A typical day begins with a morning lecture from a guest scientist. After this, some groups of students leave to go on outdoor trips while the rest break up into small groups for their hands-on, small group science seminars facilitated by guest scientists or NYSC staff members. The afternoon is reserved for free-time activities such as optional seminars, athletic and recreational activities, art, and music. While free time seminar topics can be scientific, they often depart from science and encompass the personal interests of delegates, staff, and guests. All activities challenge delegates to approach problems with creativity or to try something new.
Activities range from fishing to philosophy, ballroom dancing to biological technologies.
The atmosphere is purposefully informal. An evening science lecture follows dinner. To reinforce and encourage well-rounded development, the NYSC's scientific program is supplemented by a fun and challenging outdoor program. Three times during camp, all delegates go on overnight outdoor trips which may include backpacking, rock climbing, caving, kayaking, mountain biking, or science field experiences. Because the National Youth Science Camp is only five hours from the nation's capital, delegates are able to take advantage of the area's extensive scientific and cultural offerings during a three-day trip.