Wondering Where to Send Your Kids to Camp this Summer?
Warm days may seem like just a dream while we are still bundled up in our bulky coats in Southwest Michigan.
But, no worries. Warmer weather promises to be here before we know it.
And since that is the case, many families are already looking ahead to summer. Have you had a moment to solidify your summer plans? Lock in summer camps now for the kids, before the warm weather hits and you’re outdoors, soaking it all up.
Mega List of Summer Camps in Kalamazoo + Southwest Michigan for 2020
In your vacation and summer day planning, be sure to include fun and exciting learning opportunities for the kids. Make this summer a memorable one and register for one (or more) of the amazing summer camps listed in our Kalamazoo Summer Camps Guide.
Use this guide to pore through performing arts, sports, STEAM, specialty, and day camps. We have camps for all ages and every interest just waiting for your child this summer.
Act fast – camp spots fill up quickly!
Thanks to Sherman Lake YMCA, our 2020 Camp Guide Title Sponsor (CAMP CANCELED FOR 2020)
Sherman Lake YMCA Camp
You belong here at Sherman Lake YMCA Camp – conveniently located off 1-94 in Augusta, Michigan, approximately 2.5 hours from Chicago.
With over 365 acres of woodlands, prairie, and pristine lakefront, there’s no end to the adventure for summer campers. Fun activities abound such as swimming, hiking, archery, arts, boating, indoor and outdoor climbing, sports, horseback riding, ropes courses, and free-play.
State of the art facilities include all-season carpeted cabins, each with a shower and bath plus an indoor recreation center and pool.
At Sherman Lake YMCA Camp, campers experience the power of living through HCRR (Hicker). The Y’s four core values – Honesty, Caring, Respect, Responsibility – are emphasized in each camp program.
Our camp programs offer choices and challenges, providing a summer of growth for your child and an experience that lasts a lifetime!
There’s something new and different each week and each year. That’s why campers keep coming back to Sherman Lake YMCA Summer Camp. Accredited by the American Camp Association.
CONTACT INFORMATION:
6225 N. 39th St. | Augusta, MI 49012 | 269-731-3000
WEBSITE | FACEBOOK | EMAIL
Get the Scoop on Kalamazoo Summer Camps Here
To use our guide, click on + in the table below for each camp description.
*this is a sponsored section of KZOOkids.com
Have you ever wondered why Pop Rocks pop? Or wanted to solve your very own mystery?! You can experience all that and more at our summer camp programs.
Choose from a variety of science-based, day camp programs that engage and inspire children to learn about the exciting world of science, technology, engineering, art, and math (STEAM). Utilizing fun, exciting, and highly interactive programming, Air Zoo educators guide young minds through creative and inquiry-based hands-on activities and interactive experiences that will instill a lifelong passion for learning.
Campers will have a chance to explore the exhibits, enjoy full-motion flight simulators, indoor rides and more! Come imagine, explore and discover – at the Air Zoo!
CONTACT INFORMATION:
6151 Portage Rd | Portage, MI 49002 | 269-350-2848
WEBSITE | FACEBOOK | EMAIL
2020 UPDATE: Although the regular camp season has been cancelled due to COVID-19, KNC is offering day camp options:
Primary Camp: Grades 1-5 | Weekly Sessions held Monday-Thursday, 8:30 am – Noon July 6 – August 27
Adventure Camp: Grades 6-8 | Weekly Sessions held Fridays, 7-10 pm July 10 – August 28
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Go on an adventure this summer at KNC Camp! Swoosh down the giant Slip ‘n Slide, splash around in Nature’s Playground and visit with our farmyard friends. Older campers will enjoy the zip line, on- and off-site adventure treks and campouts.
With miles of hiking trails winding through prairie, forest, streams and wetlands, kids will enjoy sessions from dinosaurs to adventure skills and everything in between!
Weekly camps kick off June 15 for kindergarten through age 17.
Learn more and register here.
CONTACT INFORMATION:
7000 N. Westnedge Avenue | Kalamazoo, MI 49009 | 269-381-1574
WEBSITE | FACEBOOK | EMAIL
Van Buren Youth Camp is a non-profit, co-ed, residential summer camp program serving youth ages 6-18. Our focus is on leadership and service.
We are located in Bloomingdale, Michigan, among deciduous forests, streams, hiking trails, protected wetlands, a full 100 acres along the shoreline of Great Bear Lake.
Traditional camp programming allows for youth to develop decision-making skills, build lifelong friendships, and explore their leadership potential. Our high school leadership program is the longest continuously running leadership program in the state of Michigan. Our Staff and Counselors make a huge commitment each year to bring the magical world of camp alive for your children.
We offer full and partial scholarships – our Campership Program – for families who need that support.
CONTACT INFORMATION:
12370 45th Street | Bloomingdale, MI 49026 | 269-267-9586
WEBSITE | FACEBOOK | EMAIL
4-H Camp Kidwell is state licensed, American Camp Association accredited, located in Bloomingdale, Michigan. We are set on beautiful Eagle Lake featuring 150 beautiful acres.
Our overnight and day camp programs offer children ages 4-16 the chance to learn about themselves, develop cooperation skills, challenge themselves by stepping outside of their comfort zones, explore nature, make friends, have fun, become more independent and grow as individuals.
The magic of attending 4-H Camp Kidwell includes horseback riding, swimming, arts and crafts, rock climbing, water trampoline, campfire songs, canoeing, archery, sports and so much more. We would love for your family to join us for ”ADVENTURE AWAITS SUMMER 2020!”
We offer a financial assistance program to those in need. Check out our website for more details!
CONTACT INFORMATION:
39000 1st Ave | Bloomingdale, MI 49026 | 269-521-3559
WEBSITE | FACEBOOK | EMAIL
UPDATE:
Due to COVID-19 safety guidelines, Public Media Network has made the difficult decision to cancel our in-person camps for the rest of the summer.
Register here: https://www.
We will also be running the ‘Getting Started with Animation’ virtual camp. The dates are August 24-28 starting at 10:00 AM via zoom.
Register here: https://www.
Youth ages 8 years old and up learn everything to create their own media productions using professional media production equipment and facilities. Public Media Network Media Camp themes include creating your own television show, become a YouTuber, iPad movie-making/stop-motion animation, and tell your story/create a newscast.
The S.T.E.A.M. week of hands-on media making ends with a celebration screening and airing of content on Public Media Network’s distribution platforms. Instead of watching television this summer, spend time creating it.
Scholarships are available for people who live in the City of Kalamazoo, Kalamazoo Township. Oshtemo Township, Comstock Township and the City of Parchment. Explore the world of media at Public Media Network this summer.
CONTACT INFORMATION:
359 South Kalamazoo Mall | Suite 300 | Kalamazoo, MI 49007 | 269-343-2211
WEBSITE | FACEBOOK | EMAIL
AppleTree & Gilden Woods Early Care and Preschool Summer Explorer program offers a school-age day camp during elementary school breaks so your family routine can stay consistent throughout the year.
Our brand new Water Works themed curriculum will keep your child’s mind active during the summer. We provide outdoor and indoor activities, crafts, plenty of exciting group games in addition to many field trips to local attractions.
CONTACT INFORMATION:
Otsego – 909 Dix Street | Otsego, MI 49078 | 269-692-3675
Kalamazoo – 4620 Arboretum Parkway | Kalamazoo, MI 49006 | 269-459-9301
Portage – 1518 East Centre Avenue | Portage, MI 49002 | 269-359-1115
WEBSITE
Join southwest Michigan’s premier professional dance company for Summer at Wellspring with creative programs for ages 3 and up. Wellspring offers week-long, ½ day camps for little ones that include dance and arts activities and culminate with an informal performance at the end of the week.
Our dance intensive, instructed by one of our professional company members, gives older students a focused experience on learning and creating dance. Our programs focus on collaboration, problem-solving, and developing imaginative thinkers.
Registration opens March 16 for programs that begin July 6. Limited scholarship funding is available and applications are due June 1.
CONTACT INFORMATION:
359 S. Kalamazoo Mall | Suite 204 | Kalamazoo, MI 49007 | 269-342-4354
WEBSITE | EMAIL
Crescendo has music for infants to adults. In addition to private lessons, we have Crescendo Fiddles, Music Together, chamber ensembles, Masterclasses, Workshops, Epic Broadway! Musical Theater Camp and more this summer! See our website for all the details.
CONTACT INFORMATION:
359 S. Kalamazoo Mall | Suite 12 | Kalamazoo, MI 49007 | 269-345-6664
WEBSITE | FACEBOOK | EMAIL
Looking for something for your kids to do all summer, but sick of the ordinary?
Check out Camp Kzoo! With nine different weeks of special activities and trips to fit each theme, your child is sure to have a blast.
Registration fee covers the cost to all Kik Pool, Rollerworld, Continental Lanes and K-10 Movie Theater trips.
Early Morning Drop-Off is available for Camp Kzoo Campers and they will be transported to their site in a City vehicle after breakfast, if needed.
Weekly registration required for Camp Kzoo and Early Morning Drop-Off. Breakfast and lunch provided daily.
CONTACT INFORMATION:
Mayors’ Riverfront Park | 251 Mills Street | Kalamazoo, MI 49048
Youth Development Center | 230 E. Crosstown Pkwy | Kalamazoo, MI 49001
269-337-8191
WEBSITE | FACEBOOK | EMAIL
** Although all traditional camps are canceled for 2020, GSHOM will be offering Camp Reimagined over the course of five weeks. As a virtual camper, girls will receive a weekly subscription box that includes everything they need for that week of virtual camp, two daily Zoom calls, a camp counselor, and the opportunity to make new friends – just like they would at overnight camp or day camp.**
Girl Scouts Heart of Michigan Camps offer high-adventure, safe programming in an all-girl space where your girl can be herself, take risks, and grow her leadership skills, all while having fun with friends!
With locations in Plainwell, Linden and Brooklyn, we have so many options for your girl to choose her ideal summer adventure. No matter her age or experience with camp, we have an option for her. Check out our website for a preview of all the options available for your girl! P.S.: She doesn’t need to be a Girl Scout to attend!
CONTACT INFORMATION:
Multiple addresses, choose a site that’s right for you! | 800-497-2688
WEBSITE | FACEBOOK | EMAIL
Gilmore Piano Camp offers day and overnight options for piano-specific programs in a natural outdoor setting. Receive a well-rounded musical experience, focused on classical piano training, with a wide range of elective options and camp activities. The Gilmore’s summer music camp is for pianists of all levels of experience.
This year’s camp theme: PIANOLYMPICS: Do you have what it takes to be a piano-champion? Participate in piano-based games and challenges, while celebrating the music of different cultures. More information about the theme, registration, and virtual placement auditions for Gilmore Piano Camp is on The Gilmore’s website.
CONTACT INFORMATION:
Sherman Lake YMCA | 6225 N. 39th St | Augusta, MI 49012 | 269-342-1166
WEBSITE | FACEBOOK | EMAIL
Your children will find fun, friends, and creative expression (and bring home beautiful examples of their artwork EVERY DAY) at our 5-day art camps at the KIA’s Kirk Newman Art School.
Morning sessions for AGES 4-K start June 17 & 23, July 8 & 22
For GRADES 1-5, find full & half days through Aug 2 (except July 1)
For AGES 9-12: Toy & Model Design Camp (2-4:30 PM, July 8)
For AGS 11-16: Mixed Media Art Camp (July 15 & July 29)
For AGES 12-17: Teen Filmmaking Camp (10:00 AM-2:30 PM , June 24 & July 22)
Join the KIA to enjoy tuition discounts.
CONTACT INFORMATION:
314 S. Park (street address 435 W. South) | Kalamazoo, MI 49007 | 269-349-7775
WEBSITE | FACEBOOK | EMAIL
Grace Adventures Summer Youth Camps create an incredibly fun and safe environment while challenging kids to try new experiences and teach them principles from God’s Word. Our highly trained staff will take care of and mentor your kids as they explore new activities, make new friends, eat great food, and learn more about God.
Grace Adventures Horse Camps at Paradise Ranch provide fun for kids as they learn quality horsemanship and about their walk with Jesus Christ. Campers will care for, feed, and ride a horse every day while being mentored and cared for by our highly trained equestrian staff.
2100 N Ridge Rd | Mears, MI 49436 | 231-873-3662
WEBSITE | FACEBOOK | EMAIL
For 40 years, the KCDS Preschool has provided guided, hands-on activities that foster curiosity, build a lifelong love for learning, and create meaningful and developmentally appropriate bridges to academic and social-emotional growth.
KCDS summer camps hold opportunities to explore through indoor and outdoor play that integrates math, literacy, social studies and science. Each week has a unique theme and offers plenty of variety and hands on activities for your child age 3-6. Come join us on our summer adventures!
CONTACT INFORMATION:
4221 East Milham Ave | Portage, MI 49002 | 269-329-0116
WEBSITE | FACEBOOK | EMAIL
Western Michigan University offers a wide variety of camps geared toward students of all ages. Our camps range from academics to sports, with a little bit of everything in between. Camps vary in cost based on requirements. For more information on any of our exciting camps, visit our website.
CONTACT INFORMATION:
1903 W. Michigan Ave | Kalamazoo, MI 49008 | 269-387-2773
WEBSITE | EMAIL
The Civic will be offering camps for all age groups this summer beginning July 13 with a focus on acting, singing, and dancing as well as a Technical Stagecraft Camp the week of June 22. New this year – we will be offering a scaffolded introduction to theatre for students with special needs for grades 1-3 the week of August 3, and for grades 4-9 the week of August 10.
The performance camps in August will include an Acting Camp which will culminate in a performance of Alice in Wonderland for campers ages 9-13 and Agatha Christie’s Murder in the Studio for ages 14-18. Campers can also choose our Musical Theatre Camp which will present Disney’s Aladdin Kids for ages 9-13 and Legally Blonde the Musical Jr. for ages 14-18.
Registration starts in April for all camps.
Financial aid is available. Visit our website for more information.
CONTACT INFORMATION:
329 S. Park Street | Kalamazoo, MI 49007 | 269-343-2280
WEBSITE | FACEBOOK | EMAIL
The focus of NLP’s Summer Clinics is to keep kids active and let them have fun while learning sport fundamentals. We do also have options for the older athlete as well. Each day will include character development, drills & skills, live play time and most of all – FUN! Open to female & male athletes.
CONTACT INFORMATION:
The Dome Sports Center |12733 N US Hwy 131 | Schoolcraft, MI 49087 | 269-303-4086
WEBSITE | FACEBOOK | EMAIL
True Vine offers a variety of camps in a peaceful country setting. Campers receive not only expert riding and horse care instruction, but also experience God through His creation and His word.
Buckaroo Clinic 1, ages 5-9, June 19-20, 9:00 AM-12:00 PM
Buckaroo Clinic 2, ages 5-9, June 25-27, 9:00 AM-12:00 PM
Horsemanship Clinic, ages 9-18, June 29-July 2, 8:30 AM-12:00 PM
Horse Mania Clinic, ages 9-18, June 19-20, 4:00 PM-7:30 PM
CONTACT INFORMATION:
72861 28th St. | Lawton, MI 49065 | 269-501-0529
WEBSITE | FACEBOOK | EMAIL
KAMSC’s Sizzlin’ Summer Math and Science program offers 80+ fun STEM experiences, from bones to rockets to programming, for pre-K to high school students. Register online beginning April 8.
KAMSC Sizzlin’ Summer strives to include all kids regardless of race, religion, gender, country of origin, or physical or intellectual ability.
WE ARE BACK AT KAMSC FOR SUMMER 2020!
CONTACT INFORMATION:
600 West Vine Street | Suite 400 | Kalamazoo, MI 49008 | 269-337-0004
WEBSITE | EMAIL
Grow, Learn, and Have Fun!
Kingdom Sports Camps are committed to providing a safe, fun, and skill-focused experience for athletes ages two through high school. Under the expert care of our sports camp coaches, kids not only learn individual, sport-oriented skills, but they also develop personally and socially, learning teamwork and building character and life skills through sports.
Kingdom Sports Camps are offered in the summer months, June through August.
We have multiple camps at multiple locations around the area.
CONTACT INFORMATION:
8151 Merchant Place | Portage, MI 49002 | 269-226-2000
WEBSITE | EMAIL
Does your child want to create art even after school’s out for summer? This camp offers an affordable opportunity to try PAINTING, JEWELRY, PRINTMAKING, FIBER ARTS, SCULPTURE, DRAWING, and more!
Come join us for a fun multi-age experience including many rotating projects and fun new types of art. We hope to see you this summer!
CONTACT INFORMATION:
Wesley Foundation of Kalamazoo: 820 Rankin Ave | Kalamazoo, MI 49006
269-569-0146 | WEBSITE | EMAIL
Campers will have fun in these improv theatre camps while building confidence and leadership skills. They will play improv games, be creative, and have fun creating scenes on the spot. Camps are based on the ideas of being positive and learning to support each other. All camps are taught by members of Crawlspace Theatre Productions improv teams.
CONTACT INFORMATION:
315 W Michigan Ave | Kalamazoo, MI 49007 | 269-599-7390
WEBSITE | EMAIL
We will be making projects using hand-built clay, glass fusing and mosaics and learning pottery techniques on bisque – with additional goodies sprinkled throughout the week. The projects that will be made are substantial, durable and useful. We will give basic instructions, but each child will create what he or she wishes based on those principles. It’s so FUN!
CONTACT INFORMATION:
3306 Stadium Drive | Kalamazoo, MI 49008 | 269-375-2600
WEBSITE | EMAIL
Summer Explorers Camp – Ages 5 – 9
Open Monday – Friday 6:30 AM – 6:00 PM
Campers enjoy group learning time, fun field trips, theme weeks, music & movement, outdoor play & exploration, games, cooking, arts & crafts, stories, STEM activities, imaginative play, weekly water play and MORE!
Cost : $180 per week plus summer field trip fee
CONTACT INFORMATION:
3616 Lake Street | Kalamazoo, MI 49048 | 269-341-9800
WEBSITE | EMAIL
Does your student love Monopoly? The Game of Life? This camp is designed to help students plan for their future. Students will:
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Research and Explore Career Pathways
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Plan for Post-Secondary Education and/or Training
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Learn about Budgeting, Saving, and Investing
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Visit Local Industries/Business (8th -10th Grade Camp)
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Explore the Chicago Financial District (11th & 12th Grade Camp)
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Create a Long-Range Career and Financial Plan
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Meet Business Professionals and Interact with Real World Work Environments
Camp Details:
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Camp Dates:
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11th & 12th Grade – June 22 – 26 8:45 AM – 4:00 PM
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8th – 10th Grade – August 17 – 21 8:45 AM – 4:00 PM
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Cost – $299
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Lunch Provided (Except for Chicago Trip)
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Help your student get a jump start on their future, sign up for the Dollars and Sense Camp today!
CONTACT INFORMATION:
Room 2145, Schneider Hall, Haworth College of Business, WMU | Kalamazoo, MI 49008 | 269-387-5726
WEBSITE | EMAIL
The Kazoo School Summer Session camps challenge and develop the intellectual, physical, creative and artistic interests of students who want to reap the benefits of exciting experiences when school lets out. Here at Kazoo School Summer Session, not only do we celebrate extraordinary minds, but we are also experts in fun!
CONTACT INFORMATION:
1401 Cherry Street | Kalamazoo, MI 49008 | 269-345-3239
WEBSITE | FACEBOOK | EMAIL
List of other Summer Camps to Consider
AYSO American Youth Soccer Organization – multiple locations
Berean Baptist Church | 7813 S 12th St. | Portage, MI 49024
Bair Lake Bible Camp | 12500 Prang St. | Jones, MI 49061
Camp Eberhart | 10481 Camp Eberhart Road | Three Rivers, MI 49093
Camp Wakeshma | 59149 Camp Wakeshma Road | Three Rivers, MI 49093
Cedar Lodge Summer Camp | 47000 52nd St. | Lawrence, MI 49064
Gilmore Piano Camp | 359 S Kalamazoo Mall, Suite 101 | Kalamazoo, MI 49007
Glass Art Kalamazoo Summer Glass Camp | 326 W Kalamazoo Ave #100 | Kalamazoo, MI 49007
Indian Lake Nazarene Camp | 8258 Victory St. | Vicksburg, MI 49097
Kazoo School Summer Session | 1401 Cherry St. | Kalamazoo, MI 49008
Kids Gym | 9027 Portage Industrial Dr. | Portage, MI 49024
KNC Summer Camp | 7000 N Westnedge Ave | Kalamazoo, MI 49009
The Little Gym | 408 W Centre Ave. | Portage, MI 49024
Michigan Maritime Museum | 260 Dyckman Avenue | South Haven, MI 49090
Miracle Camp | 25281 80th Ave. | Lawton, MI 49065
Portage Public Schools Enriched for Life: Community Enrichment Program | 8107 Mustang Dr. | Portage, MI 49002
Van Buren Youth Camp | 12370 45th Street | Bloomingdale, MI
YMCA Summer Day Camps – Maple Branch | 1001 W. Maple St. | Kalamazoo, MI 49008
YMCA Summer Day Camps – Portage Branch | 2900 W. Centre | Portage, MI 49024
