These spring days that excite us about the prospects of warmer weather also spark planning for outings. One possibility for youngsters is application to attend summer camps hosted by the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources. KDFWR sponsors three summer camps across the state. Camp John Currie is on Kentucky Lake in the western end of the state. In central Kentucky, Camp Earl Wallace is on the magnificent Lake Cumberland and Camp Robert C. Webb on Grayson Lake is nestled in the eastern end of our commonwealth. Each of the camps operates for 10 weeks every summer (June through August). They can host a capacity of 200 campers per week in each camp. The adventure is open to any Kentucky student who is 10 years old by June 1 and who has not exceeded their 14th birthday prior to camp. The campers are transported to their selected camp by public school buses or charter bus service on the Monday morning of their camp week and return home on Friday afternoon, making it a five-day, four-night adventure. The camp fee includes transportation costs. Each camp staff is made up of six Conservation Education Program Leaders which includes a camp director, assistant camp director, hunter education trainer, waterfront supervisor, camp superintendent, and maintenance personnel who are full-time KDFWR employees. Each camp has two certified teachers serving as summertime employees who assist with the supervision of counselors and campers. Twenty-two college-age counselors are closely screened, hired and trained to chaperone the campers and to assist the program leaders with camper safety, instruction and supervision. These counselors stay in the cabins with the campers and guide them through their camping experience. Campers are given basic, but complete, instruction in the safe pursuit of activities and skills related to natures outdoor assets and Kentuckys resources. Campers are involved in a variety of well-scheduled, hands-on activities which include: wildlife identification, archery, boating and canoeing, outdoor survival, firearm safety (rifle and shotgun shooting), fishing and casting, and swimming (Red Cross approved).When each camper successfully completes the series of a camp activity they are entitled to an achievement patch. Campers who successfully meet the requirements may also earn the nationally recognized Kentucky Hunter Education Certificate as well as the Boater Education Certificate. Everything is furnished except personal items and clothing such as toothbrush and toothpaste, soap, towel, changes of clothing, socks, swimsuit, sheet and blanket or sleeping bag, pillow, sunscreen, a light jacket or long-sleeved shirt. Additional information on packing for camp will come when campers are selected. While nutritious meals are served three square, it is suggested that campers bring $10-15 in spending money for the canteen. The camp canteen is open at specified times after meals where campers may purchase snacks, souvenirs and postcards. Of special note to parents the camp fee includes accident and medical insurance; it does not cover pre-existing conditions. The cost per camper varies with transportation costs; for more information call 1-800-858-1549. Outdoors appears each Sunday.