July camps: Spend the summer at the YMCA, SWIC, Camp Ondessonk
Weekly camps
YMCA Traditional Day Camp
Variety of field trips, swimming, craft projects, outdoor education, songs and adventure. Weekly theme: Mystery & Mischief.
▪ YMCA at 1 Town Center Drive, Maryville; 618-346-5600; cmt@gwrymca.org; 9514 Caring Way, Columbia; 618-281-9622; monroe@gwrymca.org; 284 N. Seven Hills Road, O’Fallon; 618-628-7701; ofallonil@gwrymca.org; East Belleville YMCA, 2627 Carlyle Ave., Belleville; 618-236-9983; www.gwrymca.org
▪ Ages: 6-12
▪ Cost: $95 for five-day YMCA members; $125 for five-day nonmembers; $75 for three-day YMCA members; $105 for five-day nonmembers
▪ 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. July 5-8
Kidcam Camp
Arts and crafts, organized activities, water games, weekly field trips and more.
▪ Holy Trinity School, 504 Fountains Parkway, Fairview Heights; www.kidcamcamp.com; lindsaybeaston@gmail.com
▪ Ages: 3 to 13
▪ Cost: Registration is $50, weekly tuition is $110. Free before care starts at 7 a.m.; after care until 6 p.m. is $2 for 30 minutes, $4 for an hour
▪ 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. July 5-8
Growing Scholars: Summer Super Hero
Indoor and outdoor activities with two to three field trips a week and weekly themes. Features an hour of reading and math each day.
▪ Growing Scholars Educational Center, 115 W. B St., Belleville, 618-628-4769
▪ Ages: 4-12
▪ $130 per week, $100 registration, minimum of five weeks; before and after care available, $25 for one or $30 for morning and evening. Must attend at least five weeks.
▪ 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., July 5-8
Mini STEM Explosions
Two full days of science, technology, engineering, art and math activities. Registration deadline June 7.
▪ Camp Torqua, 4725 Girl Scout Road, Edwardsville; www.gsofsi.org/camp_daycamp.html.
▪ Ages: Kindergarten through third grade
▪ Cost: $35 for Girl Scouts; $50 for non-Girl Scouts
▪ 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. July 7-8
O’Fallon Parks and Rec: Christmas in July
Celebrate Christmas through activities and crafts.
▪ Katy Cavins Community Center, O’Fallon; http://ofallonsummercamps.com/
▪ Ages: 5-12
▪ Cost: $105; $25 for before/after care
▪ 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. July 5-8
Overnight Camps
Cub Scout Adventure Camp
Slingshots, BB’s, bouldering, GaGa ball and more.
▪ Camp Warren Levis, Godfrey; www.lewisandclarkbsa.org/
▪ Ages: Tigers, Wolves, Bears, Webelos and Arrow of Light
▪ Cost: $140; $160 after May 15
▪ July 7-10
DuBois Center Discovery Camp
Faith-based program with age-based adventures, including horseback riding.
▪ DuBois Center, 2651 Quarry Road, DuBois; DuBoisCenter.org; 618-787-2202
▪ Ages: Completed first through third grades
▪ Cost: Actual: $254, partially subsidized $234, subsidized $214
▪ July 10-12
DuBois Center Settler
Faith-based program with age-based adventures, including horseback riding.
▪ DuBois Center, 2651 Quarry Road, DuBois; DuBoisCenter.org; 618-787-2202
▪ Ages: Completed third through fifth grades
▪ Cost: Actual: $510, partially subsidized $470, subsidized $430
▪ July 10-15
DuBois Center Saddle ‘Em Up
Faith-based program with age-based adventures and horseback riding.
▪ DuBois Center, 2651 Quarry Road, DuBois; DuBoisCenter.org; 618-787-2202
▪ Ages: Completed seventh through ninth grades
▪ Cost: Actual: $555, partially subsidized $515, subsidized $475
▪ July 10-15
DuBois Center Outlander
Faith-based program with age-based adventures and camping under the stars. Enjoy a late night out and lazy morning the next day.
▪ DuBois Center, 2651 Quarry Road, DuBois; DuBoisCenter.org; 618-787-2202
▪ Ages: Completed sixth through ninth grades
▪ Cost: Actual: $510, partially subsidized $470, subsidized $430
▪ July 10-15
Camp Ondessonk Mini Camp
Mini Camp is a three-day, three-night session for younger children. It includes horseback instruction and riding, handicrafts, boating, swimming, archery, evening campfires, skits, and singing.
▪ Camp Ondessonk, 3760 Ondessonk Road, Ozark, 618-695-2489, www.ondessonk.com
▪ Ages: 8-10
▪ Cost: $270
▪ July 3-6
Camp Ondessonk Smoky Mountain Adventure
High-school age campers will travel to the Nantahala Outdoor Center in North Carolina and experience one of the nation’s best introductory whitewater rivers with professional guides. This trip will also include a mountaintop zipline tour, kayaking, tree climbing and more.
▪ Camp Ondessonk, 3760 Ondessonk Road, Ozark, 618-695-2489, www.ondessonk.com
▪ Ages: 15-18
▪ Cost: $750
▪ July 3- 9
Camp Ondessonk Mini Camp Explorers
Young campers will spend the entire week discovering all of the Camp Ondessonk activities and traditions. Explorers will enjoy nature walks, horseback instruction and riding, handicrafts, boating, swimming, archery, campfires, structured social time, and skits while living in a communal setting designed to develop social skills and build friendships.
▪ Camp Ondessonk, 3760 Ondessonk Road, Ozark, 618-695-2489, www.ondessonk.com
▪ Ages: 8–10
▪ Cost: $489
▪ July 3-9
Camp Ondessonk Coed Camp
The coed camp schedule includes a horseback ride, archery, riflery, council, swimming, nature exploration, handicrafts, woodsmanship, canoeing, kayaking, campfires, an overnight campout, marathon, tug of war and more.
▪ Camp Ondessonk, 3760 Ondessonk Road, Ozark, 618-695-2489, www.ondessonk.com
▪ Ages: 10-15
▪ Cost: $489
▪ July 3-9
Weekly camps
YMCA Traditional Day Camp
Variety of field trips, swimming, craft projects, outdoor education, songs and adventure. Weekly theme: A Very Merry Holiday.
▪ YMCA at 1 Town Center Drive, Maryville; 618-346-5600; cmt@gwrymca.org; 9514 Caring Way, Columbia; 618-281-9622; monroe@gwrymca.org; 284 N. Seven Hills Road, O’Fallon; 618-628-7701; ofallonil@gwrymca.org; East Belleville YMCA, 2627 Carlyle Ave., Belleville; 618-236-9983; www.gwrymca.org
▪ Ages: 6-12
▪ Cost: $95 for five-day YMCA members; $125 for five-day non-members; $75 for three-day YMCA members; $105 for five-day non-members
▪ 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. July 11-15
O’Fallon Parks and Rec: Lacrosse Mini Camp
Learn to play lacrosse in a fun atmosphere.
▪ Katy Cavins Community Center, O’Fallon; http://ofallonsummercamps.com/
▪ Ages: 7-14
▪ Cost: $80; $25 for before/after care
▪ 8:45 a.m. to noon. July 11-15
O’Fallon Parks and Rec: Swim Mini Camp
Intensive swim lesson; instruction and free swim.
▪ Katy Cavins Community Center, O’Fallon; http://ofallonsummercamps.com/
▪ Ages: 6-14
▪ Cost: $80; $25 for before/after care
▪ 8:45 a.m. to noon July 11-15
O’Fallon Parks and Rec: Cooking Around Town Mini Camp
Introductory level course, kitchen safety; learn in various kitchens around town.
▪ Katy Cavins Community Center, O’Fallon; http://ofallonsummercamps.com/
▪ Ages: 7-14
▪ Cost: $90; $25 for before/after care
▪ 12:45 to 4 p.m. July 11-15
O’Fallon Parks and Rec: Recreational Swim Mini Camp
Spend the afternoon swimming in the O’Fallon Memorial Pool.
▪ Katy Cavins Community Center, O’Fallon; http://ofallonsummercamps.com/
▪ Ages: 7-14
▪ Cost: $60; $25 for before/after care
▪ 12:45 to 4 p.m. July 11-15
O’Fallon Parks and Rec: Tennis Mini Camp
Tennis instruction teaching the basic principles of tennis such as stance and grip.
▪ Katy Cavins Community Center, O’Fallon; http://ofallonsummercamps.com/
▪ Ages: 7-14
▪ Cost: $60; $25 for before/after care
▪ 8:45 a.m. to noon July 11-15
Cub Scout Adventure Camp
Slingshots, BB’s, bouldering, GaGa ball and more.
▪ Camp Warren Levis, Godfrey; www.lewisandclarkbsa.org/
▪ Ages: Tigers, Wolves, Bears, Webelos and Arrow of Light
▪ Cost: $140; $160 after May 15
▪ July 14-17
Cub Scout Twilight Camp
Slingshots, archery and more.
▪ Camp Joy, Carlyle; www.lewisandclarkbsa.org/
▪ Ages: Tigers, Wolves, Bears and Webelos
▪ Cost: $60; $75 after June 12
▪ 5 to 9 p.m. July 12-15
Kidcam Camp
Arts and crafts, organized activities, water games, weekly field trips and more.
▪ Holy Trinity School, 504 Fountains Parkway, Fairview Heights; www.kidcamcamp.com; lindsaybeaston@gmail.com
▪ Ages: 3 to 13
▪ Cost: Registration is $50, weekly tuition is $110. Free before care starts at 7 a.m.; after care until 6 p.m. is $2 for 30 minutes, $4 for an hour
▪ 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. July 13-17
Growing Scholars: Rainforest
Indoor and outdoor activities with two to three field trips a week and weekly themes. Features an hour of reading and math each day.
▪ Growing Scholars Educational Center, 115 West B Street, Belleville, 618-628-4769
▪ Ages: 6-12
▪ Cost: $130 per week, $100 registration, minimum of five weeks; before and after care available, $25 for one or $30 for morning and evening. Must attend at least five weeks.
▪ 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., July 11-15
CS IMSA
Participants will gather evidence as they unravel the science and math behind crime scene clues like finger and footprints, DNA, handwriting, voice ID and more.
▪ Belle Valley School, 2465 Amann Dr., Belleville; www.imsa.edu; dwaller@imsa.edu
▪ Ages: Entering fifth and sixth grades
▪ Cost: $350
▪ 8:30 a.m. – 3 p.m. July 11-15
Art Intensive: 3D Designs
Through traditional and contemporary materials, students will investigate the endless possibilities of 3D media and learn to create non-functional sculpture. Compositional design, along with the formal elements such as positive and negative space, form and line will be explored.
▪ Southwestern Illinois College Schmidt Art Center; 866-942-7942; www.swic.edu
▪ Ages: Sixth to eighth grades
▪ Cost: $95
▪ 9 a.m. to noon, July 11-14
SIUE Summer Writing Camp
Combine learning with recreation in an intensive and practical development in basic writing skills with a full recreational program.
▪ Southern Illinois University Edwardsville; www.siue.edu/summer/summer-camps-activities
▪ Ages: 8-18
▪ Cost: $240
▪ 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. July 11-22
Music Technology and Composition Camp
Explore music by writing pieces on a computer, experimenting with instruments. No previous experience with computers or keyboards in necessary.
▪ Southern Illinois University Edwardsville, Dunham Hall; dcoan@siue.edu; 618-650-2012; www.siue.edu/summer/summer-camps-activities
▪ Ages: Entering seventh through 12th grades
▪ Cost: $150
▪ 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. July 11-22
Music Theater Workshop
Professional vocal training, dance training, master classes focusing on song preparation, audition technique and interpretation and more. Culminates in a performance for family and friends at 3 p.m. July 15.
▪ Southern Illinois University Edwardsville, Dunham Hall; www.siue.edu/summer/summer-camps-activities; maschap@siue.edu; 618-650-2034
▪ Ages: Seventh grade and above
▪ Cost: $160
▪ 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. July 11-16
YMCA Cook, Cook & Away
Kids will explore different ways to expand their taste buds and learn to cook yummy foods. They will learn about different kinds of ingredients, nutritious facts and use kitchen utensils and tools. Throughout the week, each camper will design their own cookbook with new flavorful recipes.
▪ 284 N. Seven Hills Road, O’Fallon; 618-628-7701; ofallonil@gwrymca.org; www.gwrymca.org
▪ Ages: 6-12
▪ Cost: $120; $150 for non-members; before and after care available from 6:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.; $15 for before or after for members; $20 for nonmembers
▪ 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. July 11-15
Makerspace
This camp is designed for those who love to work with their hands. Campers will repurpose materials of all shapes and sizes into cool new products they can show off to family and friends.
▪ East Belleville YMCA, 2627 Carlyle Avenue, Belleville; 618-236-9983; www.gwrymca.org
▪ Ages: 6-12
▪ Cost: $120; $150 for nonmembers; before and after care available from 6:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.; $15 for before or after for members; $20 for nonmembers
▪ 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. July 11-15
CSI STEM Day Camp
Cub Scout Investigation Day Camp is open to all youth. All sessions include swimming, outdoor education and adventure and a field trip to one of the Lewis & Clark Council Camps where participants will put their CSI skills to use in these great outdoor settings.
▪ 9514 Caring Way, Columbia; 618-281-9622; monroe@gwrymca.org, with a field trip to Camp Vandeventer in Waterloo
▪ Ages: 6-12
▪ Cost: $120; $150 for nonmembers; before and after care available from 6:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.; $15 for before or after for members; $20 for nonmembers
▪ July 11-15
O’Fallon Parks and Rec: Water Mania
Take a trip to the beach at Carlyle Lake in Carlyle; spend the rest of the week doing water activities.
▪ Katy Cavins Community Center, O’Fallon; http://ofallonsummercamps.com/
▪ Ages: 5-12
▪ Cost: $105; $25 for before/after care
▪ 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. July 11-15
Sports
O’Fallon Parks and Rec: Gaming Around Mini Camp
Combination of sport games and recreational games, such as Frisbee golf, kick ball and more.
▪ Katy Cavins Community Center, O’Fallon; http://ofallonsummercamps.com/
▪ Ages: 7-14
▪ Cost: $60; $25 for before/after care
▪ 12:45 to 4 p.m. July 11-15
Men’s Soccer Overnight Residential Camp
Designed for athletes with the ambition to play at the college level. Experience technical and tactical field sessions in competitive format as well as classroom lectures on mental toughness and more. Commuter option also available.
▪ Korte Soccer Stadium, Southern Illinois University Edwardsville; msancaa@siue.edu; 618-444-4810; http://www.siue.edu/summer/summer-camps-activities/
▪ Ages: 10-18
▪ Cost: Residential fee $400; commuter fee $300. Increase to $475 and $350 after June 1.
▪ 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. July 11-14
YMCA Dance and Cheer
Learn basic cheerleading and gymnastics moves including jumps, tumbling and cheers. Love to dance? Campers will be grouped by skill level during technique drills and combinations so they can improve skills and/or learn new ones. Styles covered will include ballet, jazz, poms and hip hop. Kids will also enjoy games and crafts throughout the week to create team spirit and have fun. A final performance for family and friends will top off a great week of dancing.
▪ YMCA at 1 Town Center Drive, Maryville; 618-346-5600; cmt@gwrymca.org; www.gwrymca.org
▪ Ages: 6-12
▪ Cost: $120; $150 for nonmembers; before and after care available from 6:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.; $15 for before or after for members; $20 for nonmembers
▪ 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. July 11-15
YMCA Basketball
Basketball camp will include lessons in fundamentals and strategy. On the last day of camp, campers will participate in their very own version of “YMCA Madness,” a tournament among campers from all branches. Participants will be grouped based on age and skill level.
▪ East Belleville YMCA, 2627 Carlyle Ave., Belleville; 618-236-9983; www.gwrymca.org and 9514 Caring Way, Columbia; 618-281-9622; monroe@gwrymca.org; www.gwrymca.org
▪ Ages: 6-12
▪ Cost: $120; $150 for non-members; before and after care available from 6:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.; $15 for before or after for members; $20 for nonmembers
▪ 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. July 11-15
YMCA Basketball
Basketball camp will include lessons in fundamentals and strategy. On the last day of camp, campers will participate in their very own version of “YMCA Madness,” a tournament among campers from all branches. Participants will be grouped based on age and skill level.
▪ 284 N. Seven Hills Road, O’Fallon; 618-628-7701; ofallonil@gwrymca.org; www.gwrymca.org
▪ Ages: 6-12
▪ Cost: $120; $150 for nonmembers; before and after care available from 6:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.; $15 for before or after for members; $20 for nonmembers
▪ 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. July 11-15
YMCA Cheerleading
Learn basic cheerleading and gymnastics moves including jumps, tumbling and cheers. Then, campers show off their talent and spirit at a basketball game on Friday by cheering for their branch team.
▪ 9514 Caring Way, Columbia; 618-281-9622; monroe@gwrymca.org; www.gwrymca.org; and 284 N. Seven Hills Road, O’Fallon; 618-628-7701; ofallonil@gwrymca.org; www.gwrymca.org
▪ Ages: 6-12
▪ Cost: $120; $150 for nonmembers; before and after care available from 6:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.; $15 for before or after for members; $20 for nonmembers
▪ 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. July 11-15
Overnight Camps
DuBois Center Rustic 101
Faith-based program with age-based adventures and canoeing and archery in screened-in cabins.
▪ DuBois Center, 2651 Quarry Road, DuBois; DuBoisCenter.org; 618-787-2202
▪ Ages: Completed fourth through sixth grades
▪ Cost: Actual: $337, partially subsidized $317, subsidized $297
▪ July 17-20
DuBois Center Pony Express
Faith-based program with age-based adventures and horseback riding daily.
▪ DuBois Center, 2651 Quarry Road, DuBois; DuBoisCenter.org; 618-787-2202
▪ Ages: Completed fourth and fifth grades
▪ Cost: Actual: $368, partially subsidized $348, subsidized $328
▪ July 17-20
DuBois Center Pony Express
Faith-based program with age-based adventures and horseback riding daily.
▪ DuBois Center, 2651 Quarry Road, DuBois; DuBoisCenter.org; 618-787-2202
▪ Ages: Completed fourth and fifth grades
▪ Cost: Actual: $368, partially subsidized $348, subsidized $328
▪ July 17-20
DuBois Center Boy Meets Camp
Faith-based program with age-based adventures, including horseback riding.
▪ DuBois Center, 2651 Quarry Road, DuBois; DuBoisCenter.org; 618-787-2202
▪ Ages: Boys completed first through third grades
▪ Cost: Actual: $254, partially subsidized $234, subsidized $214
▪ July 13-15
DuBois Center Girl Power
Faith-based program with age-based adventures, including horseback riding.
▪ DuBois Center, 2651 Quarry Road, DuBois; DuBoisCenter.org; 618-787-2202
▪ Ages: Girls completed first through third grades
▪ Cost: Actual: $368, partially subsidized $348, subsidized $328
▪ July 17-20
First Baptist Church in Collinsville Camp Sherwood Forest
Canoeing, crafts, archery, rockets and more; Bible lessons and worship daily.
▪ Cuivre River State Park, Troy, Mo.; www.fbcollinsville.org; 618-344-2713
▪ Age: Entering third through eighth grades
▪ Cost: $155
▪ July 17-July 22
Camp Ondessonk Mini Camp
Mini Camp is a three-day, three-night session for younger children. It includes horseback instruction and riding, handicrafts, boating, swimming, archery, evening campfires, skits and singing.
▪ Camp Ondessonk, 3760 Ondessonk Road, Ozark, 618-695-2489, www.ondessonk.com
▪ Ages: 8-10, girls only
▪ Cost: $270
▪ July 10-13
Camp Ondessonk Horse Camp
Campers spend their days at the Ondessonk Stables learning how to care for and groom a horse, develop basic horsemanship and riding skills.
▪ Camp Ondessonk, 3760 Ondessonk Road, Ozark, 618-695-2489, www.ondessonk.com
▪ Ages: 12-15
▪ Cost: $550
▪ July 10-16
Camp Ondessonk Climbing Adventure
Campers spend their days practicing knots, familiarizing themselves with the equipment, and learning the techniques of rock climbing. This program is designed to develop skills and knowledge that allow campers to feel comfortable on progressively more challenging climbs.
▪ Camp Ondessonk, 3760 Ondessonk Road, Ozark, 618-695-2489, www.ondessonk.com
▪ Ages: 13-16
▪ Cost: $515
▪ July 10-16
Camp Ondessonk Mini Camp Explorers
Young campers will spend the entire week discovering all of the Camp Ondessonk activities and traditions. Explorers will enjoy nature walks, horseback instruction and riding, handicrafts, boating, swimming, archery, campfires, structured social time, and skits while living in a communal setting designed to develop social skills and build friendships.
▪ Camp Ondessonk, 3760 Ondessonk Road, Ozark, 618-695-2489, www.ondessonk.com
▪ Ages: 8–10, girls only
▪ Cost: $489
▪ July 10-16
Camp Ondessonk Girl’s Camp
The girl’s camp schedule includes a horseback ride, archery, riflery, council, swimming, nature exploration, handicrafts, woodsmanship, canoeing, kayaking, campfires, an overnight campout, marathon, tug of war and more.
▪ Camp Ondessonk, 3760 Ondessonk Road, Ozark, 618-695-2489, www.ondessonk.com
▪ Ages: 10-15
▪ Cost: $489
▪ Dates: July 10- 16
Weekly camps
YMCA Traditional Day Camp
Variety of field trips, swimming, craft projects, outdoor education, songs and adventure. Weekly theme: Fun Under the Big Top.
▪ YMCA at 1 Town Center Drive, Maryville; 618-346-5600; cmt@gwrymca.org; 9514 Caring Way, Columbia; 618-281-9622; monroe@gwrymca.org; 284 N. Seven Hills Road, O’Fallon; 618-628-7701; ofallonil@gwrymca.org; East Belleville YMCA, 2627 Carlyle Ave., Belleville; 618-236-9983; www.gwrymca.org
▪ Ages: 6-12
▪ Cost: $95 for five-day YMCA members; $125 for five-day nonmembers; $75 for three-day YMCA members; $105 for five-day nonmembers
▪ 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. July 18-22
O’Fallon Parks and Rec: Art for Fun Mini Camp
Arts and crafts with different projects daily.
▪ Katy Cavins Community Center, O’Fallon; http://ofallonsummercamps.com/
▪ Ages: 8-14
▪ Cost: $60; $25 for before/after care
▪ 8:45 to noon July 18-22
O’Fallon Parks and Rec: Outdoor Pursuits All Day Mini Camp
Includes a trip to Townhall Archery and a day at the pond fishing. May go zip lining and rock climbing.
▪ Katy Cavins Community Center, O’Fallon; http://ofallonsummercamps.com/
▪ Ages: 7-14
▪ Cost: $130; $25 for before/after care
▪ 8:45 to 4 p.m. July 18-22
O’Fallon Parks and Rec: Circus Arts Mini Camp
Learn various circus starts from juggling to baton twirling and more.
▪ Katy Cavins Community Center, O’Fallon; http://ofallonsummercamps.com/
▪ Ages: 7-14
▪ Cost: $100; $25 for before/after care
▪ 8:45 a.m. to noon July 18-22
O’Fallon Parks and Rec: Scrapbooking Mini Camp
Scrapbook your summer memories.
▪ Katy Cavins Community Center, O’Fallon; http://ofallonsummercamps.com/
▪ Ages: 7-14
▪ Cost: $60; $25 for before/after care
▪ 12:45 to 4 p.m. July 18-22
Kidcam Camp
Arts and crafts, organized activities, water games, weekly field trips and more.
▪ Holy Trinity School, 504 Fountains Parkway, Fairview Heights; www.kidcamcamp.com; lindsaybeaston@gmail.com
▪ Ages: 3 to 13
▪ Cost: Registration is $50, weekly tuition is $110. Free before care starts at 7 a.m.; after care until 6 p.m. is $2 for 30 minutes, $4 for an hour
▪ 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. July 18-22
Growing Scholars: Nature Explorers
Indoor and outdoor activities with two to three field trips a week and weekly themes. Features an hour of reading and math each day.
▪ Growing Scholars Educational Center, 115 W. B St., Belleville, 618-628-4769
▪ Ages: 4-12
▪ $130 per week, $100 registration, minimum of five weeks; before and after care available, $25 for one or $30 for morning and evening. Must attend at least five weeks.
▪ 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., July 18-22
Teen Intensive: 3D Designs
This camp will challenge students to investigate a myriad of 3D design principles with close examination of form and composition. Students will work with a variety of traditional and non-traditional media, while also learning about art history and art critique.
▪ Southwestern Illinois College Schmidt Art Center; 866-942-7942; www.swic.edu
▪ Ages: Teenagers
▪ Cost: $95
▪ 1-4 p.m. July 18-21
Come Be a Super Hero Girl Scout
Spend a week exploring ways you are already a Girl Scout super hero; finding the super talents you possess that make the world a better place. Registration deadline June 1.
▪ Camp Torqua, 4725 Girl Scout Road, Edwardsville; www.gsofsi.org/camp_daycamp.html.
▪ Ages: Kindergarten through seventh grade
▪ Cost: $65 for Girl Scouts; $80 for non-Girl Scouts
▪ 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. July 18-22
CSI STEM Day Camp
Cub Scout Investigation Day Camp is open to all youth. All sessions include swimming, outdoor education and adventure and a field trip to one of the Lewis & Clark Council Camps where participants will put their CSI skills to use in these great outdoor settings.
▪ 284 N. Seven Hills Road, O’Fallon; 618-628-7701; ofallonil@gwrymca.org; www.gwrymca.org with a field trip to Camp Vandeventer in Waterloo
▪ Ages: 6-12
▪ Cost: $120; $150 for nonmembers; before and after care available from 6:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.; $15 for before or after for members; $20 for nonmembers
▪ July 18-22
All the World’s a Stage
Learn basic stage terms, fundamental dancing and acting skills and important tips on auditioning and performing. The week will be filled with fun theatre and improv games to spur creativity, conquer stage fright and sharpen performance skills. Experience the fun and excitement of performing on an actual stage in a variety show on the last day of camp. Campers will need to be able to read the script and practice at home.
▪ 284 N. Seven Hills Road, O’Fallon; 618-628-7701; ofallonil@gwrymca.org; www.gwrymca.org
▪ Ages: 6-12
▪ Cost: $120; $150 for nonmembers; before and after care available from 6:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.; $15 for before or after for members; $20 for nonmembers
▪ 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. July 18-22
Magic Camp
“Read a spectator’s mind! Defy gravity! Cause a selected card to appear in Chicago!” These are just a few of the tricks you’ll learn in Abra-Kid-Abra’s new Mind Reading & Other Cool Tricks Camp!
▪ 9514 Caring Way, Columbia; 618-281-9622; monroe@gwrymca.org; www.gwrymca.org
▪ Ages: 6-12
▪ Cost: $120; $150 for nonmembers; before and after care available from 6:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.; $15 for before or after for members; $20 for nonmembers
▪ 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. July 18-22
Tech Hub
Are you the tech guru of your household? Curious about how to program your own gaming experience? Want to use wires, computers and devices to solve new problems? Tech Hub is an opportunity for ‘techies’ to learn the basics of coding, networking and electronic engineering.
▪ East Belleville YMCA, 2627 Carlyle Ave., Belleville; 618-236-9983; www.gwrymca.org
▪ Ages: 6-12
▪ Cost: $120; $150 for nonmembers; before and after care available from 6:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.; $15 for before or after for members; $20 for nonmembers
▪ 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. July 18-22
Sports
YMCA Aquatic Adventures
Aquatic Adventures is designed for swimmers of all levels. Your child will become comfortable in the water, increase swimming skills, understand and practice water safety and will also receive a great start to refining his or her skills. Campers will enjoy swim lessons, water games, water safety skills and splash time in the water. At the end of the week children will partner up and create and conduct their own boat races and the family is welcome to come watch.
▪ YMCA at 1 Town Center Drive, Maryville; 618-346-5600; cmt@gwrymca.org; www.gwrymca.org
▪ Ages: 6-12
▪ Cost: $120; $150 for nonmembers; before and after care available from 6:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.; $15 for before or after for members; $20 for nonmembers
▪ 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. July 18-22
YMCA Flag Football
Enjoy learning the fundamentals of flag football including catching, passing, flag pulling, and blocking. This camp is great for the child that loves football and directly prepares participants for our YMCA league.
▪ 284 N. Seven Hills Road, O’Fallon; 618-628-7701; ofallonil@gwrymca.org; www.gwrymca.org
▪ Ages: 6-12
▪ Cost: $120; $150 for nonmembers; before and after care available from 6:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.; $15 for before or after for members; $20 for nonmembers
▪ 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. July 18-22
YMCA Just Dance
Love to dance or want to learn how? Styles covered will include ballet, jazz, poms and hip hop. Kids will also enjoy games and crafts throughout the week to create team spirit and have fun. A final performance for family and friends will top off a great week of dancing.
▪ East Belleville YMCA, 2627 Carlyle Ave., Belleville; 618-236-9983; www.gwrymca.org
▪ Ages: 6-12
▪ Cost: $120; $150 for nonmembers; before and after care available from 6:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.; $15 for before or after for members; $20 for nonmembers
▪ 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. July 18-22
O’Fallon Parks and Rec: CSI O’Fallon
Meet members of the O’Fallon community who keep residents safe; also solve mysteries through investigations.
▪ Katy Cavins Community Center, O’Fallon; http://ofallonsummercamps.com/
▪ Ages: 5-12
▪ Cost: $105; $25 for before/after care
▪ 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. July 18-22
Overnight Camps
Camp Ondessonk Mini Camp
Mini Camp is a three-day, three-night session for younger children. It includes horseback instruction and riding, handicrafts, boating, swimming, archery, evening campfires, skits and singing.
▪ Camp Ondessonk, 3760 Ondessonk Road, Ozark, 618-695-2489, www.ondessonk.com
▪ Ages: 8-10, girls only
▪ Cost: $270
▪ July 17-20
Camp Ondessonk Hike, Bike, Paddle, and Climb
This camp offers a taste of several adventures, including hiking, mountain biking, paddling and rock climbing. All gear and instruction is provided including a top of the line mountain bike from expert guides and instructors from the Bike Surgeon in Shiloh.
▪ Camp Ondessonk, 3760 Ondessonk Road, Ozark, 618-695-2489, www.ondessonk.com
▪ Ages: 12-16
▪ Cost: $515
▪ July 17-23
Camp Ondessonk Horse Adventure
Exploring the scenic backcountry trails of the Shawnee National Forest offers the perfect opportunity to expand horsemanship skills and develop outdoor living skills. Campers will receive instruction and supervision from instructors trained by the Certified Horsemanship Association throughout their trip.
▪ Camp Ondessonk, 3760 Ondessonk Road, Ozark, 618-695-2489, www.ondessonk.com
▪ Ages: 13-16
▪ Cost: $575
▪ July 17-23
Camp Ondessonk Mini Camp Explorers
Young campers will spend the entire week discovering all of the Camp Ondessonk activities and traditions. Explorers will enjoy nature walks, horseback instruction and riding, handicrafts, boating, swimming, archery, campfires, structured social time and skits while living in a communal setting designed to develop social skills and build friendships.
▪ Camp Ondessonk, 3760 Ondessonk Road, Ozark, 618-695-2489, www.ondessonk.com
▪ Ages: 8–10, girls only
▪ Cost: $489
▪ Date: July 17-23
Camp Ondessonk Girl’s Camp
The girl’s camp schedule includes a horseback ride, archery, riflery, council, swimming, nature exploration, handicrafts, woodsmanship, canoeing, kayaking, campfires, an overnight campout, marathon, tug of war and more.
▪ Camp Ondessonk, 3760 Ondessonk Road, Ozark, 618-695-2489, www.ondessonk.com
▪ Ages: 10-15
▪ Cost: $489
▪ July 17-23
Camp Ondessonk Teen Leadership Camp
Begin the leadership progression in a unit with other senior campers and experience a week that adds teambuilding and self-discovery activities to the traditional camp schedule.
▪ Camp Ondessonk, 3760 Ondessonk Road, Ozark, 618-695-2489, www.ondessonk.com
▪ Ages: 13-14
▪ Cost: $489, girls
▪ July 17-23
Weekly camps
YMCA Traditional Day Camp
Variety of field trips, swimming, craft projects, outdoor education, songs and adventure. Weekly theme: Wild Water Week.
▪ YMCA at 1 Town Center Drive, Maryville; 618-346-5600; cmt@gwrymca.org; 9514 Caring Way, Columbia; 618-281-9622; monroe@gwrymca.org; 284 N. Seven Hills Road, O’Fallon; 618-628-7701; ofallonil@gwrymca.org; East Belleville YMCA, 2627 Carlyle Ave., Belleville; 618-236-9983; www.gwrymca.org
▪ Ages: 6-12
▪ Cost: $95 for five-day YMCA members; $125 for five-day nonmembers; $75 for three-day YMCA members; $105 for five-day nonmembers
▪ 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. July 25-29
O’Fallon Parks and Rec: Bowling Mini Camp
Learn new techniques and improve on current skills.
▪ Katy Cavins Community Center, O’Fallon; http://ofallonsummercamps.com/
▪ Ages: 7-14
▪ Cost: $60; $25 for before/after care
▪ 12:45 to 4 p.m. July 25-29
O’Fallon Parks and Rec: Recreational Swim Mini Camp
Spend the afternoon swimming in the O’Fallon Memorial Pool.
▪ Katy Cavins Community Center, O’Fallon; http://ofallonsummercamps.com/
▪ Ages: 7-14
▪ Cost: $60; $25 for before/after care
▪ 12:45 to 4 p.m. July 25-29
Kidcam Camp
Arts and crafts, organized activities, water games, weekly field trips and more.
▪ Holy Trinity School, 504 Fountains Parkway, Fairview Heights; www.kidcamcamp.com; lindsaybeaston@gmail.com
▪ Ages: 3 to 13
▪ Cost: Registration is $50, weekly tuition is $110. Free before care starts at 7 a.m.; after care until 6 p.m. is $2 for 30 minutes, $4 for an hour
▪ 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. July 25-29
Growing Scholars: Junior Olympics
Indoor and outdoor activities with two to three field trips a week and weekly themes. Features an hour of reading and math each day.
▪ Growing Scholars Educational Center, 115 West B St., Belleville, 618-628-4769
▪ $130 per week, $100 registration, minimum of five weeks; before and after care available, $25 for one or $30 for morning and evening. Must attend at least five weeks.
▪ 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., July 25-29
O’Fallon Parks and Rec: Glamour Girl Mini Camp
Get dressed up.
▪ Katy Cavins Community Center, O’Fallon; http://ofallonsummercamps.com/
▪ Ages: 7-14
▪ Cost: $60; $25 for before/after care
▪ 12:45 to 4 p.m. July 25-29
Fabulous Fashion
Get the latest tips for hair and nail care; design your own clothing, jewelry and accessories; learn interior design basics and more. The last day of camp will feature a Y Camp Fashion Show.
▪ 284 N. Seven Hills Road, O’Fallon; 618-628-7701; ofallonil@gwrymca.org; www.gwrymca.org
▪ Ages: 6-12
▪ Cost: $120; $150 for nonmembers; before and after care available from 6:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.; $15 for before or after for members; $20 for nonmembers
▪ 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. July 25-29
Vital Signs IMSA
▪ Budding medical students will gain a general understanding of human anatomy through hands-on explorations of the heart, blood, bones and muscles. Engage in a fun and challenging bioengineering project allowing them to apply engineering principles and practices to the structure and function of the human body.
▪ McKendree University, 701 College Rd., Lebanon; www.imsa.edu; dwaller@imsa.edu
▪ Ages: Entering seventh and eighth grades
▪ Cost: $350
▪ 8:30 a.m. – 3 p.m. July 25-29
STEM Explosions: The Hammer of Thor
Find out what gives your favorite super heroes their powers. Registration deadline June 28.
▪ Camp Torqua, 4725 Girl Scout Road, Edwardsville; www.gsofsi.org/camp_daycamp.html.
▪ Ages: Fourth through 12th grade
▪ Cost: $75 for Girl Scouts; $90 for non-Girl Scouts
▪ 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. July 25-29
CSI STEM Day Camp
Cub Scout Investigation Day Camp is open to all youth. All sessions include swimming, outdoor education and adventure and a field trip to one of the Lewis & Clark Council Camps where participants will put their CSI skills to use in these great outdoor settings.
▪ East Belleville YMCA, 2627 Carlyle Ave., Belleville; 618-236-9983 with a field trip to Camp Joy in Carlyle
▪ Ages: 6-12
▪ Cost: $120; $150 for nonmembers; before and after care available from 6:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.; $15 for before or after for members; $20 for nonmembers
▪ July 25-July 29
YMCA Drama Camp
Fun theatre and improv games to spur creativity, conquer stage fright and sharpen performance skills. Experience the fun and excitement of performing on an actual stage the last day of camp in a variety show of monologues, skits and musical numbers.
▪ YMCA at 1 Town Center Drive, Maryville; 618-346-5600; cmt@gwrymca.org; www.gwrymca.org
▪ Ages: 6-12
▪ Cost: $120; $150 for nonmembers; before and after care available from 6:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.; $15 for before or after for members; $20 for nonmembers
▪ 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. July 25-29
O’Fallon Parks and Rec: Mad Science Mini Camp
Enjoy the chemistry side of science.
▪ Katy Cavins Community Center, O’Fallon; http://ofallonsummercamps.com/
▪ Ages: 7-14
▪ Cost: $60; $25 for before/after care
▪ 8:45 a.m. to noon July 25-29
Sports
YMCA Aquatic Adventures
Aquatic Adventures is designed for swimmers of all levels. Your child will become comfortable in the water, increase swimming skills, understand and practice water safety and will also receive a great start to refining his or her skills. Campers will enjoy swim lessons, water games, water safety skills and splash time in the water. At the end of the week children will partner up and create and conduct their own boat races and the family is welcome to come watch.
▪ 9514 Caring Way, Columbia; 618-281-9622; monroe@gwrymca.org; 284 N. Seven Hills Road, O’Fallon; 618-628-7701; ofallonil@gwrymca.org; www.gwrymca.org
▪ Ages: 6-12
▪ Cost: $120; $150 for nonmembers; before and after care available from 6:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.; $15 for before or after for members; $20 for nonmembers
▪ 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. July 25-29
YMCA Soccer
Emphasizes individual and team-based skills and teaches fundamentals such as dribbling, passing and shooting. Campers will be grouped according to age and skill levels. Cleats are allowed as long as they are rubber or plastic.
▪ YMCA at 1 Town Center Drive, Maryville; 618-346-5600; cmt@gwrymca.org; www.gwrymca.org
▪ Ages: 6-12
▪ Cost: $120; $150 for nonmembers; before and after care available from 6:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.; $15 for before or after for members; $20 for nonmembers
▪ 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. July 25-29
Youth Summer Soccer Camp
Focus on individual, age appropriate technical development, goal scoring and small sided team play.
▪ Korte Soccer Stadium, Southern Illinois University Edwardsville; msancaa@siue.edu; 618-444-4810; http://www.siue.edu/summer/summer-camps-activities/
▪ Ages: 5-13
▪ Cost: $100, $125 after June 1
▪ 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. July 25-29
YMCA Volleyball
Instruction will cover all of the basics including passing, setting, serving and defense. Based on the ability level of the child, they may also learn how to hit and block. The instruction style focuses on encouraging the skills that will allow your child’s full potential to come to light.
▪ 284 N. Seven Hills Road, O’Fallon; 618-628-7701; ofallonil@gwrymca.org; www.gwrymca.org
▪ Ages: 8-12
▪ Cost: $120; $150 for nonmembers; before and after care available from 6:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.; $15 for before or after for members; $20 for nonmembers
▪ 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. July 25-29
YMCA Golf
Campers will work on basic and advanced skills of the game, golf course etiquette, scoring and terminology like par, birdie and eagle. Campers will also travel to a local driving range.
▪ East Belleville YMCA, 2627 Carlyle Ave., Belleville; 618-236-9983; www.gwrymca.org; and 9514 Caring Way, Columbia; 618-281-9622; monroe@gwrymca.org; www.gwrymca.org
▪ Ages: 6-12
▪ Cost: $120; $150 for nonmembers; before and after care available from 6:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.; $15 for before or after for members; $20 for nonmembers
▪ 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. July 25-29
O’Fallon Parks and Rec: Advanced Golf Mini Camp
Advanced golf instruction; campers will practice at DP golf center.
▪ Katy Cavins Community Center, O’Fallon; http://ofallonsummercamps.com/
▪ Ages: 8-14
▪ Cost: $80; $25 for before/after care
▪ 8:45 a.m. to noon July 25-29
O’Fallon Parks and Rec: Aquapalooza
Water activities all week; field trip to a water park in Maryland Heights, Mo.
▪ Katy Cavins Community Center, O’Fallon; http://ofallonsummercamps.com/
▪ Ages: 5-12
▪ Cost: $105; $25 for before/after care
▪ 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. July 25-29
O’Fallon Parks and Rec: Couch to 5K Mini Camp
Running, stretching and working toward completing a 5K; run/walk a 5K on Friday.
▪ Katy Cavins Community Center, O’Fallon; http://ofallonsummercamps.com/
▪ Ages: 8-14
▪ Cost: $60; $25 for before/after care
▪ 8:45 a.m. to noon July 25-29
Overnight camps
Camp Ondessonk Mini Camp
Mini Camp is a three-day, three-night session for younger children. It includes horseback instruction and riding, handicrafts, boating, swimming, archery, evening campfires, skits and singing.
▪ Camp Ondessonk, 3760 Ondessonk Road, Ozark, 618-695-2489, www.ondessonk.com
▪ Ages: 8-10
▪ Cost: $270
▪ July 24-27
Camp Ondessonk Horse Camp
Campers spend their days at the Ondessonk Stables learning how to care for and groom a horse, develop basic horsemanship and riding skills.
▪ Camp Ondessonk, 3760 Ondessonk Road, Ozark, 618-695-2489, www.ondessonk.com
▪ Ages: 12-15
▪ Cost: $550
▪ July 24-30
Camp Ondessonk Surfing Adventure
Campers will travel to historic Charleston, S.C., where they will participate in a multi-day surf camp with professional surfing instructors. In the afternoons there are opportunities for stand-up paddleboarding, visiting Fort Sumter, or exploring the Francis Marion National Forest.
▪ Camp Ondessonk, 3760 Ondessonk Road, Ozark, 618-695-2489, www.ondessonk.com
▪ Ages: 13-17
▪ Cost: $700
▪ July 24-30
Camp Ondessonk Mini Camp Explorers
Young campers will spend the entire week discovering all of the Camp Ondessonk activities and traditions. Explorers will enjoy nature walks, horseback instruction and riding, handicrafts, boating, swimming, archery, campfires, structured social time, and skits while living in a communal setting designed to develop social skills and build friendships.
▪ Camp Ondessonk, 3760 Ondessonk Road, Ozark, 618-695-2489, www.ondessonk.com
▪ Ages: 8–10
▪ Cost: $489
▪ July 24-30
Camp Ondessonk Coed Camp
The coed camp schedule includes a horseback ride, archery, riflery, council, swimming, nature exploration, handicrafts, woodsmanship, canoeing, kayaking, campfires, an overnight campout, marathon, tug of war and more.
▪ Camp Ondessonk, 3760 Ondessonk Road, Ozark, 618-695-2489, www.ondessonk.com
▪ Ages: 10-15
▪ Cost: $489
▪ July 24-30
This story was originally published April 25, 2016 at 11:18 AM with the headline "July camps: Spend the summer at the YMCA, SWIC, Camp Ondessonk."