Which Michigan sleepaway camps offer the best summer experiences for kids. How can parents choose the right overnight camp to match their child’s interests and needs. What unique programs and activities do top-rated Michigan summer camps provide.
Diverse Summer Camp Options Across Michigan’s Natural Landscapes
Michigan’s breathtaking natural wonders provide the perfect backdrop for memorable summer camp experiences. From pristine beaches to lush forests, the state offers a diverse array of outdoor settings that serve as ideal locations for overnight camps. These camps not only provide fun and adventure but also play a crucial role in character development and fostering a lasting connection with nature.
The importance of summer camps has become even more evident following the isolation experienced during the COVID-19 pandemic. Many children are now eagerly anticipating the opportunity to engage in classic summer camp activities and form new friendships in the great outdoors.
Benefits of Michigan Sleepaway Camps
- Character building experiences
- Physical challenges and outdoor learning
- Development of important life skills
- Opportunities for creative expression
- Fostering independence and social skills
YMCA Camps: Nurturing Values and Life Skills
The YMCA, a renowned non-profit organization, operates several overnight summer camps across Michigan’s Lower Peninsula. These camps are designed to instill core values of caring, honesty, respect, and responsibility in young participants.
Key Features of YMCA Camps
- Age Range: 4-18 (varies by location)
- Focus on youth independence
- Physical, social, and educational activities
- Development of critical life skills
- Special programming, including leadership camps
Are YMCA camps easily accessible for Michigan residents. Many YMCA camps offer shuttle services to and from local YMCA facilities, making them a convenient option for families across the state. Additionally, the camps’ locations throughout the Lower Peninsula provide diverse geographical options for campers.
Interlochen Center for the Arts: Nurturing Creative Talents
For nearly a century, Interlochen has been a beacon of artistic excellence in northwest Michigan. This prestigious institution offers summer camps that cater to students interested in various fine arts disciplines.
Interlochen’s Creative Offerings
- Age Range: Grades 3-12
- Programs in music, theater, dance, film, visual arts, and creative writing
- Incorporates six different modalities for arts education
- Hosts approximately 2,800 creatively-minded students annually
- Gender-inclusive housing for all gender identities
How has Interlochen contributed to the success of its alumni. Many former Interlochen students have gone on to achieve remarkable success in various fields. Notable alumni include singer Norah Jones, actor Santino Fontana, Breaking Bad executive producer Vince Gilligan, and Google co-founder Larry Page. This impressive track record underscores the camp’s ability to nurture talent and foster creativity.
Blue Lake Fine Arts Camp: A Creative Haven in the Forest
Nestled in the Manistee National Forest, Blue Lake Fine Arts Camp provides a picturesque setting for young artists to hone their skills and explore their creative passions.
Blue Lake’s Artistic Programs
- Age Range: Grades 5-12
- Programs in music, art, dance, and drama
- Hosts over 5,000 students each summer
- 1.5-week sessions with focused majors
- Music majors include band, choir, harp, jazz, orchestra, and piano
- Gender-inclusive housing for all gender identities
How does Blue Lake’s location enhance the camp experience. The camp’s setting in the Manistee National Forest provides a serene and inspiring environment for young artists. This natural backdrop not only offers a retreat from everyday distractions but also serves as a source of inspiration for creative endeavors.
Camp Blodgett: Making Summer Camp Accessible to All
Camp Blodgett stands out for its commitment to providing equitable access to summer camp experiences for children from low-income families.
Camp Blodgett’s Inclusive Approach
- Age Range: 8-17
- Sliding scale fee structure based on family size and income
- Fees as low as $40 for a five-day session
- Themed camp sessions (e.g., Arts Week, Magic Week)
- Focus on outdoor enrichment and personal growth
How does Camp Blodgett’s sliding scale program work. The camp’s fee structure is designed to accommodate families of varying financial backgrounds. By considering factors such as family size and income, Camp Blodgett ensures that children from low-income households have the opportunity to experience the benefits of summer camp without financial strain.
Circle Pines Summer Camp: Fostering Environmental and Social Awareness
Circle Pines offers a unique summer camp experience that combines outdoor adventure with education on environmental and social issues.
Circle Pines’ Progressive Programs
- Age Range: 7-15
- Focus on cooperation as a solution to economic and social issues
- Cooperative work projects (e.g., organic gardening, trail maintenance)
- Educational programming on ecosystems, climate change, food politics, and social justice
- Emphasis on local, organic, and humanely-raised food sources
How does Circle Pines integrate its values into daily camp life. The camp’s commitment to environmental and social awareness is reflected in every aspect of its programming. From cooperative work projects to educational sessions and even meal planning, Circle Pines ensures that campers are consistently engaged with important issues while enjoying traditional camp activities.
Camp Tall Tree: Specialized Care for Neurodivergent Campers
Camp Tall Tree is designed to provide children with autism and other neurodivergent conditions access to the traditional summer camp experience.
Camp Tall Tree’s Inclusive Approach
- Age Range: 7-17
- Tailored programs for children with differing emotional, behavioral, and cognitive needs
- Trained staff to ensure optimal experiences for all campers
- Three distinct program offerings
- Focus on equitable access to traditional camp activities
How does Camp Tall Tree accommodate the unique needs of neurodivergent campers. The camp employs specially trained staff who are equipped to support children with varying needs. By offering tailored programs and maintaining a high staff-to-camper ratio, Camp Tall Tree ensures that each child can fully participate in and enjoy the summer camp experience.
Exploring Michigan’s Rich Summer Camp Landscape
The diverse array of summer camps in Michigan offers something for every child, regardless of their interests, abilities, or background. From arts-focused programs to environmentally conscious camps and those catering to specific needs, Michigan’s summer camp landscape is rich and varied.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Summer Camp
- Your child’s interests and passions
- The camp’s focus and programming
- Location and accessibility
- Duration of camp sessions
- Cost and available financial assistance
- Staff qualifications and camper-to-staff ratio
- Facilities and available activities
How can parents ensure they choose the right camp for their child. The key is to involve your child in the decision-making process. Discuss their interests, show them brochures or websites of different camps, and consider visiting camps during open house events if possible. Additionally, don’t hesitate to contact camp directors with any questions or concerns you may have.
The Lasting Impact of Summer Camp Experiences
Summer camps offer more than just a fun way to spend school holidays. They provide valuable opportunities for personal growth, skill development, and the formation of lifelong friendships.
Long-Term Benefits of Summer Camp Attendance
- Increased independence and self-confidence
- Improved social skills and ability to work in teams
- Development of new interests and passions
- Enhanced problem-solving and critical thinking skills
- Greater appreciation for nature and the outdoors
- Lasting memories and friendships
How do summer camp experiences contribute to a child’s overall development. By providing a structured yet fun environment away from home, summer camps help children develop independence, resilience, and social skills. The diverse activities and challenges they face at camp contribute to personal growth and can even help shape future interests and career paths.
Preparing Your Child for Their First Sleepaway Camp Experience
Attending an overnight summer camp for the first time can be both exciting and nerve-wracking for children and parents alike. Proper preparation can help ensure a positive experience for everyone involved.
Tips for a Successful First Camp Experience
- Discuss expectations and address any concerns your child may have
- Practice basic self-care skills (e.g., personal hygiene, organizing belongings)
- Pack together, ensuring all necessary items are included
- Arrange communication methods (e.g., letters, scheduled phone calls)
- Encourage a positive attitude and openness to new experiences
How can parents help alleviate homesickness. Normalize the feeling of missing home and remind your child that it’s temporary. Encourage them to stay busy with camp activities and make new friends. Consider packing a family photo or a small comfort item from home. Most importantly, express confidence in your child’s ability to handle the experience and grow from it.
The Role of Summer Camps in Building Environmental Stewardship
Many Michigan summer camps incorporate environmental education and conservation activities into their programs, fostering a sense of responsibility towards nature in young campers.
Environmental Learning Opportunities at Summer Camps
- Nature hikes and wildlife observation
- Lessons on local ecosystems and biodiversity
- Sustainable living practices (e.g., recycling, energy conservation)
- Conservation projects and habitat restoration activities
- Outdoor survival skills and Leave No Trace principles
How do summer camps contribute to long-term environmental awareness. By providing hands-on experiences in nature and teaching about environmental issues, summer camps help create a generation of informed and passionate environmental stewards. These early experiences can shape a lifelong appreciation for nature and commitment to conservation efforts.
Incorporating Technology in Modern Summer Camp Programs
While many summer camps focus on unplugging from technology, some are finding innovative ways to incorporate tech into their programs without sacrificing the traditional camp experience.
Innovative Tech Integration at Summer Camps
- Digital photography and video production classes
- Coding and robotics workshops
- Use of GPS for geocaching and orienteering activities
- Virtual reality experiences for educational purposes
- Social media skills and digital citizenship lessons
How do camps balance technology use with traditional outdoor activities. Many camps adopt a hybrid approach, offering tech-focused activities alongside classic camp experiences. This balance allows campers to develop digital skills while still enjoying the benefits of outdoor recreation and face-to-face social interactions.
The Economic Impact of Summer Camps in Michigan
Summer camps play a significant role in Michigan’s economy, particularly in rural areas where many camps are located.
Economic Contributions of Summer Camps
- Job creation for counselors, support staff, and local businesses
- Increased tourism and visitor spending in camp areas
- Support for local suppliers and service providers
- Maintenance and improvement of natural areas
- Long-term economic benefits through repeat visitors and word-of-mouth promotion
How do summer camps contribute to local communities. Beyond direct economic impact, summer camps often engage in community service projects, partner with local organizations, and bring cultural diversity to rural areas. They also help maintain and improve local infrastructure and natural resources, benefiting the broader community.
The Future of Summer Camps in Michigan
As the needs and interests of children evolve, summer camps in Michigan continue to adapt and innovate to provide relevant and enriching experiences.
Emerging Trends in Summer Camp Programming
- Increased focus on mental health and emotional well-being
- Integration of STEM and arts education (STEAM)
- Expansion of specialized camps for diverse interests and needs
- Greater emphasis on cultural diversity and global awareness
- Implementation of sustainable practices and eco-friendly facilities
How are summer camps adapting to meet the changing needs of today’s youth. Many camps are incorporating more flexible scheduling options, offering shorter sessions or family camp experiences. They’re also expanding their programming to include contemporary interests and skills, while still maintaining the core elements that make summer camp a timeless tradition.
Michigan’s summer camps continue to evolve, offering diverse and enriching experiences that cater to a wide range of interests and needs. From traditional outdoor adventures to specialized programs in the arts, sciences, and personal development, these camps provide invaluable opportunities for children to grow, learn, and create lasting memories. As we look to the future, Michigan’s summer camps are poised to remain at the forefront of youth development, adapting to meet the changing needs of each new generation while preserving the timeless magic of the summer camp experience.
Michigan Sleepaway Camps: 14 Summer Camps Your Kids Would Love
Michiganders are known for their epic camping getaways. Teach your child to love their time in nature with these character-building summer camps.
MICHIGAN—School’s almost out for the summer, but in Michigan’s diverse outdoor landscapes, the learning has just begun.
With breathtaking natural wonders that include beaches and forests, Michigan is one of the best places in the country for summer camp. And after the isolation of the COVID-19 pandemic, more kids than ever are looking forward to a classic summer camp experience.
Beyond fun in the sun, Michigan’s many summer camps offer programs meant to form important life skills and create lasting connections to Michigan’s gorgeous outdoors. So what kind of camp is your family looking for? A character-building experience? A physical challenge, outdoor learning, or even the fine arts? Read on to find it in this summer camp roundup.
YMCA Camps (Multiple Locations)
Age Range: 4-18 (Varies by Location)
The YMCA is a non-profit organization with the core values of caring, honesty, respect, and responsibility, and they have several overnight summer camps across the Lower Peninsula. Though they’re likely the closest options for many Michigan residents, they also sometimes offer shuttles to and from the YMCA. The YMCA uses its summer camps to teach youth independence and provide kids with physical, social, and educational activities as they build critical life skills and interact with nature. Each individual location may also offer special programming, such as leadership camps.
Visit the Michigan YMCA camps website for locations and more information.
Interlochen Center for the Arts (Interlochen)
Age Range: Grades 3-12
Interlochen is a nearly century-old creative center in northwest Michigan that teaches the fine arts to students interested in music, theater, dance, film, visual arts, and creative writing. Many alumni have gone on to have successful careers both within and outside the arts, and even become famous, such as singer Norah Jones, actor Santino Fontana, Breaking Bad executive producer Vince Gilligan, and Google co-founder Larry Page.
It remains one of the most prestigious schools in the country and one of the best examples of summer music programs anywhere. Interlochen incorporates six different modalities for arts education and the summer camp offers a true creative retreat. About 2,800 creatively-minded students attend the camp every year. Camp housing is gender-inclusive for all gender identities.
Visit the Interlochen website for more information.
Blue Lake Fine Arts Camp (Twin Lake)
Age Range: Grades 5-12
Located in the Manistee National Forest, Blue Lake teaches programs in music, art, dance, and drama to more than 5,000 students every summer. Summer camp sessions run for a week and a half and students choose a major related to their creative focus. Music majors include band, choir, harp, jazz, orchestra, and piano. Camp housing is gender-inclusive for all gender identities.
Visit the Blue Lake website for more information.
Camp Blodgett (West Olive)
Age Range: 8-17
If the cost of your child’s summer experience is a concern for you, you’ll love Camp Blodgett’s sliding scale program.
Camp Blodgett was designed to give children from low-income families equitable access to the enrichment of a summer camp program and precious time outdoors. Their sliding scale is based on family size and income, with fees as low as $40 for a five-day session. Camp sessions have different themes, such as Arts Week and Magic Week.
Visit the Camp Blodgett website for more information.
Circle Pines Summer Camp (Delton)
Age Range: 7-15
Is your child an activist? Do they have a passion for environmental issues? Circle Pines might be the right fit for them. At Circle Pines, campers focus on cooperation as a way of life and as a solution to economic and social issues. The Circle Pines summer camp experience is filled with cooperative work projects like organic gardening and trail maintenance, and educational programming that covers ecosystems, climate change, food politics, and social justice. The camp’s values even come up at lunchtime, as the camp kitchen uses primarily local, organic, and humanely-raised food sources.
Visit the Circle Pines Summer Camp website for more information.
Camp Tall Tree (Howell)
Age Range: 7-17
If your child has autism or a similar neurodivergent status, Camp Tall Tree is built to meet their unique needs. The camp is intended to give children with differing emotional, behavioral, and cognitive needs equitable access to the traditional summer camp experience, with plenty of trained staff on hand to see to it that your child has the best experience possible. Three programs are offered, including the main one for autistic campers, a second for their neurotypical siblings, and a third for both older neurotypical children and autistic campers, who are paired together in a supportive peer relationship.
Visit the Camp Tall Tree website for more information.
North Star Reach, Camp Michitanki, and Camp Discovery (Pinckney)
Age Range: 7-15
North Star Reach is a non-profit organization offering medically supported, cost-free camps especially designed for children with chronic illnesses.
Eligible conditions include epilepsy (Camp Discovery), organ transplant (Camp Michitanki), congenital and acquired heart disease, sickle cell disease, anemia, chronic pain, and more. The camp’s clinic is fully staffed 24/7 by medical professionals from leading hospitals and medical centers. It also includes a fully supplied dispensary. This allows chronically ill children to receive individualized care without having to leave camp, so they can put all their focus into having fun!
Visit the North Star Reach website for more information.
Indian Trails Camp (Grand Rapids)
Age Range: 7-17
Children with chronic conditions like epilepsy, traumatic brain injury, multiple sclerosis, and cerebral palsy will find the Indian Trails Camp a barrier-free summer camp experience. The camp is accredited by the American Camping Association. Programming ranges from sports, talent shows, arts and crafts, music and drama, campfire cooking, and more.
Some sessions are based on a traditional camp program, while others focus on the campers’ specific needs and abilities.
Visit the Indian Trails Camp website for more information.
Camp Walden (Cheboygan)
Age Range: Grades 2-11
The “Walden Way” is to make campers the center of the experience, by giving them a feeling of belonging and strengthening their identity. Camp Walden gives its campers more freedom and responsibility by letting them create their own activity schedules. Walden has a neighborhood culture that gets campers interacting with many different people. It also offers a wide variety of activities, including athletics, horseback riding, outdoor life, arts and crafts, performing arts, media, and waterfront activities on Long Lake.
Visit the Camp Walden website for more information.
Camp Miniwanca (Shelby)
Age Range: Grades 3-12
Camp Miniwanca is run by the American Youth Foundation, a nonprofit youth development organization that challenges all campers to create communities where all feel welcome and respected, and where the camper can be their own best self.
Diversity and inclusion is prized, and staff are trained to supervise children and prevent bullying based on any aspect of a camper’s identity. Camp sessions last anywhere from two to five weeks, with camps divided by their age, and may include overnight hiking and canoeing trips or community volunteer work. Though Miniwanca has two camps separated by gender, camp housing is gender-inclusive for all gender identities.
Visit the American Youth Foundation website for more information.
Black River Farm and Ranch (Croswell)
Age Range: 6-15
Is there a girl in your life who loves horses? Then the Black River Farm and Ranch is the place to be. Camp Black River Farm and Ranch is a 360-acre farm where young girls go to take horseback riding lessons, ride the trails in the picturesque Thumb Region wilderness, and participate in other camp activities such as water sports, field games, and arts and crafts. Camps last from four days to four weeks.
Visit the Black River Farm website for more information.
Camp Newaygo (Newaygo)
Age Range: 7-17
For girls looking to learn new skills, Camp Newaygo offers a great summer program. Campers have over 30 activities to choose from for three classes per week. These classes include traditional sports, like volleyball, tennis, basketball, and cheerleading, and more non-traditional sports, like archery, windsurfing, water skiing, and fencing. There’s also yoga, photography, arts and crafts, wilderness survival, drama, pottery, animal care, and more. Campers come together in free times for activities like scavenger hunts and jumbo-sized board games.
Visit the Camp Newaygo website for more information.
Crystalaire Adventures, Camp Lookout, and Camp Carvela (Frankfort)
Age Range: 7-17
These three camps in Northern Michigan are focused on empowering youth through experiential learning.
Programs are camper-led, giving the kids free reign to make decisions about how they will spend their time at camp. The camps are unplugged communities, emphasizing taking a break from screens and the online world. Camp housing is gender-inclusive for all gender identities.
Visit the Crystalaire Adventures website, Camp Lookout website, or Camp Carvela website for more information.
Lake of the Woods Camp and Greenwoods Camp (Decatur)
Age Range: 6-15
Greenwoods and Lake of the Woods offer two, four, and eight week experiences for summer campers. At Greenwoods Camp, boys may choose a competitive schedule or a non-competitive schedule, depending on their preferred experience. At Lake of the Woods Camp, girls create their own activity schedule tailored to their interests and passions.
Visit the Lake of the Woods Camp and Greenwoods Camp website for more information.
20 Top Michigan Summer Camps for Kids 2023
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Table Of Contents
- Top Summer Camps in Michigan for Kids (Sleepaway Camps, Day Camps, Family Camps and More)
- Overnight Summer Camps in Southeast Michigan
- Michigan Summer Camps in West Michigan
- More West Michigan Summer Camps for Kids
- Michigan Summer Camps in Northern Michigan
- Summer Camping Programs in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula
Top Summer Camps in Michigan for Kids (Sleepaway Camps, Day Camps, Family Camps and More)
If you’re looking for ways to provide endless hours of summer fun for your kids, don’t wait until school’s out to start your search for a summer camp in Michigan.
Michigan summer camps can provide everything from learning experiences rich with personal growth to a a simple chance to commune with nature and relish the magic of a Michigan summer.
We’ve created a list Michigan summer camps directory of some of the top camps in Michigan. These are camps that offer a variety of activities over the weeks of camp. Watch for upcoming posts on specific camps including soccer camps, dance camps, tech camps, basketball camps and more.
The Right Michigan Summer Kids Camp
You’ll find a mix of summer day camps and overnight camps, boys camps, girls camps and even family camps, from metro Detroit all the way to the far reaches of the Upper Peninsula.
No matter the type, the camps all spell out big fun and are a great way to spend summer in Michigan while fostering your child’s personal growth.
All of these camps for kids offer an opportunity for your child to learn life skills and make new friends.
From new outdoor adventures to musical theater, science, arts, and crafts and more, there is no end to the opportunities for your child to have fun learning new things.
How to Find a Michigan Summer Camp
There are many youth camps in Michigan, and picking the right one for your for your child is important. You want their first sleepaway camp experience to create wonderful, lasting memories. Whether you’re looking for art camps, stem camps. sports camps, bible camp, a mini camp or a traditional camp experience for your child, chances are good that you’ll find one to match your needs in Michigan.
Be sure to check each camp website for more details, where you can learn important information to help your child feel more familiar with the camp prior to their arrival.
Like what you see? Some of the camps even offer a family camping summer program or serve as a retreat center during the off season.
Overnight Summer Camps in Southeast Michigan
Camp Ohiyesa
7300 Hickory Ridge Rd, Holly, MI 48442
Ages 4-17
Located on the shores of Fish Lake in Holly MI, YMCA Camp Ohiyesa offers day and overnight camp for children ages 4-17 from southeast Michigan and beyond. You’ll find over 300 acres of trails, woods and fields for kids to roam here. One of the top overnight camps in Michigan, the camp is run by the YMCA. The Y’s Core values of honesty, caring, respect, responsibility and inclusion take center stage at this camp in Oakland County. This Michigan YMCA camp runs from June to August.
Kids can enjoy everything from horseback riding, zip-lining and archery to swimming, canoeing, and paddle boarding. There’s a ropes course, a waterslide, and tons more sports, too, as well as a petting farm and arts and crafts. You’ll also find counselor in training programs and mini camps that run in the spring and fall, too.
Be sure to check the website for other YMCA-run summer camps throughout the state of Michigan.
Learn More Here
PRO-TIP: The YMCA operates several camps throughout Michigan including these popular camps: Ann Arbor YMCA Camp Al-Gon-Quian, a top-rated overnight camp in Burt Lake, MI; find more information here; and Camp Eberhart, 10481 Camp Eberhart Rd, Three Rivers, MI 49093. You can also find many Detroit summer camps operated by the YMCA here.
Camp Discovery and North Star Reach
1200 University Camp Dr, Pinckney, MI 48169
Camping is suspended for the 2023 summer season
Learn More Here
Michigan Summer Camps in West Michigan
Camp Greenwood
13564 Macclain St NE, Gowen, MI 49326
Ages: 6-17 years
This faith-based summer camp north of Grand Rapids MI offers week-long summer camp experiences for boys and girls ages 9-17 as well as shorter camp experiences for kids 6-8.
They also offer a family camp experience.
Camp themes range from dancing, music and fine arts to computers & science to adventure and religion and run during the months of June and July. Kids can enjoy water activities, archery, sports, arts & crafts, nature activities and more.
Learn More Here
Camp Blodgett
10451 Lakeshore Drive, West Olive, MI 49460
Ages: 8-17 years
Located on the shores of Lake Michigan about 40 minutes west of Grand Rapids near Holland MI, Camp Blodgett offers affordable summer camps. Ottawa and Kent County youth, ages 8-13. Campers enjoy a memorable 5-day resident camps led by dedicated camp staff, hosting a wide variety of recreational activities.
Camp Blodgett’s experiences include physical activities like swimming, hiking and biking, but we also ensure that campers are exposed to learning opportunities with activities that may be new to them such as archery, canoeing, and workshops on a variety of topics to keep their minds active and growing.
Learn More Here
YMCA Family Camp Pinewoods
4230 Obenauf Rd, Twin Lake, MI 49457
Ages: Family Camp
Located just west of Muskegon, the YMCA’s Pine woods camp offers family camping opportunities from Memorial Day until Labor Day. Grab your family (or friends!) and head out for a hike on one of our beautiful trails, plunge into Echo Lake, conquer the 40-foot climbing tower, hit your mark at archery, fly down the zip line, play a game on the ball field, or just enjoy the quiet beauty of the Manistee National Forest.
Accommodations run from rustic to deluxe, with bunkhouses, a full, lodge-style cabin, or even a yurt providing overnight lodging for your family. There’s a dining hall serving three well-balanced meals each day including vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options, and a camp store has fun souvenirs and items you may have left behind.
Learn More Here
Blue Lake Fine Arts Camp
300 E Crystal Lake Rd, Twin Lake, MI 49457
Ages: Grades 5-12
Located in the Huron Manistee National Forest, this internationally recognized summer school of the arts offers fine arts education for campers in grades 5 -12.
Programs in music, art, dance, and drama are offered all summer long, as is an international exchange program that offers campers an opportunity to travel to Europe.
Blue Lake Fine Arts Camp also offers adult camps, please check the website for more information.
Learn More Here
Camp Newaygo
5333 S. Centerline Road, Newaygo, MI 49337
Ages: 7-17 years
You’ll find a variety of camping options here ranging from girls overnight camps to co-ed day camps, family camps and even “Mom and Me” camping opportunities at Camp Newaygo in Newaygo
County Michigan.
Cam Newaygo is located in the Huron Manistee National Forest on the shores of pretty Pickerel Lake. With more than 30 activities to choose from including archery, water skiing, paddle boarding and team sports to horseback riding, synchronized swimming, pottery and gymnastics, there is something for everyone here.
Learn More Here
Indian Trails Camp
O-1859 Lake Michigan Dr NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49531
IKUS Life Enrichment Services helps individuals with disabilities to discover their potential, experience greater freedom, learn new skills, and have fun in a safe environment.
Ultimately, IKUS gives clients the tools they need to make every day another best day.
ITC provides overnight residential camping experiences in a beautiful, adaptive, and barrier-free natural setting. Most sessions are based on a traditional camp program, while other sessions provide a more specialized approach focusing on specific needs and the abilities of our campers
IKUS serves individuals from five years old to eighty-plus. Check the summer camp website for more information.
Learn More Here
Camp Miniwanca, an American Youth Foundation camp
8845 W Garfield Rd., Shelby, MI 4945
Ages: Grades 3-12
Set on 360 wooded acres and a mile of private Lake Michigan shoreline, Camp Minwanca offers campers in grades 3-12 a variety of one-to-six programs in a beautiful natural setting. From leadership programs for older campers to adventure camps, your camper can choose from fun activities like swimming, pottery and yoga to theater, ropers courses and woodshop.
Camp Miniwanca focuses on inclusivity. Camp Miniwanca honors and welcomes campers and staff of all gender identities, including transgender and gender-expansive individuals.
Learn More Here
More West Michigan Summer Camps for Kids
Camp Manitou-lin
1095 N Briggs Rd, Middleville, MI 49333
Ages: 4- 17 years
Located south of Grand Rapids, this YMCA-operated camp is set on the shores of Barlow Lake in west Michigan. You’ll find a wide range of camping opportunities for campers ages 4 to 17 years. Day camps, overnight camps, family camps are available, as well as a horse camp for the equestrian minded. This YMCA camp has been operating for over 100 years.
Lake of the Woods & Greenwoods Camps
84600 47 1/2 St, Decatur, MI 49045
Ages: 6-15 years
Located in Van Buren County in southwest Michigan, you find two camps here. Lake of the Woods camp for girls and Camp Greenwood for boys both offer two-, four- and eight-week sessions for boys and girls ages 6 to 15.
With more than 50 activities to choose from ranging from sailing, swimming and horseback riding to performing arts and team sports, there is a lot to do here.
There’s also a retreat and nature center available for larger groups in mid-August through September.
Learn More Here
Circle Pines Center
8650 Mullen Rd, Delton, MI 49046
Ages: 7-17 years
Located south of Grand Rapids, Circle Pines Center teaches peace, social justice, and environmental stewardship through cooperation in work, education, and recreation. They offer a co-ed residential camp for ages 7-17.
Combining traditional summer camp activities like swimming, theater, and sports with cooperative work projects, critical thinking and social justice, there are also family program offered here, too.
Learn More Here
Camp Kidwell
39000 1st Ave, Bloomingdale Michigan 49026
Ages: 4-16 years
Located on 150 acres on the shores of scenic Eagle Lake in southwest Michigan, Camp Kidwell offers both overnight and day camps for kids ages 4- 16.
Camp activities range from swimming, archery, arts and crafts, drama, canoeing, nature exploration, horseback riding to sports, games, campfires, singing, and much more.
Learn More Here
Sherman Lake Summer Camp
6225 N 39th St, Augusta, MI 49012
Ages: 4-17 years
Located in Southwest Michigan, Sherman Lake Camp puts honesty, caring, respect and responsibility into practice through programs that build healthy spirit, mind and body for all. You’ll find a summer day camp, overnight camp, a family camp, and a horse came here.
The camp is situated on 365 acres of wooded and waterfront property, with facilities that include cabins, a dining hall, a waterfront, a climbing tower, a ropes course, and more. In addition to summer camp programs, Sherman Lake YMCA Camp also hosts retreats and events for schools, churches, and other organizations throughout the year.
Learn More Here
Grace Adventures
2100 N Ridge Rd, Mears, MI 49436
Michigan Summer Camps in Northern Michigan
Camp Walden
5607 S River Rd, Cheboygan, MI 49721
Ages: 7-16 years
Located on the shores of Long Lake in northern Michigan, this family-owned camp offers sleepaway camp experiences for kids with and age range of 7 -16.
Choose from range of sessions including the full seven-week program, two weeks, mini sessions and more.
There is a lot to do at this Cheboygan camp, with more than 50 different activities and a “camper-choice” program for children with a wide variety of interests: land and water sports, visual and performing arts, nature and tripping, horseback riding as well as media (newspaper, radio, video, darkroom photography).
Kids can learn everything from podcasting to lacrosse; from sailing to ceramics surrounded by northern Michigan’s beauty.
Learn More Here
Crystalaire Adventures and Camp Carvela
33 Bass Lake Rd, Traverse City, MI 49685
Camp Lookout
1310 Beuna Rd, Frankfort Michigan 49635
Ages: 7-17 years
These two northern Michigan camps and additional trip program offer an amazing variety of camping experiences from day camps to overnight camp to overnight camping adventures in Michigan wilderness spots.
Your kids can choose to visit Isle Royale National Park, the Manitou Islands, and those are just some of the available adventures. Camping experiences for kids ages from 7-17 are unique, featuring programming created with input from the campers themselves.
You won’t find movie nights or computer labs here. What you will find are a mix of games and sports, special events, skits, dramatic, talent and music activities, focused on fostering active, involved, and individual participation from campers.
Learn More Here
Interlochen Center for the Arts (Interlochen Arts Camp)
4000 J Maddy Pkwy, Interlochen, MI 49643
Ages: Grades 3-12
Open to students who are entering grades 3-12, and it offers a variety of programs in the arts including music, theater, dance, creative writing, visual arts, and more.
The camp is located near the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore and it attracts talented young artists from all over the world.
The program runs for several weeks during the summer, and students can work with world-renowned artists and educators, as well as participate in performances and exhibitions.
Learn More Here
Lake Ann Camp and Retreat Center
18400 Maple Street, Lake Ann, MI 49650
Age: Grades 4-12
This Christian camp in northern Michigan offers six camp experiences for campers in Grade 4-12. You’ll also find retreats, speakers and more.
Learn More Here
Summer Camping Programs in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula
Boy Scouts Camp Hiawatha
e6350 Doe Lake Rd, Munising, MI 49862
Ages: 7-16 years
Camp Hiawatha is 800 acres and encircles Bunting Lake, a 60 acre lake in the middle of Hiawatha National Forest in the heart of the Upper Peninsula of Michigan, between the towns of Munising and Chatham. Close by are many trails and waterways including the Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, The North Country Trail, Grand Island, and the Au Train River.
Learn More Here
Fortune Lake Lutheran Camp
138 Fortune Lake Camp Rd, Crystal Falls, MI 49920L
Located in Michigan’s western Upper Peninsula, this Christian-based overnight camp offers programs for youth ages 5-18. Activities include swimming, canoeing, hiking, Bible study, and more.
Learn More Here
Interested in being featured in our guide to the TOP Michigan Summer Camps? Use the form below to contact us!
Are there many summer camps for kids in Michigan?
There are over 1,000 Michigan summer camps for kids in Michigan, They include overnight (or sleepaway) camps, day camps, family camps and more.
More Things to Do With Kids in Michigan in Summer
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What US summer camps looked like in the 1950s
Eva Tushenkina
Author:
Eva Tushenkina
July 16, 2019 13:13
Tags: children’s camp life in the usa how it was holiday camp summer camp summer vacation old pictures old photos
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Many of us spent our childhood in pioneer camps: long corps, large chambers for ten people, the morning line with the raising of the banner, sports competitions.
.. These memories are something that will never be forgotten! And here is what the summer holidays of American boys and girls looked like in the 40s, 50s and 60s.
Girls learning to shoot from a bow, 1944. A boy is bandaging a comrade who has injured his hand. Camp Nathan Hale, Southfields, August 1943
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College girls in their tent at the Curry labor camp. Yosemite National Park July 1955
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Los Angeles children in wheelchairs preparing to leave for summer camp, July 11, 1955
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Child at the medical examination. The boy is looking at a collection of butterflies.
Camp Henry, New York, 1948
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Girls relaxing on Lake Winona at YMCA summer camp in Indiana, 1940
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Boys read comics. Camp Nathan Hale, Southfield, 1943. Girl holding a skunk, 1963.
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Camp Henry Staff, NY 1948
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Children caught frogs and are looking at them, 1963
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Teenage girls setting up a tent, 1946
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Boys reading comics in their tent at a summer camp organized by the National Gifted Children’s Association in 1967.
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A girl writes a letter to her boyfriend. Summer camp at Interlochen, Michigan, 1942 Boy writing a letter home, Camp Henry, New York, 1948
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The camp staff member is resting. Camp Henry, New York, 1948
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This is a boat station and holiday camp in Ontario, Canada. Not quite childish and not quite in the US, but a snapshot of the same time – circa 1950.
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Girlfriends. Camp Christmas Seals at Haverstroe, New York, 1943
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Gymnastics at Elk Lake in Williamsburg, Michigan, 1956
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General meeting of children, parents and staff of Curry camp in Yosemite National Park, 1952
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— translated specially for fishki.
net
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Tags: children’s camp life in the USA How it was a vacation camp summer camp summer vacation old pictures old photos
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