Learn about flying, experiment in a lab, code an app, run an excavator, or train with top coaches—Vermont State summer camps and programs turn dreams into action-packed fun!
3D Technology Summer Institute
The 3D Technology Institute is a free residential summer program where advanced high school students gain hands-on experience with cutting-edge 3D technologies while earning up to 9 college credits and a VTSU certificate.
National Summer Transportation Institute
At this free camp, middle and high school students have a unique opportunity to explore the many science, engineering and environmental careers available in the transportation industry.
Sports Camps STEM Camp
Young athletes through grade 12 can develop their skills or try new sports with top coaches and elite facilities at our Castleton, Johnson, and Lyndon campuses.
Youth ages 12-16 can explore science, health, and advanced manufacturing while building leadership skills and creativity at this hands-on day camp on Vermont State’s Randolph campus.
Camp
Sign Up for Summer!
By the beginning of February in Vermont, I’m ready to fast-forward to June. If you want to sign your kids up for summer camp, you’ll want to be thinking ahead, too.
True to its name, the Green Mountain State is home to a wide variety of options for summer fun.
You’ll find dozens of them in the 2025 Kids VT Camp Guide. Your kids can try windsurfing, mountain biking, rock climbing and building robots, in addition to traditional camp activities such as archery and arts and crafts.
FIND INFO INSIDE ON: Overnight programs Day camps
Skills-based camps
Be forewarned: Spots in popular day camps fill up fast, especially in Chittenden County, so it’s best to act quickly — and get your name on the list for next year if this one doesn’t work out.
Independent schools
Academic support
It’s also a good idea to visit these camps, doubly so if your kids will be staying overnight. That can help reduce anxiety for first-time campers (and their parents).
We hope you find what you’re looking for here. And if you’re still seeking camp openings this spring, check out campfindervt.com to see which programs have been added since the print guide came out on February 5.
CATHY RESMER, KIDS VT EDITOR
BURLINGTON SURF CLUB
SURF CLUB CAMP
WEEKLY 6/23-8/15
9AM-2PM
AGES 10-15
Girl Scouts of the Green and White Mountains
The 2025 Camp Guide cover photo shows young gymnasts from Dunkley’s Gymnastics Camp kayaking on Lake Champlain.
Move Over, Archery
Vermont kids can learn unusual skills at camp this summer — from windsurfing to driving a big rig in a CDL simulator
BY GILLIAN ENGLISH
When I was 13, summer camp in Galveston, Texas, entailed dragging my feet methodically through ankle-deep mud. I was doing what my counselors called “the stingray shuffle.” This practice was essential to alert stingrays of our presence so that an alarmed creature wouldn’t go on the attack. (Luckily, the only casualties of these excursions were my fellow campers’ footwear.) Later that evening, we’d return to the surf to go crabbing for our own dinner. That’s where I tried my firstever oyster fresh from the Atlantic.
These were some of the activities that I did during three summer sessions at Texas A&M University’s Sea Camp. At the time, I thought I might want to be a marine biologist. That camp offered me a chance to sit in college classrooms and learn from professors about different types of coral and predators. I got up close with real marine life in the ocean, too.
Ultimately, the classroom and lab time made me realize that a career in biology wasn’t for me, but I had the chance to learn that for myself – and I made some pretty unforgettable memories.
I love s’mores and macrame bracelets as much as the next person, but some kids might prefer a different kind of summer camp adventure, one where they can explore a specialized interest that might lead to a future career or a lifelong hobby. These kinds of opportunities abound in Vermont. The state is home to the
nationally known circus arts camp at Circus Smirkus and the musical oasis at Kinhaven, but there’s a wide array other choices, too, from camps where kids literally take flight to immersive courses in West African culture. We’ve highlighted six of them here. Find more camps in the following pages and at campfindervt.com.
National Summer Transportation Institute
• Randolph, Williston
• vermontstate.edu/camps-institutes
• July 18-25, August 4-9
• Ages: Grades 6-12
• Cost: Free
Middle and high schoolers who never outgrew a childhood fascination with construction sites might enjoy the National Summer Transportation Institute. Hosted by Vermont State University, with funds from the Federal Highway Administration, the program offers a peek at job opportunities that involve helping people get from one place to another, whether that’s through civil engineering, managing natural resources or flying fighter jets.
“I think that it’s so eye-opening for young people to realize the breadth of the possible careers in transportation,” said Mary O’Leary, camp director and professor of civil and environmental engineering technology at VTSU.
Campers do engineering challenges, visit a construction site, drive a big rig in a CDL simulator and, weather permitting, go up in an airplane with Vermont Flight Academy. A combination of VTSU faculty and staff and industry professionals teach the classes — including Vermont Agency of Transportation scientists, engineers and technicians.
The week culminates in a graduation ceremony where campers win awards and display their work. High school attendees who elect to pursue a transportation career receive a $1,000 scholarship to VTSU. The camp itself is free but requires an application with a written response and a letter of reference. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis.
Vermont Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Half-Day Summer Camp
• Williston
• vermontbjj.com
• June 17-20, July 21-25, August 11-15
• Ages: 5-10
• Cost: $200-250
Julio Cesar “Foca” Fernandez Nunes is a seventh-degree coral belt in Brazilian jiu-jitsu — meaning he’s maintained black-belt status in this martial art for more than 30 years. After decades of competing and winning championships in Brazil, he moved to the U.S. in 1989 and opened Vermont Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. Five years ago, the school began developing its programs for kids, and, in 2023, Vermont Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu started offering summer camp sessions.
“You’re not going to get this kind of training, skill or knowledge anywhere else in the state,” said Fernandez’s son, Felipe, who also works at the school as an instructor.
Campers get a little bit of everything, including fitness and self-defense training. Fun is a big part of the experience, too, according to Felipe. In addition to martial arts instruction, kids do team activities and play games including “human chess,” where they represent pieces on the board as a way to exercise both teamwork and strategic thinking skills. Campers of any experience level with jiu-jitsu are welcome.
Cultural Camp presented by Shidaa Projects Inc.
• Berlin • shidaaprojects.org
• July 28-31
• Ages: 8-15
• Cost: $280; some scholarships available
In the Ghanaian language, “shidaa” is the word for thankfulness or appreciation. It’s an apt name for this camp, which offers four days of appreciation and joy for the culture of Ghana and West Africa. It’s led by Jordan Mensah, who emigrated from Ghana in 2003, and his wife, Heather. Throughout the year, Jordan leads educational programs for schools about his culture and teaches traditional drumming and dance.
This year is the third year of Shidaa Cultural Summer Camp. During the week, campers learn drumming and dancing, as well as traditional crafts such as fabric printing, beading and dyeing clothing. On the last day of camp, kids attend a cooking class and learn to make jollof rice and fried plantains, both staples of Ghanaian cuisine. At the end of the final day, parents and caregivers are invited to a drumming and dancing celebration.
“There’s not a lot of cultural opportunities for kids of different colors and nationalities in our area, and this is our contribution,” Heather said, adding
National Summer Transportation Institute
Vermont Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu
that not a lot of camps in Vermont have an African focus. “It’s really cool to provide that space that brings lots of different people together, where they can also just learn and be kids.”
Dunkley’s Gymnastics Camp
• South Hero
• dunkleysgymnasticscamp.com
• June 15-August 15
• Ages: 7-17
• Cost: $1,350 for one week; $2,450 for two weeks
At Dunkley’s Gymnastics Camp, young gymnasts enjoy a blend of the traditional campfire songs, swimming and nature walks along with tumbling, backflips and strength training. Now in its 53rd year, the waterfront campground has a gym, rec hall, climbing wall, sailing, slackline and art classes. It’s predominantly for girls but offers two weeks of coed sessions in July.
The camp was founded in 1973 by Tom Dunkley, a gymnastics coach at the University of Vermont. Kids and parents were interested in a summer program, but the campus dorms weren’t ideal for what Dunkley envisioned. He bought land that had historically been used for a fishing camp and transformed it into an acrobatics wonderland.
It’s still a family operation. In 1990, Dunkley’s daughter Ruth DunkleyMcGowan took ownership of the camp and runs it with her husband, Dan McGowan. Ruth’s brothers, sisters and daughters all come up for the nine weeks of camp to direct different activities. The counselors are from past generations of campers. At age 15, campers can opt to be part of a counselor-in-training program where they receive instruction in safety and leadership skills.
An exhibition on the last day gives campers a chance to present what they
learned during the week to family and friends.
“What we’re about is getting to know kids where they are, challenging them and helping them learn new skills,” Ruth said.
Green Mountain Rowing Half-Day Camp
• Milton • miltonvt.gov/165/recreation
• June 23-27
• Ages: 12-18
• Cost: $230
Young rowers start their mornings on the beautiful Lamoille River at the inaugural Green Mountain Rowing Camp. It’s open to rowers of any skill level hoping to learn a new sport. Organizer Meredith Breiland says it’s the “right level of commitment” for those curious about rowing; the camp offers a way for kids to try the sport without signing up for a full season or school year.
“The sport is typically associated with Ivy Leagues and elites, so we’re proud to offer it to kids in an affordable and accessible way,” Breiland said.
The camp’s curriculum will include an introduction to the sport and equipment, coaching sessions, and teambuilding activities. It’s open to a small group: Eight spaces will be available in the camp’s first year. “It’ll allow for lots of one-on-one instruction,” Breiland said. The camp is a good fit for a rugged, athletic kid, or for one who may not be interested in other sports. There is no running involved, and campers get to spend the day outdoors and on the water.
Both Breiland and her husband, Eric, who is also organizing the camp, are competitive rowers who coach at Craftsbury Sculling Center’s camp. They’re both passionate about the sport and excited to pass it on to the next generation of rowers.
Surf Club Camp
• Burlington
• burlingtonsurfclub.com/play surf-club-camp.html
• June 23-August 15
• Ages: 10-15
• Cost: $425
Campers learn how to feel the power of the wind in their sails at Surf Club Camp. Located next to Hula near the Burlington waterfront, Surf Club Camp gets kids outside in the summer sunshine and into Lake Champlain. Activities are somewhat weather dependent, as there needs to be enough wind
for a good surfing day. If nature doesn’t cooperate, there’s always paddleboarding and camp games. Campers may also have an opportunity to sail Hobie Cats, a type of catamaran.
Surf Club owners Russ and Roxanne Scully founded the camp seven years ago. Both of them love the outdoors and built the club as a way to get more people out on the water. The camp is a continuation of that mission.
It’s open to all skill levels. The instructors are used to seeing both kids who are brand-new to windsurfing and those who have come back to camp every year and know their stuff.
“Windsurfing is pretty easy to learn,” Surf Club manager Sarah Krause said. “It’s really fun when you get the hang of it and you catch the wind and you start going in one direction with some power.”
Dunkley’s Gymnastics
Surf Club Camp
Sylvan SUMMER CAMPS
Sylvan SUMMER CAMPS
Sylvan SUMMER CAMPS
Sylvan SUMMER CAMPS
Sylvan SUMMER CAMPS
Sylvan SUMMER CAMPS
Our camps will boost confidence and enhance academic skills so your child will be ready to start the new school year strong! We have camps for reading, math, writing and more! Call today for pricing and camp schedules.
COMMUNITY SAILING CENTER
Great Escape
Seven
things kids get to do at sleepaway camp
BY CATHY RESMER
When our son was in kindergarten and our daughter was in preschool, my wife and I started looking into summer camps. Neither of us had had positive experiences with camp, but we knew others who swore by summers spent hiking, swimming and singing songs around a campfire — and we’d heard there were lots of such programs in Vermont.
After scouting out several of them, we chose camps that were reasonably a ordable for us and within a short drive of our Winooski home.
Now that our “little ones” are 16 and 19 — and preparing to return to their respective camps this summer as counselors — I can honestly say that sending them away
every summer was one of the best decisions we made. I know they would agree.
If you’re considering whether sleepaway camp is worth the (considerable) expense, or nervous about your children spending a block of time away from the safety and familiarity of home, it might be helpful to hear from a once-skeptical parent who’s been through that separation.
In my experience, here are some valuable things your kids will have a chance to do at sleepaway camp:
1. Meet new friends and role models — among campers, counselors and staff.
Our daughter stays in touch with her camp buddies all year long. Our son used
to look forward to reconnecting with peers and trusted adults at the start of each session. Both of them practiced starting new friendships, managing conflicts, saying goodbye and reconnecting with the people who matter most.
2. Become more confident and independent.
Being away from familiar faces and places can be scary, but conquering those fears can give your kids a confidence boost. It’s a good way to work up to the idea that they’re going to leave home someday. Many camps also o er kids choices about the activities they pursue or other aspects of their experience, giving them a taste of how liberating and exciting it can be to exert control over their lives.
3. Develop new skills and hobbies. Our kids went to traditional sleepaway camps, so skill building wasn’t the focus, but right away they both came back with new interests: making elaborate friendship bracelets, for example, and playing the card game Magic: The Gathering. On family camping trips, our son introduced us to “cabin chat,” the practice of discussing our days after lying down in bed and turning o the lights. We often still do that when we’re traveling together.
4. Put down their digital devices. Most sleepaway camps ban or limit the presence of internet-connected devices during sessions. This is a huge selling point for lots of parents I know. Kids, too. Ours never once complained.
5. Try new things — and fail. For the week or two — or four — they’re away, campers aren’t bound by the expectations people have of them at home. They can experiment with new nicknames, step outside their comfort zones and attempt new activities. If it doesn’t go well, the stakes are much lower at camp than they are at school.
6. Be goofy.
I haven’t seen my kids in action at camp, but the way they crack themselves up describing chants or songs or silly traditions delights me. Our daughter loves spending her birthday at camp every summer, in part because she gets to skip around the dining hall. This is the same teenager who loves Eminem and Billie Eilish. ’Nu said.
7. Be part of something bigger than themselves.
At camp, kids become part of a group, whether that’s a cabin, a village or an entire community. Some of these units gel, some don’t, just like in adult life. But when they work — when kids see how their actions a ect others, especially if they’re able to score the winning point in a camp-wide game or nail a solo in a group song — it’s magic. Plus: After campers wear themselves out playing games, they often come together as a group and reflect on a motto such as “Help the other fellow” or on core values such as “Respect, Trust and Unity.” Those moments might not be as memorable as a favorite camp song, but hopefully they’ll help shape the adults our kids will someday become. K
For more than 25 years, AllTogetherNow! Summer Camps has been offering programs to the children of central Vermont. Days are spent outside, telling stories, swimming in the pool, making art, stilt walking, singing, playing cooperative games and making new friends. The 2025 camp lineup will be finalized soon. Prior offerings have included Cardboard Creations, Mandala of Herbs, Space Camp, Clown Town in Circus City, the World of Weeds and a BIPOC Multilingual Learners Camp.
American Dance Training Camps
Stratton Mountain americandancetrainingcamp.com
AGES: 8-17. OVERNIGHT CAMP
This ultimate overnight dance camp for girls ages 8 to 17 promises an action-packed week (or two, or more!) of dancing and making new friends in the beautiful Green Mountains. You’ll take four to five dance classes per day in contemporary, hip-hop and jazz and perform in a big Friday show. Electives include ballet, tap and world dance. All levels welcome — no prior dance experience necessary. Outside of dance, campers enjoy awesome activities such as horseback riding, kayaking, standup paddleboarding, alpine slides, paintball and more. This is ADTC’s 23rd summer!
At Burlington City Arts’ award-winning youth camps, students work closely with professional teaching artists for a full week of in-depth studio arts experience. Every camp includes high-quality materials and a final celebration. Come for a half day or pair a morning and afternoon camp together at BCA Studios to make a fullday experience. Camps at the BCA Center run for the full day.
Billings Farm Camps
Woodstock billingsfarm.org/camps-at-the-farm
AGES: 6-11. DAY CAMP
Billings Bookworms Farm Camp is a halfday camp for ages 6 to 8 where storytelling meets hands-on farm fun! Kids engage
with animals, explore the garden and enjoy themed activities. At Junior Farmer Camp, campers ages 8 to 11 dive into farm life — caring for animals, gardening and crafting. Activities include egg collection and a farm-fresh pizza party!
Bolton Valley Summer Camps
Richmond • boltonvalley.com/summer/ summer-camps
AGES: 7-14. DAY CAMP
Looking for the ultimate outdoor summer camp? At Bolton Valley, campers will ride, climb, swim, jump and hike around thousands of acres of wilderness. Camps at Bolton Valley are packed with activities such as soccer, tennis, volleyball, disc golf, manhunt and more! Plus, everyone
gets the chance to cool off in the outdoor pool. Choose between Mountain Kids Camp or Mountain Bike Camp. Each week is a new adventure with a cool theme that keeps the excitement going and wraps up with awards and ice cream parties every Friday! All camps are five days a week, Monday through Friday.
• Traditional camp held on the beautiful, private Rock Point property on Lake Champlain
• Campers hike, swim, garden, kayak, paddleboard,
BCA Summer Camps
American Dance Training Camps
Talent Development Institute
June 22-28
June 29-July 5
Providing fun and engaging activities for advanced, creative and gi ed students entering grades 4-10.
Vermont State University — Johnson
The 2025 Vermont Flower Show
Family Fun for all Ages!
Dig for worms, craft your own flower hat, plant a pansy, and more! Scheduled entertainment all 3 days — 11am & 2pm.
Friday: Magicians Without Borders
Saturday: No Strings Marionette Company
• Jack and the Beanstalk
Sunday: No Strings Marionette Company
• Handsome & Gretel
March 7, 8, 9
V ERMONT Camp & Sc hool Finder
Burlington Parks, Recreation & Waterfront Camps
Burlington • summerbtvparks.com
AGES: PRESCHOOLERS TO TEENS, FAMILIES DAY CAMP
Sign your child up for a summer of fun, learning and adventure in a Burlington Parks, Recreation & Waterfront’s quality summer camp! These camps not only provide needed childcare for working families and caregivers but also allow your child to grow and develop skills while staying active and safe during the summer months. Summer camp offerings include ice skating, outdoor adventure, learning, sports and much more!
Camp Common Ground is a summer family camp for all ages designed to provide families with a healthy and happy bonding experience. The weeklong program features elements of nature education, arts, music, wellness, sports and fun. All families are welcome at Camp Common Ground, a place that cultivates a sense of community among campers, where you and your kids will make new friends! Sliding-scale fees include lodging in a tent, cabin or lodge; all meals (local, organic and vegetarian); and all activities. Financial aid is available.
Camp Little Notch
Fort Ann, N.Y. camplittlenotch.org/2025
AGES: 8-16. OVERNIGHT CAMP
Camp Little Notch is a nonprofit wilderness camp for girls accredited through the American Camp Association and located on 443 acres, including a private 80-acre lake, in the Adirondack Park. It offers girls a unique screen-free experience focused on adventure, personal growth and a connection with nature. Campers participate in a wide range of outdoor activities designed to foster teamwork and self-confidence. From hiking and canoeing to swimming and creative arts, every day is an adventure that encourages exploration and self-discovery.
Camp Outright
Starksboro • outrightvt.org/camp
AGES: 13-17. OVERNIGHT CAMP
Camp Outright is Vermont’s only residential summer camp designed specifically for LGBTQ+ and allied youths. This incredible camp is all about embracing queer joy, connecting with your people, and celebrating adventure, fun and community. Here, your identity isn’t just accepted — it’s celebrated! Experience what true belonging feels like. Camp Outright offers the chance to be your authentic self while exploring activities that match your interests. Whether you’re into nature, visual and performing arts, sports, or social change, there’s something for everyone. It’s the perfect blend of fun, personal growth and plenty of queer joy to share and promises an unforgettable and powerful summer!
Burlington Parks, Recreation & Waterfront Camps
CONTINUED FROM P.11
Catamount Outdoor
Family Center’s Summer Camps
Williston catamountoutdoor.org/camps
AGES: 6-14. DAY CAMP
Catamount OFC’s fun summer camps include Mountain Bike or Explorer Camp options, all led by experienced coaches. These full-day camps utilize Catamount’s trail network and diverse Community Forest, offering thrilling adventures and skill-building activities. Each session is tailored to campers’ ages and abilities, ensuring a fun and educational experience. Campers will develop outdoor knowledge, physical fitness and teamwork skills, all while fostering a lifelong connection with nature and recreation. Sign up today for an unforgettable summer of outdoor adventure and learning!
Smirkus Camp is for youths of all ages and skill levels who want to dive into the world of circus arts in an immersive camp setting under big-top circus tents. Smirkus Camp’s unique sessions offer campers the opportunity to learn, grow and excel — as their authentic selves — while working with circus industry professionals and a stellar counseling staff. Kids will spend an incredible summer of circus fun training in acrobatics, juggling, clowning and aerials and will enjoy traditional camp activities fueled by circus magic, stories and s’mores. All this while making lasting friendships with campers from all over the country.
The Cohen Camps:
Pembroke, Tel Noar and Tevya
Pembroke, Mass., Hampstead, N.H., and Brookline, N.H. cohencamps.org
AGES: 7-16. OVERNIGHT CAMP
This family of three Jewish sleepaway camps is located in Massachusetts and New Hampshire. Camp Pembroke (south
of Boston) is a unique sisterhood for girls. As coed camps (both near Nashua, N.H.), Tevya exudes energy, while Tel Noar offers cozy warmth. All offer deep friendships, sports, arts and so much fun! Campers will paddleboard, play soccer, do yoga, try archery, sing in a musical or at a bonfire, and cherish spirited Shabbats and camp traditions with caring counselors who become mentors and role models. Kosher. ACA-accredited. First-timer and sibling discounts. RSVP to try camp for a day or sign up for a mini-session.
Contemporary Dance and Fitness Studio
Barre/Montpelier cdandfs.com/summer-camps.html
AGES: 3.5-13. DAY CAMP
Contemporary Dance and Fitness
Studio is excited to offer summer camps for kids ages 3 to 13. Whether your child is an experienced dancer or new to movement, there’s something for everyone! Camps include contemporary, ballet, jazz and hip-hop, plus creative movement, art, crafts and outdoor play. Some focus on technique, while others emphasize fun, exploration and movement — no formal experience required.
Cultural Camp presented by Shidaa Projects Inc.
Barre/Montpelier shidaaprojects.org/programs
AGES: ELEMENTARY THROUGH HIGH SCHOOL DAY CAMP
At Shidaa’s Cultural Camp, young people will spend three days immersed in African arts, including drumming, dance, fabric printing, storytelling and tie-dye. Campers will help prepare an authentic African meal to share during Thursday’s final session. Located less than a mile off Exit 7 on Interstate 89, the camp has lovely grounds and indoor facilities for campers to enjoy during three days packed with fun activities. Groups are led by experienced artisans, including Jordan Mensah, who has been teaching cultural activities in schools and camps around Vermont for 20 years.
VERMONT BALLET THEATER SCHOOL CENTER FOR DANCE PRESENTS
CELEBRATION OF DANCE 2025
Our annual showcase of talent from ages 4 through pre-professional will dance their way onto the Flynn Main Stage in Burlington for 2 exciting performances, Saturday May 25, 2019 at 1:00 & 6:30 pm. For show & ticket information visit www.vbts.org.
Saturday, May 31 at 1:00 & 6:30 p.m. Our annual showcase of talent from ages 3 through pre-professional will dance their way onto the Flynn Main Stage in Burlington for two exciting performances. For show & ticket information visit www.vbts.org.
• Week-long ballet camps for ages 5–9
• Week-long ballet Mini-Intensive for ages 12-18, for the serious dancer looking to stay in shape for various summer-long intensives
• Weekly ballet classes for young dancers, beginners, and advanced pre-professional dancers
Catamount Outdoor Family Center’s Summer Camps
Camp
BY ISLA SEGAL, AGE 13, WOODSTOCK
Summer is delirious days we are packed on a bus for days of adventures mountain biking then swimming.
We will jump off cliffs into rivers flip-flopping through the air show-offs and adrenaline seekers.
When the rain comes which is inevitable we will huddle in the school bus back to the beginning wrapped in our parkas and wait out the storm together.
We will climb to the top of mountains on our bikes and look out at the skylines far far away it will mean different things to all of us.
We will find our purpose in some version of events that happen over this camp most likely we will not realize that we have figured out a reason to live but someday we will look back and see that these were the days when we found who we wanted to be.
Petra Cliffs Climbing Center & Mountaineering School
V ERMONT
Camp & Sc hool Finder
Dunkley’s Gymnastics Camp
Girl Scouts of the Green and White Mountains
Dunkley’s Gymnastics Camp
South Hero dunkleysgymnasticscamp.com
AGES: 7-17. DAY CAMP
Dunkley’s Gymnastics Camp is a small, family-style gymnastics camp with 50 campers! With a 1-to-5 camper-to-counselor ratio, each camper is challenged, beginner to advanced team member. Campers come from all over New England and Canada. Counselors are USAG safety-certified and coach club and college teams. Dunkley’s has an outstanding waterfront and opportunities for water-skiing, sailing, swimming, tubing and kayaking. Both kindness and courage are embraced at camp.
Eagle Island Camp
Saranac Lake, N.Y. • eagleisland.org
AGES: 9-17. OVERNIGHT CAMP
More than a summer camp — it’s an unforgettable, unplugged adventure on a stunning Adirondack island! Eagle Island’s all-girls overnight programs offer swimming, sailing, crafts and more, all in a supportive environment where girls grow into confident, fearless women ready to take on the world. Groups are intentionally kept small to foster strong connections between staff and campers. Eagle Island has flexible sessions ranging from one to six weeks beginning June 22 through August 1, and financial assistance is available to help make this dream a reality.
Bedford, Hebron and Portsmouth, N.H.; Richmond, Salisbury and Thetford, Vt. girlscoutsgwm.org/en/activities/ camp-and-outdoors.html
AGES: DEPENDENT ON SPECIFIC CAMP
In Girl Scouting, a girl’s experience is limited only by her imagination. Girls make new friends, try new things and explore their passions in a safe, nurturing environment. Girls grow in confidence as they develop their full potential and feel empowered to make the world a better place. At overnight and day camps in Vermont and New Hampshire, girls learn new skills and make new friends in the outdoors, with all safety precautions in place. Girl Scouting has been building girls of courage, confidence and character for more than 100 years.
Green Mountain Conservation Camp
Castleton and Woodbury vtfishandwildlife.com/learn-more/ gmcc
AGES: 12-16. OVERNIGHT CAMP
Green Mountain Conservation Camp offers campers hands-on learning experiences about fish, wildlife, ecology, botany, forestry, hunter firearm safety, outdoor first aid and much more. At both Castleton and Woodbury locations, GMCC offers opportunities for hiking, canoeing, fishing, archery, .22 rifle and shotgun shooting, orienteering, and other fun activities. Campers have a unique opportunity to meet Vermont state game wardens, foresters, fisheries and wildlife biologists, and others who work in the outdoors. GMCC staff aim to educate youths about Vermont’s wild habitats to inspire meaningful relationships with the environment and foster genuine connections with their peers.
Our Junior Sailing program is dedicated to nurturing a lifelong passion for sailing. A safe and enjoyable learning environment designed for every level of sailor –from beginners to advanced racers. Join us and let your Jr. Sailor's journey begin!
LAKE CHAMPLAIN YACHT CLUB 2790 Harbor Road, Shelburne,Vermont
A summer camp and retreat center located in the Lakes Region of New Hampshire. Our affinity-based small group programming welcomes children, youth, and adults. Wanakee fosters a Christian community of radical acceptance where campers of all ages can grow personally, socially and spiritually.
V ERMONT Camp & Sc hool Finder
Hosmer Point
Craftsbury Common hosmerpoint.com
AGES: 9-15. OVERNIGHT CAMP
Hosmer Point is a place campers call “home.” With only 100 campers and a camper-counselor ratio of 3-1, Hosmer Point’s small size and emphasis on community and inclusiveness build friendships and respectful interactions. Children direct their own schedules, fostering self-confidence as they choose from activities such as sculling, sailing, farming, furniture building and mountain biking. Other highlights include delicious farm-to-table food, a focus on environmental stewardship and an electronics-free campus. Tuition is on an income-based sliding scale. There are four two-week sessions for rising fourth through tenth graders and two family camps. All sessions are accredited by the American Camp Association.
Lake Champlain Community Sailing Center
Burlington communitysailingcenter.org
AGES: 6-17. DAY CAMP
Summer is all about fun, new friends and exciting adventures. Community Sailing Center summer camps are designed to teach kids the safety, skill and joy involved in the lifelong sport of sailing. Organized by age group and led by certified instructors, camp options include sailing-only and multi-activity camps that blend sailing and another sport or hobby. Weeklong and twoweek camps take place throughout the summer, with several sessions to choose from. The Community Sailing Center offers early drop-off and late pickup options to accommodate each family’s needs.
Lake Champlain Yacht Club Junior Sailing
Shelburne • lcyc.info/junior-sailing
AGES: 8-17. DAY CAMP
This Junior Sailing camp creates a love of sailing. Your child will learn safe water practices while having fun and gaining a sense of stewardship for Lake Champlain. There are weeklong sessions for new and experienced sailors.
Landmark College Summer Programs
Putney landmark.edu/academics/summer
AGES: TEENS. OVERNIGHT CAMP
Landmark College offers summer programs to assist a wide range of students with learning differences, including high school students, graduating high school seniors and students enrolled at colleges around the country. All programs are designed to enable students to identify their learning strengths and differences. Students learn specific strategies to be successful in formal academic settings and grow personally and academically in an intentional and supportive academic community. The instructors consist of current Landmark College faculty as well as teachers from the surrounding area who are experienced in working with students who learn differently.
LetGoYourMind Lego STEM Programs
South Burlington • letgoyourmind. com/2025-summer-programs
AGES: 4-12. DAY CAMP
LetGoYourMind offers fun and enriching programs using Lego bricks in simple machines and robotics, as well as an introduction to stop-motion animation.
Hosmer Point
Mad River Path Adventures
Mad River Valley, Waitsfield and Waterbury • madriverpath.org/ summer-programs
AGES: 9-15. DAY CAMP, OVERNIGHT CAMP
From the heart of the valley, Mad River Path Adventures offers accessible day and overnight adventure camps. These dynamic programs are designed and led by professional guides. Students enjoy adventure sports and the art of wilderness living while developing close connections to nature and the social skills for thriving in an interconnected community. The staff of Mad River Path Adventures believes that outdoor pursuits should be a part of every Vermonter’s experience, and the camps teach the know-how that often translates into a lifelong love of adventure and discovery.
This summer camp located at Mater Christi School serves children in the Burlington area. Day campers spend their days exploring, making art, playing games and appreciating this beautiful community. All campers must be fully potty-trained. Designed to cater to a wide range of ages and interests, this camp has a different focus every week that drives activities and excursions (for example, in STEAM week, campers take a field trip to the Echo Leahy Center for Lake Champlain and perform science experiments at camp). MCS Summer Camp has daily games, sports, crafts and water activities built into a flexible schedule. A fun summer experience filled with engaging activities for all campers is the goal.
Mountain Village School
Stowe • mountainvillageschool.com
AGES: 0-8. DAYTIME AND AFTERSCHOOL
This is a nature-based early childhood program providing full-day education for children ages 0-6 years. MVS offers afterschool programming for students in kindergarten through third grade. Kids spend time outside, exploring art mediums, and in optional structured group activities, including swim and tennis lessons.
Night Eagle Wilderness Adventures
Wallingford nighteaglewilderness.com
AGES: 10-14. OVERNIGHT CAMP
A unique summer camp for boys in the heart of the Green Mountains, Night Eagle lets campers live in tipis and do things that boys did hundreds of years ago. They learn survival skills such as fire making
with flint and steel or bow drills, plant identification, tracking, and camouflage. They create lots of craft items — birchbark baskets, moccasins — and go on hikes, canoe, swim, and play lots of games, including Buffalo Robe, Stalk the Chief and Slack ‘Em, to name a few! Through these activities and the slower pace of life at camp, boys naturally develop a deeper respect for the land and learn to live and play together in a spirit of cooperation rather than competition. This ACA-accredited camp offers one-, two-, three-, four- and six-week sessions.
Paint & Create Kids Camp by Burlington Paint & Sip
This camp includes five days of art instruction with fun activities and crafts based out of a studio located in downtown Burlington. Camps are centered on painting and its different forms and also explore other art mediums and dive into some light art history, while making sure kids still get outside and move their bodies. There are movement breaks each day, taking advantage of all that downtown Burlington and the waterfront have to offer, as well as field trips to places such as Battery Park for yoga. Campers also play art-inspired games, take picnic lunches by the lake and explore the Church Street Marketplace for inspiration.
Petra Cliffs Climbing Center & Mountaineering School
Burlington • petracli s.com/camps
AGES: 6-14. DAY CAMP, OVERNIGHT CAMP
Each day presents a new opportunity for outdoor adventures! More than just a rock-climbing camp, Petra Cliffs SumMAT (Summer “Mountain Adventure Training”) Camps provide a variety of opportunities for campers to challenge themselves. Each day, campers have a chance to go kayaking, caving, rock climbing, do challenge courses and more. Groups are age-specific and small, but the adventures are huge! Join SumMAT Day Camp and Overnight Expeditions for exciting adventures, healthy activities and summer fun.
KIDS’ BIRTHDAY PARTIES & JEWELRY MAKING CLASSES
MAKE BIRTHDAYS MAGICAL
with Elli Parr’s DIY jewelry-making parties! Perfect for kids’ birthdays or after-school fun. Let their creativity shine as they create keepsakes they’ll love.
Open Daily 41 IDX Dr. Ste #150, South Burlington Book your party today at elliparr.com or email us at info@elliparr.com
V ERMONT Camp & Sc hool Finder
The Putney School Summer Arts
Putney • putneyschool.org/summer
AGES: PRETEENS AND TEENS DAY CAMP, OVERNIGHT CAMP
Putney Summer Arts welcomes a diverse community of young artists and arts professionals to its campus each summer. Located on a working farm in southern Vermont, Putney Summer Arts provides an intimate space where students passionate about the arts receive support and inspiration to focus on furthering their artistic practice and learning. Summer Arts staffers believe teens can be their truest selves through the making of art in an environment where learning collaboratively and taking risks are celebrated.
Red Clover Camp
Stowe • redclovercamp.com
AGES: 5-8. DAY CAMP
Red Clover is a nature-based day camp in Stowe! Campers spend a lot of time biking, hiking and swimming. They also do a lot of art and building projects and science, technology, engineering and math activities, and take field trips to nature preserves, berry farms and museums.
Sage Mountain Summer Camp
Orange • sagemountain.com/ summer-camp-2
AGES: 8-12. DAY CAMP
Providing space and place for children to grow and flourish by interacting with the land they’re part of, Sage Mountain’s summer programs provide students with a balance of
inquiry-based nature activities that focus on the cultural history and ecology of central Vermont, personal self-awareness, and wilderness skills. This, combined with a large amount of unstructured nature play in Sage Mountain’s forests, streams, gardens, and meadows, will provide ample opportunity for kids to discover and nurture their inherent curiosity in the natural world while improving their self-awareness as individuals and members of a collective whole. Transportation is available.
Shelburne Museum Summer Camps
Shelburne
shelburnemuseum.org/learn/camps
AGES: 4-15. DAY CAMP
Summer camps at Shelburne Museum offer children a fantastically fun and hands-on camp experience. Reimagined for 2025, the carefully crafted camp programs are a playground for budding artists, offering the perfect mix of inspiration and self-discovery. Artists will practice new ways of engaging with art while exploring the museum’s diverse collections and picturesque grounds. In this immersive and supportive environment, young artists will nurture their imaginative ideas, gain confidence and grow into the artists they aspire to be.
Putney Summer Arts
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SOCAPA — School of Creative & Performing Arts
Burlington socapa.org/locations/vt-camps
AGES: PRETEENS AND TEENS
DAY CAMP, OVERNIGHT CAMP
SOCAPA is one of the premier visual and performing arts programs for young people in the world. Its students travel from across the U.S. and all corners of the globe to participate in summer intensives. Campers of all experience levels are challenged to advance their skills in filmmaking, acting, dance, photography and music through hands-on learning with teachers who are leaders in their fields, surrounded by classmates who share their passion. SOCAPA offers two- and three-week summer intensives, day and residential, at its campus at Champlain College in Burlington, Vt.
Surf Club Camp
Burlington burlingtonsurfclub.com/play/camps
AGES: 10-15. DAY CAMP
Looking for something fun, outdoor and active for your kid this summer? Surf Club Camp (formerly known as Windsurfing Camp) starts in June and runs through the end of August. Yes, your child will still learn to windsurf, but this camp has grown to be so much more! All the gear and beginner and intermediate instruction on the basics of how to windsurf and standup paddle are provided. Campers will stay active with a fleet of paddleboards, windsurfers, Hobie Cats and various lawn games. Registration is for the entire week, and no prior experience is required. Additionally, campers will walk to the Sandbox to block print their own camp tee!
Stern Center for Language and Summer Learning
Williston sylvanlearning.com/courses-camps
AGES: 5-13. DAY CAMP
Keep your child’s mind growing over the summer at Sylvan Learning! Its location in Essex offers fun, stimulating and educational camps — designed with your busy summer schedule in mind. You’ll find academic camps such as math, reading, writing and college prep. Kids love the hands-on activities and creative games, perfect for keeping young minds active and growing. Camp
sizes are kept small to create a really engaging experience for each child.
Stern Center for Language and Learning
Williston sylvanlearning.com/courses-camps
AGES: 5-13. DAYTIME
The Stern Center is a nonprofit learning center dedicated to empowering children and adults to reach their academic, social and professional goals. For individuals, the center offers customized academic support, educational evaluations, speech therapy and social learning; for teachers, it offers professional learning so they can apply the best current research each day in their schools. Its experienced team collaborates with families and educators to provide support and knowledge that changes lives. The Stern Center moves Vermont toward a future in which every learner thrives and contributes.
Talent Development Institute
Johnson • tdivermont.org
AGES: GRADES 4-10
DAY CAMP, OVERNIGHT CAMP
TDI Summer Camp is a weeklong summer program held on the Vermont State University-Johnson campus, June 22 to 28 and/or June 29 to July 5. TDI combines the relaxed atmosphere of a summer camp with academic and creative opportunities for advanced, creative and gifted students entering grades 4 to 10. Students have fun with peers while exploring a wide variety of topics. Past favorites have included Gardener Gnomes, Writing and Laughing, Monsters in the Making, Rube Goldberg Machines, Ancient Artists, Clowning Around, Let’s Build Roller Coasters, Tall Tale Treasury, and Improvisation. Overnight and commuter options and partial scholarships are available.
Vermont Ballet Theater School Center for Dance
Essex • vbts.org
AGES: 3-18. DAY CAMP
VBTS, the largest dance school in the state of Vermont, provides students with comprehensive dance training and performance experience in a friendly and nurturing environment, guiding students through the world of ballet, jazz, contemporary and more. The goal is to introduce the world of dance and the joy of movement to all students, from those with professional aspirations to those who simply love to move and dance. Not sure where to start? Call or email today and VBTS’ professional staff would be happy to tailor a program just for you!
camp centers on painting techniques and explores
V ERMONT Camp & Sc hool Finder
Vermont Brazilian
Jiu-Jitsu Half-Day Summer Camp
Williston • vermontbjj.com
AGES: ALL AGES, FAMILIES. DAY CAMP
Unleash your child’s potential at Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Summer Camp! Join Master Julio “Foca” Fernandez, a seventh-degree coral belt with more than 20 years of experience, for an amazing blend of authentic BJJ instruction, self-defense skills, teamwork, fitness and fun martial arts games. Kids ages 5 to 10 will develop coordination, communication, strategic thinking (think human chess) and confidence — all while learning valuable life skills. Camps will explore BJJ’s rich history and Brazilian culture in an engaging, kid-friendly environment. No prior experience is needed — just a passion for learning! Safety is a top priority, with expert instructors ensuring a supportive, fun and controlled atmosphere.
2025 CAMPS & SCHOOLS
Vermont Commons School South
Burlington vermontcommons.org
AGES: GRADES 6-12. DAYTIME
Vermont Commons School is a college-preparatory school for grades 6
through 12, dedicated to academic excellence, a small student-teacher ratio and innovative learning experiences. VCS accepts applications year-round, based on available space, for all grade levels. Students emerge from their time at Vermont Commons School with the motivation and skills to
seek out their role for improving the world, and they are excited to do so! VCS aims to fill the school with students who are hoping to grow, explore and learn.
Wanakee
Meredith, N.H. • wanakee.org
AGES: FAMILIES. OVERNIGHT CAMP
Wanakee is an American Camp Association-accredited summer camp and retreat center located in the Lakes Region of New Hampshire. Its affinity-based smallgroup programming welcomes children, youths and adults. Wanakee fosters a Christian community of radical acceptance where campers of all ages can grow personally, socially and spiritually. From arts and crafts to swimming and boating to high ropes, there’s something for every camper to love. Newsweek named Wanakee one of the “Best Summer Camps in America” in 2023 and 2024 — join Wanakee this summer to find out why! Use code VTKIDS25 to save 5 percent on your registration.
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Wanakee
V ERMONT
Camp & Sc hool Finder
Water Wanderings
Hyde Park • waterwanderings.org
AGES: 9-18, FAMILIES. OVERNIGHT CAMP
Water Wanderings is an overnight summer camp that cultivates resilience and integrity through environmental education, outdoor adventure and inclusive community building. The Green River Reservoir and surrounding forests serve as a home, playground and classroom where campers explore art, equity, sustainability, ecology and outdoors skills. Through games and activities, campers and counselors build a close-knit community within each small, unique group. Campers sleep in tents, cook over a fire and embrace the simplicity of outdoor living without running water, electricity or buildings of any kind. During the day, everyone swims, hikes and canoes, learning and growing together. Water Wanderings’ vision is that young people will disrupt oppression by building healthy and equitable relationships with themselves, each other and the Earth.
Have the best summer ever at Adventure Camp at Rock Point, a coed summer day camp for kids who have completed third grade up through age 13. Camp takes place on the beautiful Rock Point property along the shores of Lake Champlain. Campers spend most of the day outside and will have a chance to swim, kayak, tend the gardens, use the outdoor pizza oven, paddleboard, play games, create arts and crafts, do STEM activities, hike, and much more! This is a traditional outdoor camp full of fun and adventure.
YMCA Camp Abnaki
North Hero • campabnaki.org
AGES: COMPLETED GRADES K-10
DAY CAMP, OVERNIGHT CAMP
Camp Abnaki provides a traditional two-week overnight summer camp for boys and teens who’ve completed grades 1 through 10, one-week overnight camp for boys who’ve completed grades 1 through 5, and day camp for boys who’ve completed grades K through 4. There are also specialized teen programs! Campers find community, build self-esteem, take a break from technology and gain a sense of independence while away from home. Traditional activities such as archery, canoeing and campfires take place alongside favorites like skateboarding, high-ropes course and sailing. Underlying all activities: conscious development of community through safety, love and respect.
YWCA Vermont Camp Hochelaga
South Hero • ywcavt.org
AGES: 8-17. DAY CAMP, OVERNIGHT CAMP
Located on the beautiful shores of Lake Champlain, Camp Hochelaga has been offering a blend of traditional, enriching and social justice-driven camp experiences for girls+ since 1919. Camp Hochelaga is an American Camp Association-accredited camp and provides opportunities to explore activities intended to build character, self-esteem, self-confidence and leadership. At ‘Laga, the values of collaboration, kindness and empowerment live at the center of all that campers do as they work to further the mission of the larger YWCA — “eliminating racism, empowering women and promoting peace, justice, freedom and dignity for all.”
START YOUR KIDS ON THE RIGHT TRACK WITH A STUDENT CHECKING ACCOUNT
Financial literacy is an important part of your child’s education. A Student Checking account, specifically for 13-17 year olds, can assist them in developing responsible habits today to ensure that they make sound financial decisions tomorrow.
No fees or minimums*
Debit card
Parent or guardian is joint on the account
ATM Access
Online & Mobile Banking
Automatically converts into Reward Checking account at age 18
*No monthly service or overdraft fees and no minimum balance requirement. Must be a member of the credit union to open a student checking account.
