Designed for middle school-aged students, Smoky Mountain Naturalist Expeditions is a cut above the traditional summer camp. Participants spend each day exploring Great Smoky Mountains National Park with experts and assisting scientists with actual ongoing research. Campers search for salamanders, investigate old-growth forests, track black bears, and encounter the occasional timber rattlesnake! The secrets of the Smoky Mountains are waiting to be discovered. We cap off each day with a dip in the river, great supper, and fun evening activities. It’s a fascinating experience for the budding scientist or nature enthusiast, and a whole lot of fun for everyone. Program lasts from Monday mid-afternoon through the second Thursday morning.

Cost: $995
Ages 11 - 13

Dear Parents of Naturalist Expedition Campers,
As part of your registration materials, we require your son or daughter to write a letter 200 words in length (minimum) in their own words explaining: 1) why he or she wants to come to Naturalist Expedition Camp, AND 2) what he or she hopes to gain from spending a week studying nature in the national park.

Naturalist Expeditions is custom-designed for youngsters who are passionate about immersing themselves in nature, science, and cultural history for eleven whole days. The purpose for this step in the application process is to ensure that your child will be a contributing member to a group of eager and self-directed learners. Without this essay the application will not be complete and cannot go forward. All letters will be reviewed by the camp director.

Mail the essay together with your registration and payment to:
Julie Brown
Great Smoky Mountains Institute at Tremont
9275 Tremont Road
Townsend, TN 37882

Download the registration form here.

For more information on Naturalist Expeditions, view a sample schedule.

Financial aid is available for applications submitted by March 31, 2011. Please call 865-448-6709 for details.

Cancellation Policy

Cancellations received at least 30 days before the program start date may transfer all but $50 to another program*; 15-29 days before the program start date, transfer all but $75 to another program*; 0-14 days before the program start date, no refund or transfer for any reason. No exceptions.

If you’re interested in trip cancellation insurance, we recommend Travel Guard: 800-826-4919 or www.TravelGuard.com.

* Transfers must be used by the end of the following year.