Best Summer Camps in Ithaca NY – Your Ultimate Guide

As summer approaches, Ithaca NY 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, Ithaca NY’s summer camps offer a plethora of opportunities to explore, learn, and grow.

kids having fun at summer camp in Ithaca NY

This article delves into the best summer camps across Ithaca NY, 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 Ithaca NY

Other Summer Camps in the Ithaca NY Area:

Ithaca Youth Bureau Summer Camps:

Ithaca Youth Bureau offers a variety of summer camps including sports camps, outdoor adventures, and arts and crafts programs, providing campers with opportunities for physical activity, creativity, and socialization in a supportive environment.

Hangar Theatre Summer Sessions:

Hangar Theatre offers theater classes, improv workshops, and performance opportunities, allowing campers to explore their creativity, develop their acting skills, and stage their own productions.

Cayuga Nature Center Summer Camp:

Cayuga Nature Center offers outdoor adventures, nature hikes, and environmental education activities, allowing campers to connect with nature, learn about local ecosystems, and participate in conservation efforts.

Ithaca Children’s Garden Summer Camp:

Ithaca Children’s Garden offers gardening workshops, outdoor games, and nature crafts, providing campers with opportunities to learn about plants, ecosystems, and sustainable gardening practices.

YMCA of Ithaca and Tompkins County Summer Camps:

The YMCA of Ithaca and Tompkins County offers a variety of summer camps including day camps, specialty camps, and overnight camps, providing campers with opportunities for outdoor adventures, skill-building activities, and character development in a safe and inclusive environment.

Acorn Summer Camp Acorn Nature School:

Acorn Summer Camp at Acorn Nature School offers children an immersive experience in nature, promoting hands-on learning and environmental stewardship through outdoor activities and exploration.

Sciencenter Summer Camps:

Sciencenter Summer Camps provide an engaging environment for kids to explore the wonders of science with interactive exhibits, experiments, and STEM-focused activities.

IC3 Summer Camp:

IC3 Summer Camp combines creative technology and innovative projects to inspire children to develop coding, engineering, and problem-solving skills in a fun, collaborative setting.

Camp Coddington:

Camp Coddington offers a traditional summer camp experience with a wide range of activities including sports, arts and crafts, and outdoor adventures, fostering personal growth and lifelong friendships.

Ithaca Children’s Garden Acorns Summer Camp:

Ithaca Children’s Garden Acorns Summer Camp connects kids with nature through gardening, wildlife exploration, and sustainable practices, encouraging a deep appreciation for the environment.

These summer camps in Ithaca, NY, offer a variety of enriching experiences for children, from outdoor adventures and arts exploration to STEM education and sports activities, providing opportunities for learning, growth, and fun during the summer months in the vibrant community of Ithaca.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

How much do summer camps in Ithaca cost?

Day camps in Ithaca 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 Ithaca?

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 Ithaca?

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.