Winter Break Camp at the Austin Nature & Science Center

Online registration through City of Austin WebTrac (opened October 1, 2026). On October 27 seven of nine sections showed 'Waitlist'; the ages 9–10 sections for December 28–31 and January 4 showed 'Available'. Inclusion support: PARD Inclusion Unit, 512-974-3914, inclusion@austintexas.gov.

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About this adventure

The Austin Nature & Science Center runs its Winter Break Camp as three short sessions over the school holidays, with campers grouped by age: Frogs (5–6), Salamanders (7–8) and Pathfinders (9–10), each following its own theme. In the first week the Frogs explore winter plants and animals around the solstice, the Salamanders take inspiration from Australia's bowerbird to build shelters and nature art from natural materials, and the Pathfinders hike local parks and nature preserves. The second week brings dinosaur days for the youngest group, with digging in the center's Dino Pit and a visit to the Hartman Prehistoric Garden; animal adaptations to cold for the middle group; and outings for the oldest campers to favorite Austin destinations such as McKinney Falls State Park and Crux Climbing Center. A one-day session after New Year's, 'A Day at ANSC', mixes meeting the center's animals, the Naturalist Workshop, the Dino Pit and a winter hike in the nature preserve. Camp days are full working days. Registration is through the City of Austin's online system; financial-aid rates only apply when aid has been awarded before registering, and the Parks and Recreation Inclusion Unit can arrange extra support for campers who need it if contacted ahead of registration.