Once known as the “Athens of America” during the colonial era, Maryland’s state capital is rich with history. Campers at the new Annapolis Explorers Summer Camp will travel back in time to live the history of colonial Annapolis through visits to historic sites and hands-on, immersive activities.
It’s the first foray into camps by the Annapolis-based tour and charter company Watermark, which has been locally owned and operated for more than 50 years.
Watermark already provides field trip options for teachers and parents to share the history of the Chesapeake Bay, so camp was a natural extension. Its week-long half-day camp, debuting this summer, is a unique opportunity for first- through fourth-graders to immerse themselves in the history and culture of Annapolis firsthand. Annapolis Explorers combines hands-on learning with outdoor exploration.
Located in the heart of Annapolis, campers are just a stone’s throw away from local historic sites such as Hogshead—a 17th century tradesperson’s home and workshop—and the William Paca House Kitchen.
Campers become mini historians as they learn about colonial schooling, try out traditional cooking methods and marvel at household relics of yore, all guided by tour guides dressed in colonial garb.
But rather than staying in just one place, campers will also embark on a science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) cruise to explore the Chesapeake Bay’s diverse ecosystem, getting to touch fish, horseshoe crabs and oysters through touch tanks and discover more about the wildlife living right in their backyard.
At the William Paca House, they will learn the ins and outs of local plants and pollinators and their role in the ecosystem, and gain understanding of how herbs and flowers were used as medicine and cooking long ago, combining science and history.
Through history tours, crafts and cruises, Annapolis Explorers aims to leave kids with an interest and connection to the city around them with a healthy balance of learning and fun.
The one-week camp sessions for children run from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., beginning July 7. For more information, visit watermarkjourney.com/annapolis-explorers-summer-camp.
