The Port Townsend Marine Science Center runs week-long marine science day camps for ages 6-14 at Fort Worden State Park, where campers explore beaches, run labs, make crafts, play games, and hike the park. Camps are tiered: Junior Explorers (ages 6-7) is a half-day camp with 9am-noon or 1-4pm sessions; Coastal Explorers (8-9) runs 9am-2pm and examines beach, bluff, forest, pond, and meadow with a short boating expedition through the Northwest Maritime Center; Marine Biology (10-12) runs 9am-3pm with plankton microscopy, sediment sieving, and whale-skeleton work; and Marine Biology Afoot & Afloat (11-14) adds sailing days aboard Northwest Maritime and Sail Port Townsend vessels alongside intertidal surveys. Groups are small (12-16 campers with 2-3 staff), scholarships are available through the Seth Bender Camp Scholarship Fund, members get $10 off, and many past campers return as teen camp counselors.
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 Port Townsend Marine Science Center directly before you register or pay. Last checked August 2026.
Camps nearby
Google Reviews
Powered by Google
★★★★★Miranda PhilippiFascinating to learn more about the local sea life! Kids had a great time and the staff was very knowledgeable and friendly. $7 adults, $5 kids, and 5yr and younger are free.
★★★★Premangshu SahaLovely small attraction for your kids The octopus is a great thing and don't miss out going on the other side of the road and learn with real whale bones.
★★★★★Christina RexerWhat a beautiful beach. Found a few pieces of sea glass. Tide was high if you want to find the sea glass best to go when tide is low. It's a nice public area. Had port restrooms and picnic benches
★★★B1ACK RAV3NYou do have to pay to go in. It's not a big place like an aquarium, but a small learning center more for children to learn about sea creatures and tide pools and that sort of stuff. It's a nice little place to show your kids and teach them.
★★★★★Chris P KeilA live octopus that they fed, right on the water, and very respectful staff. One kid even knew facts about the fish and octopus there. Great family experience, especially on mothers day! (You get in free mom!)