
Photo courtesy of Living History Farms
Iowa is home to a variety of exciting and educational summer camps that cater to children of all ages and interests. From outdoor adventures to performing arts experiences, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Let’s explore the top 5 summer camps in Iowa that your kids won’t want to miss out on!
Camp High Hopes – A Haven for Special Needs (Sioux City)
Age Range: 5-95
Camp High Hopes in Sioux City, Iowa, shines as a beacon of joy and inclusivity, welcoming children with special needs into a world of endless possibilities and adventures. Designed with the utmost care and consideration, this summer camp ensures every camper feels valued and capable of achieving anything they set their minds to.
The camp’s rich variety of activities is thoughtfully tailored to meet the diverse needs and interests of its campers. From the thrill of horseback riding through serene trails to expressing creativity through arts and crafts, and exploring the natural beauty that surrounds the camp, there’s never a dull moment. Each activity is not just about having fun; it’s also about learning, growing, and overcoming challenges in a supportive community that celebrates every milestone.
For families interested in giving their children a summer filled with joy, learning, and unforgettable memories, Camp High Hopes is ready to welcome you. For more information on how to be a part of this incredible journey and to register, visit https://www.camphighhopes.com
Y Camp – Adventure Awaits in Boone (Boone & Des Monies)
Age Range: 7+
Y Camp beckons young adventurers to an unparalleled summer experience that promises to be both thrilling and enriching. This haven of exploration is where nature’s classroom opens its doors wide, inviting campers to dive into a world brimming with outdoor adventures and environmental education. At Y Camp, every day is an opportunity to learn, grow, and discover the wonders of the natural world in a supportive and dynamic environment.
Y Camp provides a variety of options: overnight camp, day camp, leadership programs, and family camps. Financial assistance is available to ensure that every camper has the opportunity to participate. For more details on how to join this adventure and to register, make your way to their website at https://www.y-camp.org/summer-camp
Living History Farms Camp – Time Travel to Fun (Urbandale)
Age Range: 5-14
Get ready to embark on a journey through time at Living History Farms Camp in Urbandale, Iowa, where history leaps off the pages and into the hands of eager young campers! This one-of-a-kind summer camp experience invites children to step back into the past and live the adventures that await in a world far removed from their own. With activities that blend education and fun, campers immerse themselves in Iowa’s rich agricultural history, engaging in a variety of hands-on activities that bring the past to life.
At Living History Farms Camp, history is anything but boring. Imagine your child donning period attire to churn butter, plant heirloom seeds, or participate in a spirited game of town ball, just as kids did over a century ago. These interactive experiences not only teach valuable lessons about how our ancestors lived and worked but also foster a deep appreciation for the ingenuity and resilience of past generations. It’s a chance to connect with history, not through a textbook, but through the actual sights, sounds, and smells of historical life.
Campers will journey through different eras, each offering unique insights and activities. They’ll learn traditional crafts, explore historical buildings, and even interact with costumed interpreters who bring history to life through stories and demonstrations. This vibrant reenactment of the past encourages campers to ask questions, engage in problem-solving, and think critically about the world around them.
For those interested in joining this extraordinary journey through time, more information is available at https://www.lhf.org/summer-2024/
Des Moines Performing Arts Camp – A Stage for Aspiring Stars (Des Moines)
Age Range: 8-14
If your child dreams of the spotlight, the Des Moines Performing Arts Camp is the perfect backdrop for their summer adventure. Nestled in the heart of Des Moines, Iowa, this camp offers an extraordinary blend of instruction, creativity, and performance opportunities designed to ignite passion and polish the skills of young performers.
The camp offers six week-long sessions, each of which culminate in a final performance on the last day of the session. From improvisation workshops to musical theatre production numbers, campers will explore the vast landscape of the performing arts, all while being part of an ensemble that values teamwork and mutual respect. To embark on this captivating journey and for more information on enrollment for the summer, interested families are invited to visit https://desmoinesperformingarts.org/classes-camps/
Iowa 4-H Camps – Exploring and Learning in the Great Outdoors
Age Range: 5-19
Iowa 4-H Camps offer an unparalleled summer experience that combines the thrill of exploration with the joy of learning. If your child is passionate about nature, eager to develop new skills, or looking to forge unforgettable friendships, then look no further. Iowa 4-H Camps are ready to deliver a summer filled with growth, fun, and adventure. With a focus on personal growth, environmental appreciation, and community building, these camps promise a summer experience like no other. For those ready to embark on this extraordinary outdoor adventure, visit https://www.extension.iastate.edu/4h/.
Read More: Iowa arcades & drive-ins for maximum nostalgia
This story was generated in part by AI and edited by The Iowa Starting Line staff.

7 Iowa zipline adventures for every thrill level
Iowa’s many ziplines offer experiences ranging from heart-pumping to relaxing. Discover the Iowa zipline best suited for your preferred thrill...

River rafting in Iowa: What to know & where to go
Interested in river rafting in Iowa? To help you plan your next trip, here’s a list of some of the best spots, along with other helpful info you...

Things to do as an adult in Iowa that rival summer camp fun
Do you miss the feeling of going away to summer camp now that you’re an adult? Here are some things to do as an adult that rival that level of fun....

Plenty of putt-putt: 11 mini golf courses in Eastern Iowa
Mini golf is a fun activity for people of all ages, especially on outdoor courses during the warmer months. Check out this list of mini golf courses...

Fly fishing in Iowa: 6 beautiful & bountiful spots
Fishing is a popular pastime, but fly fishing offers a distinct experience. Here's a list of the best places to go fly fishing in Iowa. Fly fishing...

Want to see wildflowers in Iowa? Head to these 8 trails
Spring has sprung, and Iowa is officially in bloom. Check out these eight trails for the best views of wildflowers in Iowa. “In Bloom” has been my...