Nature Camp Scholarships

Each year, the Augusta Bird Club awards full and partial scholarships to Nature Camp, a non-profit, residential co-ed summer camp specializing in natural history and environmental science education located in Vesuvius, Virginia. It is intended for those seeking a science/nature experience. Campers will attend class daily, maintain a notebook, complete written projects, and participate in outdoor activities.

Since 2005, the Augusta Bird Club has provided over $50,000 in total support to Nature Camp scholarships!  These efforts have enabled nearly 100 youth campers to experience Nature Camp! Nature Camp had a significant influence on the professional direction that many of these youth have followed.

Scholarship Eligibility:
Preference is given to residents of Augusta County, Staunton, or Waynesboro, but other applicants may be considered at the sole discretion of the Augusta Bird Club.

Applicants must be eligible to attend a summer session of Nature Camp (currently in grades 5 through 12).

Incomplete or partial applications will not be considered. Candidates may be asked to participate in an interview.

Application Process:

Applications for the Nature Camp 2025 season will be available after September 1, 2024. To apply for a 2025 scholarship, submit a completed application by December 15, 2024 that includes:

  • The completed Scholarship Application form.
  • A recommendation from an unrelated group leader or teacher.
  • A short, personal essay of no more than 75 words addressing:
    – why you want to attend Nature Camp?
    – how the experience will benefit you?
    – examples of your activities at home, school, or community that reflect your interest in nature.

All applications received by December 15 will be reviewed by the Education Committee.  Final scholarship recipients and amounts will be determined by the ABC Board of Directors, whose decision is not subject to review or appeal. Applicants will be notified of any awards by January 15, 2025.

Please note: campers will be responsible for any deposit required at the time of camp registration. Payment for the award amount will be sent directly to Nature Camp prior to fee deadlines.

Nature Camp Scholarship Application for the 2025 camp session (PDF file)

For more information, contact our Nature Camp Scholarship Chairperson, Sarah Foster, at [email protected].