Final numbers show that 34 families comprised of 61 adults and 75 children – 136 in total – participated in this year’s Sunflower Summer Family Campout on July 13-14 at Eisenhower State Park.

“Through the heat, our staff of 20, with the help of an outstanding Friends Group, were able to provide what were a memorable two days of outdoor recreation to many grateful families,” said Riston Landwehr with the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks.

The Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks is one of the partners for the Sunflower Summer program.

Families were greeted at the campsite by Kansas Commissioner of Education Dr. Randy Watson. They participated in fun activities, such as educational programs on pollinators, and were able to kayak, fish, learn archery, read, enjoy a hayrack ride and make tie-dye items. Families also were able to visit with 2023 Miss Kansas Courtney Wages, of Wichita, and indulge in fulfilling meals and homemade ice cream.

Tents were provided for all families for the campout.

Sunflower Summer is an educational program that promotes learning and family engagement during the summer by allowing families free access to museums, zoos, historic landmarks, outdoor locations and other attractions. It kicked off this year on May 26.

The Sunflower Summer Program, which is being funded by federal COVID-19 money to offer summer enrichment activities for Kansas students, will run through Aug. 13.