Sound Mapping
Sit quietly outdoors and draw a sound map of birds, wind, insects, water, and other sounds—building focus, directional awareness, and a deeper connection to the habitat.
Explore · Discover · Grow
Field Biology
Field Biology
Science Camp
Hands-on field science, creek exploration, ecological engineering, plant and animal biology, and real-world discovery outdoors.
Outdoors is our classroom
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Ages6–12
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DatesAugust 3–7, 2026
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TimeMon–Fri · 9:00 AM–4:00 PM
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LocationCrow Canyon Gardens
San Ramon, CA
San Ramon, CA
Real outdoor learning
What campers will do
Campers use real field-science techniques to listen, build, print, observe, identify, and interpret the living systems around them.
Nature Shelter Challenge
Work in teams to engineer small shelters using natural materials, strengthening problem-solving, collaboration, and the practical thinking used in field research.
Cyanotype Plant Prints
Use collected leaves or flowers and sunlight-sensitive paper to create blue-and-white botanical prints while exploring light, photosynthesis, and observation.
Bug Jars
Build observation jars, examine local insects up close, practice identification, and learn gentle, respectful handling.
Animal Tracks
Make and identify tracks with clay and guide sheets, then learn how biologists read the ground for clues about wildlife activity.
Meet Plantify’s Goats
Spend time with resident goats while learning about animal care and the helpful and harmful ways animals can affect local ecosystems.
Science woven through the week
More than separate activities
The projects connect through a larger field-biology framework, helping campers see how plants, animals, water, structure, and adaptation work together.
BiomimicryNotice how living things solve problems, then use those ideas in design and building challenges.
Ecological engineeringExplore root systems, erosion, water purification, shelter, and the ways natural systems shape places.
Plant and animal biologyStudy structure, behavior, habitat, adaptation, and relationships between organisms.
Field techniques and STEAMPractice mapping, careful observation, evidence gathering, comparison, and scientific communication.
Camp moments
Real animals. Real responsibility.
Creek exploration at Crow Canyon Gardens
Photos from Plantify goat activities and City of San Ramon nature programming at Crow Canyon Gardens.
Why families choose this camp
Meaningful and hands-onCampers learn by applying real techniques: mapping sounds, engineering shelters, making prints, observing insects, and reading tracks.
Full-day structureA complete 9:00 AM–4:00 PM schedule with active learning, breaks, lunch, and reflection.
Small group environmentA maximum of 20 campers supports a more focused and responsive week.
Outside every dayThe garden, creek, plants, animals, and surrounding habitat are part of the curriculum.
Sample daily rhythm
A typical camp day
The day combines active fieldwork, making, movement, meals, and time to record discoveries.
- Arrival and field briefingCheck-in, orientation, and the day’s investigation.
- Morning field sessionOutdoor exploration, observation, and collection.
- Snack and open explorationTime to reset, move, and follow emerging questions.
- Hands-on science projectBuild shelters, make cyanotypes, map sounds, observe insects, or identify tracks.
- Lunch and free timeA longer midday break outdoors.
- Afternoon investigationApply the morning’s skills in a new context.
- Break and field notesRecord discoveries with words, sketches, or maps.
- Group challenge and findingsCompare evidence, collaborate, and close the day.
- PickupEnd-of-day transition and departure.
The details
Everything parents need
Review the essentials below, then complete enrollment through the City of San Ramon Rec Guide.
Ages6–12 years old
DatesAugust 3–7, 2026 · Monday–Friday
Hours9:00 AM–4:00 PM
Tuition$500 for the full week
LocationCrow Canyon Gardens
114 Park Place, San Ramon
114 Park Place, San Ramon
RegistrationSan Ramon Rec Guide · Activity #34696
Before registering
Frequently asked questions
Is this a full-day camp?
Yes. The program runs from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM, Monday through Friday.
Is enrollment for the full week?
Yes. The listed tuition covers the full Monday–Friday camp week.
Does my child need science experience?
No. The activities are designed to be accessible to curious beginners ages 6–12.
What happens if weather changes?
Outdoor activities may be adjusted for weather or site conditions while keeping the day active, safe, and hands-on.
Where are forms and official policies?
Required forms, waivers, pickup procedures, and official policies are provided through the City of San Ramon registration process.
Adventure awaits
Ready for a week that grows with them?
Join Plantify and the City of San Ramon for a full week of outdoor science, exploration, and field discovery.
Field Biology Science CampAug 3–7 · Ages 6–12Register