The Puget Sound Estuarium runs Estuary Explorers, a week-long day camp in downtown Olympia for students in 2nd through 8th grade, grouped as Sea Stars (2nd-3rd), Salmon (4th-5th), and Orcas (6th-8th). Campers investigate the plants and animals of Puget Sound with the nonprofit's staff and volunteers through beach exploration, dissections, peering under piers, outdoor crafts, and visits to local preserves and parks, with an explicit focus on becoming stewards of the environment. Sessions run 9:00am-2:30pm Monday to Friday and cost $250 for members or $275 otherwise, with limited low-income registration options available on request.
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 Puget Sound Estuarium directly before you register or pay. Last checked August 2026.
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★★★★★Valerie ScrantonI had such a great time visiting the Puget Sound Estuarium with my whole family — even my 9-month-old son came along! We all got in for free with our EBT card, which made it such a wonderful and accessible outing for families. The highlight of our visit was definitely Maddie — she was super knowledgeable and so passionate about the animals. You could ask her about literally any creature, and she’d have awesome facts and stories to share. Her excitement made the experience even more fun and memorable for all of us. The estuarium itself is full of fascinating displays and local sea life, but it’s Maddie’s energy and knowledge that really make it shine. It’s a perfect spot for families, kids, or anyone curious about the amazing creatures of the Puget Sound. Highly recommend visiting — and be sure to talk to Maddie if you get the chance! 🌊🐙
★Amber Perras$13 for a family of 3 to see your grandmas living room. A couple of knick-nacks and a few daycare toys. They had 4 tanks coated in algae with open bottoms that kids can get into NOT SAFE .... not worth the trip
★★★★★Danny RayI didn't get to see the special exhibit in the back as it was being worked on just the tanks in the front but it was a free day anyway which is awesome that they even have that. Tanks had starfish some really awesome shrimp and a variety of other things worth checking out. Staff were informative and friendly and the drawers of shells and information were really cool. If you go on a free day they do have also have a donation jar. : )
★★★★★Bryan CastroThe location is great! My son really enjoyed the stay. The location is small and my son enjoyed the show in the back room.
★★★★★Carina JahnThis is a fun place to walk around and very educational. This would be a great place to bring kids.