We are thrilled to welcome your child to The Salish Sea School! Our programs provide engaging, high-quality marine science education through meaningful experiences along local shorelines and waterways. We aim to spark curiosity, introduce students to the wonders of the Salish Sea, and help build lifelong connections to marine careers, conservation, and care for the sea. We cannot wait to explore, learn, and have fun together!

 

Summer Camp FAQs
 

Where does summer camp take place?

Camp locations vary by program and may include Bowman Bay, Washington Park, or departures from Skyline Marina, where our Discovery Center is located. Weather and water conditions may occasionally require us to adjust the day’s activities or location. Thank you for your flexibility as we prioritize a safe, fun, and memorable experience for every camper!
 

What should my child wear to camp?

Please dress your camper for outdoor exploration and in clothes that can get dirty or wet! Weather on and near the water can feel much cooler than expected, even on sunny days, so layers are important.
 

We recommend a warm layer or jacket, rain jacket, sun hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, warm socks, and sturdy closed-toe shoes with good traction for walking on beaches, rocks, and uneven intertidal areas. Waterproof hiking shoes, rain boots, or secure closed-toe water shoes are great options. Please, no flip-flops or open-toed sandals.
 

What should my child bring to camp?

Each day, campers should bring a small backpack with a refillable water bottle, snack, packed lunch, extra pair of socks, and a change of clothes. Please label belongings with your camper’s name.

Can my child bring a cell phone to camp?
We strongly encourage campers to leave cell phones and other personal electronics at home. Camp is a chance to unplug, be fully present, connect with others, and explore the Salish Sea!
 

If your camper loves taking photos, we recommend bringing a simple digital or film camera instead — a little throwback to the ’90s! If a phone does need to come to camp for transportation or family communication, we ask that it remain turned off and stored securely in the camper’s backpack during program hours.
 

Families who need to reach their camper during the day can contact Salish Sea School staff directly.

 

Note: The Salish Sea School is not responsible for lost, damaged, or misplaced personal electronics.
 

Do I need to sign my child in and out?
Yes. A parent, guardian, or caretaker is required to sign each camper in and out every day.
 

What happens if the weather is bad?
Our camps are designed for outdoor exploration, but weather and water conditions may require us to change the day’s activities or location. Safety will always guide those decisions.
 

What if my child needs accommodations?
We are committed to creating inclusive experiences for all students. If your child requires accommodations, please contact us at least 60 days before the program begins so we can work together to determine how best to support their participation.
 

What if my child is sick or misses a day?
Please keep your child home if they are not well enough to participate fully in the day’s activities and let program staff know they will be absent. Program fees are not prorated for missed days.
 

What is the summer camp cancellation policy?
Summer program deposits are non-refundable. Cancellations made 31–60 days before the session start date receive a 50% refund of the program cost, excluding the deposit and credit card processing fees. Cancellations made within 30 days of the session start date are non-refundable. Final payment is due 60 days before the session begins.

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We’re coming from out of town. Where do you recommend staying?
We’re excited to welcome you to Anacortes! There are several great hotels, inns, and vacation rentals nearby, including options close to our camp locations. We’ve put together a list of some of our favorite places to stay to make planning your visit a little easier.​

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When do summer camps open for enrollment?
Summer camp registration opens each November for the following summer.