History
Guided Discoveries was the natural outgrowth of Ross and Kristi Turner's experience as schoolteachers taking students on science-related field trips. During these excursions, they realized the power of a fun and immersive science-based program. The Catalina Island Marine Institute and Catalina Sea Camp were born from that theory of thought. They created a hands-on educational adventure experience that was fun for students. Small groups, plentiful scientific equipment, an emphasis on process over facts, and dedicated instructors hired for their natural teaching style became the hallmarks of the CIMI and Sea Camp programs. Guided Discoveries began to consider expansion and conducted its first AstroCamp pilot program in 1988. Using the same hands-on educational philosophy as the CIMI program, AstroCamp focused on astronomy and the physical sciences rather than the ocean. Guided Discoveries has proudly served over 1,000,000 students and continues to serve 48,000 children per year.
Specialties
Guided Discoveries, a 501(C)(3) California educational nonprofit corporation, is proud to be a leader in this field serving over 45,000 children, parents, and teachers annually at Catalina Island Marine Institute, Catalina Sea Camp, AstroCamp's school program, AstroCamp summer camp, CIMI Tall Ship Expeditions, and Tall Ship Summer Sailing. Guided Discoveries has served over 1,000,000 since our founding in 1978. As experts in outdoor science schools and educational adventure summer camps, we make a positive difference in the lives of children through unique opportunities of discovery. Our beautiful outdoor locations, combined with hands on labs, field activities, adventure and traditional summer camp fun, enrich and inspire the lives of young people, building character, increasing knowledge, inspiring environmental stewardship, and developing life skills towards a productive and responsible future. Our unique locations, handpicked staff, teaching methodology, well equipped and ingenious labs set us apart from all the rest. We are a member of WAIC, the Western Association of Independent Camps, and ACA the American Camp Association.