As summer break quickly approaches, the search for engaging and enriching experiences for our children kicks into high gear. Luckily for parents, there are many fantastic summer camps in Salem, Oregon that offer adventure, learning, and fun—tailored to a variety of ages and interests.
Benefits of Camp Participation
Summer camps for kids are more than just a way to pass the time—they’re a gateway to new friendships, new discoveries, and new passions. They offer a supportive environment for children to challenge themselves, grow in their confidence, and learn valuable life skills. Many summer camps can also be a great opportunity to exercise both physical and mental energy during the summer months.
How to Choose the Right Camp
Consider your child’s interests, age, and developmental needs when selecting a camp. Look for programs that align with their interests and offer a healthy balance of education and fun. From performing arts and music to sports and nature exploration, Salem’s summer camps cater to varying passions and pursuits. In no particular order, these ten summer camp programs not only provide entertainment but also encourage growth, confidence, and lifelong skill development.
1. Performing Arts Summer Camp by Young Singers Club Salem
The Performing Arts Summer Camp by Young Singers Club Salem is designed for children aged 5-14, offering a mix of singing, dancing, and acting. Campers will engage in activities like voice development, choreography, and acting games, culminating in a recital performance at the end of each week. The camp runs weekly, Monday through Friday, with varying themes, including Disney classics, Taylor Swift, and Broadway hits.
2. Straub Outdoors Summer Camp
Straub Outdoors Summer Camps offer immersive nature-based experiences for kids ages 6-13, fostering a deeper connection with the environment. Through hands-on exploration and outdoor activities, campers learn about local ecosystems, conservation, and sustainability. These week-long camps aim to inspire a lifelong appreciation for nature and an understanding of one’s role in preserving it, combining education with adventure to create memorable summer experiences.
3. Boys & Girls Club Summer Programs
The Boys & Girls Club Summer Programs provide a variety of fun activities designed to engage children and teens during the summer months. This year’s summer camp theme is TIME TREK: A Summer Camp Adventure, with weekly topics including Prehistoric Times, Industrial Revolution, and Into the Future. The Boys & Girls Club programs focus on nurturing educational development, physical well-being, and creativity, while offering a safe and supportive environment where young people can learn new skills, build friendships, and explore their interests. Programs are available for grades 1-5 and 6-12.
4. YMCA Summer Camps
YMCA Summer Camps through the Family YMCA of Marion & Polk Counties provide enriching experiences that aim to develop skills, foster friendships, and build character in a supportive community setting. Whether you and your child choose outdoor day camp options at local grade schools or Camp Greider, or opt for traditional overnight camp at Camp Silver Creek, these camp programs are designed to offer a variety of fun activities that cater to different interests, promote healthy living, and encourage positive values.
5. RiverCity Rockstar Academy Summer Music Camp
The RiverCity Rockstar Academy Summer Music Camps offer a unique experience for kids aged 6-12 to dive into the world of music. Participants of all skill levels have the chance to learn instruments, form bands, and perform live, all within a supportive and energizing environment. This camp is designed to inspire young musicians and encourage creativity, teamwork, and confidence through the power of music.
6. Summer Parks Program Day Camps and Nature Camps by City of Salem
The City of Salem offers several summer recreation activities for kids, including the Summer Parks Program Day Camps and Nature Camps. These camps aim to engage children in a variety of outdoor activities and environmental education. The Day Camps provide a broad range of activities at various Salem parks, including games and crafts, while the Nature Camps focus more on environmental learning and conservation practices, such as foraging and wilderness survival skills. City of Salem also has various other family recreation activities listed on their website.
Note: At the time of this article’s publication, the 2024 Recreation Guide has not yet been released.
Learn more: Day Camps and Nature Camps
7. Athletic Edge Learning Center Preschool Summer Camps
The Athletic Edge Learning Center Preschool Summer Camps are tailored for young learners aged 3-5. Each week is packed with themed educational and physical activities. With themes like Creepy-Crawly Keepers, City Builders, Creative Professionals, and Sea Explorers, these camps are designed to foster an early love for learning through a variety of fun and interactive experiences.
8. Salem Gymnastics Center Summer Camps
The Salem Gymnastics Center offers summer day camp programs for kids aged 3-12. With gymnastic instructions, games, supervised playtime, an obstacle course and zipline, and arts and crafts, your kids will have a blast burning off energy and making friends. Day care and after care are available for an extra cost.
9. Children’s Educational Theatre 2024 Program
Children’s Educational Theatre (CET) offers an enriching theater experience each summer that includes acting, dancing, improv, set design, and more—strengthening one’s love for the dramatic arts. The 2024 Season is ready to impress, with classes, rehearsals, and performances for each age and skill level. CET aims to provide a supportive and accepting environment where students can develop their theatrical skills, confidence, and creativity.
10. Summer Art Camps by Salem Art Association
Salem Art Association‘s Summer Art Camps offer creative and inspiring art experiences for children aged 7-13, including art history, a mix of materials and techniques, and exciting themes. Salem Art Association’s camps have the goal of nurturing creativity and self-expression in a fun and supportive environment. Registration is now open!
11. Little Stars Horse Camps by Northstar Stables
Located at Northstar Stables, Little Stars Horse and Pony Camps offer week-long day camps for children, focusing on an introduction to the fundamentals for beginners and further instruction for returning riders. The camps cover safety, horse care, ground work, and riding skills, with a low camper-to-instructor ratio ensuring personalized attention. At the end of the week, the kids will put on a “Showdeo,” where they can showcase their learned skills to family and friends.
Register or Find Out More Today
Salem, Oregon’s selection of summer camps promises a summer break filled with adventure, learning, and growth. Explore the camps Salem has to offer and secure your child’s place in a summer adventure today! Visit the websites above for more information and registration details.