Online registration for the 2025 Summer Camps program will open Sunday, Mar. 23 at 1 p.m., New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) Interim Commissioner Sean Mahar today announced.

DEC Summer Camps offer conservation education for children ages 11 to 17 through activities such as fishing, birding, fly-tying, archery, canoeing, hiking, camping, orienteering, and hunter safety education.

“At DEC’s summer camps, youth have the opportunity to take part in a variety of lessons and workshops to develop outdoor skills, learn about nature and wildlife, and build a foundation for lifelong environmental stewardship,” Interim Commissioner Mahar said. “We encourage families to sign up early for these great opportunities and for sponsors to support the next generation of conservationists.”

The DEC operates four residential camps for kids: Camp Colby in Saranac Lake (Franklin County), Camp DeBruce in Livingston Manor (Sullivan County), Camp Rushford in Caneadea (Allegany County) and Camp Pack Forest in Warrensburg (Warren County). All four camps will offer seven one-week sessions (Sunday to Friday) beginning June 29. Cost is $350 per child and includes lodging, meals, trips, and a camp t-shirt.

Parents and guardians can register youth for a week of camp, manage their account, and complete required forms and waivers through a link from the DEC Summer Camps webpage.