Is this camp suitable for children new to outdoor activities?

Absolutely, the camp is designed for beginners and includes supervised, safe activities tailored for young children.

What should my child bring for the camp?

Pack a hat, sunscreen, water shoes, snacks, a water bottle, and any personal items your child might need for comfort and safety.

Are accommodations provided?

The camp takes place at the Marine Discovery Center, with activities happening on-site; overnight accommodations are not included.

What is the age range for campers?

The camp is specifically for children ages 5 through 8.

Are there allergies or medical concerns to consider?

Please inform staff of any allergies or medical conditions during registration to ensure proper care.

Can I stay during the activities?

Parents are welcome to drop off and pick up children, but supervision is provided by trained staff during camp hours.

Water Activities & Marine Discovery Center Holiday Camp

Situated along the vibrant Indian River Lagoon, the Marine Discovery Center offers an immersive two-day holiday camp tailored for kids aged 5-8. Perfect for families seeking meaningful outdoor experiences, this camp combines fun with education in the heart of Florida’s most biodiverse estuarine system. Kids will find themselves knee-deep in activities like kayaking through shimmering waterways, hopping aboard boats, and exploring mysterious mangrove forests that line the shoreline. The center’s knowledgeable guides ensure young explorers safely navigate the aquatic landscape, pointing out vibrant sea life and fascinating habitats at every turn.

What makes this camp stand out is its blend of hands-on activities and learning. Kids participate in exciting science experiments, such as examining water quality and observing local marine life, fostering curiosity about Florida’s delicate ecosystems. Arts and crafts sessions further engage campers, allowing them to create ocean-inspired art while gaining a deeper appreciation for the environment. The Indian River Lagoon itself is a standout location—known for its rich biodiversity, including manatees, dolphins, and countless bird species—offering a living classroom that’s hard to rival.

The Marine Discovery Center’s focus on education and conservation makes it a unique destination for families wanting a memorable, eco-conscious adventure. Located in Vero Beach, this camp provides a safe yet inspiring setting for young adventurers to connect with nature in a practical, hands-on way. Whether it’s paddling through tidal creeks or learning about the vital role mangroves play in coastal health, kids depart not only with new skills but with a deeper understanding of Florida’s precious waterways.

Ideal for young explorers, this camp combines outdoor fun, ecological insight, and creative expression—all wrapped up in a friendly, welcoming environment that embodies the spirit of outdoor adventure and discovery.

About Marine Discovery Center

Marine Discovery Center is a nonprofit marine education and conservation facility in New Smyrna Beach, Florida, situated on a 22-acre campus along the Indian River Lagoon. The center offers guided boat tours, kayak eco-tours, family programs, and sensory-accessible activities that connect visitors with the region's estuary and wildlife. Daily and scheduled offerings include two-hour Morning and Evening Dolphin Discovery Tours aboard the pontoon boat Discovery, guided by certified Florida naturalists who interpret local dolphins, sea turtles, and birdlife. Kayak Eco Tours and the Indian River Lagoon Preserve Kayak Tour provide two-hour guided paddling through mangroves with single and tandem kayaks available for beginners and families.

On the land-based campus, visitors can join the MDC Campus Tour to learn about restoration projects, the history of Mt. Morgan, gardens, and future plans; campus tours run Wednesday mornings or by request. Family-focused Sea Squirts parent-and-toddler programs for ages three to six run weekly on Wednesdays for nine weeks, with drop-in options offered. The Sense of Adventure program offers sensory‑engaged activities for individuals with disabilities and sensory sensitivities, designed for inclusive hands-on learning.

Marine Discovery Center emphasizes environmental education, hands-on interpretation, and stewardship of North America's biologically diverse estuary. Programs are led by trained staff and naturalists, combining outdoor exploration with conservation messaging to foster appreciation for the Indian River Lagoon and its wildlife. Visitor bookings support local conservation initiatives, educational outreach and habitat restoration projects focused on water quality species monitoring and native habitat protection across New Smyrna Beach and Indian River Lagoon.