Summer camp has been in full swing on the James River! In Williamsburg, at the Lower James River Center, educators have been working with students from the York County School System, introducing them to fishing and paddling skills. Through a grant partnership with the National Park Foundation, campers have been earning their Junior Ranger Angler badge through a variety of outdoor activities. Representatives from both the Captain John Smith Chesapeake National Historic Trail and the Nansemond Indian Tribe taught campers about the ways indigenous people hunted, gathered, and fished on the historic lands. Additionally, campers practiced their kayak paddling on Powhatan Creek.
At the end of the week, each camper receives their very own fishing rod, tackle box, identification booklet, and fishing regulations sheet to bring home, fostering multi-generational engagement in outdoor activities. The mission of the camp is to provide campers with fishing abilities, knowledge, and confidence to bring these skills back home and share what they have learned with their families. This has been a fun and exciting opportunity for all participants, allowing them to explore nature, learn new skills, and make lasting memories.
