Camp-Ins are memorable events at the Science Museum.

But before the fun starts, you may have some questions. Does my camper need a sleeping bag? What do chaperones do? How do we prepare for Camp-In? Dinosaur or space pajamas? The below FAQs answer all those questions (well, except the last one—that's on you!) and more!

Registration

How much does the Girls in Science Camp-In cost?

$15 for each person — both campers and 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?

The recommended grade levels for campers are middle school, which is roughly ages 11–14 years old.

Can younger/older siblings come?

This particular camp is designed for campers in grades 6-8. Activities will not be suitable for older or younger campers.

Is there a minimum/maximum group size?

There are no minimum or maximum group sizes. We do ask that your group follows 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 my whole group be together?

We will do our best to keep groups together. If groups are larger than 25 campers, they will be separated in certain smaller areas of the Science Museum.

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 requests and we will try to accommodate as much as we are able to.

Group Leaders/Chaperones

How many chaperones are required?

There must be one chaperone for every four campers. That's the minimum, and your group can bring more if you would like.

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?

This camp is designed to inspire girls to pursue careers in STEM, which is why we limit it to female campers only. Chaperones may be co-ed.

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 may 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.

Other Information

Where will we be sleeping during the event?

During the event, all campers and chaperones will be sleeping on the floor of the Science Museum. 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 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.

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.

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 when the building closes to the public, 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 we stay after to explore the Science Museum more?

Camp-In ends at 9 a.m. Sunday 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 admission.

What is your cancellation/refund policy?

Because Camp-Ins are popular and often sell out, if your group or camper must cancel their reservation, we require notice two weeks prior to the first day of the event in order to provide a refund. If you cancel your reservation after that time, 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 using the information provided at registration if Camp-In arrangements need to be changed in any way.