Special Section
Camp Guide 2015
Here's a parent's primer to finding the perfect summer camp for your progeny.
By By Christina Breda Antoniades —
It’s not quite time to bust out the bathing suits,
but if you’re a parent, there’s one bit of summer prep you do need to tackle: finding the
perfect summer camp for your kids.
Fortunately, we’re flush with options—Maryland boasts some 1,400 summer camps, which means choosing may be the hardest part.
Camp Options
Arts, Academia, & Skills Camps
Aviation and Pilot Camp
Middle River Aviation
701 Wilson Point Rd., Ste. 402
Middle River, MD 21220
410-574-3897
Middle River Aviation’s aviation and pilot camp for ages 13-18, operated from its location at Martin State Airport, offers flight lessons, training in navigation, and access to a full-motion simulator, as well as a trip to the Air and Space Museum in Washington, D.C., guest speakers, and swimming, as well. Dates are June 23-27, July 7-11, and August 11-15.
Community Art Center of Towson University
Summer Art Camp
On Campus, Towson University
Address: Community Art Center of TU
Towson University
8000 York Rd.
Towson, MD 21252-0001
410-704-2351
Campers ages 6-14, grouped by age, study drawing, painting, clay, and sculpture. An extended-day option is available. Later in the summer, there is also a computer-graphics workshop for high school students ages 14 through adults, including anime, cartoon, and game animation. Sessions run June 22-Aug. 7. $300-520. All supplies and field trip fees included.
Circus Camp Stars
Where: Multiple locations, including McDonogh School and Roland Park Country School
When: One-week sessions throughout the summer; usually 9 a.m.-3 p.m.
Cost: $225-385
Info: 410-833-6763
If you can picture your little clown happily learning to juggle, walk a tightrope, spin plates, or ride a unicycle, Circus Camp Stars may be just the ticket. Aimed at kids ages 7 to 15, the camp is taught by full-time professional entertainers—many are Ringling Bros. trained—and includes a Friday performance for campers to show off their newly learned skills. And while campers may be chiefly focused on mastering the tricks of the trade, “the most important thing they learn is that nothing comes without a little bit of work,” a life skill with long-lasting benefits, says Circus Camp Stars’s Michael Rosman.
Camp Jemicy
11 Celadon Rd.
Owings Mills, MD 21117
410-753-8032
A five-week summer day program for students ages 6-14 who experience difficulties associated with a language-based learning difference and dyslexia. Also offered is Orton-Gillingham-based tutoring based on 4:1 or small-group skills instruction and tutoring. In addition, outdoor activities, art, crafts, drama, and swimming instruction are offered. June 29-July 31. Call for pricing. Students must apply.
Maryland Leadership Workshops
Washington College
Chestertown, MD
301-444-8623
Contact: Anita Durall Anderson
Three one-week residential programs—the Middle School Experience in Leadership, the Senior High Workshop, and the Advanced Leadership Seminar—help students develop the skills to excel as leaders in their schools and communities. Through innovative leadership activities and engaging group challenges, students interact with peers and staff to discover their own unique leadership style. Middle school July 19-25; high school July 26-Aug. 1; Advanced July 12-18. Call for rates.
Cooking Camp Classic
99 Painters Mill Rd.
Owings Mills, MD 21117
410-356-1666
Contact: Jackie Shugarman
Cooking Camp Classic will inspire apron-clad kids to create dishes that are fun for the whole family to prepare. Junior chefs ages 5-16 get their hands into the ingredients and bring home a dinner for four to share with family and friends. Class themes include Asian Street Food, Roman Holiday, Picnic in the Park, Sweet + Savory Bakery, and Culinary Improv. Camp runs for five weeks starting in June 2015. Children and teens will receive 1.5 hours of instruction, dinner buffet, T-shirt (one per child) and a meal prepared by the kids to take home. Cooking Camp Classic is $85 per class. All classes are 6-8 p.m.
Gilman Summer!
5407 Roland Ave.
Baltimore, MD 21210
410-323-3800
Contact: Maryann Wegloski
410-323-3800, ext. 279
Enrichment and skill-building programs for girls and boys grades one to 12 designed and taught by Gilman faculty and field experts. Courses include an extensive art program, S.T.E.M. courses, outdoor education, SAT prep classes, science, math, foreign language, and sports camps. Classes include Make your first Game App, LEGO Films and Animation, Young Engineers, Surf and Skate Art, Young Explorers Nature Camp, Studio Drawing and Painting, Summer at Hogwarts, Clay and Sculpture Course, and more. Sessions run June 15-July 24.
Award-Winning Lavner Camps
Towson University
8000 York Rd.
Towson, MD 21252
610-664-8800
Contact: Justin Lavner
Lavner Camps offers the following summer camps for Summer 2015: 3D Minecraft™ Camp, Computer Programming Camp, Robotics Camp, Video Game Design Camp with Apps, Fashion Design Camp, Jewelry Design Camp, Filmmaking Camp, and Chess Camp. Campers may attend for one week or multiple weeks. Early-arrival, extended-day, and private lessons are available. Ages 6 to 12. Weekly camps available from June 22 to August 14. CIT Leadership Program for motivated 13- to 15-year olds also available.
Visual & Performing Arts Camps
Howard County Arts Council
8510 High Ridge Rd.
Ellicott City, MD 21043
410-313-2787
Council programs are held at the Howard County Center for the Arts, which includes resident artists’ studios, two professional galleries, a dance studio, the black box theatre for performing arts and the offices of the Howard County Arts Council, The Columbia Orchestra and the Howard County Ballet. Students may select from age-appropriate visual and performing arts camps including pop art, Shakespeare, recycled art, and much more. Programs are open to the public, regardless of residency in Howard County, for grades K-7. June 22-Aug. 14.
The International School of Protocol
Where: Various schools
When: One-week camps starting in June; dates and times vary.
Cost: $150-250 depending on location and camp
Info: 410-832-7555
Offering nine different camps at various locations, the School of Protocol instructs kids as young as 4 on everything from table manners and kindness to how to be a good listener. Camps for older kids focus on communication skills, the art of conversation, interviewing, networking, and more—all aimed at gaining a competitive edge “so you can be noticed for all the right reasons,” says School of Protocol’s Cathleen Hanson.
Roland Park Country School
Kaleidoscope Lifelong Learning
5204 Roland Ave.
Baltimore, MD 21210
410-323-5500
RPCS offers a variety of day camps and programs for both boys and girls ages 3-18. Offerings currently planned include arts, science and tech, nature, language, athletics, computer-oriented programs, and more. Program dates vary from June 16-Aug. 22. Call for a complete catalogue and prices.
RockStar Jam
The Park School
410-296-1131
Now in its third summer, this camp is for children ages 8 to 19 who want to sing or play guitar, bass, drums, piano, or ukulele. Kids spend the week taking musical instruction, forming and rehearsing with a band (formally and in more freewheeling jam sessions), creating professional-quality recordings, songwriting, and preparing for an end-of-week performance that pulls out all the stops—including light show and fog machine. Downtime is woven into the week so kids can just hang out, catch a celebrity guest performance, or take a lesson in an instrument they’ve never tried. July 20-24; 9 a.m.-5 p.m., with drop-off as early as 8 and pickup as late as 5:45. $449.
Camp Jurassic
Where: Roland Park Country School
When: Dates not yet available; 9:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.; can be paired with other half-day camps; before- and after-care available
Cost: $240
Details: 410-323-5500
Introduced last year, Camp Jurassic proved hugely popular with dino-loving little ones. Campers spend their time learning about different dinosaur types and habitats and studying fossils, rocks, and minerals. If dinosaurs aren’t your child’s thing, RPCS also offers a host of other camps, including the ever popular Fairy Fantasy Camp (now offered for two sessions due to its growing waiting list), Crime Scene Investigation Camp, and Peace Camp.
Summer Camp at The Odyssey School
3257 Bridle Ridge Ln.
Stevenson, MD 21153
410-580-5551
Contact: Robyn Wagner
The Odyssey School’s camp is a specialized five-week summer program for children with dyslexia, for first grade through eighth grade, is held on the school’s 42-acre wooded campus in Baltimore County. Camp Windward incorporates an individualized, structured academic experience in the mornings, designed to promote ongoing skill development in the areas of reading, written language, and math, followed by afternoons of outdoor activities and athletics. Sessions June 22 to July 24.
JA BizTown Summer Venture
Junior Achievement of Central Maryland
10711 Red Run Blvd., Ste. 110
Owings Mills, MD 21117
Contact: Rebecca Golloub
410-753-3289
Imagine getting your dream job, operating a business, marketing it, honing your money management skills and running an entire city. Junior Achievement of Central Maryland offers 9-to-12-year-olds the opportunity to do all this and more during the 10th season of its summer camp, the JA BizTown Summer Venture, June 22-26. Children will learn important concepts for earning, spending and saving that will prepare them for a successful future. This year, kids will not only benefit from leaning fiscal fitness, but physical fitness as well, with the addition of special fitness activities from the Y of Central Maryland’s Fit N Fun program. June 23-27. 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., $250.
Park School of Baltimore
Park Camps and Summer Programs
2425 Old Court Rd.
Baltimore, MD 21208
410-339-7070
June 22-31
This summer, children age 3 1/2 and up are exposed to dynamic experiences in the tradition of The Park School of Baltimore. Park¹s unique approach to learning and growing flourishes amid the beauty of the wooded 100-acre campus. 2015 sessions include general day camps (Cubs, Bears, & Bruins) as well as special-focus camps that provide opportunities for intrepid girls and boys (Are We There Yet? Excursion Camp), plus programs in field hockey and lacrosse, as well as baby-sitting and daycare camps. Go online for details and registration.
Young FilmMakers Camp
1502 Woodlawn Dr.
Woodlawn, MD 21207
Now in its second year, Young FilmMakers Camp is developed and run by local filmmaker Calvin Watkins Jr. and his two sons to teach kids aged 7 to 15 how to shoot, edit, and distribute high-quality films and videos. Campers learn how to create digital films with an iPad, getting practice in everything from scriptwriting and framing camera shots to editing and producing a finished work. Field trips get them out of the classroom and into the real world to explore a chosen topic and let their cameras roll. June 15-Aug. 21, 7:30 a.m.-6 p.m. $99-135 a week, includes breakfast, lunch, snacks and field trips.
i2 Science Camp
Bryn Mawr School
Like many of the area’s private schools, Bryn Mawr has a full range of summer camp offerings from sports and the arts to academics. And last year it added a new collection of camps that let campers in grades five through eight dive deep into the world of science. A partnership with i2 Camps focuses on science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) and offers up courses for fifth graders and middle schoolers in engineering prosthetics devices, robotics, digital game design, and building vertical farms, among other things. June 15-July 10; 9 a.m.-4 p.m., with early dropoff and late pickup available for fee. $800 per week; discounts for enrolling for multiple weeks.
Debate Camp
Loyola University Maryland
800-450-5012
Though it’s perfect for your oratory extrovert, this also might be a fit for a child “who is shy or can’t talk to more than two people without their knees shaking,” says Ron Blatt, CEO of Capitol Debate, which has run debate camps at Loyola for 8 years and in the DC area for 16.
Programs—from middle school debate camp and public forum debate camp to public speaking camp—include an overnight or day-only option and are run by experienced debate coaches. A creative writing camp lets eighth graders and high schoolers hone their literary skills, but be warned, these camps sell out quickly.
July 12-24. $2,295-3,395 for a two-week session.
AVAM’s Summer Arts Program
American Visionary Arts Museum
410-244-1900
If you’ve got a budding artist with an eye for the unusual, the American Visionary Arts Museum’s summer arts program might be just the place. The camp, which runs for three weeks in July, lets kids in grades 3 through 8 get creative, with visiting artists leading instruction and lots of hands-on artwork, songwriting, museum exploration, art education, and more. Three weeks in July, Tues-Fri.; 9 a.m.-4 p.m.. Call for dates. $250 for non-members; $200 for members.
Nature Camps
Carrie Murray Nature Center Summer Camp
1901 Ridgetop Rd.
Baltimore, MD 21207
410-396-0808
West Baltimore is the perfect setting for this city-run day camp that specializes in Native-American and African-American activities and nature and environmental studies. The camp is situated on a 1,200-acre wilderness park. Coed for ages 5-13. June 29-August 7. $180.
Camp Puh’Tok
17433 Big Falls Rd.
Monkton, MD 21111
410-329-6590
This rustic camp has more than 70 years of experience to offer for boys and girls ages 5-16. Campers learn Native-American culture, ecology, sailing, horseback riding, canoeing, hiking and American Heritage skills. Sessions from June 23-Aug. 15. Prices vary. Day camp ages 5-9; sleepaway 7-16.
Irvine Nature Center
11201 Garrison Forest Rd.
Owings Mills, MD 21117
443-738-9200
The Irvine Nature Center is a nonprofit environmental education organization providing a variety of year-round programs and special events for children, adults and families. This summer, Irvine will offer its expanded Summer Nature Camp at its location in Owings Mills. Week-long sessions are available for children ages 2-15 from June 8 through August 21. Activities include: hiking, biking, canoeing, aquatics, animal encounters, puppet shows, plant ecology, and story times. Register online, rates vary.
Religious Camps
Beth Tfiloh Camps
400 Delight Meadows Rd.
Reisterstown, MD 21136
410-517-3451
Every summer, hundreds of boys and girls ages 2-eighth grade enjoy a variety of activities at this day camp, including outdoor living skills, a rope course, drama, music, sports, boating, swim instruction, and arts and crafts. Transportation is available. Two- to eight-week programs offered at various prices. June 22-Aug. 14.
Capital Camps
12750 Buchanan Trail East
Waynesboro, PA 17268
717-794-2177
This camp serves the Jewish community in Baltimore, Washington, D.C. and Northern Virginia. Boys and girls (rising third graders through rising 12th graders) participate in a wide variety of activities that range from arts and athletics to activities celebrating Jewish culture. Two-week to eight-week sessions are available. Special-needs campers are mainstreamed into the regular program. June 21-August 9. Prices vary. (See website for specific details.)
Camp Airy
14938 Old Camp Airy Rd.
Thurmont, MD 21788
301-271-4636
(See Camp Airy and Camp Louise for office information.)
Camp Louise
24959 Pen Mar Rd.
Cascade, MD 21719
301-241-3661
(See Camp Airy and Camp Louise for office information.)
The Camp Airy and Camp Louise Office
5750 Park Heights Ave., Ste. 306
Baltimore, MD 21215
410-466-9010
Camps Airy and Louise have been serving Jewish children entering grades 2 through 12 for more than 90 years. Both Camp Airy’s 450-acre site in Thurmont and Camp Louise’s 400 acres in Cascade are in the Catoctin Mountains of Western Maryland. Children enjoy a wide variety of athletic activities, rock climbing, swimming, drama, music, and more during two-to-eight-week sessions. June 19-Aug. 9. Prices vary.
JCC Camps at Milldale
5425 Mt. Gilead Rd.
Reisterstown, MD 21136
410-559-3513
Campers enjoy lake and nature activities, cooking, arts, sports, science, Israeli culture, award-winning swim lessons, and much more. Day camp for grades K-6, arts camps for grades three through eight, and LIT program for grades nine and 10. Two- to eight-week options and extended-day available. June 22-August 14.
Noah’s Ark Camp at the JCC
5700 Park Heights Ave.
Baltimore, MD 21215
410-500-5936
3506 Gwynnbrook Ave.
Owings Mills, MD 21117
410-559-3557
The JCC offer a nurturing environment for preschoolers, ages 2-5 to explore, discover and grow. Both locations offer swim lessons, music and movement, amazing playgrounds, Israeli culture, Shabbat programs, and professional educators. Half and full day, and four-, six-, and eight-week options available. June 22-August 14.
Camp Pecometh
136 Bookers Wharf Rd.
Centreville, MD 21617
410-556-6900
The mission of this coed Christian camp is to provide a faith environment that promotes life-changing experiences in a traditional camp setting, as well as archery, sailing, crafts, and games. For grades k-11. June 21-Aug. 21. Call for prices.
Camp Wright
400 Camp Wright Ln.
Stevensville, MD 21666
410-643-4171
Operated by the Episcopal Diocese of Easton, this camp has day and residential programs that capitalize on its location on the Chesapeake Bay. While learning Christian ideals, campers in grades K-11 can sail, canoe, learn sports and nature studies, and even take wilderness-adventure excursions. June 22-Aug. 15. Coed. Call for prices.
Medical/Special Needs Camps
Camp Friendship at the Carol Jean Cancer Foundation
Elk Neck State Park
North East, MD
410-531-0758
Camp Friendship, the premier program of the Carol Jean Cancer Foundation, was founded in 1991, as a place to let kids with cancer enjoy a care-free summer at camp without the worry of medical care or a financial burden. The camp is free to all its campers, ages 7-17, and includes a staff of medical personnel. A physician is on site everyday and several pediatric oncology nurses are there day and night. Campers enjoy swimming, boating, zip-lines and arts and crafts. One five-day session, call for dates.
Camp Superkids
Summit Grove Camp
140 S. Front St.
New Freedom, PA 17349
717-578-0465
Camp Superkids is designed to provide a fun summer experience for children ages 7 ½ to 12 with asthma. In addition to asthma education, campers enjoy swimming, teambuilding, and arts and crafts. Scholarships are available.
July 12-17 at Summit Grove Camp in New Freedom.
Lions Camp Merrick/Camp Glyndon
P.O. Box 56
3650 Rick Hamilton Pl.
Nanjemoy, MD 20662
301-870-5858
Children who have diabetes or are blind, ages 6-16, enjoy fun times at Lions Camp Merrick/Camp Glyndon, located on a 300-acre campsite. This camp offers an educational approach to preventative health care. Children develop and enhance skills that encourage independence. For the diabetes camp, instructors teach children to manage their diets, plus a nursing and catering staff provides nutritious meals tailored to the children’s special needs. Children also enjoy outdoor activities including swimming, dancing, archery, campfires, and more during one-week sessions. June-August. Prices online.
The League at Camp Greentop
Office: The League for People with Disabilities
111 E. Cold Spring Ln.
Baltimore, MD 21239
410-323-0500
Camp Greentop in Sabillasville provides girls and boys with a traditional day and sleepover camp experience in a beautiful setting with the added benefit of a 2:1 staff-to-camper ratio. Campers with physical and mental conditions including epilepsy, HIV/AIDS, cerebral palsy, and autism participate in diverse activities in a safe and nurturing environment. There is also a weekend-long family camp offered in the spring. Summer sessions June-August (call for exact dates). Call for pricing.
Traditional Summer Camps
St. James Academy
3100 Monkton Rd.
Monkton, MD
410-771-4816
Contact: Elena Baranowski
St. James Academy offers a high-quality summer program for children ages 3 to 16. These coed activities provide exceptional camp experiences to nurture children’s growth academically, socially, athletically, spiritually, and emotionally in a secure and positive environment. Programs take place on St. James’ 89-acre campus which includes a 104,000-square-foot facility, playgrounds, athletic fields, tennis courts, basketball courts, gymnasium, and theatre. Camp dates run June 8 through August 28.
The John Carroll School Patriot Summer Camps
703 E. Churchville Rd.
Bel Air, MD 21014
410-879-2480
Contact: Tony Martin
This summer there is no better place for your son or daughter to be than on the John Carroll School campus, participating in the Patriot Summer Camps. These programs provide a safe, fun environment for your child to play, learn, meet others, and experience new things, all on the 72-acre campus of the John Carroll School. Camps run June through August. Call for dates and rates.
Summer Programs at Beth El
Beth El Congregation
8101 Park Heights Ave.
Pikesville, MD 21208
410-484-0411
Beth El is now offering summer programs at two sites—Pikesville and Federal Hill. The Pikesville summer program is partnering with Coppermine Fieldhouse to create a camp specializing in ages 2 to 5 years old. Children at both sites will have a blast participating in age-appropriate games, sports, water play, rhythm and movement classes, and more. Camp session is from June 15 to August 7 with a 9 am-1 p.m. option and a 9 a.m.-4 p.m. option.
YMCA Camp Tockwogh
24370 Still Pond Neck Rd.
Worton, MD 21678
410-348-6000
This rural camp on 309 acres of Chesapeake Bay shoreline offers one- and two-week sessions from June 21-August 14 for kids in grades k-9. Traditional coed overnight camp plus sailing and equestrian programs.
Bricks 4 Kidz
443-636-0782
Contact: Michele Rigatuso, [email protected]
Bricks 4 Kidz provides an extraordinary atmosphere for students age s 5-12 to build unique creations, play games, and have loads of fun using
LEGO® Bricks. The activities are designed to trigger young children’s lively imaginations and build their self-confidence. Campers will receive a T-shirt and take home a custom mini-figure. June-August.
Camp Alleghany for Girls
Storehouse Rd.
Lewisburg, WV 24901
877-446-9475
[email protected]
An overnight summer camp located in Greenbrier County, WV, Camp Alleghany offers programs to girls ages 7 to 16, with sessions of one or six weeks. Girls continue to enjoy the same customs and activities established 90 years ago, including archery, arts and crafts, canoeing, dance, drama, riflery, ropes, singing, sports and fitness, swimming, and tennis, with emphasis on the principles of sportsmanship, citizenship, cooperation, consideration for others, the honor system, and meaningful appreciation of the outdoors. Goals are achieved in a lively, relaxed, and fun setting, enhancing self-esteem and boosting confidence while the girls grow in leadership, maturity and responsibility.
Camp Friendship
573 Friendship Way
Palmyra, VA 22963
434-589-8950
ACA-accredited Camp Friendship provides more than 50 activities to choose from in one- and two-week sessions, including junior and teen programs (co-ed), plus an equestrian program for girls ages 9-16, and sports-specialized programs (such as tennis, water-skiing, gymnastics). June 14-August 15. $1,100-$1,275.
Camp Rock Summer Day Camp
1607 Cromwell Bridge Rd.
Baltimore, MD 21234
410-665-7461
Contact: Julie Traut, Director
Camp Rock offers nine weeks of theme-based fun for children ages 4-12. The summer program runs from June 15 through August 14, Monday-Friday from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m., offering nature trails, water activities, games, crafts, team building, on-site field trips, sports, horsemanship, and academic enrichment. Lunch and snacks included in all camper packages. $175-240.
Cape Cod Sea Camps
3057 Main St.
Brewster, MA 02631
508-896-3451
Contact: Dave Peterson
Established in 1922, Cape Cod Sea Camps, located on Cape Cod Bay, offers both co-educational resident and day camp for children ages 4 to 17 with approximately 300 day campers per week, and 400 overnight campers per session. Campers, who come from two dozen states and several foreign countries, are placed in eight units according to age, grade, and friendships. Activities include sailing, swimming, wind surfing, water skiing, archery, air riflery, arts and crafts, woodworking, cycling, tennis, team sports, and drama. Call for rates on overnight camp in sessions of 3.5 weeks and seven weeks. June 28-Aug. 15.
Preschool and Elementary & Middle School Summer Camps
Columbia Academy
10350 Old Columbia Rd.
Columbia, MD 21046
5 locations in Howard County
866-209-9183
Preschool camp is offered in four locations: Thunder Hill, Kendall Ridge, Kings Contrivance, and Maple Lawn. In this 13-week camp, children will read, learn, swim, and play. Elementary and middle-school campers come together at Columbia Academy for a summer of science experiments and activities including swimming, cooking, art, weekly field trips, games, and mental challenges with a S.T.E.M. (science, technology, engineering, mathematics) focus.
Grier Summer Camp
2522 Grier School Rd.
Tyrone, PA. 16686
814-684-3000, ext. 113
This all-girl residential summer program at the Grier School in Central Pennsylvania offers horseback riding, dance, art, drama, swimming, camping, and sports in one- to three-week sessions for girls ages 7-17. Also offered is an equestrian program for riders of various abilities. June14-Aug. 1. Prices vary.
Columbia Association Camps
10221 Wincopin Circle, Ste. 100
Columbia, MD 21044
410-715-3165
The Columbia Association operates 16 camps that have something for every child, whether it is art, basketball, nature, skating, or sailing. The various day camps provide activities for boys and girls in grades K-12. June 15-August 14. Prices vary.
Echo Hill Camp
13655 Bloomingneck Rd.
Worton, MD 21678
410-348-5303
This
sleep-away summer camp helps boys and girls age 7-16 build self-confidence and creative expression in an outdoor environment. Located on Maryland’s Eastern Shore with 350 acres of wooded land and a mile of beach on the Chesapeake, activities offered include landsports, arts and crafts, and water sports such as water-skiing and sailing. June 21-Aug. 15. Prices vary.
Coppermine Fieldhouse
1400 Coppermine Terrace
Plus other locations
Baltimore, MD 21209
410-337-7781
Coppermine Fieldhouse, a 42,000-square-foot indoor facility on 12 acres, offers age-appropriate day camps for children 3 to 15 years of age, including a starter program, lifetime sports camp, team sports clinics, and a performing arts seminar. Gymnastics, rock climbing, team building, archery, tennis, and other specialty programs with swimming. Two and eight-week sessions offered June 1-Aug. 28.
Maryland 4-H Camps
(in various counties)
8020 Greenmead Dr.
College Park, MD 20740
301-314-7835
Every county and Baltimore City has a 4-H camp offered at various locations. The camps are open to all youths, boys and girls, ages 8-18. Resident and day programs provide the traditional camp experience. June-August. Prices vary.
McDonogh School Summer Programs
8600 McDonogh Rd.
Owings Mills, MD 21117
443-544-7100
For over 80 years, McDonogh has been offering summer programs for ages 4 to 18, including traditional day camps, academic experiences, and day and overnight sports clinics. The camps are conducted on McDonogh’s 800-acre campus, which includes stables and outdoor riding rings, two fishing ponds, two fully equipped playground areas, 20 tennis courts, and outdoor athletic fields, as well as rock-climbing tower and ropes course. Indoor facilities include a 54,000-square-foot field house with seven basketball courts, an aquatic center that includes an Olympic-size swimming pool, two indoor batting ranges, a wellness center, and a wrestling room. A fine arts center boasts a 588-seat theater with modern stage, lighting and sound, black box, music room, and set design room, and there are multiple computer labs, art rooms, classrooms, and dormitory space to accommodate over 100 students. Call or go online for programs, dates, and rates.
Summer at Bryn Mawr
109 W. Melrose Ave.
Baltimore, Md. 21210
410-323-1118
The Bryn Mawr School runs half- and full-day sports and creative camps for boys and girls, ages 3-15, from mid-June to mid-August. Held on their sprawling north Baltimore campus, programs include sports like field hockey and soccer, plus art, music, dance and enrichment programs, including such unique offerings as manners instruction, a doll camp, and a pets camp. Call or go online for rates. June 15-August 14.
Summer Fun at the Greenspring Montessori School
10807 Tony Dr.
Lutherville, MD 21093
410-321-8555
Contact: Shari Wolf
The Montessori School’s Summer Fun program, located on the school’s campus at the corner of Falls and Greenspring Valley Roads, offers a nurturing, non-competitive learning environment in a farm-like setting.
Programs are for children ages 18 months to 12 years and include recreational sports, nature, music, arts, science, toddler preschool and Summer Montessori. Call for rates. June 22-Aug. 7.
Nature Camps
17433 Big Falls Rd.
Monkton, MD 21111
410-935-1545
For over 40 years, Nature Camps has offered a unique family-based program for both parents and children ages 4-16, with an emphasis on outdoor adventure and environmental education. Programs are set on 228 acres of woodland bordering the Gunpowder River in Monkton. Call for prices. Two- to eight-week sessions. June 15-August 8.
Open Door
518 Virginia Ave.
Towson, MD 21286
410-825-6300
Open Door, a licensed child-care provider, has summer-camp programs offering swimming, field trips, crafts, nature, and sports activities. Weekly themes have included Mardi Gras, American Idol, and Down the Ocean. Locations are in Baltimore County and Anne Arundel County. Call for dates and prices.
Summer at Friends
5114 North Charles St.
Baltimore, MD 21210
410-649-3218
Friends School of Baltimore offers kids ages 4-13 a variety of programs and day camps in technology, music, art, drama, and sports. Extended-day hours are available. Call for precise dates; camp sessions planned for June 15-August 1. Parents choose the length of sessions up to eight weeks. Fees vary.
Sandy Hill Camp
3380 Turkey Point Rd.
North East, MD 21901
410-287-5554
This camp offers sailing, water-skiing, a rope course, zip line, horseback riding, sports, art, crafts, and more on 211 acres on the Chesapeake Bay. One- and two-week sessions are available for boys and girls in grades 2-10. June 21-Aug. 21. One-week session/$975, two weeks/$2,250.
Summer Camp at the Zoo
The Maryland Zoo in Baltimore
1876 Mansion House Dr.
Baltimore, MD 21217
410-396-7102
Campers experience a unique, week-long day camp that allows them to explore the natural world of animals and their habitats. Each camp is conducted by zoo educators with each session limited to 20 campers. Students will learn how some of the animals are cared for, what they eat, and how their exhibits are maintained.
Different programs for kids in grades 2 through 8. Call for dates and rates. Zoo members receive discount.
Ultimate Watersports Summer Camps
Various state-park locations
Offices at: 7340 Greenbank Rd.
Baltimore, MD 21220
410-335-2340
Ultimate Watersports offers weekly sailing, kayaking, windsurfing, and environmental summer day camps for boys and girls ages 9-16. Offerings include watersports, rock climbing, and river kayaking. Call for more information and pricing.
YMCA Camp Letts
4003 Camp Letts Rd.
Edgewater, MD 21037
410-919-1410
The coed camp takes children ages 6-16 in day and residential programs. Its location on the Bay encourages campers to learn sailing, water-skiing, swimming, horseback riding, sports, paintball, and archery. June-Aug. Sessions range from one to three weeks. Prices vary.
Camp Tall Timbers
Winter office: 3735 Spicebush Dr.
Frederick, MD 21704
800-862-2678
Summer: Route 1, Box 472
High View, WV 26808
304-856-3722
Contact: Glenn Smith
Founded in 1970, Camp Tall Timbers in West Virginia’s Blue Ridge Mountains has offered co-ed campers in grades 1-10 aerobics, drama, athletics, horseback riding. Accredited by the American Camp Association. Prices vary.
Sports Camps
All Pro Lacrosse Camp
334 St Dunstans Rd
Baltimore, MD 21212
410 532 0189
Contact: Tom Marechek
[email protected]
Tom Marechek’s All Pro Lacrosse Camp is directed by Hall of Famer Tom Marechek, a former Syracuse University All American and now head coach at Friends School, and his All Pro Lacrosse staff. The camp, held at Goucher College for boys 7-17years of age, includes overnight, extended and day sessions, scrimmages, instructional sessions, individual and team competitions, and guest lecturers. Call for dates and prices.
Blue Chip Lacrosse Camp
Garrison Forest School
300 Garrison Forest Rd.
Owings Mills, MD 21117.
Mailing: 3200 Woodvalley Dr.
Baltimore, MD 21208
410-274-4129
The middle school Blue Chip Lacrosse Camp is the only lacrosse camp in the Baltimore area that specializes in teaching the game to the elite players of the game. Girls must have club experience in order to attend. The coaching staff includes some of Baltimore’s finest coaches such as Chris Robinson (McDonogh), Mary Gagnon (Mt. DeSales), and Lindsay Lewis (Garrison Forest). June 22-25. For elite players only. Limited to 200 campers.
Amazing Grace Equestrian Center
Summer Horseback Riding Program (Day Camp)
Amazing Grace Equestrian Center
2642 Mount Carmel Rd.
Parkton, MD 21120
443-528-7521
Amazing Grace Equestrian Center offers a Summer Riding Program (Day Camp) for ages 8 – 15. Participants will learn about the history of the horse, breeds, colors, markings, horse care, grooming, and riding (equitation, games and etiquette). Both English and Western disciplines are offered, beginner thru advanced. Camp is 9 a.m.-3 p.m. and before/after care is available. Call for dates and rates.
Black Bear Lacrosse Camps
P.O. Box 2348
Wilmington, DE 19899
Camp locations in various states
215-421-9170
This day lacrosse camp strives to provide instruction within a supportive and nurturing environment for boys and girls ages 4-15. Each camper receives a reversible tank top, as well as eligibility for scholarships. Counselor positions are filled by some of the best college, club, and professional players in the game who aim to inspire lacrosse players at all skill levels. Sessions June-Aug., check site for prices.
Brick Bodies Summer Camps
Brick Bodies Padonia
2430 Broad Ave.
Timonium, MD 21093
410-252-5280
Located at the Brick Bodies Padonia 58,000-square-foot health club facility, Brick Bodies Summer Camps offer basketball camps focusing on fundamentals of the game, shooting, team play, contests, and competition for kids 6-12. $100-$175. Five-day sessions August 3-14. Discounts available for Brick Bodies/Lynne Brick’s members.
Downtown Sailing Center
1425 Key Hwy., Ste. 110
Baltimore, MD 21230
410-727-0722
Junior summer camp runs weekly from June through mid- Aug. for children ages 8-15, offering kids expert instruction on sailing and boating skills. Call for dates and rates.
Five-Star Baltimore Basketball Camp
P.O. BOX 155
Timonium, MD 21094
410-426-2230
Five-Star, a day camp in its 19
th season, serves girls and boys from third grade up to tenth grade with one-week sessions held at Park and Roland Park Schools, June-Aug. Call for exact dates and rates.
G.G. Smith Basketball Camp
Loyola University Maryland Athletics
Attn: Basketball Office
4501 N. Charles St.
Baltimore, MD 21210
410-617-2767
Run by Loyola University Maryland Head Coach G.G. Smith, this camp is for boys and girls, ages 7-17, in the Greyhounds’ Reitz Arena. Campers will learn from Smith and the Loyola coaching staff in a day filled with fun, skill enhancement, and fundamentals. More information can be found at
loyolagreyhounds.com.
Impact Sports Baltimore
Summer Baseball and Softball Camps and Clinic
Baltimore and Towson
443-406-6665
Baseball and softball camps for ages 8-16, Impact’s Math+Baseball and Leadership+Baseball camps combine fun games and baseball training with a greater purpose. Summer Development Leagues provide a personalized summer baseball experience close to home. Speed and conditioning clinics catapult young athletes to the next level. Call for dates and prices.
Sports Camp
Notre Dame of Maryland University
215-487-1106
This interactive camp, now in its 12th year, gives campers aged 10 to 18 a taste of the broadcast world, guiding them as they create their own anchor tapes in the camp’s TV studio, host a radio talk show and practice play-by-plays of past Super Bowls and NBA finals. Offered one week at Notre Dame, the camp also has openings in eight other cities as well. June 22-26; 9 a.m.-4 p.m. $595 day camp; $1,225 overnight.
Tennis & Aquatics Camps at the JCC
3506 Gwynnbrook Ave.
Owings Mills, MD 21117
410-559-3538
JCC Tennis Camps provides a daily blend of skill-building, competition, and recreational activities. Programs are available for ages 3-15 on a weekly basis. The JCC also offers aquatics camps for beginner, intermediate, and experienced swimmers who are looking to develop a competitive edge. Call for dates and rates.
Ripken Baseball Camps
1427 Clarkview Rd., Ste. 100
Baltimore, MD 21209
888-747-5361
Day and overnight camp sessions are available for boys and girls ages 7-18. This is your young player’s chance to learn baseball “The Ripken Way.” June-August. $350-1,695. Camps will be held at the Ripken Experience in Aberdeen.
Camp consultants
Tips on Trips and Camps
Contact: Eve Eifler
www.tipsontripsandcamps.com
866-222-TIPS