Badlands Science Camp

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s a typical day like at Badlands Science Camp?

Campers enjoy breakfast at our campsite, then walk to the Museum for a range of palaeo-related activities, such as fossil finding and sorting, exploring the Museum’s exhibits, hikes through the badlands, and more! Lunch and dinner are served at the Museum. In the evening, campers and counsellors relax and play together at the campsite.  
 

What are the sleeping arrangements at Camp?

Campers sleep on cots on wooden platforms inside old-style prospector tents. All of a camper’s luggage (e.g., a backpack, duffle bag, suitcase, or 30L Rubbermaid-style bin) should fit under their cot. The cots have two spaces underneath, each measuring roughly 35"L x 26"W x 16"H. Campers must be able to carry their gear for about 50 m over a small hill to their tent.

What accommodations are available for my child’s medical needs?

All medications and medical conditions must be disclosed on the Badlands Science Camp Registration Form. If we require further information, we’ll contact you at the email and phone number provided on the Registration Form. If you wish to discuss your camper’s needs, email the Camp Coordinator at Florence.Morin@gov.ab.ca.

Where is the campsite located?

The campsite, within Midland Provincial Park, is a 20-minute hike (about 1 km) from the Royal Tyrrell Museum’s front entrance. The path is hilly. We do this hike at least twice a day—to get to the Museum in the morning, and to return to the campsite in the evening. Ten large prospector tents at the site provide shelter for eating, sleeping, and activities. Aside from Badlands Science Camp, no other camping is allowed in the Park.

Are there shower facilities at Camp?

No. However, each Camp session includes at least one trip to the Drumheller Aquaplex to use the pool and/or hot tub, and enjoy a hot shower. A limited amount of water is available at the campsite for hygiene needs. Shower facilities are available at the Museum for emergencies only.

What are meals like at Camp?

Breakfast is at the campsite and includes breakfast cereals, fresh fruit, bagels, juice, and milk. Lunch is served in the Royal Tyrrell Museum Learning Centre, and alternates between sandwiches, pizza, taco-in-a-bag, and wraps, as well as veggies, fruit, juice, and dessert. Snacks are available midday. Each evening, we have a hot dinner in the Museum’s cafeteria. Vegetarian and vegan options are available. Food allergies and dietary needs can be accommodated with advance notice. Unfortunately, we cannot guarantee a gluten-free or peanut-free environment.

What are the check-in and check-out procedures?

The check-in time for Junior and Senior Camps is 6:00 p.m. Note: Campers should eat before arriving, as dinner is not served on the first night of Camp. Campers should first unload their gear at the Camp van, then proceed to the Learning Centre, where Camp staff will register your camper(s) and answer any questions. On the last day of Camp, the check-out time is 6:00 p.m. for Junior Camps, and 10:00 a.m. for Senior Camps. Camp staff will greet you at the Learning Centre, where the campers and their gear will be waiting.

What is your policy regarding inappropriate behaviour and bullying? 

We strive to create a safe environment for all campers and staff. Inappropriate behaviour or bullying will result in a disciplinary response reflecting the severity of the incident. We encourage all campers to immediately report to staff any behaviour that upsets them or makes them uncomfortable, including interpersonal conflict. If a camper is engaging in harmful or dangerous behaviour, they may receive warnings, be removed from activities, or be moved to a different tent group. Their parents may be contacted, or they may be sent home early. In serious cases, campers may also be banned from attending future camps.

What do you do in the event of severe weather?

We monitor the weather constantly, using radar and satellite imagery. All counsellors keep notifications and alerts turned on to ensure weather alerts are received promptly on their mobile devices. We have a clearly defined emergency procedure, an onsite evacuation shelter, and a bus on standby should we need to move campers to the Museum at any time, day or night.

How can I contact a camper in the event of an emergency?

The Camp Coordinator is on-call 24 hours a day while Camp is in session. You will receive this number once registration is complete. You can also call the Royal Tyrrell Museum switchboard during business hours at (403) 823-7707.