Heather Haines, 4-H Agent, UGA Extension Forsyth County
This summer, Forsyth County 4-H is bringing excitement, education, and exploration to local youth through a series of unforgettable summer day camps that span across north Georgia—from the University of Georgia’s campus in Athens to the rivers of Dahlonega. Designed for students in 4th through 12th grades, these unique experiences are more than just fun—they are intentionally planned through the lens of the 4-H Thriving Model, which fosters social, emotional, and academic development in young people.
The 4-H Thriving Model is the heart of Georgia 4-H programs around the state. It helps kids discover what they care about, get curious, and feel like they belong. This model takes the science of positive youth development and turns it into fun, hands-on activities led by UGA faculty, staff, and Certified Volunteers. Through these experiences, kids are encouraged to try new things, bounce back from challenges, and build strong, healthy relationships with both friends and adults. Each of this year’s day camps will give local youth a chance to grow; not just from what they learn, but from the way they learn it.
Dawg Days in Athens – May 27
Kicking off the summer lineup is a trip to the Classic City. On Tuesday, May 27th, students in grades 4 through 12 will have the opportunity to walk the streets of Athens with UGA alumni, visit iconic locations like Sanford Stadium and the UGA Bookstore, and get hands-on with environmental science at the State Botanical Garden. The day also includes lunch and transportation, with drop-off at 8:00 a.m. and pickup at 5:00 p.m. for just $30.
This campus visit not only builds college and career awareness but supports the Thriving Model’s “growth mindset” and “hopeful purpose” indicators. By exploring a real college campus, youth can envision their future, identify potential pathways, and build confidence in their academic potential.
Fortson Fun Day – May 30
Next up is a full day of outdoor adventure at Fortson 4-H Center on Friday, May 30th. Open to 4th-6th graders, this action-packed day may include zip lining, wilderness survival, rock wall climbing, canoeing, herpetology lessons, and even a trip to the Fortson farm.
With activities focused on challenge, nature, and teamwork, this $45 day camp builds critical life skills such as perseverance and cooperation. Young people experience a sense of belonging and connection—core aspects of the 4-H Thriving Model—while also taking healthy risks and stepping out of their comfort zones.
Smithgall Woods and Helen Water Park – June 18
On June 18th, 4th-8th graders will visit Smithgall Woods State Park to dive into lessons about arachnids and basic orienteering before heading to Helen Water Park for an afternoon of fun. This activity is $45 and students will need to bring a packed lunch with them to eat at Smithgall Woods. Drop-off at 8 a.m. and pickup at 5 p.m.
This day combines nature-based education with recreation, reinforcing the “engaged learning” and “pro-social bonding” elements of the Thriving Model. It’s a full-circle experience where students are mentally stimulated in the morning and physically engaged in the afternoon.
Geocaching in Forsyth County – July 21
Forsyth County’s own landscapes become the learning ground on Monday, July 21st, as students in grades 4 through 12 head out for a GPS-based scavenger hunt for Geocaching Day! Participants will learn navigation, teamwork, and critical thinking while exploring their local environment. Lunch is included in this $25 camp, with drop-off at 9 a.m. and pickup at 4 p.m.
Geocaching is the perfect activity for fostering curiosity, building problem-solving skills, and encouraging persistence—hallmarks of the 4-H Thriving Model’s “self-regulation” and “growth mindset” areas. It’s also just plain fun!
Dahlonega Day – July 29
Capping off the summer is the ever-popular Dahlonega Day on Tuesday, July 29th. Open to 4th-12th graders, this trip features gold mining at Crisson Gold Mine and tubing on the Chestatee River. Youth will need to pack a lunch (coolers provided), and the cost is $50.
Dahlonega Day is a hands-on history and science lesson mixed with outdoor adventure. It offers youth the opportunity to learn about Georgia’s gold rush heritage, practice teamwork during river tubing, and simply enjoy a day of exploration. This experience promotes “academic motivation” and “positive emotionality,” two outcomes closely tied to thriving youth.
At their core, these summer day camps are about much more than day trips and fun in the sun. Each experience is a carefully crafted opportunity for Forsyth County youth to learn, grow, and thrive—guided by caring adults, inspired by new environments, and empowered by the 4-H slogan of “Learn by Doing”. Space for each day camp is limited, and early registration is encouraged. Spaces will be filled on a first come, first served basis.