:45 — Afternoon Meeting // Clean up // Pack for home

  • 2:45-3:00 — Departures @ Nature Arts Home Base (3800 Vaux Street, 19129)

Our 2025 Summer Camp Handbook will be available by April, but feel free to explore our 2024 Summer Camp Handbook for details about our program and policies. We’re happy to answer any questions, email us at Camp@RutabagaPhilly.com!

Scroll down for tips on using our new booking software.


Weekly Themes:

Each week of our Summer Camp is designed to provide your child with an unforgettable experience. We encourage kids to play, be curious, and appreciate the environment through exploration.

While the themes below provide inspiration, every week will be filled with the creative nature play and extensive outdoor adventures that you (and your child) love about Nature Arts!


🆕 BOOKING PROCESS:

We've moved to a user-friendly platform with simplified navigation, transparent schedules, automated payments, paperless forms, and effortless add-ons!

To make your booking experience even smoother, here are some handy tips to help you get started:

  • Logging In — No password required! Simply log in with your email or phone number and confirm with a code.

  • Add Participant — Create profiles for each child. You can edit these profiles anytime.

  • Select Participants — Select the child(ren) you want to book. Use "link" or "unlink" based on your scheduling needs.

  • Schedule Dates — Go to the "Week" tab for camp weeks and weekly extended care. Visit the "Day" tab for daily extended care. Review your schedule, then click "Secure Reservation."

  • Checkout — Review your order summary, apply promo codes, and choose a payment plan if needed.