For Students Entering Grades 1–6

The Lawrence
Summer Camps
Summer 2023

Welcome. We are excited to have you join us this summer for science camps in-person at The Lawrence!

We have prepared a fantastic lineup of camp offerings! See camps by grade or camps by session in the sections below to learn more and register. For financial aid, please fill out our financial aid application. We look forward to seeing you this summer!

A student and an adult are holding up a model bridge that they have built.

Summer Camps
2023

Grade 1

A child is building a toy during Summer Camp

Toy Builders

What makes a toy fun to play with? In this camp, young scientists will investigate what makes toys and simple machines do what they do.
Offered Sessions 1, 3, 5

A child wears an astronaut helmet she has constructed during the Moon Explorers camp while another child and camp leader create their own.

Moon Explorers

What does it take to land a human on the moon? What supplies do they need once they get there? In this out-of-this-world camp, participants will design, plan, and execute a mock exploration mission to the Moon.
Offered Sessions 2, 4

Grade 2

Two campers and a camp leader are holding up model planets

Journey to Jupiter

What if you looked up at the night sky and saw four moons instead of just one? That’s what you would see from the surface of Jupiter! In this camp, your young astronomer will design a spacecraft that can launch through Earth’s atmosphere and land on and explore one of Jupiter’s moons.
Offered Sessions 1, 3, 5

Two campers are building their arcade games during the Arcade Makers Summer Camp

Arcade Makers

Are you ready to “level up” and set a high score? In this camp, participants will design and build classic, hand-powered, arcade games such as pinball and skee ball.
Offered Sessions 2, 4

Grades 3 & 4

A camper drops a ball into a funnel when testing the creation of her creative contraption

Creative Contraptions

Rather than simply turning a page with your finger, wouldn’t it be way more fun to knock over a line of dominoes, which causes a ball to roll… that turns on a hair dryer… that blows a hammer… that taps a board… that triggers a catapult… that launches a ball… that hits a piece of rubber hanging over the page… that turns the page?
Offered Sessions 1, 3, 5

A camper is creating an asteroid during the Asteroid Adventure Summer Camp

Asteroid Adventures

Asteroid science has never been more exciting! In this camp, your young astronomer will journey through our Solar System, exploring the asteroid belt and investigating specific asteroids.
Offered Sessions 2, 4

Grades 5 & 6

A camper is drawing the solar system and orbit of the planets during the Surviving on Mars Summer Camp

Surviving on Mars

What supplies would you bring with you on a trip to Mars, our most habitable neighboring planet? In this camp, young explorers will “blast off” into cutting-edge science and plan for the first human trip to “the red planet.”
Offered Sessions 1, 3, 5

A camper is writing down observations about a turtle that he is observing

Animal Scientists

Have you ever wondered why squirrels hide their food rather than eating what they find right away? In this camp, your young biologist will explore the process and power of creative scientific investigation.
Offered Sessions 2, 4

Camp Sessions

Summer camp programs are organized into two-week sessions for campers to explore content more deeply, build a better sense of community among their peers, and thoroughly enjoy all the science center has to offer. Sessions run June 5 through August 11, Monday–Friday, 9:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m., except for national holidays. Please note there is no camp on Juneteenth (Monday, June 19) and Independence Day (Tuesday, July 4).

Session 1: June 5–16, 2023

Entering
Grades
TitleLength
1Toy Builders2 weeks
2Journey to Jupiter2 weeks
3 & 4Creative Contraptions2 weeks
5 & 6Surviving on Mars2 weeks

Session 2: June 20–30, 2023 (Holiday Exclusion June 19)

Entering
Grades
TitleLength
1Moon Explorers2 weeks
2Arcade Makers2 weeks
3 & 4Asteroid Adventures2 weeks
5 & 6Animal Scientists2 weeks

Session 3: July 3–14, 2023 (Holiday Exclusion July 4)

Entering
Grades
TitleLength
1Toy Builders2 weeks
2Journey to Jupiter2 weeks
3 & 4Creative Contraptions2 weeks
5 & 6Surviving on Mars2 weeks

Session 4: July 17–28, 2023

Entering
Grades
TitleLength
1Moon Explorers2 weeks
2Arcade Makers2 weeks
3 & 4Asteroid Adventures2 weeks
5 & 6Animal Scientists2 weeks

Session 5: July 31–August 11, 2023

Entering
Grades
TitleLength
1Toy Builders2 weeks
2Journey to Jupiter2 weeks
3 & 4Creative Contraptions2 weeks
5 & 6Surviving on Mars2 weeks

Important Dates

Financial aid applications and camp registration open now!

December 13, 2022

Registration is open to Members

January 6, 2023

Begin notification of financial aid awardees

January 10, 2023

Last day of Member-only registration

January 11, 2023

Registration is open to the general public

January 29, 2023

Financial aid applications close at 11:59 p.m.

April 30, 2023

Last day to cancel to receive a refund

June 5, 2023

Camps begin

August 11, 2023

Camps end

Frequently Asked Questions

General FAQ

Why choose The Lawrence for Summer Camps?

At The Lawrence, we are committed to quality programming. We know you have many choices, and we appreciate and value that you consider The Lawrence as a prime learning place for your child. Here are a few ways that our camps are a cut above the rest:

  • We offer high levels of individual attention and staff support for learners by keeping the staff-camper ratio low and limiting the spots in each grade band to no more than 22.
  • We engage learners by making all of our content hands-on and project-based and start with an inquiry-based approach. 
  • We inspire interest in STEM fields by offering access to various science disciplines and science center exhibits, such as the brand new Planetarium, Outdoor Nature Lab, live animal explorations, a 3D theater, and much more.

Can I register my child for just one week of in-person camp?

For participants entering grades 1–6, unfortunately, that’s not possible. We have determined that the two-week cycle provides an optimal opportunity for community-building among participants, as well as for effective science learning and inspiration.

Can I register my child up for a different grade band?

For multiple reasons, we do not recommend that participants register for programs designed for grade levels other than their own.

My child’s needs are unique. How do I communicate that with the staff in advance?

We use CampDoc, an electronic health record system, to securely collect information about participants. CampDoc is designed to protect your child’s privacy while alerting us to details such as allergies, medical needs, and other matters that might affect your child’s participation in activities. The information you provide will help us to support your children safely. If you would like to discuss your child’s needs before camp, we would be happy to set up a conversation to discuss how we can best support them during their time at camp.

Can my child and their friend be in the same group for the session?

Most grade bands have only one group per session. This means that if your child and their friend are in the same grade band (to see the groupings of grades, please see the camps registration page), they will automatically stay in the same group for the duration of the two-week session. 

We may open another section for the grade band based on registration demands. If you would like to make sure your camper is in with their friends, email the Registration Team at lhsreg@berkeley.edu.

What is a day of camp like for my child?

Every day starts with a welcome and warm-up. Once campers have arrived, they head into designated program spaces for opening circles, our way of checking in and framing the day. Then campers dive into activities like scientific explorations, investigations, and/or engineering and creating. Activities vary based on programming for the specific day. Days may include exploring the Outdoor Nature Lab, investigating Forces that Shape the Bay, or visiting other exhibits at The Lawrence. 

Lunch and snack breaks are outdoors in the Outdoor Nature Lab. The lunch period begins with a designated time for eating, followed by cleanup and free time. Campers can choose between playing and using sports equipment on the grass, borrowing materials to explore the walking trails and plants, and playing board games at the picnic tables. Upon returning from lunch, campers all enjoy some downtime for socialization, board games, and other crafts and puzzles in the program space before jumping back into content.

Afternoon programming will continue scientific activities and include time in other exhibits like the 3D Theater, Outdoor Nature Lab, Animal Discovery Zone, Planetarium, or Forces that Shape the Bay. Every day concludes with a closing circle addressing content and social-emotional reflections, checking out, and building excitement for the next day.

Will The Lawrence be open to the public during camp time?

The Lawrence Hall of Science is open to the general public, and hours are subject to change. Please be advised that parents and guardians are not permitted to be inside the building while the science center is closed. 

Are the counselors trained in First Aid?

Yes, our adult Summer Camp staff are First Aid (EpiPen included) trained and CPR certified.

When and where do I drop off and pick up my child?

Camp runs from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., Monday through Friday.

Drop off is between 8:55 and 9:10 AM on the plaza. An adult must be present to check in your camper. Please follow the signs to check in with the appropriate group.

Pick Up is between 3:50 and 4:00 PM in the classrooms. Please follow the signs and directions given by staff to find the correct classroom, and form a line where instructed to do so. A parent and/or legal guardian must be present and must show valid ID to sign out. 

Please note: Only adults on your camper’s authorized pickup list will be permitted to sign your camper out. To add adults to this list, please email the registration department at lhsreg@berkeley.edu.

 After signing out your child, you may stay in the museum and explore our exhibits!

Can I drop off my child late/ pick my child up early? (For medical appointments, etc.)

Yes, you can pick up your child before 4:00 p.m. or drop them off after 9:00 a.m. if needed. To properly notify staff, please email lhsreg@berkeley.edu with as much information as you can provide (such as your child’s full name, what grade they are in, who will be picking up your child, and what day/time they will be picked up). You may also call The Lawrence at (510) 642-5134 and leave a message (staff check phone messages beginning at 10:00 a.m.). In addition, you may confirm an early pickup the day of with the staff member who checks in your child in the morning.

Because we have no aftercare available, we ask that you are at The Lawrence and ready to sign out your camper at 4:00 p.m. Consistent late pick-ups may result in your camper being excused from the program.

Can someone else pick my child up from camp?

Yes. If the adult picking up your child is not someone previously listed as an approved pickup person, please email lhsreg@berkeley.edu with the name and phone number of the person who will pick up your child. If you know what day(s) this adult will pick up your camper, please include this in the email. 

Can I sign my child up for Extended Day?

Unfortunately no, we are not offering Extended Day. There is no drop-off before 8:55 a.m. and no pickup after 4:00 p.m.

Are there any kindergarten camps?

No, this year, we are focusing on the entering grade 1–6 bands. We will not be able to accommodate children below these grade bands in camp.

Is there an orientation for camp?

Before starting camp, you will receive an email including a pre-recorded orientation video. This video will cover important information regarding the requirements and details of attending camp. If you have any questions that are not answered in the video or here on the FAQ page, please send an email to: lhsreg@berkeley.edu

Is food provided?

No, we do not provide any food. You must provide two snacks and a lunch for your child every day. For the safety of others, we ask that you not include any foods containing nuts or peanuts.

Are there teen programs this year?

Yes. The Teen Internship Program is a great paid summer opportunity for high schoolers who have a passion for science and enjoy working with youth. Also, the Teen Research Programs offer a captivating opportunity to do science with real UC Berkeley experts and get a fascinating glimpse into a career as a scientist.

Does my child need to be vaccinated to join camp?

Beginning in 2016, the State of California has required that up-to-date immunization and tetanus records be submitted to The Lawrence Hall of Science at UC Berkeley for each registered camper attending in-person camps. Proof of immunization is not required for online camps.

For in-person camps, the proof of up-to-date immunization and tetanus documentation, as well as  a completed health form in English, are required and must be submitted for each registered child, at least 3 weeks before the child’s first day of camp. Failure to provide proof of immunization will result in cancellation of camp enrollment, and no refund will be given.

To make this process quick and easy, we’ve enlisted the help of CampDoc.com— the leading electronic health and record system for camps. After you register for camp, you will receive an email from CampDoc.com with instructions on how to complete your child’s medical information. For the immunization record, a physician’s or a school’s immunization record is acceptable. Please add register@campdoc.com as a “safe sender,” to avoid accidental delivery to junk and spam folders.

The Lawrence Summer Camps will not be requiring proof of Covid Vaccinations to attend camp this year.

Registration Q&A

Can I cancel or transfer a program I am already registered for?

  • All programs are refundable before April 30th, 2023, at midnight. If you cancel before that time in writing, you will receive a full refund. After that, there will be no refund for canceling a program.
  • You may transfer to another session (providing that space is available) if we receive your request in writing four weeks before your camp start date. Camps are not transferable to another child. 

I am a Member of The Lawrence, so why am I not seeing the Members price?

Due to rising costs, we, unfortunately, had to eliminate discounts to Members. Instead, Members now receive priority registration for the camps and dates they want ahead of general public registration. If you have questions regarding membership, please email us at thelawrencemembers@berkeley.edu. To purchase or renew a membership, please go to our Membership page. Thank you for your support.

Do I get a discount for multiple children or multiple sessions?

No, we do not offer discounts for multiple children or multiple sessions.

Why does the 9-day camp during holiday weeks have the same price as the 10-day session?

We plan to provide the same activities and use identical materials in the 10-day and 9-day camps. So there is no significant difference in costs.

What if I have other questions about registering for programs that are unaddressed here?

If you still have any other questions related to registration, please email: lhsreg@berkeley.edu.

What if the camp I signed up for is under-enrolled?

If a program does not reach its minimum enrollment, you will be notified at least five days before the starting date, and your tuition will be fully refunded.

Are The Lawrence camps considered child care and reimbursable through my FSA account?

The University has identified all our programs’ costs as educational not child care. 

The educational programs fall into the category “Educational, learning or study skills services” and are not considered reimbursable expenses. Any decision to submit the camp costs for child-dependent care should be made in consultation with your accountant or employer.

COVID Q&A

What information should I know regarding COVID-19 policies?

UC Berkeley and The Lawrence Hall of Science are subject to the restrictions and/or guidance of public health authorities and the University’s policies and practices regarding COVID-19. Our first priority will be the health of the communities we serve. Although the camps are planned at this time, COVID health guidelines could affect our summer programs, up to and including cancellation.

Our team continues to track COVID-19 developments and adjust our program accordingly. We will post updates regarding COVID-19 restrictions as conditions change.

The Lawrence Summer Camps will not be requiring proof of Covid Vaccinations to attend camp this year.

The Lawrence will not be issuing refunds for COVID-related absences.

Camps at The Lawrence

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“The staff at LHS camp are amazing…They listened for feedback and shared little stories about the kids’ days. Couldn’t be happier with such a magnificent team.”

Sunstones at The Lawrence

Parent of Camper

“High-level and FUN STEM programming. Relatable staff and educators.”

Children playing on the DNA sculpture at the Lawrence

Parent of Camper

“My son loved it. He was sad when it ended. Every day he came home happy and excited to talk about the day’s activities.”

Two children and a staff member are working together during a science activity.

Parent of Camper

“I knew she had an excellent day every day when she came home bubbling with facts that she learned that day and stories about what happened at LHS. Thanks for creating such an amazing environment for learning. I wished all students would be able to experience some of what she did during her time at LHS.”

The Lawrence Hall of Science

Parent of Camper

“Kind and welcoming instructors who truly love what they are doing. A quality educational program. Convenient timings. What’s not to love?”

Children playing on Pheena the Whale

Parent of Camper

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Camp Info

As part of their benefits, members can register before the general public does. Registration for members begins December 13! 

Read More

At The Lawrence, we are committed to quality programming. We know you have many choices, and we appreciate and value that you consider The Lawrence as a prime learning place for your child. Here are a few ways that our camps are a cut above the rest:

  • We offer high levels of individual attention and staff support for learners by keeping the staff-camper ratio low and limiting the spots in each grade band to no more than 22.
  • We engage learners by making all of our content hands-on and project-based and start with an inquiry-based approach. 
  • We inspire interest in STEM fields by offering access to various science disciplines and science center exhibits, such as the brand new Planetarium, Outdoor Nature Lab, live animal explorations, a 3D theater, and much more.

Summer camp programs are organized into two-week sessions for campers to explore content more deeply, build a better sense of community among their peers, and thoroughly enjoy all the science center has to offer. Sessions run June 5 through August 11, Monday–Friday, 9:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m., except for national holidays. Please note there is no camp on Juneteenth (Monday, June 19) and Independence Day (Tuesday, July 4).

Please note: UC Berkeley and The Lawrence Hall of Science are subject to the restrictions and/or guidance of public health authorities and the University’s policies and practices regarding COVID-19. Our first priority will be the health of the communities we serve. Although the camps are planned at this time, COVID health guidelines could affect our summer programs, up to and including cancellation.