Welcome to
Montana Learning Center
Where Montana’s Young Minds Explore, Discover, and Grow.
View Kids’ Camps
View Beyond the Big Sky
View Teacher Training
Student & Teacher Programs
MLC offers innovative hands-on STEM camps for students in grades 1–12 and out-of-this-world professional development for teachers.
Partner
As a NASA Partner, the MLC offers exclusive, cutting-edge programs. Students and teachers gain access to space science opportunities found nowhere else in the region.
Astronomy
Home to the largest observatory of its kind in Montana, MLC is the perfect place to explore the night sky. Our state-of-the-art telescopes bring the wonders of the universe within reach.
NASA Education Affiliate
MLC is a proud NASA Partner and an Education Affiliate of the Montana Space Grant Consortium, part of NASA’s Space Grant College and Fellowship Program. This prestigious affiliation connects us to a statewide network dedicated to advancing aerospace education and research.
Through this partnership—and our collaboration with the Northwest Earth and Space Sciences Pathways—we offer students and teachers across the Mountain West exclusive, NASA-supported programs. These one-of-a-kind opportunities bring the excitement of space exploration to life like nowhere else in the region.
Partnering up for space program education
Why Montana Learning Center
Planning for Camp/Register
The Latest News at MLC
Sponsor a Camper
Summer Camps
Most of our camps take place on the scenic shores of Canyon Ferry Lake, just outside Helena, Montana—where the Rocky Mountains meet rolling plains. Campers enjoy a stunning natural setting with opportunities for fishing, kayaking, boating, swimming, and exploring the area’s unique geology and wildlife.
We also take science on the move. Camp Expedition Yellowstone immerses students in the wonders of Yellowstone National Park, while Camp Dinosaur explores the fossil-rich badlands near Ekalaka in eastern Montana. For high schoolers seeking adventure, our Missouri River canoe expedition offers a 46-mile journey through the breathtaking Missouri Breaks—combining science, history, and outdoor challenge in one unforgettable experience.
“This is our second year at MLC, and both times my kids have started planning their return before we even made it home—they absolutely love it! The instructors are amazing, experienced teachers, and the hands-on STEM activities are both challenging and fun. Plus, the Canyon Ferry location gives them everything summer should be: adventure, learning, and time in the great outdoors.”
Combining learning Opportunities with play everyday
MLC is a place where students come together to explore, create, and build confidence through hands-on problem solving and discovery. Each day is filled with immersive STEM experiences, meaningful friendships, and outdoor fun in a supportive, inspiring environment.
Evenings offer something for everyone—from classic campfires and stargazing through our world-class observatory to outdoor movie nights on the big screen and epic games of night laser tag. It’s the perfect blend of science, adventure, and summer fun under the stars.
Sifting for crystals is a hit with all ages
6:1
Student to Teacher Ratio
We’re small and personal. Our camp staff is composed of certified teachers, many of whom are award winning. Our student to instructor/counselor ratio is 6:1. All of our instructors and counselors are CPR & First Aid certified.
Scholarships
Scholarships are available. We are committed to making camp possible for all students, regardless of ability to pay.
Join Our Community
Consider joining our community by making a donation today! We utilize donations for ongoing projects, class materials, and scholarships.
Teachers learn ways to make science fun
Continuing Education
for Teachers
Ignite your passion for teaching and discover fresh, exciting ways to bring STEM to life in your classroom. At MLC, our dynamic teacher training programs equip educators with cutting-edge science content, hands-on strategies, and real-world applications—all designed to inspire the next generation of innovators and explorers.
Whether you’re looking to deepen your expertise, stay on the leading edge of STEM education, or connect with a supportive network of like-minded educators, our professional development experiences will elevate your teaching and reignite your love for learning—while helping strengthen education across Montana and beyond.
