Summer Science School

The Reserve partners with the NC Maritime Museum, located in Beaufort, to offer Summer Science School for children. The goal of the program is to offer students the opportunity to learn about the natural and maritime history of coastal North Carolina through creative, hands-on experiences.

For more detailed information about all the programs offered, or to register, download the Summer Science School brochure.

Preschool Story Time & Crafts (entering preschool) 

Includes a story, estuarine critter observation and a related craft. Free admission, but advance registration required.

Seashore Life 1 (entering grades 1 & 2) 

Investigate coastal marine life of the tidal flats, salt marshes and sounds on local islands on this 2-day class. Field-based classes include ferry ride, barrier island hiking and animal identification. Advance registration required.

Seashore Life 2 (entering grades 5 & 6)

Investigate estuarine habitats, plants and animals through field and lab studies. This 3-day course includes a field trip to the Rachel Carson National Estuarine Research Reserve, water quality testing, using microscopes for plankton identification and many more activities. Advance registration required.

Maritime Adventures (entering grades 7-10)

Staff of the N.C. Maritime Museum and the Rachel Carson Reserve pair up for this unique camp that uses history and science to teach about the maritime environment and culture of the Crystal Coast. Topics covered include sea monsters, plankton, cetaceans, pirates and more! Students will participate in field trips to local sites such as Beaufort’s Old Burying Ground and the Rachel Carson Reserve. Activities include creature dissections and chocolate chip excavations. Advance registration required.