CLEVELAND, OH—January 26, 2026—Get ready to dig in, explore, and let curiosity run wild! The Cleveland Museum of Natural History opened registration for its 2026 Summer Camp program to the public on Friday, January 16.
Designed for children entering grades 1–8, the Museum’s summer camps turn summer break into a season of discovery—where science feels like an adventure, creativity knows no bounds, and curiosity leads the way. Through hands-on activities, opportunities to investigate real Museum specimens, and behind-the-scenes experiences, campers explore the natural world while making memories that last longer than summer vacation. This year’s camp lineup includes a variety of new and unique opportunities, plus some familiar favorites.
2026 Summer Camp Experiences
Circle Sampler Camp
Perfect for young explorers, this camp invites rising 1st-2nd graders to roam the cultural ecosystem of University Circle and beyond. From art and history to theater, gardens, and nature preserves, each day offers a new adventure and a fresh way to see the world—no passport required. Drop-off and pick-up take place at the Cleveland Museum of Natural History.
Collecting Curiosities
What happens when curiosity meets creativity? Each day of this five-day camp, open to rising 2nd-3rd graders, will focus on a different theme related to the Museum’s collections, exhibits, and research. Gallery explorations, small informal lessons, and outdoor Museum spaces will provide context for the crafts completed each day. By week’s end, each camper heads home with a collection of their own—and plenty of stories to tell.
Naturally Skilled
In this camp, kids entering grades 3 and 4 can step into the boots of naturalists and field scientists as they learn how observations turn into discoveries. From gathering data to drawing conclusions, each day builds real-world scientific skills, plus a take-home “naturalist toolkit” to keep the adventure going long after camp ends!
Make Your Own Museum 1
Ever wondered how museums bring stories to life? Rising 5th and 6th graders go behind the scenes with the Museum’s Exhibits team, work with real artifacts, and design their very own mini-museums. The five-day experience culminates in a family celebration where campers become expert guides as they share their creations.
Make Your Own Museum 2
Designed for older campers (students entering grades 6–8) and returning exhibit-builders, this advanced session takes storytelling and design to the next level. Campers refine exhibit concepts, dive deeper into hands-on techniques, and bring bold ideas to life—proof that curiosity only grows with age!
Registration
With limited space, camps tend to fill quickly. Full details, session availability, and registration information are available on the Museum’s website.
Scholarships
Scholarships are available to any individuals attending schools in the Cleveland Metropolitan School District, the Cleveland Heights-University Heights School District, and the East Cleveland District, but applications must still be submitted. For those outside of these districts, camp scholarship eligibility is tied to financial need, as outlined in the form. See the summer camp webpage for application forms.
Contact summercamps@cmnh.org with any specific questions or concerns. The scholarship submission deadline is March 16, 2026. Awardees will be notified by April 6.
About the Cleveland Museum of Natural History
The Cleveland Museum of Natural History illuminates the world around us and inspires visitors to engage with the natural forces that shape their lives. Since its founding in 1920, the Museum has pioneered scientific research to advance knowledge across diverse fields of study and used its outstanding collections, which encompass millions of artifacts and specimens, to deepen the public’s understanding of the dynamic connections between humans and nature. Through its Natural Areas Program, the Museum stewards more than 12,500 acres of protected ecosystems across northern Ohio. A community gathering place, educational center, and research institution, the Museum is a vital resource that serves Cleveland and the nation. For more information, visit CMNH.org.
Media Contact
Samantha Guenther
Assistant Director of Marketing & Media Relations
Cleveland Museum of Natural History
Office: 216.231.4600 x3432
Mobile: 440.429.2902
sguenther@cmnh.org
