Get ready for a summer of discovery, creativity, and adventure! 

 Yuma Crossing National Heritage Area Summer Camp 2026 

***AGES 5-12 years***

 

Get ready for a summer of discovery, creativity, and adventure! 

Campers will explore Yuma’s unique riverfront history and environment through exciting, hands-on STEM activities, outdoor exploration, and interactive learning.

 

 June 2026 (Tuesday–Thursday, beginning the second week of June) 

 Register for one week, two weeks, or all three! 

 Drop-Off: 8:30 AM 

 Pick-Up: 12:30 PM (required) 

 Location: Colorado River State Historic Park (201 N. 4th Avenue, Yuma, AZ 85364)

 Healthy snacks provided (no lunch)

 

 Camp Week #1 – June 9–11, 2026

Engineering the River! Campers will dive into the history and innovation of the Colorado River State Historic Park by:

• Building their own siphon systems 

• Designing and testing dam models 

• Cracking the code with Morse code & telegraph messaging 

• Exploring the park through tours, art, and interactive games

 

Camp Week #2 – June 16–18, 2026

Wetlands & Desert Explorers! Campers will step into the role of environmental scientists as they discover the Yuma East Wetlands: 

• Investigating native plants, animals, and habitat restoration 

• Exploring how the Colorado River supports life in the desert

• Conducting fun, hands-on water and conservation experiments 

• Enjoying nature walks, science activities, and outdoor games

 

 Camp Week #3 – June 23–25, 2026

Prison Break Challenge! Step back in time at the Yuma Territorial Prison with immersive and exciting activities: 

• Interactive video storytelling experiences

• Escape room-style challenges that build teamwork and problem-solving skills

• Discovering what life was like behind bars and the legends that remain 

• Arts & crafts, and engaging educational games

 

 Why Come Back for July?

Each week in July is designed with all-new content, so campers who attend both June and July sessions will: • Experience different activities, challenges, and projects • Build on skills while exploring new concepts • Stay engaged with fresh, exciting programming every week

 

Camp Week #4 – July 7–9, 2026

Engineering the River – Advanced Builders! A brand-new set of engineering challenges inspired by the Colorado River: 

• Designing more complex water systems and structures 

• Testing new dam and flow models with different materials 

• Hands-on problem-solving challenges and team competitions 

• New games, projects, and interactive park exploration

 Camp Week #5 – July 14–16, 2026

Wetlands & Desert Explorers – Field Scientists! A deeper dive into the Yuma East Wetlands with all-new activities: 

• Investigating ecosystems through hands-on science experiments 

• Exploring wildlife adaptations and environmental changes 

• Water quality and conservation challenges 

• New nature-based games, projects, and guided exploration

 

 Camp Week #6 – July 21–23, 2026

Prison Break Challenge – The Next Chapter! A completely new set of immersive challenges at the Yuma Territorial Prison: 

• New escape room-style puzzles and team missions 

• Fresh storylines, clues, and problem-solving activities 

• Expanded exploration of prison history and untold stories 

• Different crafts, games, and interactive experiences

 After Registration

Once registered, you’ll receive an email with required forms: 

• Emergency Contact Form 

• Medical Information & Release 

• Image Release Agreement 

• Discipline Policy Agreement

Please complete and return all forms as soon as possible to: Anna.Reagle@yumaaz.gov