At OSPREY Camp, we pride ourselves on creating a loving, open, and inclusive environment for our staff, volunteers, mentors, teachers, and students. OSPREY Camp strives to be an emotionally, spiritually, and physically safe place for all young people to get outside in meaningful ways.
Our program focuses on the intersection of social-emotional learning and outdoor education. Students unplug and take a break from cell phones, computers and electronic games to focus on relationships with peers, mentors, teachers and themselves. Outside of class, students enjoy structured down-time, including skits, songs and other team-building activities. The theme of “respect for the environment and youth” is woven throughout all aspects of camp, encouraging our students to be their best selves.
OSPREY Camp is a safe, positive and supportive environment where, for my students, poverty and limited English is not a liability. Everybody, no matter their cultural or language background, can participate fully.
The beautiful sounds of the earth make me feel calm, relaxed and like there’s really more than just cities and lights… these sights are beautiful and fill me with joy… I think it is much better than video games. I love nature!
The diverse range of environments is an amazing benefit of being at Camp Solomon Schechter. My favorite spots are the beaver dam, the mystery trees, the bog and the lake.
OSPREY Camp began over 50 years ago when environmental education became a focus in elementary schools in the Pacific Northwest. The program is designed to provide students with a powerful application of science concepts as they live and learn in the outdoors. It continues to evolve and improve, adjusting to reflect changes in scientific understanding and school requirements. Our lessons are aligned with the Common Core and Next Generation Science Standards. At OSPREY Camp, students learn hands-on science in an outdoor school!
Camp Solomon Schechter, the home of OSPREY Camp, is minutes from I-5, near Olympia. This beautiful locale provides opportunities to hike through and learn about the 170-acres of varied ecosystems. Students challenge themselves physically, while developing an appreciation for our natural environment, transforming them into environmental stewards of the future.