Where outdoor learning is naturally fun
Starting this summer, the Outdoor Discovery program will no longer be offering week-long residential camps. Instead, our dedicated staff will be redirecting their skills and expertise toward a new enhanced Outdoor Discovery program, focusing on reaching underserved youth and connecting children to nature in fun, new ways that engage the entire family.

First, Outdoor Discovery will turn their sights on the newly created Civic Justice Corps (CJC) by providing young corps members with an enrichment program aimed at instilling "respect for self and planet" in CJC youth. Through Outdoor Discovery, youth will learn principles of environmental stewardship, as well as teamwork and leadership skills. They will also learn how to recreate in the outdoors, which is an important step toward helping each youth form meaningful bonds with the natural world.

Outdoor Discovery will also continue its camping tradition, but with a new, exciting twist. In the near future, Outdoor Discovery will begin offering Outdoor Discovery Adventures. These guided weekend camping excursions will offer families a chance to enjoy the resource together, and learn the skills they need to continue a lifetime of fun in the outdoors. These weekend adventures will be perfect companion experiences for our very popular Park Quest program.

Outdoor Discovery has been connecting kids and nature for over two decades through its week-long residential summer camp experience. The Maryland Park Service is grateful to all the campers and camp staff who have made this program so meaningful throughout the years. We hope you will join in supporting our new direction, which enhances our long-time commitment to youth in the outdoors by ensuring that we remain relevant and responsive to the needs of today’s youth, families and communities.

Please visit our site soon to see what new and exciting developments are in the works for Outdoor Discovery. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to call us. Thank you for you patience and support.