Best Summer Camps in Des Moines IA – Your Ultimate Guide

As summer approaches, Des Moines parents are on the lookout for fun and educational activities to keep their kids engaged. Enter the best summer camps โ€“ filled with tons of activities like sports, art, STEM, academics, and more! Whether your child is an aspiring artist, a budding scientist, a burgeoning athlete, or an adventurous spirit longing for outdoor escapades, Des Moines’s summer camps offer a plethora of opportunities to explore, learn, and grow.

real kids having fun at activities like sports, art, STEM, academics in summer camp in Des Moines

This article delves into the best summer camps across Des Moines, highlighting their unique programs, state-of-the-art facilities, and the unforgettable experiences they promise. From tech-savvy coding camps to traditional campfires under the stars, join us as we explore the ultimate destinations for your child’s summer adventure.

Best Summer Camps in Des Moines

Other Summer Camps in the Des Moines Area:

Science Center of Iowa Summer Camps:

Inspire curiosity and scientific inquiry at Science Center of Iowa Summer Camps, offering hands-on exploration of STEM subjects through interactive exhibits, experiments, and workshops focused on physics, chemistry, biology, and engineering.

Des Moines Parks and Recreation Department Summer Camps:

Join Des Moines Parks and Recreation Department Summer Camps for a diverse array of programs including sports, outdoor exploration, arts and crafts, and educational workshops, fostering physical activity, creativity, and personal growth.

Blank Park Zoo Safari Camps:

Embark on a wild adventure at Blank Park Zoo Safari Camps, where children explore the zoo, encounter exotic animals, and learn about wildlife conservation through hands-on activities and educational experiences.

Des Moines Botanical Garden Nature Camps:

Embark on a naturalist adventure at Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden Nature Camps, where children learn about local flora and fauna, ecosystems, and environmental conservation through nature walks, gardening activities, and hands-on exploration.

Des Moines Art Center Art Camps:

Unleash artistic talents and imagination at Des Moines Art Center Art Camps, where children explore various art forms, experiment with different techniques, and create their own masterpieces inspired by museum collections and artists.

Camp Fire Heart of Iowa Summer Camps:

Experience a summer of fun and friendship at Camp Fire Heart of Iowa Summer Camps, offering swimming, outdoor adventures, arts and crafts, and leadership development activities in a supportive and inclusive environment.

Des Moines Community Playhouse Summer Camps:

Discover the world of theater and performing arts at Des Moines Community Playhouse Theatre Camps, where children explore acting, singing, dance, and stagecraft, culminating in a performance for family and friends on the stage.

Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Iowa Summer Camps:

Experience a summer of enrichment and growth at Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Iowa Summer Camps, offering academic support, character development, sports, and recreational activities in a safe and nurturing environment.

Des Moines Performing Arts Summer Camps:

Des Moines Performing Arts Summer Camps offer a range of theater-related programs for children and teens. These camps provide participants with the opportunity to explore various aspects of performing arts, including acting, singing, dancing, and stagecraft. Campers work with professional instructors to develop their skills, culminating in a final performance to showcase their talents.

Des Moines Menace Soccer Summer Camp:

Des Moines Menace Soccer Summer Camp is designed for young soccer enthusiasts of all skill levels. The camp focuses on developing fundamental soccer skills, tactical understanding, and game-play experience through drills, scrimmages, and professional coaching. The camp aims to foster a love for the game while enhancing individual and team performance.

Living History Farms Day Camp:

Living History Farms Day Camp offers children a unique educational experience through hands-on activities that explore Iowa’s agricultural history. Campers engage in activities such as farming, gardening, historic crafts, and interactive lessons about pioneer life. The camp provides a fun and immersive way to learn about history and the environment.

Bricks 4 Kidz Des Moines Summer Camp:

Bricks 4 Kidz Des Moines Summer Camp offers STEM-focused programs where children can build and explore with LEGO bricks. The camp includes various themed activities and challenges that promote creativity, problem-solving, and engineering concepts. Participants work on exciting projects that combine learning and play in a stimulating environment.

Steve & Kate’s Camp Des Moines Summer Camp:

Steve & Kate’s Camp Des Moines Summer Camp provides a flexible and self-directed camp experience for children. Campers can choose from a wide range of activities, including arts and crafts, technology, sports, and cooking. The camp emphasizes creativity, independence, and self-expression, allowing children to explore their interests at their own pace.

YMCA of Greater Des Moines Summer Camp:

YMCA of Greater Des Moines Summer Camp offers a variety of day and overnight camp programs for children and teens. Activities include swimming, sports, arts and crafts, outdoor adventures, and team-building exercises. The camp focuses on promoting physical activity, social skills, and personal growth in a supportive community setting.

Blank Park Zoo Safari Camps:

Blank Park Zoo Safari Camps provide children with an exciting and educational wildlife experience. Campers learn about animals, conservation, and the natural world through interactive activities, games, and up-close encounters with zoo animals. The camp aims to inspire a love for wildlife and environmental stewardship in a fun and engaging way.

In Des Moines, Iowa, a variety of summer camps offer children opportunities for fun, learning, and personal growth. Whether exploring science and nature, engaging in hands-on art and theater activities, or participating in sports and literacy programs, there’s something for every child to enjoy during the summer months.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much do summer camps in Des Moines cost?

Day camps in Des Moines typically run between $100-$1,000 per week. This amount can vary tremendously based on location, activities, length of sessions, days of the week, food provided, and more. Typically, city and non-profit sponsored summer camps range from $100-$300 per week. Sports day camps are usually in the middle, ranging from $300-$700 per week. The top end of camps ranges from $700-$1000+ per week and usually includes activities such as coding, STEM, or niche sports such as horseback riding or squash.

How long are summer camps in Des Moines?

Summer day camps range anywhere from one week to eight weeks on average. Most camps are on week and last either Monday-Thursday or Monday-Friday. Some camps only run on certain days of the week, and some camps may have limited hours that do not cover an entire work day.

Are summer camps tax deductible?

In the United States, summer day camps receive even better treatment than being tax deductible - they may qualify for a tax credit. Under the Child Care and Dependent Care Tax Credit, you may be able to receive a credit against your taxes provided the following conditions are met:

  • Child attends a day camp so you can work or look for work
  • You have earned income during the tax year
  • Child is under the age of 13
  • Identify the summer camp provide on your tax return

What do you do at summer camps in Des Moines?

At day camp, kids and teens enjoy a variety of fun and enriching activities throughout the day before returning home each evening. Our programs include outdoor adventures like hiking, swimming, and sports, as well as creative pursuits such as arts and crafts, music, and drama. Campers also participate in team-building exercises, nature exploration, and themed events. Guided by experienced counselors, children develop new skills, discover interests, and make new friends in a supportive and dynamic environment. Each day is packed with excitement and learning, ensuring campers have a memorable and rewarding summer experience.

Is summer camp worth it?

Absolutely, summer camp is worth it! The experience provides invaluable benefits that extend beyond just having fun. Campers develop important life skills such as independence, teamwork, and resilience, all while making new friends and creating cherished memories. The variety of activities offeredโ€”from sports and outdoor adventures to arts and craftsโ€”helps children discover new interests and talents. Guided by dedicated counselors, campers also learn leadership and problem-solving skills in a supportive environment. The personal growth, confidence, and joy that campers gain make summer camp a worthwhile investment in their development and happiness.