History Camp
Children Ages 6-12
This year’s camp theme is Pioneers of Illinois, and we’ll be learning about the people that shaped Illinois into the state we live in today. Explore how our lives today are different from the lives of people in the past, in this fun and educational half-day camp.
Camp will be held on Wednesday mornings from 9am-12pm. Camp meets at Rock Springs Nature Center in the Rodney Washburn Classroom. Some time may be spent outdoors. A fee of $20/camper each Wednesday covers all supplies, activities, and a mid-morning snack. Pick and choose which weeks to come, or attend all seven from June 10 through July 22.
Space is limited to 12 campers each Wednesday and camp activities are subject to change.
2026 History Weekly Camps
Who They Were – June 10
Discover Illinois’ earliest European settlers, where they came from, and why they chose to live here. We’ll go on a scavenger hunt and explore like French settlers by taking a hike in the prairie.
Who They Met – June 17
Illinois was not empty before the pioneers came! Learn about the Native American people they met and how they lived with the land. Campers will make their own pottery and a bracelet as we learn about Native American craftsmanship.
How They Got Here – June 24
Learn how early settlers came to Illinois and how transportation has evolved since then. We will explore wagons and early roads, river transportation, trains, cars, and planes. Campers will make a boat and see whose will float the longest.
Where They Lived – July 1
Explore different homes across Illinois history including Native American dwellings, French forts, log cabins, and skyscrapers. We’ll build a replica wigwam, construct a cabin with Lincoln logs, and see who can design the highest skyscraper.
How They Worked – July 8
Try 1800s farm chores and discover the kinds of work farmers did to survive. We’ll visit Homestead Prairie Farm, located at Rock Springs Conservation Area, to work in the garden, carry water, and churn butter.
How They Played – July 15
This camp is a day of play! Experience the toys, games, and sports children in the past played, and compare them to what you play today.
How They Learned – July 22
Experience what going to school would have been like in the early 1900s. We’ll take a field trip to Bethel School, a one-room school house at Friends Creek Conservation Area in Cisco, IL, then finish the summer strong with an ice cream social.
Need more information? Call (217) 423-7708 or visit the Camps page.
