Summer camps have come a long way from the traditional arts-and-crafts and sing-alongs by the campfire. Today’s camps are diverse, innovative, and filled with opportunities for kids to learn new skills, make pals, and discover their passions. If you’re looking for something beyond the usual, these five unconventional summer camps offer exciting and unique experiences that your kids won’t stop talking about.
- Empower Adventures Tampa Bay Summer Camp: Unplug and Explore
Adventure awaits at Empower Adventures Tampa Bay! This summer camp focuses on outdoor fun and skill-building activities that encourage kids to step out of their comfort zones. Campers can zip through the treetops on thrilling ziplines, try their hands at rappelling, and participate in exciting team-building games like scavenger hunts.
But the fun doesn’t end there! This camp also teaches essential outdoor skills, including paddleboarding, campfire building, and survival techniques. It’s a screen-free environment, ensuring your kids connect with nature, make lifelong friends, and come home each day ready for more adventures.
Why choose this camp? Beyond the thrills, kids gain confidence and teamwork skills while soaking up the great outdoors. Fresh air, empowerment, and brag-worthy memories are guaranteed!
- Cosmic Glow Skate Camp at Montclair State University
New for 2025, Montclair State University is lighting up the rink with their weekly Cosmic Glow Skate Camp. Designed for beginner and recreational skaters, this program blends ice skating instruction with “cosmic” fun, offering a one-of-a-kind skating experience in their glow-in-the-dark rooms. Think glow-themed crafts, neon paint on the walls, glow sticks, and other cool surprises.
Every day is packed with on and off-ice activities, from ice skating lessons to creative recreational games. Counselors design exciting weekly themes to keep kids engaged while fostering a sense of community and friendship among participants.
Why choose this camp? Kids leave with improved skating skills, boosted confidence, and plenty of stories about their cosmic adventures on the ice.
- Play Portland Mini Camps in Texas
Short, fun-filled, and skill-focused, Play Portland offers 3-4 day golf, dance, and cheer camps that are perfect for kids looking to refine their skills or try something new. With expert instruction, campers learn the fundamentals of their chosen activity in a relaxed, supportive environment.
Whether your child wants to improve their golf swing, perfect their dance moves, or practice cheer techniques, Play Portland provides both the guidance and the fun to make it a memorable experience.
Why choose this camp? These mini camps are ideal for kids who prefer shorter commitments but still want to have fun and learn valuable skills.
- Junior Lifeguard Camps at Artesia Aquatic Center and More
Why just swim this summer when you can gain life-saving skills? JR Lifeguard Camps hosted by places like Artesia Aquatic Center (New Mexico), Adventure Cove (Texas), and Pelican Bay (Oklahoma) are exciting, hands-on programs for teens ages 11-14.
Campers learn essential water safety, rescue techniques, CPR/AED, and First Aid, all while building confidence and a sense of responsibility. These camps offer a fantastic stepping stone toward future lifeguard certification.
Why choose this camp? Not only do participants gain valuable skills for life, but they also develop leadership and teamwork through engaging, real-world scenarios.
- Survival Summer Camp at Morristown Landing, Tennessee
For kids who thrive on adventure and friendly competition, Morristown Landing’s Survivor Series Summer Camp is a game-changer. This 8-week program immerses kids aged 6-12 in challenges inspired by the hit Survivor TV show.
Campers form tribes, solve puzzles, and tackle thrilling outdoor challenges like obstacle courses. Each week introduces new survival themes, team-building activities, and adventure-based learning, helping participants build resilience, confidence, and camaraderie.
Why choose this camp? From outswimming to outclimbing, this camp teaches teamwork, problem-solving, and adventure-based learning through interactive and unforgettable challenges.
