The Northeast Indiana Soil and Water Conservation Districts are inviting young outdoor enthusiasts from DeKalb, Lagrange, and Steuben counties, ages 8-13 to participate in the annual Kids Conservation Camp on Tuesday, July 28, 2026, from 9:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. on the scenic Pigeon River.
This one-day canoe adventure gives campers the opportunity to experience nature firsthand while learning about Indiana's rivers and wildlife. Throughout the day, participants will paddle the Pigeon River, explore aquatic habitats, and search for macroinvertebrates, the tiny aquatic organisms' scientists use to evaluate stream health.
The day begins at The Trading Post Outfitters in Mongo with a water safety orientation before campers launch onto the river. The group will paddle to Nasby Dam for lunch and hands-on educational activities before continuing to Curtis Creek. At the conclusion of the canoe trip, campers will visit the Indiana Department of Natural Resources' Curtis Creek Trout Rearing Station for an educational tour to learn about its operation and the important work it does. The group will be shuttled back to the Trading Post for pickup between 3:00 to 3:30 p.m.
Camp registration is $15 per child, and lunch is included. Space is limited to 45 campers, so early registration is encouraged. In the event of severe weather, the camp will be held on Wednesday, July 29.
Campers should arrive with sunscreen and bug spray already applied and wear closed toe shoes or water shoes suitable for paddling and outdoor activities. Registration forms must be submitted by Wednesday, July 22, 2026.
To register or obtain additional information, visit the DeKalb County SWCD website:
https://www.dekalbcountyswcd.com/events/northeast-indiana-conservation-camp
The Kids Conservation Camp is a collaborative effort of the Northeast Indiana Soil and Water Conservation Districts and is designed to inspire the next generation of conservationists through hands-on outdoor education and exploration.