Reef Explorer Coral Camp

This advanced camp program is designed for the aspiring marine scientist 11-14 years of age. Over the course of the week, campers participate in daily upper-level marine science lessons, several snorkel trips to the Florida Barrier Reef, and practice developing STEM skills by collecting scientific data such as fish counts, water quality monitoring, and ecosystem observations. This camp is typically structured as a combination of day and overnight camp.

NEW THIS YEAR!

This year there will be two different upper level camp opportunities available: Discover Dry Tortugas (ages 11-13) and Keys Kids (ages 12-16). See below for details.

Want a sneak peek to see what a week at camp is like? Visit our YouTube Channel!

Camp Details

This year there will be two different upper level camp opportunities available: Discover Dry Tortugas (ages 11-13) and Keys Kids (ages 12-16). See below for details.

Discover Dry Tortugas:

This camp is our traditional Reef Explorer Coral Camp from past years, consisting of two day camp days based out of Key West, and three days and two nights primitive camping at the Dry Tortugas National Park.

Ages: 11-13. There will only be exceptions for age for 14 year old’s who were unable to attend this program last summer.

Dates:

Week 1: June 15-19, 2026 (Camping Tuesday-Thursday in DRTO).
Week 2: July 6-10, 2026 (Camping Tuesday-Thursday in DRTO).

Keys Kids:

This camp will be less structured, allowing campers to explore and plan as they go. This camp will spend one day in Key West, a day trip to the Dry Tortugas National Park, and three days and two nights primitive camping at an Upper Keys State Park. While camping, children will attend local field trips and excursions.

Ages: 12-16. There will be no exceptions for age.

Dates: July 20-24, 2026 (Camping Wednesday-Friday in Upper Keys State Park).

Application Information for Both Programs

Program Fees: $450 for Reef Relief Members and $500 for non-members. This includes a $100 NON-REFUNDABLE deposit.

See the “Become a Member” tab of the website to learn more about membership.

How to apply: Download the session’s application, and submit a completed copy to [email protected]

2026 Application

Deadline: March 26, 2026.

First round decisions: March 31, 2026.

**Admission into camp is based on the application questions they answer so please have campers take their time while filling out the packet. Please do not fill out the application questions for your camper. We cannot make decisions without reference checks for your child. Due to this, the earlier you submit your application the better, as it will give teachers more time to submit their reference.**

Please note:

Submission of an application does not guarantee a spot in camp.
Return campers do not have a guaranteed spot.
Campers may only participate in one week of Reef Explorers Coral Camp per summer.
Scholarships may be made available for both weeks.
Campers may be selected based on the following: previous snorkeling ability, previous Coral Camp experience, experience in other Reef Relief programs outside of camp, positive experiences with Reef Relief programs, reference checks, desire to pursue marine science, time the application was received (earlier the better), and flexibility in week attending.

Frequently Asked Questions:

When is camp?

Dates are not selected until the January/February of that year. Applications will then be posted once dates are secured. Please see above for 2026 camp dates.

We sent in the application, how do I pay my deposit?

Campers are not guaranteed a spot based on application submission, families may pay the $100.00 NON REFUNDABLE deposit or full registration once accepted and upon receiving the registration packet.

Why does Reef Relief decide camper participation?

Reef Explorer Coral Camp is a massive endeavor that contains 3 days in a remote area, away from any hospital or contact from Key West. This camp is an opportunity for those aspiring young scientists to learn and grow. Reef Relief uses the application to determine which applicants will be of best fit for the program. We hold our Reef Explorers to a high standard and give them larger responsibilities and tasks to ensure successful and smooth operation of this program.

How does Reef Relief decide camper participation?

Reef Relief considers a few things to determine campers. The first consideration is the application answers, staff looks for a few things that will indicate a successful experience. Second, staff considers their behavior from any previous camp experience/Reef Relief sanctioned activities. Third, staff uses the teacher references. Finally, staff considers when the application was received. If the applications are received too late staff may not be able to reach out to references and discuss before decisions are released.

I am not local and would like to book our hotel before decisions are out, can you make and exception?

Reef Relief will not make exceptions or give any family special treatment in regards to applications, registrations, or decisions. We aim to be fair in all of our decisions. We suggested registering for Regular Coral Camp (if they are within the correct age) for the week that you are interested in for Reef Explorer Coral Camp and pay the non-refundable deposit. Should they be accepted to Reef Explorer Camp, the non-refundable deposit will be transferred from Regular Coral Camp to their Reef Explorer Coral Camp non-refundable deposit.

What if my child does not get accepted for Reef Explorers Coral Camp?

If your child does not get accepted for Reef Explorer Coral Camp this year please do not feel discouraged. We receive many amazing applications and cannot accept them all. There are many factors that can contribute to them not getting accepted. We encourage you to apply again next summer.

What is your cancellation policy?

Due to the logistics involved with this upper level camp program, notification of cancellation must be sent to [email protected] no later than 10am Monday the week before your child’s camp session for you to receive a refund. Please note the $100 deposit to reserve your child’s spot is non-refundable.