Tampa Bay ICO Outings

We always try to make our outings a unique and fun learning experience for the children, ages 9 to 17. We take each group or agency of children on several outings a year to give them continuity and to enrich their learning about the natural environment.

Here are some typical adventures:

• A ferry ride to Caladesi Island for a nature hike, picnic, swimming on the beach, beachcombing and snorkeling.
• A nature-based “competition” at Fort DeSoto State Park.
• Hiking and a treasure hunt at Hillsborough River State Park.
• A trip to Honeymoon Island's nature center, followed by a nature hike, picnic, and time at the beach.
• Canoeing on Cockroach Bay, Hillsborough River, and the Little Manatee.
• Crystal Springs Preserve hosts several ICO agencies each year where the kids participate in What's in Your Water, River Critter Roundup, and swimming in the cool, clear water. The Springs has live snakes, alligators and tortoises - some of which can be touched or held!
• Annual outing at Nature's Classroom. This wonderful Hillsborough County Public Schools facility hosts our groups each year. Children learn orienteering skills, discover Florida wildlife that are under the care of Nature's Classroom, and get to hold some of the small animals in their rehab center.
• Overnight camping once each year, complete with tents, cookouts, campfires, night hikes, and (of course) s'mores.

If you want to join us for an outing please contact tbico@gmail.com

Outings for 2022-2023 School Year

If you wish to volunteer in support of an outing, please contact the agency lead.

Academy Prep Tampa – Agency Lead: Karen Kress

Academy Prep St. Pete – Agency Lead: Anthony Sousa

Academy Prep Lakeland – Agency Lead: Emilie Joyce