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Looking for the perfect summer outlet in Iowa? Camps here offer everything from engineering projects to music lessons, from study skills workshops to basketball games. With options spanning STEM, arts, academics, and sports, kids can spend summer engaged, inspired, and having fun. We’ve gathered the top camps in Iowa below to help you get started.

Best Summer Camps in Iowa

Des Moines, Iowa

Steve & Kate’s Camp (Des Moines)

We believe that when you trust kids, they learn to trust themselves, and develop a creative confidence that will help them unleash their true potential. So since 1989, Steve & Kate’s has offered summer day camps where kids choose their own

Decorah, Iowa

Breakthrough Basketball Camps at Decorah High School

Multi-day basketball camps for boys and girls of all ages and skill levels. ✅ Average instructor satisfaction rating of 9.3 out of 10 ✅ Over 300 camps across the United States ✅ 100,000+ camp attendees since 2012 Founded in 2006,

Albia, Iowa

Breakthrough Basketball Camps at Albia High School

Bellevue, Iowa

Breakthrough Basketball Camps at Bellevue High Middle School

Des Moines, Iowa

Breakthrough Basketball Camps at Hoover High School

Humboldt, Iowa

Breakthrough Basketball Camps at Humboldt Recreation Center

Norwalk, Iowa

Breakthrough Basketball Camps at City State Bank Norwalk Fieldhouse

Dubuque, Iowa

Breakthrough Basketball Camps at Clarke University

Clear Lake, Iowa

Breakthrough Basketball Camps at Clear Lake Athletics & Wellness Center

Clinton, Iowa

Breakthrough Basketball Camps at Clinton High School

Winthrop, Iowa

Breakthrough Basketball Camps at East Buchanan High School

Cedar Rapids, Iowa

Breakthrough Basketball Camps at Elevate Sports

Coralville, Iowa

Breakthrough Basketball Camps at GreenState Family Fieldhouse

Cedar Falls, Iowa

Breakthrough Basketball Camps at FIT Courts

Council Bluffs, Iowa

Breakthrough Basketball Camps at Iowa West Fieldhouse

West Des Moines, Iowa

Breakthrough Basketball Camps at MidAmerican Energy RecPlex

Peosta, Iowa

Breakthrough Basketball Camps at Peosta Community Center

Ankeny, Iowa

Breakthrough Basketball Camps at Prairie Trail Sports Complex Fieldhouse

Waukee, Iowa

Breakthrough Basketball Camps at Sportsplex West Courts

Winterset, Iowa

Breakthrough Basketball Camps at Winterset Middle School

North Liberty, Iowa

Breakthrough Basketball Camps at The Palestra

West Des Moines, Iowa

School of Rock West Des Moines

School of Rock is the world’s leading music education program for all ages and skill levels. Using a unique, performance-based approach, students start playing the songs they love from day one – on guitar, bass, drums, keys, or vocals. Our

Marion, Iowa

School of Rock Cedar Rapids/Marion

Ankeny, Iowa

School of Rock Ankeny

Cedar Rapids, Iowa

Camp Invention at All Saints Catholic School

Camp Invention’s all-new 2025 program: Discover For 35 years, the National Inventors Hall of Fame® has brought hands-on STEM experiences to K-6 students across the country through its flagship summer program, Camp Invention®. This weeklong camp sparks creativity and boosts

Solon, Iowa

Camp Invention at Solon Middle School, Iowa

Altoona, Iowa

Camp Invention at Lutheran Church of the Cross, Iowa

Bettendorf, Iowa

Camp Invention at Mark Twain Elementary School, Iowa

Polk City, Iowa

Camp Invention at Big Creek Elementary, Iowa

Harlan, Iowa

Camp Invention at Harlan Cmty Primary School, Iowa

Winterset, Iowa

Camp Invention at Winterset Elementary School, Iowa

Adel, Iowa

Camp Invention at Adel-De Soto-Minburn Mid Sch, Iowa

Waterloo, Iowa

Camp Invention at Lou Henry Elementary School, Iowa

Waterloo, Iowa

Camp Invention at Lincoln Elementary School, Iowa

Decorah, Iowa

Camp Invention at Decorah Middle School, Iowa

Washington, Iowa

Camp Invention at Stewart Elementary School, Iowa

Gilbert, Iowa

Camp Invention at Gilbert Intermediate School, Iowa

Waukee, Iowa

Camp Invention at Timberline School, Iowa

Clear Lake, Iowa

Camp Invention at Clear Creek Elementary School, Iowa

Nevada, Iowa

Camp Invention at Nevada High School, Iowa

Waverly, Iowa

Snow Valley Iowa Basketball Schools at Wartburg College

Directed by USA Basketball Coach Don Showalter, Sports Illustrated recognizes Snow Valley Iowa as one of the nation’s top basketball camps. Improve your fundamental, positional, and team play skills in this high-energy environment with players of similar skill sets in

Des Moines, Iowa

Nike Volleyball Camp at Des Moines Area Community College

These summer volleyball camps provide players with the opportunity to work on their individual, position-specific, and team skills. Camps are held during the summer and offer programs for players of all skill levels looking to take their game to the

Cedar Rapids, Iowa

Nike Softball Camp Coe College

Nike Softball Camps is thrilled to announce camp at Coe College. Join us at Clark Softball Stadium and improve all aspects of your game. This camp gives softball players of all abilities, the opportunity to continue playing softball this summer!

Johnston, Iowa

Camp Invention at Johnston CSD-Location TBD

Huxley, Iowa

Camp Invention at Ballard Middle School

Ankeny, Iowa

Camp Invention at Ankeny School District – Location TBD

Ottumwa, Iowa

Camp Invention at Fahrney Elementary School

Dubuque, Iowa

Camp Invention at Marshall Elementary School

Ottumwa, Iowa

Camp Invention at Wilson Elementary School

West Point, Iowa

Camp Invention at Holy Trinity School

Atlantic, Iowa

Camp Invention at Washington Elementary

Des Moines, Iowa

Camp Invention at Edmunds Elementary School

Davenport, Iowa

Nike Soccer Camp at St. Ambrose University

Des Moines, Iowa

Camp Invention at Bergman Academy

Earlham, Iowa

Camp Invention at Earlham Elementary School

Council Bluffs, Iowa

Camp Invention at Titan Hill Intermediate School

Waverly, Iowa

Camp Invention at Waverly-Shell Rock Middle School

West Point, Iowa

Camp Invention at Holy Trinity School

Atlantic, Iowa

Camp Invention at Washington Elementary

Iowa City, Iowa

Iowa Lakeside Laboratory Summer Camps

The summer camps at Iowa Lakeside Laboratory cater to students from PreK (4-year-olds) up to 9th grade, focusing on outdoor exploration and scientific discovery. Children attending these camps gain hands-on experience in nature, encouraging their curiosity and understanding of the

West Des Moines, Iowa

Des Moines University Medicine and Health Sciences Programs

Des Moines University provides a comprehensive suite of programs to engage students from elementary school through college in the fields of medicine and health sciences. Starting with GEMS and BROS programs for fourth through seventh graders, the university offers interactive

Des Moines, Iowa

Norwoodville Summer Day Camp

Norwoodville Summer Day Camp is an engaging day camp program designed for youth ages 6 to 12 who enjoy outdoor play and creative activities like crafts and organized games. Situated at the Norwoodville Community Center in Des Moines, this camp

Des Moines, Iowa

Iowa United Methodist Camps & Retreats

The Iowa United Methodist Camps & Retreats provide engaging summer camp sessions focusing on Christian leadership development and personal growth. These camps create a secure and welcoming atmosphere, helping campers connect with peers and explore their faith. Activities and curriculum

Sheldon, Iowa

Northwest Iowa Community College Summer Camps

Northwest Iowa Community College presents summer camps focused on career awareness and skill development for youth in grades 5 through 12. These camps offer practical exposure in fields like paramedics, drone piloting, survival skills, and forensic investigation through hands-on activities.

Decorah, Iowa

Dorian Music Camps

Join Dorian Music Camps and connect with hundreds of middle and high school students from across the Midwest. Under the tutelage of Luther College faculty, campers can develop their musical abilities and participate in ensemble performances. This camp provides an

West Des Moines, Iowa

YMCA of Greater Des Moines Summer Day Camp

The YMCA of Greater Des Moines presents a summer day camp designed to turn every day into an exciting and educational experience for children. Campers can register for individual weeks or for the full summer season across three locations: West

Dubuque, Iowa

Clarke University Summer Camps

The Clarke University Summer Camps for 2025 present an extensive variety of programs tailored to different age ranges and interests. The Summer Literacy Camp helps young readers enhance their skills through interactive methods, welcoming all students entering grades 1 through

Des Moines, Iowa

Business Horizons 2025

The Business Horizons program is a summer camp focused on introducing high school students to the world of business. Held at Drake University in Des Moines, Iowa from July 13 to 17, 2025, this program provides an immersive experience into

Des Moines, Iowa

Camp Sunnyside

Camp Sunnyside provides a comprehensive summer camp program tailored for children and young adults with disabilities, fostering an inclusive and nurturing environment. The variety of offerings includes supported day camps for ages 5-12, bridge camps with different staffing ratios, teen

Waterloo, Iowa

Allen College Summer Health Careers Camp

Allen College offers a dynamic Summer Health Careers Camp that is a free, one-week experience aimed at high school students interested in nursing and healthcare fields. It supports about 20 participants and offers a mix of interactive classroom sessions and

Des Moines, Iowa

Camp Hertko Hollow

Located at the YMCA in Boone, Iowa, Camp Hertko Hollow is dedicated to serving youth aged 6 to 17 with diabetes through a balanced approach of education and recreation. This camp aims to build confidence and independence by teaching essential

St. Charles, Iowa

The Ranch Summer Camp

The Ranch Summer Camp is committed to transforming the lives of at-risk youth by providing a nurturing environment filled with hope, healing, and the love of God. This summer camp offers fully funded scholarships enabling children to participate in enriching

Boone, Iowa

Des Moines Y Camp

Experience a summer of fun and personal growth at Des Moines Y Camp, where each camper develops confidence, independence, and strong friendships rooted in values of respect and responsibility. The camp offers sessions for various age groups: Mini Camp introduces

Farmington, Iowa

River Valley Horsecamp

Situated in the scenic environment of Southeast Iowa, River Valley Horsecamp and Lodge offers visitors a tranquil retreat immersed in nature. Established through the vision and hard work of Steve and Carolyn Kokjohn, the horsecamp features a western-themed atmosphere that

Lucas, Iowa

Singing Mesa Ranch

Founded in late 2015, Singing Mesa Ranch has gradually expanded its facilities to include both horse boarding and camping accommodations. The ranch features extensive trail networks totaling 20 miles for riding and walking, plus ample stabling options such as indoor

Strawberry Point, Iowa

EWALU Ranch Horse Camp

At EWALU Ranch Camp, campers embark on a faith-based equestrian journey that combines horsemanship with character development. The camp’s foundation is built around putting God first and maintaining safety as a priority. Participants engage in comprehensive horse education, covering grooming,

Sidney, Iowa

Horse Creek Adventures

Situated in the stunning Loess Hills of Sidney, Iowa, Horse Creek Adventures invites guests to immerse themselves in a vast 170-acre ranch environment where wildlife and scenic views abound. This guest ranch and horseback riding camp offers a blend of

Hampton, Iowa

Reborn Ranch

At Reborn Ranch in Hampton, Iowa, young campers engage in a unique two-week overnight camp experience focused on faith, ranch life, and practical skills. As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, the camp offers its programs at no fixed cost, welcoming youth from

Des Moines, Iowa

Our Heritage Guest Ranch

Located in the remote region of northwest Nebraska near Crawford, Our Heritage Guest Ranch provides a rare immersive experience where visitors can live and work alongside a working ranch. Founded by Jean Norman, the ranch invites guests to engage in

Ames, Iowa

NASA Astro Camp

NASA Astro Camp provides an out-of-this-world experience for students interested in space and science. Campers engage in hands-on activities related to space exploration, astronomy, and engineering, guided by NASA’s educational resources and experienced instructors. The camp aims to inspire the

Des Moines, Iowa

DMACC Summer Camps

Des Moines Area Community College (DMACC) offers a variety of Summer Camps that focus on STEM subjects. These camps provide students with the opportunity to explore fields such as robotics, computer programming, and engineering through hands-on projects and interactive lessons,

Des Moines, Iowa

TechJourney Summer Camps

TechJourney Summer Camps are designed to empower students with essential technology skills. Through workshops on coding, web development, and digital media, participants gain practical experience and knowledge. The camps also emphasize problem-solving and critical thinking, preparing students for future careers

Des Moines, Iowa

Camp Invention – Des Moines Location

Camp Invention in Des Moines offers a week-long adventure in creativity and innovation. Through hands-on STEM activities, children develop inventive thinking and problem-solving skills. Each year’s camp features new modules that allow campers to explore science, technology, engineering, and mathematics

West Des Moines, Iowa

TigerLily STEM Camps

TigerLily STEM Camps provide immersive experiences in science, technology, engineering, and math for students of all ages. With a focus on interactive learning and real-world applications, these camps offer activities such as coding, robotics, and engineering projects, helping students build

Des Moines, Iowa

Science Center of Iowa Summer Camps

The Science Center of Iowa Summer Camps offer a wide range of STEM-focused programs for children. Campers engage in hands-on science experiments, technology projects, and engineering challenges, all designed to foster curiosity and a love for learning. These camps provide

Cedar Rapids, Iowa

Good Shepherd’s STEM Bible Camp

Good Shepherd’s STEM Bible Camp combines faith-based education with STEM learning, offering a unique summer experience for children. Campers engage in hands-on activities that incorporate principles of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics, all within a biblical framework. The camp aims

Marion, Iowa

STEAM On Summer Programs

STEAM On Summer Programs provide a comprehensive educational experience focused on Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics. These camps offer a variety of hands-on activities and projects designed to inspire creativity and critical thinking. Campers will have the opportunity to

Cedar Rapids, Iowa

TCR Summer Camps

TCR Summer Camps feature a dedicated STEAM Week where children can dive into exciting projects that blend science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics. The camp encourages problem-solving, creativity, and teamwork through interactive workshops and hands-on experiments. STEAM Week at TCR

Marion, Iowa

Snapology of Hiawatha STEAM Summer Camps

Snapology of Hiawatha STEAM Summer Camps offer a fun and educational experience focused on building and creating with LEGO bricks and other interactive materials. Campers will participate in activities that develop their skills in engineering, robotics, and computer programming. The

Cedar Rapids, Iowa

Summit Schools Summer Camps

Summit Schools Summer Camps provide a variety of programs that incorporate STEAM education into a broader summer camp experience. Campers can choose from a range of activities, including science experiments, art projects, and technology workshops. The camps aim to foster

Cedar Rapids, Iowa

KICK Summer Camps

KICK Summer Camps offer dynamic and engaging programs that focus on physical activity, creativity, and intellectual growth. With a strong emphasis on STEAM education, campers participate in activities that range from sports and outdoor adventures to science experiments and technology

Sioux City, Iowa

Junior Pilot Summer Camp

Junior Pilot Summer Camp offers a hands-on, educational aviation experience spread over two days, focusing on flight fundamentals, airport operations, and practical flight planning skills. Conducted at an air museum, the camp operates Thursday and Friday from 9:00 am to

Ankeny, Iowa

Iowa Aviation Youth Rally

The Iowa Aviation Youth Rally offers a unique, half-day experience aimed at educating young people about various aspects of aviation. Hosted by the Iowa Aviation Promotion Group with the help of partners like Iowa Space Grant Consortium and the Iowa

Ames, Iowa

Central Iowa Air Service Summer Ground School 2019

Central Iowa Air Service is conducting a 6-week summer ground school course aimed at individuals seeking their Private Pilot’s license. Starting on June 19th, 2019, the program offers an extensive curriculum over six weeks, including a flight lesson to introduce

Estherville, Iowa

Air Force JROTC Flight Academy at Iowa Lakes

Iowa Lakes Community College’s Air Force JROTC Flight Academy is a prestigious eight-week summer camp for high school students aiming to obtain their FAA Private Pilot certificate and launch their aviation careers. This program combines classroom learning, flight simulator practice,

Des Moines, Iowa

Vertical Vision Flight Academy

At Vertical Vision Flight Academy, aspiring pilots receive comprehensive flight training designed for maximum efficiency and affordability. The academy boasts a robust network of Designated Pilot Examiners ensuring students can schedule checkrides without extended delays. Training is delivered through small,

Council Bluffs, Iowa

Iowa Western Community College Summer Camps

Iowa Western Community College presents its summer camp program tailored for middle and high school students, featuring a variety of interactive workshops including robotics, welding, CAD design, and aircraft maintenance. Participants get the chance to build circuits, operate flight simulators,

Ames, Iowa

Veterinary Internship Summer Programs

Since 2006, the Veterinary Internship Summer Programs have provided veterinary students with invaluable hands-on experience by working directly with experienced food animal veterinarians. Students have the chance to engage with various sectors such as swine, beef, dairy, and poultry industries,

Dubuque, Iowa

2024 DRHS Vet Camp

2024 DRHS Vet Camp is dedicated to providing an enriching summer experience focused on veterinary medicine. Participants get to engage in interactive learning sessions about animal health and veterinary practices. The camp emphasizes hands-on education, allowing attendees to gain practical

Des Moines, Iowa

SCI Summer Camps

At SCI Summer Camps, children dive into the wonders of science through interactive and hands-on learning experiences. Campers engage in experiments and collaborative problem-solving in an informal setting that encourages their natural curiosity. The Vet Tech camp exemplifies the camp’s

Summer in Iowa offers more than just free time. With opportunities for kids to explore STEM, unleash their creativity in the arts, engage in academics, and participate in sports, there’s something for everyone. Whether it’s at local universities or community centers, families can discover the best summer camps across Iowa to ensure a season of growth and fun.

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