What age group is eligible for the Summer Camp Full Series?

The camp is designed for kids and teens aged 10 to 18 years.

Can I sign up for individual days or do I have to book the whole series?

You can choose to attend single days or register for the entire series to receive a discount.

Are meals provided during the camp sessions?

Participants should bring their own lunch and snacks; water is recommended to stay hydrated.

Is prior experience with insects required?

No prior experience is necessary; the camp is suitable for all skill levels and interests.

Are there safety precautions while handling insects?

Yes, campers are supervised closely and taught safe, respectful insect handling practices.

Will campers receive any certification after completion?

Yes, all campers who complete the full series earn a Certificate of Completion.

Summer Camp Full Series: Bug Adventures in Portland | Workshop | Events

The Summer Camp Full Series at the Portland Insectarium offers an immersive hands-on experience for young explorers aged 10-18 who are curious about the world of insects. Located in Portland, Oregon, this unique camp runs throughout the summer, providing daily activities that cover everything from animal care to specimen pinning and field identification. Campers engage directly with live insects, learning scientific methods while developing a deeper appreciation for entomology. Whether you choose to attend single days or commit to the entire series at a discounted rate, each session is designed to spark curiosity and build knowledge. The camp keeps groups small, ensuring personalized attention and a safe, supportive environment. Participants walk away with not only memorable experiences but also a coveted Certificate of Completion. This camp is perfect for kids with a passion for science, nature, or just wanting to try something new. It's an exciting opportunity to learn about a less-explored world that plays a vital role in our ecosystems, all while having fun in the vibrant city of Portland.

About Portland Insectarium

Portland Insectarium is a hands-on entomology center that introduces visitors to live and preserved arthropods through interactive exhibits, classes, and guided field experiences. The Insectarium offers general admission access to displays and activities, specialty workshops like tarantula handling and macro photography, and focused classes such as insect pinning and identification. Seasonal summer camps for ages 10–18 cover animal care and husbandry, specimen pinning and preservation, field identification, and an option to purchase a full-series package with a completion certificate. Sessions combine classroom instruction, guided walks, and hands-on practice; many sessions include take-home kits, care sheets, pinned specimens, or shadowboxes.

Programs emphasize safety, ethical handling, and respect for living creatures. Sessions are led by trained educators with entomology knowledge and experience working with mantises, jumping spiders, tarantulas, and other arthropods. Small group sizes and supervised interactions ensure safe, educational experiences for beginners and enthusiasts alike. Registration is required for workshops and camps due to limited space; some programs include zoo admission or are offered as add-ons to a general visit. The Insectarium is a resource for families, educators, and hobbyists seeking practical skills—such as specimen preparation, field collecting techniques, and basic husbandry—and fosters curiosity with accessible materials and community events. Whether attending a one-hour tarantula handling session, a two-hour pinning workshop, or a weeklong camp, visitors leave with tangible skills, take-home materials, and an informed appreciation of insects.

The Insectarium also partners with schools and community groups to provide curriculum-aligned workshops, outreach events, and volunteer opportunities for learners of all ages.