Summer Camps
STEAM Summer ExperiencesIn-Person Day Camps
Our summer camps focus on STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math) concepts and utilize hands-on experiences and exploration of the great outdoor spaces of the Outer Banks. In 2021, CSI held 4 weeks of camp. We offered two themes and alternated weeks. In 2022, we will offer eight weeks and four themes, two of which will be similar to those in 2021. We will accept up to 13 campers between the ages of 10-15 years old each week again this year. Each camp will run Monday- Friday, 9:00 AM – 3:30 PM.
Please note, due to program constraints at this time, we are currently unable to take campers outside of the specified age range. Thank you for your understanding. Contact Parker Kellam or call 252-475-5452 for questions.
*Summer 2022 details are currently in the works. Please see below for general themes and dates and check back again soon for more details. Registration for the 2022 season will begin in March.*
Coastal Kingdoms
Coastal Marine Biology + Ecology Camp
Have you ever wondered why some organisms live where they do? Or are you curious about what purpose some species serve? If you answered “YES!” to either of these questions, the Coastal Kingdoms camp is for you. During this week-long daytime program, campers will learn about the make-up of coastal habitats and the animals that call them home through hands-on labs and field trips as well as fun sessions with local marine biologists and ecologists. Coastal Marine Biology and Ecology is a great way to experience our beautiful coastal ecosystems and understand why they are so important. The camp is open to those 9-15 years of age. Each day will begin at CSI at 9:00 AM and will end at 3:00 PM.
Offered June 20-24 and July 25-29, 2022.
Legends of the Atlantic
Maritime Archeology + Ocean Exploration Camp
What is the Graveyard of the Atlantic? Why are there so many shipwrecks off the North Carolina coast? Are you curious about the documentation and preservation of maritime relics? If these questions pique your interest, then dive on in with us! During this week-long daytime program, campers will learn about maritime archeology and the processes scientists use to understand and document the history of the Atlantic. Campers explore how shipwrecks contain clues to the past, try on dive gear, talk to maritime experts, and even see a few wrecks up close. Legends of the Atlantic is a great way to delve into our coast’s rich maritime history and understand why it is so important to preserve. The camp is open to those 9-15 years of age. Each day will begin at CSI at 9:00 AM and will end at 3:00 PM.
Shapes in Science
Art + Science Camp
Ready to explore the intersection of art and science? Eager to refine your artistic skills while learning about the beauty that exists in our coastal environment? Want to try your hand at something new? Sign up for Shapes in Science to get those creative juices flowing. Through this program, campers will use different mediums such as ceramics, watercolors, and photography, to convey some of the research themes currently present at CSI. At the end of the week, the campers and staff will host a gallery that features the students’ work.
Offered July 11-15 and August 8-12, 2022.
Sustainable Seas
Oceanography + Coastal Engineering Camp
What drives currents and waves off our coast? What’s happening on the seafloor and in the water column? Why do shorelines transform? How can we protect our coastal communities from stronger storms and rising seas? Find all the answers when you participate in our Sustainable Seas camp! In this week-long daytime program, campers will learn about oceanographic and coastal processes through the lens of technology and interact with scientists who use the tools daily. Each day will begin with the exploration of a basic research technique followed by the introduction of an advanced technology that makes the job both easier and often more fascinating, too! The camp is open to those 9-15 years of age. Each day will begin at CSI at 9 AM and will end at 3:00 PM.
Based at the Coastal Studies Institute (CSI), the North Carolina Renewable Ocean Energy Program (NCROEP) advances inter-disciplinary marine energy solutions across UNC System partner colleges of engineering at NC State University, UNC Charlotte, and NC A&T University.
ECU's Integrated Coastal Programs (ECU ICP) is a leader in coastal and marine research, education, and engagement. ECU ICP includes the Coastal Studies Institute, ECU's Department of Coastal Studies, and ECU Diving and Water Safety.
The ECU Outer Banks campus is home to the Coastal Studies Institute.
