Classes and Activities
Classes and activities for Camp Leopold are designed to cover a wide range of environmental topics highlighting the natural and man-made resources students and teachers will discover. Combining the observation techniques of Aldo Leopold with the rich flora and fauna of Camp Leopold provides a unique opportunity to enrich learning and spark a desire for students to discover the land and its inhabitants. Camp Leopold classes are divided into three separate emphasis areas to achieve these goals.
Social-Emotional Learning Emphasis: These are classes where students are challenged by choice. Students must utilize teamwork to achieve group goals. Students will also have opportunities to push themselves and develop confidence in their own abilities.
Nature Exploration Emphasis: These classes encourage students to become more comfortable with exploring the natural world around them. Our Nature Exploration Classes help students develop the soft skill that every budding conservationist needs, such as making accurate observations and thoughtful connections.
Applied Science Emphasis: At Camp Leopold, we believe anyone can be a scientist! Our Science Application classes allow students to collect real data and practice using different scientific tools. The goal is for students to have so much fun, that they don’t even realize how much science they’ve performed.
Scales and Tails
Reptiles and amphibians play a crucial role in maintaining the delicate balance of their ecosystems. At Camp Leopold we have the opportunity to delve into the world of these fascinating creatures. Students will have the opportunity to interact with our LIVE animal ambassadors. By understanding and celebrating these creatures, we are inspired to advocate for their conservation, recognizing the vital role they play in preserving biodiversity and ecological stability.
The Carolina Canopy
On-site Only
Students will experience firsthand the importance of forests, not only to animals but to humans as well. While trekking through the woods, students will learn about key management techniques that allow Camp Leopold to efficiently manage their forests, providing habitat for thousands of species of flora and fauna, while also identifying the trees that surround our campus.
Wings Over Water
Students will embark on a journey to understand the profound impact of Earth’s seasons on every facet of life. Through immersive investigations, we will delve into the conditions that draw waterfowl to South Carolina, offering insights into their remarkable adaptations and behaviors. This exploration extends beyond mere observation; it serves as a platform for meaningful conservation dialogue. By studying the interplay between environmental factors and wildlife behaviors, students will gain a deeper appreciation for the delicate balance of ecosystems. Moreover, engaging with conservation experts and fellow peers in conversations about the importance of preserving waterfowl habitats will empower students to become advocates for environmental stewardship.
Zoomin’ Zip-lines
This activity will test the students bravery as they leap off of Bravery Peak. The students will glide across water while enjoying a new view of camp. Participants are encouraged to step out of their comfort zone and experience the thrill of flight! The zipline is over 150 feet long. Our trained staff will teach participants zip-lining basics and will help develop their confidence as adventurers.
Canoe Exploration
Explore the main camp waterfront while paddling in a canoe! Each group of students within one canoe will have to work together to get to their final destination. Students will learn proper techniques of canoeing and observe nature within the pond at their own pace.
Mammal Mania
Join us on an exploration of the diverse native mammals that call South Carolina home. From the towering pines of the uplands, to the tranquil meadows, this course delves into the rich tapestry of habitats that support a variety of fascinating mammalian species. By examining the signs of animal presence in an area, students will not only learn to identify species but also gain insights into their behaviors, movements, and ecological roles. Through discussions and debates on mammalian diets, habits, and movement patterns, participants will deepen their appreciation for the complexity of wildlife ecosystems.
Course Quest / Team Challenge Games
Building group dynamics and teamwork to reach crazy new goals will be the focus of this class. Students will learn to work together and how to help each other reach new heights. Following this class, teachers will find their students well prepared to work together with their classmates for the remainder of their school year.
Birding 101
This in-depth bird watching class covers bird identification and location, feeding, equipment, and behavior and habitats of birds. The students will observe by using their naked eye, by using a visual enhancement device like binoculars or listening for bird sounds. The students will get the chance to collect data and compare with other groups from different classes and schools.
pH Prodigies
In this activity, students will be able to investigate the pH of the world around them. Plants and animals heavily rely on certain pH levels needed to survive. The students will explore and discuss the differences in acidic and basic compounds around Camp Leopold. They will be able to do experiments of their own to identify the pH of different variables.
The Hidden Universe
The students will become scientists! They will learn the different parts of a microscope and the many important uses. Using these microscopes, the students will get the opportunity to look at premade slides with a variety of specimens. Students will also be able to create their own slides and look within “The Hidden Universe” at things around your school.
Rockin’ Heights
Our climbing wall challenges students to face their fear of heights. The three person feature lets students battle their peers in a speed race to the top. Like tree frogs, the students will test their grip strength in this activity, while improving their hand-eye coordination.
Spineless Wonders
Invertebrates, or spineless wonders, will give students examples of the strange and amazing super powers of the natural world. This class will focus on learning about invertebrates – or spineless animals. We will cover their vast diversity, as well as the various adaptations these organisms possess to make them one of the key components of nearly every ecosystem. We will hunt, collect, and record the species we find around the different ecosystems of Camp Leopold.
Human Impact
Camp Leopold is an amazing place to learn how man can restore land to a place where wildlife thrives. Our camp has had a great deal of human impacts. Students will investigate their own lives and discover new techniques to implement back home. During this discussion, students and instructors alike will discuss the main effects that humans have on the natural world, both positive and negative.
Crop Commanders
Students will enter the fields of Camp Leopold to collect and investigate cultivated plants. Here at camp Leopold you won’t see a scarecrow because crops are planted specifically to feed animals. Discover agricultural science and why wildlife biologists plant crops to feed and care for wild animals. We will compare cultivated plants to native plants to see the impact wise farming can have on the animals of Camp Leopold.
Invasion Investigation
Students will be able to explore the ecosystems surrounding Camp Leopold to collect and investigate plants and insects that are invasive to South Carolina. Discover research and the science and why and ho these creatures got here. We will compare native plants to the non-native to see the impact they can have on the animals and plants of Camp Leopold.
