MDC: Apply now for Discover Nature Girls Camp

CAPE GIRARDEAU, Mo. -- The Missouri Department of Conservation will offer a Discover Nature Girls Camp in the Southeast Missouri June 21-23 at Camp SEMO in Wappapello, Mo.  According to the camp organizer, Conservation Agent Christa Cox, this camp is a free, three-day, two-night experience aimed at introducing girls ages 11 to 15 to outdoor skills in a supportive learning environment.  

“Our goal is to lead the girls in outdoor activities so when they leave they’ll have the skills and confidence to explore our diverse landscape on their own and with their families,” Cox said.

Campers will spend three fun-filled days learning by participating in “hands on” outdoor skills, led by conservation professionals.  Some of the planned activities include hunter education, firearms safety and target shooting, archery equipment safety, walking through a safety trail, canoeing, orienteering and fishing. 

“We will actually go fishing, and we’ll also teach the girls how to identify the fish they catch, how to cast, tie knots and how to clean the fish they catch,” Cox said.

Cox said the Discover Nature Girls Camp is right in line with the Department’s goal to help people discover nature.

“This camp will equip the girls to discover nature on their own for years to come,” Cox said.

To apply for Discover Nature Girls Camp, please contact your local Conservation Agent or the Southeast Regional office in Cape Girardeau at (573) 290-5730 for an application. The camp is limited to 40 girls between the ages of 11 to 15 years old. Applications must be received by April 22.  The first 40 applications will be selected with all remaining applications placed on a waiting list.  For information on this and other nature programs, go online to mdc.mo.gov/CapeNatureCenter.