Minneapolis Public Schools

Students entering grades K-5 are invited to join Common Ground Nature Camp for an active, nature-centered summer camp at Dowling Elementary School! Rooted in community and a sense of belonging, the seven-week camp will explore our shared urban backyard through science, art, storytelling, and weekly guided adventures. Students will gain confidence in moving through our world with lessons in social consciousness, environmental stewardship, and even water safety! Interactive Activities & Outdoor Exploration Grounded In: Landscapes & Living Things Unearth our community of ecosystems, plants, and animal life Learn to be water safe in the City of Lakes with weekly swim lessons Explore nearby regions of the Mississippi National River & Recreation Area Culture & Cultivation Celebrate the history and culture of our diverse neighbors through a natural lens Engage in foraging, gardening, and greenhouse growth Join in our gathering grove for storytelling, creativity, and community Helping Hands Pitch in during outdoor recreation activities with safety skills, shelter and fire building, and navigation Protect our habitat and our future through lessons in conservation and sustainability Discover methods of service, leadership, and lifework in our natural world Lunch and afternoon snack provided. Transportation NOT available. Walking, biking, parent pick-up, and public transportation are alternative options. Camp offered using a sliding scale fee, which allows MPS to improve accessibility for families while responsibly working toward financial sustainability. Class fees are presented as four options that allow families to chose the fee that best fits their budget. Families should choose a course section according to grade level (K & 1st, 2nd & 3rd, 4th & 5th).