One of the gifts that I'm most excited to give the kids this year is a sleepover at the Museum, with the Dinosaur Fossils at Royal Tyrrell. How does it work? First, you make the trip to Drumheller, and arrive at the Royal Tyrrell Museum. Next, you check-in at 6:30 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. Camp runs overnight from 6:30 p.m. – 10:00 a.m.

Camp-Ins are for children 5 – 13 years old only. Children under the age of five, including babies and toddlers, are not permitted to attend any portion of the Camp-In program due to the age level of programming and safety concerns for both small children and the exhibits. There must be at least one adult per five kids taking part in the camp-in program - we left our toddler at home. 

It was simple to register for the camp-in on the website, and there are camp dates available this month (November 2022) You can register for the Royal Tyrrell Camp-in program, here.

How much does Camp-in Cost?

The cost for the camp in is $48.00/child or youth (camper) · $48.00/chaperone. Admission includes: bedtime snack (banana bread, yogurt, fruit & beverages) + breakfast (pancakes, bacon, cereal, fruit & beverages). When you take into account the fact that you're getting two meals included with the programming, it's actually really, really affordable.

What Happens During Camp-in?

Day One

You'll set up camp when you arrive - finding your spot under the dinosaur in the large display. Then, it's time to start your programs. Kids will take part in rotating programs where they can do everything from assembling dinosaur bones together, to creating and colouring castings. There's snacks, but you can also bring your own (they had delicious banana bread, yogurt and juice for a bedtime snack). 

Then, after a fun-filled evening, it's time for bed. You'll make your way back to cots, or sleeping bags, and sleep overnight. Bring an extra blanket if you get chilly, it was pretty cold in there!

Day Two 

The next morning, you'll be up bright and early to enjoy breakfast in the Museum cafeteria ( included in your program admission) and get the chance to shop for souvenirs in the gift shop. On this day, you'll get free admission to the galleries when they open at 10 am, and catch a movie after breakfast.

Camp-Ins run Friday and Saturday evenings in February, March, April, October, and November. Though you can't register for the program online, you can request a reservation, which is confirmed by email and payment is arranged.

Camp-Ins are available on Friday and Saturday nights in October, November, February, March, and April.

• We require one adult chaperone for every five children.

• Children under five are not permitted to attend any portion of the Camp-In.

• Each Camp-In begins at 6:30 p.m. and can accommodate up to 87 participants.

• Camp-In programs are co-ed and are not designated for one gender only.

• Price includes all activities and materials, a bedtime snack, breakfast, and admission to the Museum the following day.

Visit  www.tyrrellmuseum.com to learn more and register for an upcoming camp-in program

Photo: Royal Tyrrell Museum