Anoka County Parks

Anoka County Parks offers a wide variety of nature-based summer day camps for kids ages 4 to 15, hosted across scenic locations like Wargo Nature Center, Coon Rapids Dam, and Bunker Hills Regional Park. Camps run June through August, and are led by trained naturalists and staff who prioritize outdoor exploration, hands-on learning, and fun.

Camp Themes & Activities:

• Nature Explorers (ages 6–9): Learn about local ecosystems, track animals, and explore habitats.
• Junior Naturalists (ages 10–12): Dive deeper into ecology, wildlife, and environmental science.
• Little Critters (ages 4–5): Half-day introduction to nature with stories, crafts, and sensory exploration.
• Fishing Adventures, Outdoor Survival, and Bike Camps (ages vary): Skills-based experiences with equipment provided in most cases.
• Teen Adventures (ages 12–15): Kayaking, geocaching, and team-building in a more challenging format.

Most camps are 1-3 days long, typically running from 9 AM to 12 PM or 9 AM to 3 PM. They’re great for families looking for affordable, enriching options with flexible scheduling throughout the summer!

June - August

Camps range from $115-$205/week. Prices for 4-5 year olds are for half-day camp, while 6-14 year olds are priced for full days.

For further details, see here.

Programs can be registered for online here.

(763) 324-3300

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What Parents Like

• Parents appreciate that the camps offer a rich mix of outdoor learning, like bug hunts, nature hikes, pond studies, and fishing, which keeps kids excited and screen-free. Many said their children came home eager to share what they’d learned. (1, 1.5, 2)
• Multiple parents mention how friendly, patient, and knowledgeable the camp instructors are, especially at locations like Wargo Nature Center and Bunker Hills. Kids reportedly felt safe and welcomed from the first day. (2, 3)
• Families love the smooth registration process and how well the camps are run. Many consider it a fantastic value compared to private programs.
• Parents of both preschoolers and teens noted there’s something for everyone—especially praising the mix of half-day and full-day options. (2)

What Parents Think Could be Improved

• A few reviews noted that very hot or rainy days can be tough since most camp activities are outside. Some suggested better shade or backup indoor plans would help. (2)

Our Take

Parents describe Anoka County Parks day camps as a hidden gem for families seeking budget-friendly, nature-rich programming. The camps strike a balance between fun, education, and outdoor exploration, and the experienced staff make even first-time campers feel at ease. Plan ahead, dress for the weather, and your child will likely have a memorable and enriching experience.