Environmental Education Center at University of Rhode Island's W. Alton Jones Campus

Forest Frenzy is an Earth Camp program for ages 9-12. The goal of the program is to learn about forests and other uplands such as fields and meadows as well as the wildlife that lives there. You will explore different upland environments to find out what makes each unique and special. The week will be spent learning and enjoying the forests and fields of the W. Alton Jones Campus.

Sunday is devoted to moving in and meeting and getting to know your fellow campers, junior counselors and counselors both in your cabin and your Forest Frenzy field group. Sunday night also includes an “all camp” campfire so you will meet and see other campers and counselors in Earth Camp for the week. You will sleep in cabins with some campers who are in your group and some who are in other themes, which will allow you to get to know lots of other kids. You will eat your meals in the dining hall, except Tuesday dinner and breakfast.

On Monday, you will participate in some group-building activities to enhance communication between you and the other campers in your group as well as your Counselors and Junior Counselors. You will also have an introduction to forest ecology and you will be involved in activities designed to orient you to your natural surroundings. Swim tests, free-swim time and canoeing occur at Lake Eisenhower, so be ready to get wet! After dinner you will be involved in the all-camp evening program.

Tuesday through Thursday you will spend each day exploring the different upland communities of Alton Jones, such as pine groves, oak forests, open fields and meadows. Field studies and simulation games will help you understand how different animals are uniquely adapted for survival in their habitats. A visit from a Wicked Cool Scientist will help you learn more about the natural world.

Tuesday is camp out night for Forest Frenzy. You will pack up your sleeping bag and gear and head out to a woodland or lakeside campsite. You will cook and eat outdoors and have a campfire and a night hike before settling into your tent for the night. In the morning you may have time for an early morning walk, which is the best time to see wildlife. You will also:

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Do hands-on comparisons between different communities, such as the difference between a white pine grove and a mixed deciduous forest.
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Gain an understanding of relationships between plants and animals and their environment.
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See how animals are uniquely adapted for survival in forests or fields.
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Explore the nocturnal world and learn camping skills on the campout.
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Develop an awareness of the human role within the forest environment.

Friday is spent putting the whole week together with review and wrap-up plus closing activities. After lunch, there is some time to spend with new friends before the family program begins. Sign-out and goodbyes follow as the week comes to a close.