The summer is a great time to enjoy the outdoors and get into more physical activity. However, some kids would rather sit inside with a tablet. As childhood obesity is becoming a growing concern, weight loss summer camps for kids have emerged as an effective solution.
Weight loss summer camps designed for children blend fun, education, and support. They give children a unique environment without judgment where they can learn about nutrition, engage in physical activities, and build friendships.
If you’re interested in finding the best camp in your area, check out our roundup of the top weight loss summer camps for kids.
1. Camp Pocono Trails
Camp Pocono Trails is the most well-known weight loss camp for kids, with programs available for children between the ages of 7 and 18. It’s the premier weight loss camp found in the scenic Pocono Mountains of Pennsylvania. This unique retreat gives kids a nurturing environment where they can focus on reaching their weight loss goals.
Students take part in a variety of activities, including fitness classes, sports, swimming, and nature hikes. The combination of physical activity, nutritious eating, and positive lifestyle changes aims to help kids lose weight and keep it off. The professional staff includes nutritionists and fitness experts, ensuring that children receive expert advice and personalized support. Overall, this camp stands out for helping to empower young people to embrace healthier, more active lifestyles.
2. Camp Jump Start for Children and Teen
Camp Jump Start is another weight loss summer camp found in a serene natural setting. It was founded in 2003 in Imperial, Missouri. For over a decade, the camp has helped children and teens focus more on their physical, emotional, and social health. The camp helps boost self-esteem and confidence while giving children the tools needed to lose weight and improve their health.
The in-person summer camp includes multiple programs, including a four-week program and an eight-week program. The eight-week program is more likely to result in long-term weight loss, as it gives children more time to develop healthier lifestyle habits.
3. Camp New Heights Weight Loss Camps
Camp New Heights is a fitness and nutrition camp for children between the ages of 9 and 17. The camp has two-, four-, and six-week programs, giving you the flexibility to choose a program that fits your schedule. The camp is in Santa Barbara, California, and includes personalized training and guidance to help each child thrive.
You can also choose from three program tracks, including options for beginners, intermediate campers, and advanced campers. The beginner track is ideal for those wanting to lose weight. It includes instruction on the principles of nutrition, health, and exercise.
4. Forever Fit Summer Camp
Forever Fit Summer Camp offers a comprehensive health and fitness program for children. However, it’s not an overnight camp. Campers arrive during the day and go home in the evening. Yet, it stands out for offering access to a wealth of activities.
Some of the available camp activities include swimming, gardening, crafts, dancing, basketball, biking, hiking, and tennis. Students also participate in cooking and nutrition lessons. It’s in Indianapolis, Indiana, and includes fitness classes at the nearby Indianapolis Healthplex Gym. The weight loss program is held each year during the summer months and offers one of the most affordable options on this list.
5. New Image Camps
New Image Camps has over two decades of experience helping children lose weight and improve their health. It’s one of the most esteemed weight loss summer camps for kids, thanks to its track record and the committed staff. Campers receive personalized attention that can help build confidence and improve their health.
The programs are open to children, teens and young adults between the ages of 7 and 21. It’s located in Reeders, Pennsylvania. Activities include exercise classes and water activities, including boating, canoeing, jet skiing, and water skiing.
6. Walkabout Ridge
Walkabout Ridge is a popular weight loss summer camp found in the rugged Colorado landscape. It’s a boot camp-style program with options for adults and children. The camp focuses on combining adventure, culture, and weight loss education.
Campers can discover the spirit of exploration with a comprehensive wellness program that encourages scenic hikes and other outdoor activities. This includes outdoor survival skills workshops and fitness classes held outdoors. The camp is designed to help foster self-confidence and independence, along with promoting lifelong healthy habits. However, it’s more personal compared to other options, as only four campers are accepted per week.
7. Wellspring Camps
Wellspring Camps is a weight loss camp with locations in Florida and California. The camp offers weight loss programs for anyone between the ages of 10 and 26. The supportive, dynamic environment encourages participants to take control of their health. They can engage in a wide range of physical activities, including sports, fitness challenges, and wellness workshops.
Wellspring Camps also aims to help children, teens and young adults understand the impact of their lifestyle choices. The map instills practical skills for sustaining a healthy lifestyle. Campers learn more about nutrition and the importance of regular exercise.
8. Rites of Passage Wellness Camp
Rites of Passage was designed to provide direction for troubled teens. However, the camp eventually expanded to provide other programs, including a health and wellness program. The health and wellness camp at Rites of Passage is also focused on nutrition and healthy life choices.
Campers learn about nutritious foods and how to cook them. They also participate in individual therapy sessions, group therapy, and other forms of counseling. This holistic approach helps children and teens uncover the potential issues leading them to overeat or neglect their health. The camp is in Shelton, Washington, giving campers a serene setting without the distractions of the city.
9. Camp Shane – San Antonio
Camp Shane is a summer camp for children who want to lose weight. However, it’s not a boot camp-style retreat. The camp is designed to help children have fun. The idea is that making sure that children have a good time can help them care more about the process and remain engaged throughout their stay. They get to actively participate in their eating choices while learning more about proper nutrition.
Exercise and fitness are also incorporated into the program, which is held each summer near San Antonio, Texas. It’s an overnight camp with a wide range of fun activities for young campers.
10. Camp Pennbrook
Camp Pennbrook is one of the top girls-only weight loss camps in the US. It’s found in Newtown, Pennsylvania, and is available to girls between the ages of 8 and 21. Students can stay for two to seven weeks during the summer.
The all-inclusive resort includes room and board, with girls staying at the George Prep School. Students also receive healthy meals each day, professional health counseling, and access to a variety of exercise activities at the facility’s gym, pools, and outdoor fields. Students also go on a field trip to New York City for shopping and a Broadway show, helping to create an unforgettable experience.
You now have a variety of weight loss summer camps for kids to compare. To find the right one, make sure that the age range, available programs, and location fit the needs of you and your child. Together, you should compare options, read reviews, and learn more about each camp to make the best pick.