Imagine a floating classroom where middle and high school students can have fun while learning about the natural resources of Pennsylvania.

That is what the Lehigh Gap Nature Center is hoping to create this summer, with help from a local river outfitter.River Camp will take place July 17-21. It is open to students entering grades 6-12. The day camp will give students the opportunity to paddle the river with experienced guides and instructors, while learning the history and science of local waterways.The nature center is partnering with Jim Thorpe River Adventures in a model that Associate Director Amber Breiner said was inspired by school ski clubs that give local kids a chance to appreciate the natural resources which attract tourists to our area."Our hope is that by hosting fun, safe recreation opportunities for people to connect with the river, we can teach them to care about the river along the way," Breiner said.River Adventures owner Jerry McAward got on board with the idea right away. His passion for the river is evident in his business and the Northeast Pennsylvania Kayak School he runs.The group's schedule will be set based on how much they progress each day, as well as conditions on the river. McAward has a plethora of boats available, so students should get to try all kinds.On day one, they'll practice their skills on Beltzville Lake. From there, they will move into some of the wider sections of the river. By the last day, the hope is they can try the white-water sections that draw thrill seekers to the Lehigh from New York and beyond."Each day we might have different craft that might be chosen by weather concerns, water levels, temperature and ability levels. I said 'let's just leave it up to us,' " McAward said.They will be taught by some of River Adventures' most experienced instructors, who have all accumulated significant training and experience."This is hyper-supervised," McAward said.Kayak camp is made possible through grants from the William Penn Foundation, and the Lehigh Valley Greenways Conservation Landscape. The cost of the camp is $110 per camper. For more information, visit

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/river-camp-registration-34522280069.