Is the camp suitable for beginners?

Yes, the camp is designed for children with all levels of outdoor experience, focusing on learning and fun.

Yes, nutritious meals are included, accommodating dietary restrictions when notified in advance.

What equipment should the kids bring?

Bring comfortable clothing, sturdy shoes, a water bottle, and sun protection. Most gear is provided or recommended in the prep guide.

Are scholarships available?

Yes, the Glacier Institute offers scholarships to ensure all children can participate.

What safety measures are in place?

The camp follows strict safety protocols, with experienced staff supervising all activities.

Can I visit during the camp?

Visitors are welcome during designated family days; check the schedule with the institute.

Outdoor Kids Adventure at Glacier Institute's Little Naturalist Camp

Located in the stunning wilderness of Glacier, the Glacier Institute's Little Naturalist Camp offers an engaging outdoor experience tailored for children aged 8-10. Over three days, young naturalists dive into the world of wildlife, geology, and local ecology through hands-on activities, guided hikes, and interactive lessons. This camp stands out for its focus on building confidence and fostering friendships amid the rugged beauty of the area. Participants stay overnight in cozy accommodations, enjoy nutritious meals, and participate in a variety of outdoor pursuits, making learning both fun and memorable. The camp’s curriculum includes close encounters with native flora and fauna, such as spotting deer, squirrels, and various bird species, as well as exploring glacier features like ice formations and moraine landscapes. What makes this camp especially unique is its commitment to inclusivity, offering scholarships so that every child can experience connect with nature. Guided by experienced educators, the program emphasizes environmental awareness, stewardship, and curiosity, making it a perfect introduction for young outdoor enthusiasts. The Glacier Institute, located in one of Montana’s most precious natural areas, serves as a gateway for children to develop a lifelong appreciation for the outdoors, all while ensuring safety and education are at the forefront. Whether your child is taking their first steps in adventure or looking to deepen their outdoor knowledge, Little Naturalist Camp provides a balanced, enriching experience set against the backdrop of glacier-carved valleys and majestic mountain vistas.

About Glacier Institute

Glacier Institute is an outdoor education organization based in Columbia Falls, Montana, offering guided hikes, workshops, and multi-stop series in Glacier National Park. The Institute leads day trips and experiential classes that combine field-based education with interpretive natural history, emphasizing geology, wildlife, fire ecology, and land stewardship. Trips range from short nature-journaling sessions to full-day hikes such as the Highline Trail, Many Glacier, Avalanche Lake, and Hidden Lake Overlook.

Guided hikes commonly run between two and ten hours and are led by Outdoor Education Specialists who provide on-trail instruction about alpine ecosystems, glacial landscapes, and local flora and fauna. Evening and specialty outings—like the Evening Hike to Hidden Lake Overlook and the Fire Lookout Series—pair scenic viewpoints with focused lessons on park ecology.

Educational workshops include the Forest Bathing Workshop led by Ellen Horowitz, and a Nature Journaling Series taught by Zowie Caouette; these classes emphasize sensory awareness, creative observation, and conservation-minded engagement. The Into the Wild: A Nature Immersion Experience blends forest bathing and journaling into a guided five-hour session designed to deepen connection with place.

All programming centers on immersive, interpretive experiences inside Glacier National Park. The Institute’s offerings are factual, time-defined, and described in trip summaries to help participants select appropriate routes and durations. Prospective visitors can expect guided, curriculum-driven outings that prioritize safety, interpretation, and environmental stewardship in one of Montana’s most iconic landscapes. Booking information, trip distances, and detailed itineraries are provided in official trip descriptions to support informed decision-making, and gear recommendations where available.