Dates
Jun 28 – Jul 3
Grades
Costs
Do you dream of stepping into the shoes of a zoologist? At Critter Quest, you won’t just learn about animals—you’ll live zoology through hands-on adventures, field explorations, and unforgettable encounters with creatures big and small.
Observe live animals in captivity and the wild while collecting animal observation data to contribute to ongoing citizen science research. You will participate in guided nature walks into local ecosystems while surveying the biodiversity found right here in the upstate. Campers will visit exotic animals at the zoo to learn about animal husbandry and conservation efforts used to preserve endangered species large and small.
This isn’t just a camp—it’s your gateway into the world of zoology. From the tiniest critters to the most exotic animals, you’ll uncover the secrets of the natural world and see how science makes a difference.
Don’t miss your chance to explore, discover, and protect. The wild is calling—are you ready to answer?
Camp check-in for all campers is on Sunday between 2–4 p.m. at the Welcome Center.
Day camp drop-off each day will be from 8–8:30 a.m. at the Welcome Center.
When you arrive on campus, follow the signs to the Welcome Center to check-in. Our camp counselors will give you your camp schedule and camp T-shirt. If you have a camp balance, you can take care of it at this time.
Day Camp pick-up each day will be from 4:30–5 p.m. in the Welcome Center. Camps generally end on Friday at noon. Check your specific camp schedule for times of final presentations, performances or concerts that may take place after noon on Friday.
Day campers must live in or stay with family in the immediate Greenville area.
Campers may be required to be on campus from 8:30 a.m.–9 p.m. on camp days.
Check your camp schedule for specific details.
Day campers can also enjoy a fun highlight of our camp experience, the Bruins Bash, on Wednesday from 7–9 p.m.
Lunch and dinner are included in the camp cost.
Phones may be used at certain time during the week of camp depending upon activities.
A modest amount of spending money is suggested for The Den, vending machines and Bruins Shop.
Please note: BJU cannot be responsible for money, valuables or personal articles.
Overnight Campers:
At EDUcamp, we want to create an environment that is appropriate and comfortable for all campers. In order to do this, we have a dress code that we ask all campers to abide by. Please review these guidelines to ensure that your camper’s attire aligns with our camp standards:
Tops:
Bottoms:
Inappropriate Themes or Images:
Lunch will be served in our dining common in an all-you-can-eat buffet style. Any food concerns (allergies, diet restrictions, etc.) can be noted in the online registration form.
Dr. Brad Batdorf is a professor in the School of Education and Human Services and serves as the Program Coordinator for Science Education. He has nearly 40 years of experience in teaching about nature, including 15 years in botanical gardens, zoos and wildlife preserves. He has authored science textbooks on the secondary level and served as a consultant for science curriculum at the elementary level.
In his spare time, Dr. Batdorf enjoys hiking in the upstate of SC and western NC with his wife Cheryl, also a science educator. In addition to insects, he is interested in reptiles, wildflowers and carnivorous plants.
