From Creek Beds to Career Paths: Aquatic Science Summer Camp 2026

Trade the typical summer camp for something a little more hands-on—and a lot more impactful. 🌊🔬

The Aquatic Science Summer Camp at Westminster College (June 7–12) is designed for high school students ready to step into real-world science. This isn’t just learning about ecosystems—you’ll be out in them, collecting data, exploring creeks, and contributing to actual conservation research across Mid-Missouri.

Over the course of the week, campers will hike, wade, and study the hidden life within Missouri’s waterways. Each day brings a new creek system and a new opportunity to investigate how these ecosystems function—and how they’re changing.

👩‍🔬 Work Alongside Experts
Students will work directly with Westminster College faculty, including Dr. Dawn Holliday and Dr. Matt Howell, gaining mentorship and hands-on experience while contributing data to the Missouri Stream Team.

🌿 What You’ll Do
This camp is built around real fieldwork and lab analysis. Participants will assess stream health, collect and identify aquatic organisms, measure water chemistry, and analyze samples to better understand biodiversity. It’s the kind of experience that goes far beyond a classroom—and could even lead to presenting findings at the Missouri Academy of Science.

🗓 A Week in the Field
The experience begins with campus orientation and training, followed by daily creek exploration at locations like Prairie Fork, Whetstone, Hinkson, and Grindstone. By the end of the week, students will compile their findings and present their work. Along the way, there’s also time for community-building, including a science-themed movie night and activities with fellow campers.

💡 Why It Stands Out
This camp offers a rare opportunity to contribute to real conservation efforts while gaining college-level lab experience. Students leave with practical skills, research experience, and a deeper understanding of environmental science in action.

💰 Tuition & Perks
The all-inclusive $725 tuition covers housing, meals, fieldwork, lab access, and instruction. Plus, eligible students who later enroll at Westminster may receive a renewable annual scholarship.

If you’ve got a curiosity for science and a willingness to get your boots wet, this is a one-of-a-kind opportunity to turn that interest into something meaningful. Spots are limited, so early registration is encouraged.

See our entire list of summer camps here.