Fort Vancouver National Historic Site offers the Kids Digs programs for children ages 8 to 12 this summer. Kids Digs introduces youth to archaeology through a hands-on mock archaeology dig. Kids Digs programs are free with paid regular admission for accompanying adults. Reservations are required; call (360) 816-6230 to reserve a spot.
Kids Dig programs will take place on three Saturdays in July: July 9, July 16, and July 23, at 10 am and 2 pm. During these fun and educational programs, National Park Service staff and volunteers will provide children with hands-on opportunities to learn archaeological techniques like excavation, screening, recording, and interpreting findings. Each child will receive a Junior Archaeologist certificate upon completion of the program. Kids Digs programs this year will take place within view of the Public Archaeology Field School, where Portland State University and Washington State University students will be conducting active archaeological excavations of the historic schoolhouses sites at Fort Vancouver.
“Kids Digs give children an immersive experience with archaeology, said Paula Hale, Park Guide at Fort Vancouver National Historic Site. “This national park is a tremendous resource for our community. Children who participate in the Kids Dig leave inspired to learn more about history and archaeology.”
Space is limited to 20 children per program. To ensure participant safety, youth must come prepared for active, outdoor play in the dirt; long pants, light long-sleeved shirts, close-toed shoes, sun hats and sunscreen are strongly recommended.
Kids Digs participants will meet inside the reconstructed Fort Vancouver, located at 1001 E Fifth Street, Vancouver, WA 98661. There is no additional cost for this program. Regular entrance fees to Fort Vancouver apply.
