Oski Science Camp
Immersive sleep-away camp for 5th and 6th graders at the Lair of the Golden Bear teaches the science, nature, and history of our land.
4 Days, 3 Nights, Nature and You!
The Stanislaus National Forest in Pinecrest, California, is our classroom. Students at camp engage in science- and nature-based activities in a space where they can build strong bonds with each other and their environment, gaining a deeper understanding of the world around us.
Bring your middle school class to Oski Science Camp!
Hands-On Physics, Astronomy, Environmental Science, and More
The Lair’s abundant space, activities, and resources provide the perfect environment for kids to experience nature and learn about science. From building spaghetti structures to chatting with UC Berkeley professors — see what hundreds of middle school students have already experienced at Oski Science Camp.
Program Information
At 5,600 feet in the Stanislaus National Forest, the Lair of the Golden Bear offers a spectacular mountain setting that allows campers to connect with nature, recharge, and focus on what’s important. We will work with you to tailor your time at camp to fit the goals of your school district. In addition to providing clean cabins, serving three delicious, well-balanced meals per day, and lighting campfires, our goal is to inspire connections to nature, science, and one another. Oski Science Camp is an interactive outdoor educational experience in a collaborative learning environment that fosters personal growth opportunities through individual and team building programs.
Sample Programming and Activities
- Pinecrest Lake hike (2.2 miles round trip) with bag lunch
- Silent Hike followed by “Sit & Senses” exercise and Nature Journal activity
Lair Staff Lessons (~1 hour each)
- Thermal Energy
- Animal Tracks and Scat
- Climate
- Pollution Causes, Effects, & Prevention
- Weather Patterns, Phases of Water, and Erosion
- Starry Sky Astronomy
Science Projects
- Star constellation models
- Geometrical towers
- Volcano models
- Bioluminescence
Activities, Team Building, and Ice Breakers
- Science group name & nature call
- Stargazing
- Survival Shelter or Snow Cave Building Competition
- Popcorn Question & Answer Session
- Hula Hoop “Don’t Break the Chain”
- Minute to Win It-style games
- Scavenger Hunt (learn about animal scavengers)
- Talent Show
- Arts & Crafts
- Sports Equipment and Athletics Courts
Community Guest Speakers
John Buckley, Central Sierra Environmental Resource Center (CSERC)
Expert wildlife presentation and professional photography. Teaches the importance of defending water, wildlife, and wild places across our region.
Paul Karpus, Cal Fire Chief
Teaches fire science, safety, and prevention; ecology. Includes fire truck and fire extinguisher demos.
Lloyd Mathiesen and Waylon Coats, Me-Wuk Native American Tribal Leaders
Teaches Native culture, art, song, dance, and dress; local history of the Tuolomne Band of Me-Wuk Indians.
Genie Moore, US Forest Service Ranger
Includes mammals, furs and skulls demo; interactive forest walk discussing ecology of the forest and its trees.
Glen White, Professor of Geology, Columbia College MS
Includes rock demo; classroom and hands-on education in the forest; interactive discussion of earth's physical structure, substance, history, and processes.
Sienna White, Graduate Student, UC Berkeley and Anjali Katta, Researcher, Energy and Resources Group (ERGP and Graduate Student, UC Berkeley
Teaches Delta ecosystem and mud science.
Brian Thomas, Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) Educator
Includes a drone demonstration and hydroelectricity lesson.
Where’s The Lair?
Accommodations
Each cabin includes:
- Three twin bunks for students
- One queen bed in a lofted sleeping area for counselor/chaperone
- Ensuite bathroom with sink, toilet, and shower
- Heater with thermostat
- Overhead fan
Food
Oski Science Camp Sample Menu
Day 1
Dinner
Pizza – Caesar Salad – Minestrone Soup – Popsicles
Day 2
Breakfast
Pancakes – Sausage – Fruit Salad – Breakfast Bar
Lunch
Assorted Sandwiches – Chips – Fruit – Snacks (Snacks available on hike)
Dinner
Chicken Tacos – Beans – Tortilla Soup – Churros
Day 3
Breakfast
Belgian Waffles – Fresh Strawberries – Bacon- Scrambled Eggs – Breakfast Bar
Lunch
Mac N Cheese – Chicken Tenders – Chips – Green Salad – Cookies
Dinner
Hamburgers – Hot Dogs – French fries – Ice Cream Cups
Day 4
Breakfast
French toast – Fresh Melon – Sausage Links – Breakfast Bar
What to Expect
What to Bring
Pack layers to keep warm
- Long Pants (3-4 pairs)
- Shirts/Sweatshirts (3-4 pairs)
- Jacket (warm, waterproof recommended)
- Beanie and gloves or mittens
- Pajamas or sweats to sleep in
- Warm socks and undergarments (5 pairs each)
- Shoes (2–3 pairs including comfortable tennis shoes, hiking shoes, and rain boots. Campers will need shoes that will protect from muddy or wet paths — no Crocs
- Slippers or flip-flops for use inside the cabin
Personal Items
- Bedding for twin-size beds (warm sleeping bag, heavy blanket, fitted twin sheet, and pillow)
- Umbrella
- Towel and washcloth
- Toiletries (toothpaste, toothbrush, sunscreen, etc.)
- Big plastic bag for dirty clothes
- Flashlight
- Refillable water bottle
- Backpack
Optional
Recreational Items
- Reading material
- Playing cards
Miscellaneous
- Sunglasses
- Hats
- Insect repellent
- Lip balm
- Band aids
What They Say about Science Camp
Oski Science Camp Program Leaders
Science Camp Bookings
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