Sign up for Paleocamp! A new camp hosted by the KGS

Five pairs of kids hands holding fossils. Going clockwise from top left the fossils are an ammonite, a shark tooth, a second ammonite, and then two sets of belemnites. At the center of the table are two clam fossils, a partial jaw of a mosasaur, and a bag of fish vertebrae.
Photo by Wendy Holman

What is Paleocamp?

Paleocamp is the Kansas Geological Survey's first camp for children. The camp will be held from March 11 to 15 from 1-5 p.m. at the Kansas Geological Survey headquarters and is open to 7- to 12-year-olds. Throughout the week, campers will learn about paleontology (the study of ancient life) and collect fossils from local sites in Douglas County. This camp is free but is limited to 10 campers for our 2024 spring season.

What will my child do at Paleocamp?

At Paleocamp, your camper will learn how paleontologists study ancient life, visit and look for fossils around Douglas County, visit the fossil preparation lab at the Natural History Museum of KU, and talk to experts who study fossils as their career.

What should I be aware for Paleocamp?

Your child will be outdoors for part of the week. Expect your child to bundle up and bring water for these outdoor trips. Additionally, your child will sometimes be in rooms with high amounts of dust and dirt. Food will not be provided, so please ensure your child brings a snack and water each day to the camp. Finally, you may need to sign a photo waiver form so we can use your child's imagery for future outreach advertisements.

Questions before signing up?

Contact educator Andy Connolly at andrewco@ku.edu with any questions related to Paleocamp.