Day 4: Crabs, Chocolate, and Connections #STEAMinthePARK #GoldenGateMagic

If today had a theme, it would be curiosity—with a side of saltwater, stories, and a sprinkle of chocolate. We started our morning in the Intertidal Lab with NatureBridge Educator Dylan, where we learned the do’s and don’ts of touching tidepool creatures. Limpets, mussels, and urchins filled the tanks—but the real star of the show? The kelp crab. Nearly everyone wanted to hold it… and a few bold campers may have even given it a little kiss (with consent, of course).

Our curiosity carried us into the Skulls and Skins Lab, where we learned that a former 6th-grade camper went on to become a taxidermist and helped create the animal displays we studied today. The mural showing where each animal lived was painted by a much-loved NatureBridge educator who passed away a few years ago—her legacy coloring the walls and our hearts.

After a grounding beach moment with Dirty Toes, we tiptoed into the Pacific Ocean (some of us a little more than tiptoed) before heading off for afternoon adventures. Some campers explored Muir Woods, earning their Junior Ranger badges beneath the quiet watch of the redwoods. Others ventured into San Francisco to tour the Ghirardelli Chocolate Factory and ride in their very first robot car—a Waymo experience that felt like the future wrapped in fun.

Tonight, we gathered for Belly Botany—but let’s be real, it was cold. So instead of laying on the chilly ground, we crouched close and pressed our microscopes to tree leaves, wild plants, and scattered rocks. Even without touching our bellies to the earth, we still found magic in the micro-world.

As the sun set on Day 4, we reflected on everything we’ve learned and started dreaming up ways to stay connected long after tomorrow’s goodbye. And yes, Day 5 is already tugging at our hearts.