Summer 2024 Update:

Thank you for your interest in Camp Paw Paw! All initial spots have been filled (but we still have spots available in Session 6!). For all other sessions, you may still submit an application to be added to our waitlist, and we will notify you if a spot opens up. Please read below for more information about our new application & registration process. 

Camp Paw Paw is the place for kids who are wild about animals!

Camp Paw Paw offers a unique learning experience for children who share one thing in common: their love for animals. During camp, children will learn about a wide variety of topics including: proper pet care, shelter medicine, animal safety, homeless animals in our community, animal-related careers, HSCC’s mission, and much more!

Each topic will be led by professionals in animal—related fields. Through different activities and lessons, campers will develop the skills and confidence to become knowledgeable animal caretakers and ambassadors for animal welfare. Campers will leave with a better understanding of the unique bond that exists between humans and animals.

The Camp Paw Paw day involves morning & afternoon age-appropriate crafts connected to what they are learning about that week, guest speakers from different animal related careers, daily humane education lessons, visit time with HSCC animals in the lobby & helping with animal care. We also incorporate a lot of movement activities & outdoor games throughout the day as we have a field space right next to us.

As a working humane society, we provide care for animals with a wide variety of personalities, behavioral and medical needs. Although campers/students will see animals during their program, we cannot promise a certain amount of direct animal contact.

Camp Paw Paw offers three different age groups: 5-6, 7-9 and 10-12.

How to Apply

Please complete the initial Camp Paw Paw application below. This application does not guarantee placement in a camp session.

In an effort  to make our programs more equitable and accessible to our community’s youth, we will begin accepting initial applications for camp spots. Applicants will be randomly selected to register in a camp session based on the spots available, and anyone who is not placed in a session will be added to our waitlist.

Applications received between January 29 - February 2, 2024 will be entered into our initial camp placement process. You will be notified by email 1-2 weeks after the initial application period about either your child/children's placement in camp or on the waitlist. 

If your child or children are placed in a camp session, you will receive a link to complete your registration. Applications received after February 2nd will be considered first come, first served for remaining openings or for the waitlist.

Program Dates

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LEARN MORE ABOUT OUR OTHER HUMANE EDUCATION PROGRAMS: Animal Welfare Warriors, HUMANE HEROES WORKSHOP, and Afterschool Animal Care Workshops!