Kids Outdoor Art Camp in Ann Arbor
Imprint Forest & Art Summer Camp 2026
Join art educator Anne Erlewine and outdoor educator Tara Habeck as they team up for the summer of 2026, offering camp sessions designed for children to explore both nature and creativity in a supportive, outdoor setting.
Dates: June 16-18, 23-25
July 21-23, 28-30
Aug 4-6, 11-13, 18-20
Time: Tue – Thur, 8am – noon
Ages: 5-10, 11-14
Cost: $235
Location: daily field trips to County Farm Park
Each day begins with a gathering circle and a forest hike, followed by a nature‑awareness game designed to build perception and cooperation skills. Afterward, campers enjoy a snack break and then settle into an art class. Our art classes are as follows:
Day 1: Clay
Explore the mealleable world of clay! Campers will discover how clay from the earth becomes art, making pinch pots, coil pots, and small sculptures, and experimenting with botanical imprints and textures.
Day 2: Drawing & Painting
Campers will explore drawing inspiration from the natural world and discover the basics of watercolor painting through hands-on activities.
Day 3: Carving & Stamping
Dive into the world of printmaking! Campers will create their own stamps, experiment with natural materials, and print their designs to take home.
ADDITIONAL CAMP DETAILS
Daily Schedule
- 8:00-9:00: Drop-off
- 9:00-9:30: Opening circle, hike, and guided nature observation
- 9:30-10:00: Nature connection games
- 10:00-10:30: Storytelling, snack or lunch
- 10:30-11:40: Art discussion, demonstration, and practice
- 11:40-11:50: Cleanup
- 11:50-Noon: Pickup
What to Bring
- Snack / lunch
- Water
- Sun protection
- Bug protection (tick, mosquito)
- Clothes that can get messy (or a smock)
All art supplies are included.
Pickup & Drop-off
Tuesdays: Medford Road entrance to County Farm Park
Wednesdays: Platt Road entrance to County Farm Park
Thursdays: Medford Road entrance to County Farm Park
Inclement Weather
In the event of thunderstorms, heavy rain, high winds, poor air quality, or extreme heat, camp will be held indoors in a classroom at Vineyard Church of Ann Arbor, 2275 Platt Road.
Tick Safety
- Dress your child in long pants tucked into socks.
- Use bug repellent as desired.
- Perform regular tick checks after camp.
- Wash outdoor clothing in hot water or dry on high.
Additional tick safety resources:
- How to remove a tick
- Wellness Mama what to do if you get a tick bite
- Wild Earth tick awareness at summer camp
- Ticks in Michigan
Student to Teacher Ratio
Each camp has a maximum of 12 students and is supported by 2 teachers.
Participation Requirements
Campers should be able to safely and respectfully participate in group activities in the great outdoors. Please feel free to reach out if your child has specific health needs or other considerations you’d like us to be aware of.
Age Range
We welcome campers of different ages and prepare a multi-tiered curriculum tailored to each skill level, ensuring everyone is challenged and engaged at their own level. We will group children as 5–10 and 11–14 whenever enrollment allows. With smaller enrollment, the group may be combined, spanning ages 5–14, which creates a rich, multi‑age learning environment.
Financial Support
Reach out if you would like to pay in installments. The program is establishing a scholarship fund; resources in this fund are volunteer‑driven.