Summer means camp for many Southwest Washington families. Fortunately, our area offers a large variety of summer camp options, from outdoorsy adventure to indoor engineering. Whether you want a lot of activity or just a little, check out these fun ideas near you.
And your need help find researching even more summer camp options, check out our handy summer camp directory!
Mount St. Helens Institute’s Family Camp
Unlike the traditional summer camp, Mount St. Helens Institute offers a summer camp opportunity for families with a two-night overnight camp for the entire family to explore and enjoy the art and science of nature. This opportunity is open to all ages and backgrounds, with the spectacular views from your camp at the Mount St. Helens Science and Learning Center Coldwater Campground, located about ¼- mile from the Science and Learning Center, which has indoor restrooms and running water.
If You Go
- Two-night overnight camp from Friday to Sunday June 27-29 and July 11-13
- Children 4 years of age or younger attend for free
- Sliding scale admission fees are available for families
Naydenov Gymnastics Camps
Naydenov Gymnastics is a Vancouver original boasting some pretty impressive alumni (think Jordan Chiles). Whether preschool or elementary school, these fun day camps are the perfect way to get the wiggles out this summer. The littlest campers will combine free play, gym time, songs and stories while older kids can experience obstacle courses, relays, crafts and free gym time, too.
If You Go
- Sessions are held June 16-August 18
- For ages 3-5 years, summer camp runs Tuesday-Thursday, 9 am-12 pm. The cost is $90 per week.
- For ages 6-12 years, summer camp runs Monday-Friday, 9 am-3 pm. The cost is $300 per week, or $75 by day.
LEGO Camp at the YMCA of Columbia-Willamette
The YMCA of the Columbia-Willamette offers a fantastic variety of day camps for all ages and interests. If you are looking for an alternative to traditional outdoor camps, consider one of the many LEGO camps offered this year from coding to engineering or simply some fun for tiny builders.
If You Go
- Check out SW Washington camp locations at the Battleground Community Center, the Clark County Family YMCA, Felida Elementary School, Salmon Creek UMC, and Vancouver United Church of Christ
- Dates vary beginning June 16 through August
- Prices vary by program, but a typical six-hour day program runs five days and costs $240 for members or $280 for nonmembers
Pedalheads Bike Camp
Kids can learn bike skills and safety at the East Vancouver Home Church location. From newbies to gearheads, the Pedalheads bike camp offers skill levels and bicycle safety skill for ages 4 and up (or 3 and up with private lessons).
If You Go
- Sessions available in late June and early July are grouped by age and skill.
- Three-hour half-day sessions start at $312 and 7-hour full-day sessions begin at $528 for a four-day camp.
- Before and after care is available for an additional fee.
Gardner School Summer Camp
Help your kids embrace their inner creativity. The Gardner School offers a large variety of art and science for kids from preschool to 8th grade. Try storytelling at a writing workshop or learn to craft the perfect dinner with other junior chefs. Take a turn at pottery, or painting, or digital art.
If You Go
- Registration is open now!
- Camp season runs from July 7-August 15
- Each camp runs for one week, Monday-Friday, 9 am – 3 pm and costs $365 per camp, plus additional material fees as listed.
- Camps support a variety of age groups, but preschool campers must be at least 3 years old and potty trained.
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