What age group is the SIMS camp designed for?

The camp is intended for students in 7th through 10th grade.

How long is each SIMS session?

Each session typically lasts around half a day, approximately 4 to 5 hours.

Are meals provided during the camp?

Meals are not included; participants should bring snacks and water.

Is prior marine science knowledge required?

No prior experience is needed; the program is designed for beginners and enthusiasts alike.

What should participants wear?

Comfortable clothing, sun protection, and closed-toe shoes are recommended.

Can parents accompany their children during sessions?

Sessions are designed specifically for students; parents do not attend but may wait at designated areas.

Explore Marine Science at Rookery Bay Research Reserve: A Summer Adventure for Teens

Located on the southwestern coast of Florida near Naples, the Rookery Bay Research Reserve invites young explorers to immerse themselves in the vibrant and diverse marine world through the Student Institute for Marine Science (SIMS). This half-day camp is specifically designed for 7th to 10th graders, offering a hands-on educational experience that bridges classroom learning with real scientific discovery in one of Florida's most ecologically important coastal reserves.

Rookery Bay spans over 110,000 acres of estuarine habitat where saltwater and freshwater converge, creating a unique setting brimming with mangrove forests, tidal creeks, and seagrass beds. The reserve is home to an array of wildlife including fish, crustaceans, and countless bird species, some of which are endangered. What sets this program apart is its focus not only on observation but active participation: students engage directly with marine scientists conducting shark tag-and-release studies, habitat monitoring, and wildlife conservation projects.

The SIMS summer camp provides a balance of classroom activities and outdoor exploration. Campers collect data, analyze specimens, and learn about key environmental challenges such as habitat degradation and climate change impacts. This close encounter with marine science nurtures a deeper understanding of coastal ecosystems and fosters environmental stewardship at a critical age.

Rookery Bay’s location just minutes from Naples offers easy access for families looking to combine education with vacation. Beyond the reserve, the nearby city provides vibrant dining, beaches, and cultural attractions. The reserve itself is an essential part of Florida's network of protected areas, established to safeguard marine biodiversity and support research efforts that influence regional conservation policies.

Whether your teen is fascinated by sharks, curious about marine habitats, or eager to contribute to real-world research, the SIMS camp is a standout opportunity. This enriching experience connects young people to nature, science, and community, making it a must-book activity for families visiting Naples in the summer months.

About Rookery Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve

Rookery Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve is a Southwest Florida research and education organization that connects people to coastal science through lectures, workshops, community events, and youth camps.

It presents the Lunch & Learn Lecture Series at the Rookery Bay Environmental Learning Center, pairing a buffet from Carrabba’s Italian Grill with monthly presentations by environmental experts and complimentary center admission. The Reserve offers guided experiences such as Birding with Biologists, a three-hour beginner workshop at Donna Fiala Eagle Lakes Community Park led by expert biologists focused on identification, behavior, and binocular skills.

Annual and community events include the Classic Car Show at Florida SouthWestern State College with vehicle and vendor registration options, family-friendly activities, and Friends of Rookery Bay fundraising; an Art Gallery Reception in partnership with United Arts Collier showcasing local photography and painting; and Rookery Bay Community Day. The Reserve also hosts Science Nite, the Seabird Social decoy painting workshop during the Festival of Birds, and a wildlife workshop series addressing marine animals, invasive Burmese pythons, and local mammals.

Professional learning opportunities include a hybrid workshop for real estate professionals on selling coastal and inland properties, seawalls, boat lifts, and regulations. Educational programs for youth include a half-day marine science camp for 7th–10th graders with hands-on lab experiences led by scientists focusing on sharks, sea turtles, and conservation.

Rookery Bay emphasizes research-driven programming, community partnerships, and practical learning to advance conservation and public understanding of estuarine ecosystems. Programs welcome residents, students, scientists, and visiting nature enthusiasts year-round.