Top-Rated Science Camp in Southern California

Did you know that STEM college majors earn more money, even if they don’t work in a STEM occupation?

The median earnings for those who have a STEM college major are $81,011, compared with $60,828 for other college majors.

It’s no wonder that science learning and science enhancements are popular with parents and teachers. Pali Institute offers three, four and five-day school group science camps. To learn why Pali Institute is the top-rated science camp in Southern California, read on.

Instructors Make Learning Science Fun

Think back to the time when you were in science class. If you remember any of your science classes, the ones you remember are most likely the classes where you had fun. A teacher at camp needs to not only be well-educated and highly trained but have a passion for science.

By bringing high energy, and enthusiasm for learning about science, teachers find that students have more interest in learning. Teachers at Pali Institute science camps help make learning fun by keeping learning fresh, interesting and hands on.

Hands-on learning has many benefits for students. Using this type of learning method has been proven to lead to better retention of the learning material. It has also been found that as students learn by doing, they are also improving their problem-solving skills!

Pali Institute – the Top-Rated Science Camp in Southern California

Pali Institute offers an award-winning science curriculum correlated with state education guidelines, experienced instructors and an accredited program. We are the only dual-accredited program (Association for Experiential Education and the Western Association of Schools and Colleges) in California.

We give students incredible opportunities for hands-on, in-depth science on a breathtaking mountaintop.  From rocket launches to physics experiments on a zip line, students directly engage in the learning material.

Pali’s teachers have a passion for outdoor education as well as for science. Since Pali offers a customizable learning plan to meet your school’s requirements, science camp is a great addition to what your students are already learning.

What Does Science Camp Look Like at Pali Institute?

Students at Pali Institute’s camps will take part in different classes. Each class has the opportunity for students to get hands-on with science, leadership and outdoor education. After a full day of 90-180 minute class sessions, the students have evening activities that focus on group cohesion and fun.

Teachers may schedule a time for individual reflection and their own activities, too! Check out some of the activities listed below!

Freshwater Biology

Students explore the flora and fauna of our recently renovated pond. With modern lab equipment, students test the chemical composition of our pond water and assess its health by through a census of various macro and micro invertebrates. Students then apply their observations and knowledge for an understanding of the freshwater-marine environment.

Aerodynamics

Complete with wind tunnels and rockets, this is sure to be a blast for your students!

In this course, students will take part in a traditional rocket launch. Students will also use their engineering skills to create aerodynamic Lego cars. Their engineering skills will be tested as their Lego cars are put into wind tunnels.

Students will learn how to read and use the data collected from the wind tunnel experiment. They will also learn how to improve their Lego car designs.

Kraken Squid Open

It isn’t really a Kraken (but you knew that.) Using the correct dissection protocol, your students will dissect a preserved squid.

Students will learn about adaptation as they are guided through the process of locating appendages and examining the organs of a squid. Students will also learn about the importance of cephalopods in the ecosystem.

Criminal Justice

The criminal justice system is an important part of our society. Students will learn about the field of forensics and how important it is to criminal justice.

Students will learn to work together by forming an investigative unit. Their unit will work together to solve a mystery. They will not only collect evidence, but they will analyze it as well.

This course will allow students to get hands-on with comparing fingerprint patterns, blood types, and handwriting samples. As students work together they will strengthen their deductive reasoning skills by ruling out suspects together.

Electromagnetic Dynamo Build

Student engineers design and build a dynamo generator from blueprint to finished product. They will discuss how to harness natural resources to power this machine.

Aerodynamics

Complete with wind tunnels and rockets, this hands-on rocket launch includes wind tunnel testing and meadow launches. Students will use their engineering skills to create aerodynamic model cars then test them in the wind tunnel.

Students will read and use the data collected from the wind tunnel experiment to improve their designs.

Evening Activities

In the evening, students have a chance to participate in some age-appropriate programs designed just for our guests.  Some of the activities are just for fun, while other programs will help students with important things like group bonding. Check out some of the evening activities available for students!

  • Night Hikes
  • Quiz Nights
  • Astronomy
  • Sports Challenges
  • & More!

More About Pali Institute

Pali Institute sits on a beautiful 250-acre property where students are able to learn through hands-on field-based activities. Pali offers students at science camp a unique outdoor education experience as well as connection with their peers.

Students leave science camp at Pali Institute with a stronger understanding of science careers open to them.  Students also have a renewed enthusiasm for the environment, science, and learning.

Pali Institute is only 90 minutes away from Los Angeles, Orange County and San Diego Counties in the San Bernardino mountains. Despite its closeness to urban areas, it enjoys clear air and dark nighttime skies for exploration and learning.

Final Thoughts on Our Top-Rated Science Camp in Southern California

Thanks for reading! We hope this list of science camp subjects for customizable for your students helps you understand why Pali Institute is the top-rated science camp in Southern California. Our experienced staff is always happy to customize our programs to meet your particular educational goals.

Love of learning and hands-on science access shouldn’t be limited to the classroom. Read more about field trips and overnight trips at Pali Institute and recommend us to your school. More questions? Click the chat box below to speak with an education professional today!