Summer camp registration opens March 1 at the North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher (NCAFF) for a season filled with adventures indoors and outdoors for children ages 5 to 14. Campers will have encounters with animal ambassadors, explore the marsh, make new friends and for older campers, kayak in the Cape Fear River Basin. Camp season runs mid-June through mid-August, Monday-Friday from 8:30 a.m.-3 p.m. Because of the unique and immersive nature of the Aquarium summer camps, some fill up immediately.
Trained camp staff work to make every day a one-of-a-kind adventure for campers in age groups from 5-6, 7-8, 9-11 and 12-14.
“Camp season is an exciting time at the Aquarium for our creative and expert staff who look forward to sharing their passion for conservation and marine life with young campers,” said Sammy Calderon, lead special activities instructor, NCAFF. “It is very rewarding to experience their joy and hear about their favorite adventures at camp.”
NCAFF Summer Camp Categories
Aquanauts: Ages 5-6 become immersed in weekly topics through animal interaction, play, storytelling, crafts, and hands on outdoor activities.
Marine Detectives: Ages 7-8 use their investigative skills in animal programs, outdoor excursions, and interactive games to better understand new concepts.
Ocean Explorers: Ages 9-11 participate with staff in experiences outdoors, and behind the scenes at the Aquarium, to discover each weekly topic.
Coastal Crusaders: Ages 12-14 venture farther to explore various coastal habitats and discover how the Aquarium and local organizations work to protect these environments. These campers also interact more directly with staff to gain hands-on learning in conservation work.
The mission of the North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher is to inspire appreciation and conservation of our aquatic environments. To achieve this mission, the Aquarium team is committed to giving a diverse community access to the enriching conservation experience unique to the Aquariums.
To register for summer camp, visit 2025 NCAFF Summer Camps.
Video: See 2023 Summer Camp video on ncaquariumffInstagram
About the North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher
The North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher is just south of Kure Beach, a short drive from Wilmington, on U.S. 421. The site is less than a mile from the Fort Fisher ferry terminal. Hours: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. Admission: $12.95 ages 13-61; $10.95 children ages 3-12; $11.95 seniors (62 and older) and military with valid identification; EBT card holders: $3. Free admission for children 2 and younger and N.C. Aquarium Society members and N.C. Zoo members.