Come Join Us for a Unique and Unforgettable Sleepover at the Science Museum!

Camp Ins are memorable events at the Science Museum. But before the fun starts, you may have some questions. Does my camper need a chaperone? What do chaperones do? How do we prepare for Camp In? Dinosaur or space pajamas? The below FAQs answer all those questions ... except the last one. That one's on you to figure out!


Registration

How much does the Curiosity Camp In cost?

Curiosity Camp In costs $55 per person for members and $65 per person for non-members, including chaperones. When purchasing tickets online, you will pay by credit card. If you would like to pay by cash, you can do so at Guest Services. Camp Ins often sell out, so we recommend purchasing your tickets early.

Can I reserve a space and pay later?

The only way to reserve a space in the event is to pay in full for each camper/chaperone.

How old do campers have to be?

Camp In activities are designed for campers age 8–12, but anyone older than 7 may attend.

Is there a minimum/maximum group size?

There are no minimum or maximum group sizes. Your group must follow the chaperone guidelines (one chaperone for every four campers) based on the number of campers in your group.

Can I register my camper as an individual?

Yes, but your camper will need to have a chaperone. If your camper is joining another group, you will need to include that information at registration.

Can I make my own reservation but be with my friends?

We cannot guarantee different groups will be in the same activities together unless the reservations are made as one group. Please indicate in the appropriate section of the registration if you have a particular group request and we will try to accommodate as much as we are able to.


Group Leaders/Chaperones

How many chaperones are required?

You may bring as many as you want; however, there must be one chaperone for every four campers.

What is a chaperone’s job?

Chaperones must stay with and supervise campers during the Camp In. They should keep track of the camper’s or group’s property and make sure campers are respectful to other groups when it is quiet time/lights out.

Is this a co-ed event?

Yes, all chaperones and campers are welcome. All Camp In participants will sleep in the same room.

Can my teenage child serve as a chaperone?

They may serve as a chaperone if they are 18 or older.

Can more campers/chaperones be added after registration and confirmation?

As long as all additions are made one week before the first day of the Camp In and we aren’t at capacity, more campers/chaperones can be added. To reduce confusion, we accept additions only from the Group Leader.

What if I can’t stay the night with my camper?

All campers must have a chaperone who stays with them the entire event. If you are a chaperone and you cannot stay the night, you are welcome to leave the event early but all campers you are chaperoning must also leave with you.

What if the chaperone for my camper’s group isn’t there when I get to the Science Museum?

The group leader will need to check in the group. No campers may be dropped off until their chaperone is on site with the camper.


Other Information

Where will we be sleeping during the event?

During the event, all campers and chaperones will be sleeping on the floor in the Dewey Gottwald Center of the Science Museum. It provides plenty of space for participants to spread out, has carpeted floors and has plenty of restroom access.

Campers and participants are required to bring their own bedding and sleeping supplies. Campers may bring an air mattress or portable cot for maximum comfort.

What is the best way to prepare for Camp In?

After you register, you will receive a confirmation packet that includes a document to help you get ready for Camp In. Read through the document carefully and feel free to reach out with any questions. Most importantly, be sure to complete the required forms and bring them with you the night of the event.

Do you provide meals?

Dinner is not provided. An evening snack as well as continental breakfast are included. Breakfast will be provided from 6:45–7:30 a.m. and will include assorted muffins, yogurt, fruit, juices and coffee. Chaperones must make their own arrangements for campers with special dietary needs.

What do campers need to bring?

  • A bedroll or sleeping bag and pillow.
  • Toiletries as needed.
  • Sleep mask and earplugs (optional).
  • Flashlight (adults only, please).

What should campers wear?

Wear comfortable, layered clothing. Please keep in mind there are no facilities for bathing. Campers and chaperones will all be using shared restroom facilities to change clothes, brush teeth, etc.

What if a camper needs to come late/leave early?

We encourage campers to stay for the entire event to get the most out of the Camp In. If a camper needs to arrive late, please note that the doors to the Science Museum lock after normal operating hours and a chaperone from the group should be waiting at the door for the camper and their guardian. If a camper needs to leave early, a chaperone from the group should wait with the camper by the door until their adult arrives.

Can campers earn Scout badges?

Camp In programs are not designed to fulfill badge requirements; however, some activities may qualify. It’s best to speak with your Scout leader after the event.

Can we stay after to explore the Science Museum more?

Camp In ends at 9 a.m. and all participants must vacate the Science Museum at this time to allow us to prepare for regular operating hours. If a camper or chaperone would like to return to the Science Museum at 9:30 a.m. when we open, they are welcome to do so and pay regular Science Museum admission prices.

What is your cancellation/refund policy?

If your group or camper must cancel their reservation, we require notice four weeks prior to the first day of the event in order to provide a refund. If you cancel your reservation after that time, we can provide a 50% refund until one week before the event. If you cancel your reservation within one week (seven days) of the event, we cannot provide a refund, but you are welcome to substitute another camper or chaperone within your group if needed.

What if there is inclement weather?

We evaluate inclement weather on a case-by-case basis. We will contact all those registered if the Camp In needs to be adjusted in any way.