DEC camps combine environmental education, sportsman education and outdoor fun. We use a fun, hands-on approach to teach about the environment. You'll learn outdoor skills as well as the essentials of backpacking, camping and canoeing. You'll come away with a life-long passion for nature and a dedication to stewardship of our natural resources. You'll explore New York's diverse habitats, and learn how human activities affect the environment. Campers solve challenges, learn environmental concepts, practice outdoor skills and spend the week immersed in nature. All of the camps offer sportsman education classes, including hunting and archery. Camp DeBruce is situated on over 300 acres adjacent to the Catskill Forest Preserve. Formerly a private estate and fish hatchery, DEC acquired Camp DeBruce in the 1940s and converted it into a conservation education camp. It is within walking distance of natural forests, trout streams, the Catskill Fish Hatchery and Mongaup Pond State Public Campsite. The camp week emphasizes hands-on exploration, recreation and making friends for campers ages 11 to 13. Campers participate in a discovery group, completing lessons on group dynamics, field, forest, and pond explorations, and human impact on the environment. Campers learn science, solve challenges, play games, keep a journal, catch salamanders, net butterflies and discover the interconnectedness of life on earth. College-educated counselor staff guides all activities, encouraging participation and respect among group members while interpreting the natural world for campers. Campers can choose from optional activities throughout the week that introduce them to outdoor pursuits and pastimes including: Learning to fly fish Canoe trips and fishing at Mongaup Pond Hiking to a nearby waterfall Spending the afternoon on a mountain peak Learning survival skills