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   Two summer programs from Happy Dancing Turtle offer middle-school youth the chance to broaden their knowledge of the outdoor world. Eco Camp is a nature-based day camp hosted at the Hunt Utilities Group Resilient Living Campus in Pine River. Campers will have the opportunity to learn in a forest classroom and demonstration garden while participating in a variety of activities that highlight environmental stewardship. Students entering grades 5th and 6th grades in fall 2025 may register for camp either July 7-11 or July 21-25.

   Happy Dancing Turtle is also offering two overnight camping experiences for girls in 2nd through 8th grades. Through the trips, or “Turtle Treks,” girls will have the opportunity to experience the ins-and-outs of camping while building friendships and enjoying time outdoors. “We learn about Minnesota’s land, water, plants, animals, and the night sky while exploring state parks and other beautiful sites in our great state,” said Program Coordinator Michelle Hoefs. 

   The Turtle Trek for girls who will be entering 5th-8th grades in fall 2025 is to Itasca State Park on August 12-14. For girls entering 2nd-4th grades in Fall 2025 the Turtle Trek will be to Sand Lake property in Pine River on August 26 and 27.

   For more information and fees, go to happydancingturtle.org/classes or contact Michelle Hoefs at 218-587-2303 or hyperlink “mailto:[email protected]” [email protected]. Happy Dancing Turtle is a nonprofit dedicated to growing good stewards of the planet by providing education, programs, and experiences for youth and adults that inspire wonder and empower change.

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