Science Camp Frequently Asked Questions

Science Camp for Teens is for teens ages 13 to 17, typically entering grades 8 through 12. We welcome campers from Hawaiʻi, the continental US, and around the world.

Science Camp takes place on Hawaiʻi Island, in the town of Pāhala, in the southeastern area of the island. Campers and staff stay in houses at the Pāhala Plantation Cottages and travel daily to field sites across the island.

Yes. Camp activities are fully hands-on and include exploring ecosystems, collecting data, taking measurements, and using scientific equipment.

For instance, one field trip involves measuring lava tree molds in multiple ways and recording and analyzing those measurements. Scientists use this data to better understand the behavior of active lava flows to increase their ability to protect human lives and property.

Campers learn practical science and engineering skills through daily field trips, outdoor exploration, and hands-on experiments. These skills include using specialized equipment, learning to solder, understanding electronic circuits, collecting samples, identifying species, and learning to "read" the landscape around them.

Campers also have opportunities to learn other skills, photography, how to organize a park or beach cleanup, and how to check the oil in a car or truck.

Yes. All instruction is live, in-person, and interactive, with campers participating directly in hands-on science activities and field experiences. Aside from the occasional video call with a scientist or engineer, all instruction and activities take place live on-site or in the field and involve direct, hands-on participation.

Families are responsible for arranging air transportation to and from Hawaiʻi Island, arriving in either Hilo or Kona. Camp staff meet arriving campers at the airport and provide transportation to camp, and at the end of the session take campers to the airport and see them safely checked in and through security. Click here for more information about travel to and from Science Camp.

Campers should bring clothing suitable for outdoor activities, sturdy shoes, swimwear, personal toiletries, and any recommended gear listed in the camp packing guide. A packing list is provided.

Campers spend most of their time outdoors on daily field trips to natural sites, observatories, and science centers. Evenings include activities like star-gazing, night hikes, and campfires.

Each day includes a mix of field trips, hands-on science activities, outdoor exploration, meals, and supervised free time. Schedules vary depending on weather and field site availability.

Tuition for each ten-day session is $2,955 and includes lodging, meals, field trips, entry fees, airport transfer, transportation during camp, program activities and materials, instruction, and supervision by trained staff. And a t-shirt!

A limited number of scholarships and financial aid awards are available. Visit our scholarship opportunities page to apply.

Yes. The tuition for each ten-day session is listed on every session page along with details about what is included. Costs are also clearly displayed during registration, including available discounts for military families, Hawaiʻi residents, siblings, and early registration. Limited financial aid is available, and scholarship information is provided on the website.

No. The atmosphere is intentionally low-pressure with no tests or grades. The goal is for campers to experience what it is like to be a scientist or engineer, learn new skills, discover Hawaiʻi, and deepen their understanding of the natural world.

Yes. Senior instructors have nearly a decade of experience leading Science Camp programs and bring extensive formal and experiential teaching backgrounds. Dr. Michael Walker holds a PhD in Environmental Ecology, and Anna Downey holds a Master's in Geology. Additional staff contribute expertise in volcanology, Hawaiian culture, history, and environmental science.

Click here to learn more about our Camp Leadership Team and Board of Directors.

Yes. Field trips and guest instructors give campers the chance to meet and talk with scientists, engineers, and conservationists. Campers also have informal opportunities throughout the day to ask questions and explore career paths.

Each summer, at the end of camp, we ask campers what advice they would give to a future camper. Almost everyone says the same thing: that the key to a successful experience is to open yourself up to it. To relax about all the usual cares of life and just enjoy the place, the people, the atmosphere, and live in the moment.

Our staff work hard to try and make sure that each camper is having a good experience. The instructors and counselors are with campers throughout the day, providing guidance, answering questions, and helping campers build confidence as they explore science and the natural world.