A baby leatherback turtle crawls toward the sea. Source: Arthur Tischler

The nonprofit Earthwatch Institute operates a long list of hands-on scientific research expeditions around the world, including this opportunity to assume the role of a field biologist and lend a hand with leatherback sea turtle conservation on the Caribbean island of St. Croix.

Participants in the 11-day expeditions spend nights patrolling the unspoiled beaches of the Sandy Point National Wildlife Refuge, monitoring female leatherbacks as they crawl ashore to lay eggs, relocating nests that have been deposited in hazardous locations, and helping hatchlings crawl safely into the sea. Over the past two decades, volunteers working alongside career conservationists have made Sandy Point a safe haven for the endangered leatherbacks — the largest living turtle species — and St. Croix now harbors the biggest population of nesting leatherbacks anywhere in United States territory.

Accommodations and meals are provided in simple beach bungalows with shared rooms, and the program offers ample free time to explore the island during daylight hours. No previous scientific experience is necessary, though a reasonable level of physical fitness is required for the nightly beach walks and for digging out sea turtle nests. Expedition fees may be tax-deductible. Information: www.earthwatch.org, 800-776-0188.

Visit more fantasy camps below.