Hancock Field Station, operated by the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry (OMSI), is an overnight science camp within the John Day Fossil Beds in Fossil, Oregon. Since 1951 it has taught geology and paleontology, with campers in grades 2-12 hiking to fossil sites in the high desert, plus games, cabin time, and arts and crafts.
The practical details
We list only what the camp itself publishes, and programs change — dates, prices, ages and availability can all move after we check. Confirm the details on the camp’s own website and contact Hancock Field Station directly before you register or pay. Last checked August 2026.
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Accreditations & licensing
As stated by the camp or listed in the accrediting organization's directory — confirm current status with the accreditor.
Google Reviews
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★★★★★Jeff NiblerI went here 30 years ago as part of an elementary school field trip and the memory has vividly stuck with me ever since. So much to see and learn. A great setting and climate for a multi-day education camp. Professional and dedicated staff. It is an amazing experience for children who have never experienced the high desert.
★★★★★Jason DuncanIn 92/93 it was my 6th grade yr. We came here for outdoor school. This place gave me some of the best memories in my life. Was also where I met my best friend. From that point on, we were nearly inseparable. He passed away 10yrs ago,this July. Was there with him when the corners came to take him home. As morbid as this may sound to some.. But if it had not been for the experience of going to Outdoor school. Would have never met best friend Jess. The hands on teaching,the education hikes like to Iron Mountain and even to the Quartz beds. Also not a far walk to the fossil beds. I will never forget that moment and I know for other kids who get to experience. It will be the same for them. A experience and moment that they will never forget.
★★★★★Porscha SmithIt was awesome! My school went there and everyone had a huge blast. The instructors were so kind, fun, considerate, and they made learning interesting. The food there was really good, the cabins were clean, and the bathrooms were so nice. The cabins had large bunk beds and had a heater. I would definitely go there again.
★★★★★Brayden FergusonWent there for OMSI galaxy adventures for 5 days. Councilors and other staff where professional but fun. Plus it's beautiful. I recommend this place and galaxy adventures camp.
★★★★★Tammy FryOMSI offers outdoor school, summer camps and family weekends at this camp in the middle of the Clarno Unit of the John Day Fossil Beds. Our family has attended the Memorial Day Weekend Camp twice and have been thrilled each time. Offering hikes of different lengths, difficulties and themes along with interest groups in reptiles and amphibians, rock climbing, skulls skins and bones, lapidary, birds of prey, early Oregon skills, astronomy, geology, fossils, plant and animal adaptations, pictographs and survival there is much to learn, explore and enjoy. Specific offerings changed some in the nine years between our visits, but the high quality of the program is consistent.