Long, sunny days are just around the corner, which means your tots can finally leave their computer screens behind, stake up tents and learn how to enjoy the outdoors! Yes, we’re talking about summer camps. Besides perfecting their cannonball, spending evenings roasting marshmallows around a campfire, and embracing creativity through arts and crafts, enrolling your child in summer camp will also teach them independence, foster team building and give them an opportunity to connect with nature. Not to mention, they’ll get to create lasting lifelong memories and friendships. New Hampshire’s Lakes Region is ripe with enriching summer camps for your kids, ranging from a few days to a few weeks in length, all surrounded by the natural beauty of the Lakes Region.
Prescott Farm
From late June through August, Prescott Farms WildQuest Camp gives children ages 4-14 the chance to explore nature, build connections and make friends, and develop skills related to themed camp weeks. Each week is centered around a theme: Survivor, Nature Narratives, Eco Artists, Creature Feature, Kids Can Cook, Water, Water Everywhere, and STEAM Team. Campers will learn valuable survival skills like cooking over a fire, building their own shelter, and navigating the forests. Prescott Farms camp runs Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. with extended hours available if necessary.
Wolfeboro Parks and Rec
As the nation’s oldest summer resort community, Wolfeboro attracts locals and visitors with its abundance of parks, beaches, recreational programs, and facilities. This year, children from 6-12 are welcome to join their Summer Day Camp from Monday through Friday beginning June 27. Campers take part in a variety of outdoor activities and games, express their creativity through arts and crafts, and partake in weekly beach trips. All supervised by trained summer staff, ensuring a safe and fun environment for kids to play, learn, and grow.
Winnipesaukee Playhouse
At Winnipesaukee Playhouse, children ages 5-14 explore creative expression through acting, singing, movement, and art by collaborating with one another in a supportive environment at theater camp. Each week is based around a specific theme, allowing kids to simply attend one week or multiple weeks. The 12-to 14-year-olds will focus on vocal and physical acting, learn how to enhance their performance abilities, design their own sets, lights, and costumes, as well as assist the younger children in bringing their plays to life. Family and friends are invited to watch the final productions each week and show their support for the young performers.
Winni Sailing Association
Embark on a one or two-week-long sailing camp with Winni Sailing Association. No experience is required to sail in the Mighty Minis or the Level One group. After learning the ropes, students can advance to Level Two where they will build upon the skills learned in the level prior. Winni Sailing Association also offers a few racing courses depending on skill level and age.
Camp Tohkomeupog
Since 1932, this all-boys camp has helped children learn independence, utilize practical skills, build self-confidence, and create connections with one another on over 1,000 acres of land. Campers are divided into four clans: Bear, Deer, Panther, and Wolf, depending on their age and grade level. Choose from 2, 3, 4, 5, or 7-week long sessions this summer where they will enjoy traditional summer camp staples like archery, tennis, sailing, swimming, outdoor adventures, and watersports.
Purity Spring Resort
Summer camps aren’t just reserved for kids; Purity Springs Resort is the ideal destination for family vacations and weekend trips in the Lakes Region. Take part in traditional summertime activities like water skiing, kayaking, canoeing, and swimming. This idyllic escape is nestled between the Lakes Region and the White Mountains, providing plenty of opportunities to explore beyond the grounds.
Rent a boat on Ossipee Lake, take a day trip to Story Land, visit a local farmers market, and check out Madison Boulder – the largest known glacial erratic in North America. Purity Lake itself stretches approximately 75 acres from one side of the resort to the other and has beaches that offer both sandy and grassy areas to lounge. Every Sunday from 8 to 9 a.m., families are welcome to join the camp’s Summer Breakfast Cookouts starting June 19 through Sept. 4.
Lakes Region Summer Art Camp
Instructed by Thomas Hitchcock, this summer art camp is the perfect way for pre-teens and teenagers to discover their inner Picasso. Providing an introduction to drawing and painting, this program is designed for young artists ages 12 to 18. On Friday and Saturday mornings July 22 to August 6th, make your way to the LRAA Art Gallery in the Tanger Outlets. Best of all, the cost for all six classes includes materials. Just tell your kids to bring their creativity and this course will take care of the rest!
Summer Guided Discoveries at the Squam Lakes Natural Science Center
Guided Discoveries are week-long outdoor natural adventure camps for children ages 4 to 12. Programs, taught by experienced naturalist educators, give children an in-depth exploration of nature and science. The Squam Lakes Natural Science Center is excited to host this program this summer and look forward to a fun and safe experience for everyone.
Highland Mountain Bike Park Summer Camp
This multi-day summer camp at Highland Mountain Bike Park includes programs for mountain bikers ages 8 – 17. All levels of biking experience are welcome. Five sessions will be offered through July and August. Check out their video!