Summer Camps
Our summer camps combine summer fun with nature-based science education activities. We offer a variety of camps for ages 7 to 12. Campers will take on the roles of naturalists, scientists, and adventurers as they explore the Forest and the creatures that inhabit it. Traditional summer camp fun will round out the experience, inspiring exploration and creating an adventure to remember for a lifetime.
Registration Opens Feb 2nd, 2026
Summer camp registration is integrated with Metro Parks’ class registration system, WebTrac. Parents will be able to create their family household, select multiple camps for multiple children, check out, all under one transaction. We recommend using a computer vs mobile device to register given the user interface.
When creating an account, be sure to include everyone you intend to register under your household account before selecting camps. After you are signed in, you can click the above link to view and register for camps.
*Please note that we are no longer accepting registration via mail. Registrations can also be made over the phone or in person during business hours Mon-Sat, 830am-400pm
For registration questions, contact our Welcome Center at 502-368-5404.
For summer camp questions, contact our Program Office at 502-366-5432.
IMPORTANT UPDATE as of MAY 2025: Medication Policy for Summer Camp
To ensure the health and safety of all campers, please be advised that camp staff are not permitted to administer, handle, or store any form of medication. If your child requires medication during camp hours, they must be capable of self-administering it without staff assistance. It is the responsibility of the parent or guardian to ensure that their child understands their medication regimen and is able to manage it independently while at camp. Medications brought to summer camp must remain with each summer camp participant and in their original container (over the counter or prescription)
We appreciate your cooperation in helping us maintain a safe and supportive environment for all participants.
All parent or guardians must sign the below Metro Parks and Recreation Medication Policy and Acknowledgement Form prior to their child attending camp. This will be emailed via Docusign from JMF staff after you have registered your child for camp.
Summer Day Camps
What makes Jefferson Memorial Forest Camps special?
- A great counselor-to-camper ratio! We have 2 counselors for every 12 campers.
- Highly trained, enthusiastic staff.
- Hands-on nature adventures exploring outdoors.
- Multiple camp options throughout the summer to suite your child’s needs.
- Campers learn new skills and build confidence in the natural world.
Some important information about our summer camps:
- Because this camp is about exploring the natural world, campers should be able to walk on trails, walk up and down hills, and traverse both flat and uneven ground.
- Campers should be prepared to be outdoors all day.
- Because campers work cooperatively together in small groups, it is necessary that your child has the ability to maintain appropriate self-control in social situations.
- Parents with questions regarding the ability of Jefferson Memorial Forest staff to meet their child’s needs should contact Program Manager David Grissom at 502-705-5578 or [email protected] well in advance of the start of camp. We are happy to make reasonable accommodations to ensure all campers have the best experience.
- Camp activities advertised may be altered or rescheduled, due to weather, staffing, or unforeseen circumstances. These decisions are made to ensure the safety of campers and staff and the quality of the summer camp experience.
Adventure Camp
Ages 7-12
$180/June 15th-18th- 4 day camp(Juneteenth Holiday)
$225/July 13th-17th
Is your child an adventurer, ready to explore what’s around the next bend in the trail? If so, then Adventure Camp is the ideal camp for your child. Join us for a week of fun, growth, and exploration. Adventure campers will get the opportunity to shoot archery, canoe, hike, and use the forest’s new zipline!
Wilderness Survival Camp
Ages 7-12
$225/July 6th-10th
$225/July 27th-31st
Do you know the basic things to remember in a survival situation: using a map and compass, building a shelter, starting a fire, and finding water? At Wilderness Survival Camp participants will learn these important skills through fun and engaging activities. Campers will develop their ability to build a shelter, start a fire, find water, and keep from getting lost in the wilderness and then use their skills on Friday. Throughout the week campers will build their own survival kit to take home at the end of camp and earn emblems in each skill to make them ultimate survivors!
Water Wonders
Ages 7-12
$225/June 22nd-26th
$225/July 20th-24th
There’s an exciting world within ponds, lakes, streams and rivers just waiting to be discovered. Campers explore a lake by canoe, play in a flowing creek, and hike through a forest to a winding stream. And of course, no water-themed camp is complete without water games! Personal flotation devices (PFDs) are provided to each camper, and trained staff accompany the campers for our canoe excursion and creek play day.
Registration and Payment Information
Prices include all camp supplies and field trip admissions.
Please read the above instructions for further information.
Registrations can also be made over the phone or in person during business hours Mon-Sat, 830am-400pm.
All camps are subject to maximum and minimum enrollment requirements.
Special Requests
If you would like your child to be grouped with a sibling or friend, please indicate this on the registration form. This cannot be guaranteed if the children are in different age groups or if space is not available. Campers are grouped according to age. This allows for an optimum learning experience.
Refunds
A cancellation must be received in writing no less than two weeks before the first day of camp. A refund (less a $25 processing fee) will be made. If the camp is canceled by Louisville Parks, a full refund will be made.
Refunds cannot be made due to weather. Forest Staff will make additions, omissions, and or adjustments to the schedule in the interest of group safety, well-being, and minimum staffing requirements.
Special Needs
It is the intent of Louisville Parks to make all facilities accessible to individuals with disabilities; if an accommodation is necessary for your participation, please advise us of the needed service in advance. Call 502-456-8148 (Voice) or 502-456-8183 (TDD).
Medication Policy for Summer Camp
To ensure the health and safety of all campers, please be advised that camp staff are not permitted to administer, handle, or store any form of medication. If your child requires medication during camp hours, they must be capable of self-administering it without staff assistance. It is the responsibility of the parent or guardian to ensure that their child understands their medication regimen and is able to manage it independently while at camp. Medications brought to summer camp must remain with each summer camp participant and in their original container (over the counter or prescription)
We appreciate your cooperation in helping us maintain a safe and supportive environment for all participants.
All parent or guardians must sign the below Metro Parks and Recreation Medication Policy and Acknowledgement Form prior to their child attending camp.