While it’s only March, summer is never far away in the mind of a child. Long days, endless sun, and…not much to do? While this may be a kid’s dream, it’s a parent’s nightmare, and after the last two years of remote-everything, most folks are probably more than ready to get their kids out of the house and back to regular socializing. While your kids might see summer as perpetually around the corner, parents thankfully have some time left to figure out the best way to keep them occupied during the seemingly never-ending summer months.
For the parents of athletic children, this can seem like a no-brainer: sign them up for every camp involving a ball. But what about those kids who’d rather build a Lego fort than take jump shots? Fear not, because nowadays there is a camp for pretty much everyone. Below are a few examples of unique camps – both day camp and sleep away – to keep your kids happy, healthy, and occupied during their summer break.
LEARNING CAMPS
AstroCamp
This Idyllwild getaway offers traditional camp activities with a STEM-oriented spin. Habitat-themed escape rooms, microgravity experiments and learning, and a zip line are all some of the activities waiting for your budding scientist. Apart from science-oriented activities, the camp also offers countless electives for kids to try such as tie dye, sign language, and rock climbing.
LOCATION: Idyllwild, CA
AGES: 8-13 (1 week), 12-17 (2 weeks)
FORMAT: Sleepaway
LENGTH: 1 & 2-week sessions based on age; several dates available.
INFORMATION: https://astrocampsummer.org/
Adventures in Writing
Headed up by an eclectic team of authors, musicians, and teachers, Adventures in Writing aims to instill a lifelong love of writing through publication. Available to emergent and experienced writers alike, this camp gives your child an opportunity to engage in a variety of writing activities, which are based firmly in a “summer camp, not summer school” mindset.
LOCATION: Carmel, CA plus other state-wide locations
AGES: Grades 1-8
FORMAT: Day
LENGTH: July 18-29 (Carmel)
INFORMATION: www.aiwcamp.com
MEarth Carmel
Camp participants learn about ecological sciences, conduct science experiments, and learn to think critically to find solutions to ecological problems. At the heart of the experience is an awareness of the interconnectedness of self, community, and environment.
LOCATION: Carmel Valley, CA
AGES: 3rd-8th grade depending on camp
FORMAT: Day
LENGTH: Five week-long camps during June and July
INFORMATION: mearthcarmel.org
Summer at Santa Catalina
This all-girls program gives kids a chance to build their own daily schedule around a variety of electives, including cooking, STEM activities, surfing, horseback riding, and more. Weaved into all activities is a consistent focus on building confidence, independence, and teamwork.
LOCATION: Monterey, CA
AGES: Grades 3-9, girls only
FORMAT: Day & Sleepaway options
LENGTH: Several two and six-week options, depending on programming
INFORMATION: www.santacatalina.org/summer-at-sc/
VISUAL & PERFORMING ARTS CAMPS
Ariel Theatrical - Kids on Stage
For drama kings and queens, Ariel Theatrical offers a weeklong development program where kids receive instruction in singing, acting, and moving techniques through a variety of activities and theater games. The week culminates in a capstone recital performance for family and friends at the end of the week. This is a perfect option for those looking to dip their toes into the theater experience without the commitment of a full production.
LOCATION: Salinas, CA
AGES: 5-12
FORMAT: Day
LENGTH: June 6-10, July 25-29
INFORMATION: www.arieltheatrical.org
Girls Rock - Amplify Sleep Away Camp
For girls with musical interests, this camp is the ticket. Focusing on building confidence and fun through music, the camp offers several different formats (called “tracks”) to match with camper interest. Campers stick with one track, such as playing in a band, music production or DJing, throughout the camp session. Tracks are tailored to individual interest and ability, culminating in a variety of final projects, such as recording and live performance. There are even more eclectic tracks available, such as podcasting and journalism photography. Camp activities are also mixed with day and weekend trips to places like Catalina Island.
LOCATION: Santa Barbara, CA
AGES: Grades 3-12, girls only
FORMAT: Sleepaway
LENGTH: 2 weeks, several date options
INFORMATION: www.girlsrocksb.org/
Idyllwild Arts Summer Programs
With programs on topics ranging from painting to Shakespeare, summer programming at Idyllwild Arts is guaranteed to help your child grow and explore new activities or refine current skills in visual and performing arts. The camp offers a variety of day and residential packages and dates, depending upon the area of focus. Most sessions run between one and two weeks, but some of the more advanced programs are as long as four weeks.
LOCATION: Idyllwild, CA
AGES: Various programs for ages 5-18
FORMAT: Day (age <10 years), Sleepaway (age >10 years)
LENGTH: 1-4 weeks, depending on the program
INFORMATION: https://idyllwildarts.org/summer/
OUTDOOR RECREATION CAMPS
Camp Ocean Pines
Located on the gorgeous central coast, this is the quintessential summer camp experience. From ax-throwing (seriously!) and archery to arts & crafts, your child will experience a variety of classic outdoor-oriented camp activities. Activities take place in and around the camp, giving kids countless chances to explore the natural world around them with experts guiding the way.
LOCATION: Cambria, CA
AGES: 7-15
FORMAT: Sleepaway
LENGTH: 6 and 13-day sessions, several date options.
INFORMATION: https://campoceanpines.org/summer-camp
Catalina Sea Camp
This camp focuses on all things ocean for middle-grade and teenage students. Your child will have the opportunity to experience kayaking, snorkeling, sailing, and even underwater photography while under the care of experienced camp counselors. Hands-on marine wildlife experiences are also the norm, in addition to more traditional camp activities.
LOCATION: San Juan Capistrano, CA
AGES: 8-17
FORMAT: Sleepaway
LENGTH: 1 and 3-week sessions, several options available
INFORMATION: www.catalinaseacamp.org