Kicking Bear Illinois Camp for Kids

Activities Emphasize Outdoors, Education, Challenges

Camp activities are chosen to involve, challenge, uplift, and educate. Children arrive at Camp Cender near Fisher, Illinois Friday afternnon. They get acquainted, and set up their tents, play games, enjoy a nature walk, eat dinner, go for a hayride, and bask in the glow of a large bonfire before an optional night hike and tenting down for the night.

After Saturday morning breakfast, activities include more safety instruction and archery practice. After lunch there is a presentation ceremony, then clean up and departures.

The Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) is pleased to provide its conservation truck with many wildlife exhibits and information, plus an IDNR officer for the duration of the camp. The officer accompanies the children on nature walks and provides safety, gaming, and conservation instruction.

Every child leaves with some kind of recognition. Some receive prizes and awards, but everyone gets a set of follow-on materials (sling pack, school supplies, gift certificates, etc.) that extend the camp experience into the children's lives throughout the year.