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Student in safety goggles reading a water-quality test kit

Fun, Standards-based Nature Education

Teaching KATE gives students a unique opportunity to explore nature through hands-on learning.

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Students leaning in together to examine a soil sample

Key Topics

Forest Ecology

Scientific study of interrelated patterns and processes in the forest, explore plant and animal interactions within the forest, answer questions about forest management using scientific investigations and models, tree identification and forest floor exploration, forest mapping.

Water Ecology

Become a chemist and test the pH and dissolved oxygen levels of Lake Marion, analyze chemical and biological pollution levels, discover the macro organisms that are bio indicators, collect and analyze macro-invertebrates from the lake.

Wildlife

Analyze population dynamics, build your own food web, learn how energy flows through food chains and webs, discover the structures, processes, behaviors and adaptations allow critters to survive.

Soil

Determine what abiotic and biotic factors affect the pH of soil, pH testing, discover the importance of wetlands, observe soil layers and analyze different soil types

Camper in a helmet climbing a wooden climbing wallStudent casting a net from a dock on the lakeStudents working through an activity with a field kit at a picnic table
“The students really have enjoyed Camp Bob Cooper. I feel the teachers have as well. This was the first time for many students to experience camping. You made it enjoyable, fun, and educational.”
Two paddlers in a red canoe on Lake Marion

Summerton, SC

Camp Bob Cooper

Located on the picturesque shores of Lake Marion, Camp Bob Cooper has proven to be one of South Carolina's favorite retreat locations for almost 70 years.

Every summer, we host two summer camps and thousands of visitors from rental groups. As a result, our facility offers a great mix of hands-on educational opportunities and fun activities.

We have additional activities available

Campers in life jackets paddling a red canoe

Canoeing

Group walking a shaded forest trail

Hiking

Camper smiling while fishing from a dock

Fishing

Camper drawing a bow toward archery targets

Archery

Camper in a helmet reaching for a hold on the climbing wall

Climbing

Camper in a harness balancing on a ropes course high in the trees

High Ropes

*Adventure activities may have . Please ask about additional details and pricing.

Students gathered around a small turtle held in a student’s hands

Three wonderful days

Program Details

Our typical program runs from Monday-Wednesday or Wednesday-Friday. We also offer one- and two-day programs depending on your priorities.

We have a full-service kitchen, gym, swimming area, and sleeping capacity for 200 students.

Students seated on a covered porch while one holds a box turtle
“Food was great! Campfire was really fun! I love Camp Bob Cooper. I don’t want to leave.”