Top Wilderness Summer Camps and Summer Wilderness Programs for Kids & Teens in Illinois

The Best Illinois Wilderness Summer Camps | Summer 2024-25 Directory of IL Summer Wilderness Camps for Kids & Teens
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Best Illinois Wilderness Camps Summer 2024-25 Directory

Find the Best Wilderness Camps in Illinois!

Over 15 Illinois Wilderness Summer Camps Listed Below with In-Depth Camp Info, including: Videos, Photos, Maps & Detailed Descriptions


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Winter & Winter Break Wilderness Camps, Programs, Workshops, & Classes in Illinois are Starting in November, 2024

Many of our Illinois Wilderness Camps offer Winter & Winter Break Wilderness Programs, Activities, Workshops & Classes starting in November, 2024.

Be sure to check the "Year-Round Programs and Other Camp Info" headings of each camp listing for specifics, or give any Wilderness Camp you're interested in a call to check on Winter & Winter Break dates, times and availability.

Winter & Winter Break 2024-25 Wilderness Camp Open Houses & Reunions

Many of our Wilderness Camps will be hosting Winter & Winter Break Reunions for their previous campers, and Winter & Winter Break Open Houses for interested new campers and families. Each camp is different, and some offer activities for the entire family.

Contact the camp(s) directly to see if there are any Camp Reunion or Open House Plans for November, 2024.

Best Illinois Winter & Winter Break Wilderness Day Camps Starting in November, 2024

Looking for a Great Illinois Wilderness Day Camp? Look at each camp's TYPE OF CAMP description. Many of our Best Illinois Day Wilderness Camps also list their exact hours, and if they offer before and after camp activities.

Best Illinois Year-Round
Wilderness Camps, Classes & Wilderness Programs

Many of our Best Illinois Summer Wilderness Camps also offer Year Round Wilderness Camp Programs, Classes, and Activities. You should contact the camps you are interested in to see if they offer Fall, Winter and/or Spring Wilderness Programs, too.

Best Illinois Winter & Winter Break Wilderness Camp Jobs

Searching for Illinois Wilderness Camp Jobs? Many of our Best Wilderness Camps are now listing their 2024-25 Winter & Winter Break Camp Jobs, too. Look for the heading "Summer Camp Jobs" in each camp listing. You can also check any camp's website for their "Work at Camp" or "Winter & Winter Break Employment Opportunities" pages.

View ALL IL Camps with Winter & Winter Break Work & Leadership Training Opportunities.

Some of the Best Wilderness Camps in the Midwest are here in Illinois.

★  

FEATURED WILDERNESS CAMP

YMCA Camp Lakewood
Potosi, Missouri
573-438-2155

Ages: 6-17 . Coed Campers. Overnight Camp.

BRIEF CAMP DESCRIPTION: YMCA Camp Lakewood is an awesome overnight adventure for children ages 6-17! With 5,200 acres and 360-acre lake, kids get outdoors having fun, making friends and learning new skills. They participate in sports, equestrian, arts & crafts, caving, high adventure, water activities and more, and also learn about accomplishment, belonging and character.

View this Featured Camp's Full Profile

★  

 Check Out These *Featured Camp(s):

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Mason's Place Too
Fairview Heights, Illinois

Visit Our Mason's Place Too Website
618)489-1129
trenamccoy112[AT]yahoo.com
masonsplacetoo[AT]yahoo.com
125North Ruby Lane
Fairview Heights, Illinois 62208

CAMPER AGES: 3-12

TYPE OF CAMP: Day Camp. 8:30-3:30

CAMPER GENDER(S): Coed Campers.

BRIEF CAMP DESCRIPTION: Mason's Place Too is a Language based curriculum that encompass academics which many of our students can lose over the summer. We also offer a variety of activities arts and crafts, story telling dress-up, field trips.social skills etc.

SPECIAL NEEDS CAMPERS: Our camp is designed for kids with disabilities. Our camp offers sensory based activities and social skills and sensory room for students who are sensory overloaded.

CAMP INSTRUCTIONAL ACTIVITIES OFFERED:
Wilderness/Nature, Horses/Equestrian, Basketball, and more. Sensory Seeking

CAMP LOCATION: We are located in Beautiful Fairview Heights Illinois right off the highway.

CAMP FACILITIES: We are air condition facility with recreation room and play area

CAMP PROGRAM INFO: licensed nurse and Co -owner Masters Degree in Special Education ABA therapy

CAMP LEADERSHIP CIT/LIT PROGRAMS: Activities of Daily Living

CAMP SCHOLARSHIPS OR FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE: Some scholarships available

YEAR-ROUND PROGRAMS: WE offer Daycare and after school program

CAMP SESSION DATES & FEES:
June 14 through July 25, 2022 camp ranges from 1250-3000

SUMMER CAMP JOBS:
Mason's Place Too is looking for a teacher with a Bachelors  degree in education and individual with associate degree in early childhood. for more information regarding job expectations and requirements please call 618-489-1129

Print (or view) Camp Profile for:
Masons Place Too

There are 15 Top Illinois Wilderness Camps Below


Visit Our   Wilderness Camp Online Store

Illinois Wilderness Camps

Be sure to ask each Illinois Wilderness Camp about the amount of wilderness instruction and the overall intensity of their wilderness program.

Some Top Illinois Wilderness Camps offer rigorous daily wilderness training and lots of intensive wilderness experience. Other great Illinois Camps offer wilderness and nature studies as an elective or recreational activity with much less training and intensity.


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The Road Less Traveled
Illinois Location(s)

Visit Our The Road Less Traveled Website
773-342-5200
info[AT]theroadlesstraveled.com
2331 N Elston Court
Chicago, Illinois 60614

OTHER CAMP LOCATIONS:
Tanzania, Thailand, Vietnam, Costa Rica, Iceland, Norway, Azores, British Columbia, Colorado, Florida, Hawaii, Michigan, Maine, Tennessee, Virginia, Wyoming, New Zealand, Ecuador and the Galapagos.

WINTER (OFF-SEASON) OFFICE ADDRESS:
See listed above - primary address

CAMP VIDEO LINK:
Watch Our The Road Less Traveled Video

CAMPER AGES: 11-17 (approximately)

TYPE OF CAMP: Overnight/Sleepaway. Two-four week long community service, wilderness adventure, and language/cultural immersion programs, Gap Year and Family Programs.

CAMPER GENDER(S): Coed Campers.

BRIEF CAMP DESCRIPTION: The Road Less Traveled is a life-changing educational travel experience - an extraordinary opportunity to join with others, explore humanity, and build deep relationships and an appreciation for our world’s vast adventurous scenery. RLT offers domestic and international community service, language, and multi-sport adventure travel programs all over the world. We engage in the service of presence and active listening. We support young people to get outside, seek adventure, experience challenge, make new friends, build community, and understand the world in a new way. We encourage involvement, cultivate leadership and sensitivity, develop personal initiative and communal participation skills, and inspire a sense of social activism and environmentalism.

CAMP INSTRUCTIONAL ACTIVITIES OFFERED:
Wilderness/Nature, Waterfront/Aquatics, Adventure, Travel, Academics, and more. PADI Scuba Diving, White-water Rafting, Rock-climbing, Hiking, Backpacking, Safari, Camping, Zip-lining, Surfing, Snorkeling, Marine Biology Paddle Boarding, Kayaking, Organic Farming, Teaching English, Cooking Classes, Yoga Classes, Animal Conservation, Music Classes, Art Classes, Black History Education, Cultural Immersion, Community Service

CAMP LOCATION: Our year-round office is located in the heart of Chicago, in the Lincoln Park neighborhood. Our trips are run in a multitude of domestic and international locations. Our staff training is held every year in the Midwest, several weeks before trips are scheduled to depart.

CAMP FACILITIES: Facilities and accommodations vary from trip to trip.

CAMP PROGRAM INFO: The Road Less Traveled as an organization was founded by Jim and Donna Stein in 1991, and has been successfully running safe, exciting, life-changing trips for teens ever since. Both Jim and Donna are still the current directors, and are integrally involved in every single aspect of the company. In the summer, they are on call 24/7, available both to parents as well as to our leaders in the field.

We are an ACA accredited organization with an impeccable track record. We believe in the process of accreditation. It allows us to compare our standards to other professionals in the industry. Our accreditation allows us to follow specific standards related to leader screening including use of application forms, reference checks, personal interviews, work history review, and background checks.

Many years ago, we were the first company serving young adults to require that all leaders have a Wilderness First Responder (WFR) medical certification. WFR training is far more advanced than standard first aid or wilderness first aid. In addition to this certification, we carry extensive first aid kits on all of our programs that include antibiotics and epinephrine. Contents, protocols, and standing orders are reviewed and updated every year by our Medical Director who is an MD.

Since our inception, RLT has been on the cutting edge of technological advances in communication. We began carrying Iridium satellite phones on all of our programs as soon as they were available. Today we continue to carry the latest in emergency communication systems. According to geographic location, programs are equipped with satellite phones, ground-to-air radios, and/or cellular phones providing the possibility of 24-hour access to medical help in case of emergency.

CAMP SCHOLARSHIPS OR FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE: We offer many need-based scholarships and financial aid packages. Visit Geography of Hope's website to learn more: Our Camp Website Link: www.geographyofhope.org

FAMILY CAMP SESSION(S): We offer Gap Year, custom trips as well as family programs in the winter, spring, and at the end of the summer. Please contact us at 773-342-5200 with any questions.

OTHER CAMP INFO: Flights, travel arrangements, and other trip-specific information is available on our website.

CAMP SESSION DATES & FEES:
Visit our Program Chart to see all trips, dates, and prices: Our Camp Website Link: www.theroadlesstraveled.com

SUMMER CAMP JOBS:
Trip Leader/Co-Leader

Travel domestically and/or internationally with a group of high-school and/or middle-school students, monitoring and facilitating community service, language/cultural immersion, and/or wilderness adventure trips

Minimum Qualifications
• Minimum of 21 years of age
• Minimum of a bachelor's degree or in the process of completing a degree. Equivalent experience working with teenagers in related field will be considered if not currently enrolled in school
• Experience Previous program leader experience working with and or teaching young people age ranging in age between 12-19. Knowledge of and experience with group dynamics, teaching or facilitating groups, supervision of meal planning, food preparation and cooking, managing logistics. Ability to teach program specific skills, environmental awareness, and related scientific, cultural, and historical knowledge pertaining to the regions through which you will travel and their relationship to each other.
• Strong Physical Condition
• Current CPR for the professional rescuer
• Current Wilderness First Responder, WEMT or EMT certification
• Current Red Cross lifeguard or Swiftwater rescue certifications preferred but not mandatory
• Current unrestricted valid drivers license with no major convictions during the previous three year period; driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, reckless driving, hit and run, homicide or assault with a motor vehicle, drag racing, operating a motor vehicle without the owner's consent, license suspended or revoked within the previous three year period for accidents and or moving violations. Driving record should reflect no more than three moving violations and/or chargeable accidents during the previous three years

• For Adventure Programs: Knowledge of three or more wilderness travel methods. Whitewater rafting, sea kayaking, international trekking, biking, backpacking, technical rock or ice climbing and mountaineering. Mandatory requirements for adventure trips include: the ability to lead groups of students on backpacking trips of three to eight days, ability to comfortably lead through remote wilderness areas. This includes, but is not limited to, backpacking preparations, backcountry travel, route finding, campsite selection, equipment maintenance, Leave No Trace camping techniques in desert and alpine terrain and proper protocol in dense bear country.

All leaders must possess the ability to make prudent decisions in adverse conditions. International Service Learning and Language Immersion Programs: Leaders and must be highly proficient or fluent in the spoken language of the program country (Spanish, etc.) and have extensive experience with community service, international travel, managing multiple responsibilities abroad, experience and/or living abroad, cultural immersion. Knowledge of the following is helpful but not mandatory: Sea Kayaking, Whitewater Rafting, Trekking, Surfing, and Snorkeling

• International Service learning and Language Exposure Programs: Leaders to have extensive experience with community service, international travel, managing multiple responsibilities abroad, experience and/or living abroad, cultural immersion. Knowledge of the following is helpful but not mandatory: Sea Kayaking, Whitewater Rafting, Trekking, Surfing, Snorkeling

• Service Learning Programs: Leaders to have extensive experience with community service, experience managing multiple responsibilities, construction experience preferred. Knowledge of the following is helpful but not mandatory: Sea Kayaking, Whitewater Rafting, Rock Climbing, Hiking, PADI Scuba certified
• Ability and experience supervising co-instructors and participants
• Valid Passport
• Ability to drive a standard transmission vehicle
• Ability to communicate and work with teenagers and co-instructors, and provide necessary instruction
• Ability to creatively schedule programs, facilities, and co-instructors
• Ability to observe participant behavior, assess its appropriateness, enforce appropriate safety regulations and emergency procedures, and apply appropriate behavior-management techniques
• Visual and auditory ability to identify and respond to environmental and other hazards related to the activity
• Physical ability to respond appropriately to situations requiring first aid
• Good character, integrity, and adaptability
• Enthusiasm, sense of humor, patience and self -control
• Ability to follow written procedures as outlined in the leader-training manual
• Ability to support program philosophy and implement procedures
• Ability to work long hours
• Ability and experience in facilitating groups

Specific Responsibilities/Job Description
1. Plan, coordinate and execute daily activities and trip logistics
2. Monitor co-instructor and participant assignments for the day
3. Monitor groups and supervise co-instructors' responsibilities
4. Act as a positive role model for participants
5. Responsible for the relationships with general public, people of the land, and subcontractors
6. Monitor ongoing safety and provide education for co-instructor and participants
7. Supervise the health and safety of the participants and environment
8. Together with co-instructor and participant, plan and execute the evening program
9. Identify and address inappropriate behavior with participant or with other co-instructor, for actions that put health and safety of a participant at risk
10. Together with co-instructor, plan and implement evening program as needed
11. Management of financials and accounting including monitoring of expenditures, record keeping, advances, bookkeeping and end of trip summary of information
12. Management of gear, vehicles, inventory, storage, documentation and end of trip summary information
13. Evaluate co-instructor and perform reviews and summer end evaluations
14. Evaluate program and current season and make suggestions for following season

Dates of Employment
June through August seasonally - recommend early application.

Remuneration
Salary is commensurate with experience/certifications/qualifications. Your salary with The Road Less Traveled includes all food, lodging and transportation from the beginning through close of your trip. We also offer pro-deals on outdoor equipment from a variety of well-known manufacturers.

THE ROAD LESS TRAVELED
Laura Dunmire-Director
2331 N Elston Court
Chicago, IL 60614
employment[AT]theroadlesstraveled.com

Please visit: Our Camp Website Link: www.theroadlesstraveled.com

Print (or view) Camp Profile for:
The Road Less Traveled

There are 14 Top Illinois Wilderness Camps Below


Wilderness Camps in IL
Offer Day & Overnight Options

Some Illinois Wilderness Camps offer BOTH Day and Overnight Camp options. Be sure to check each camp's description under "TYPE OF CAMP" for complete information, and exact hours.

Some Illinois Wilderness Day Camps also offer Extended Camp Hours for Early Camper Drop-Off and Pick Up. If you need these services, you should contact the camp to confirm availability.




Camp Tapawingo
Metamora, Illinois

Visit Our Camp Tapawingo Website
888-623-1237
gsci[AT]girlscouts-gsci.org
1452 Hickory Point Road
Metamora, Illinois 61548

CAMPER AGES: 5-17 years of age

TYPE OF CAMP: Overnight/Sleepaway. Day Camp. Weekends

CAMPER GENDER(S): All Girl Campers.

AFFILIATION(S): Girl Scouts

SPECIAL NEEDS CAMPERS: We can adapt to special needs.

CAMP INSTRUCTIONAL ACTIVITIES OFFERED:
Wilderness/Nature, Waterfront/Aquatics, Sailing, Adventure, Horses/Equestrian, Travel, Fine Arts/Crafts, Dance, Theater, Swimming, Team Sports, and more. Challenge Course - Both Low & High Courses, Archery, Hiking, Boating

CAMP LOCATION: Camp Tapawingo, ACA Accredited, is a 640-acre camp facility located 15 miles from Peoria. The cornerstone of this property is its Equestrian Center where girls learn horseback riding skills and horse care. The Center includes a state-of-the-art stables with an indoor air-conditioned classroom, trading post and a barn classroom along with an 80’x160’ indoor riding arena with an observation area.

A large outdoor riding arena completes the Equestrian Center. Mary Morgan Lodge, a 12,000 square foot multi-level, air-conditioned dining hall and program center is the point where all campers gather for meals. Camp Tapawingo also features an in-ground pool, adventure course, archery, canoeing, and miles of hiking trails.

Campers utilize four main rustic living units – Rustling Oaks, Setting Sun, White Cloud, and Shining Star – that provide platform tents and unit houses. These unit houses have electricity, indoor bathrooms, hot water, and kitchen facilities.

CAMP FACILITIES: Campers utilize four main rustic living units – Rustling Oaks, Setting Sun, White Cloud, and Shining Star – that provide platform tents and unit houses. These unit houses have electricity, indoor bathrooms, hot water, and kitchen facilities.

Setting Sun, Rustling Oaks, White Cloud and Shining Star units are available for camping. Each unit with the exception of Rustling Oaks, has a unit house and platform tents. Rustling Oaks contains a unit house only. The unit houses are all equipped with indoor flush toilets (White Cloud has composting toilets), full kitchen with cooking equipment, fireplaces, electricity, tables, chairs and mattresses (no cots), and electric heat. The platform tents are available April 15 through October 15 and house 3-4 people per tent with cots and mattresses. Each unit has a fire circle and comes with standard basic outdoor cooking equipment.

Setting Sun sleeps 20 indoors and 26 outdoors in platform tents.
Rustling Oaks sleeps 16 indoors and has a shower.
Shining Star sleeps 24 indoors and 35 outdoors in platform tents.
White Cloud sleeps 24 indoors and 35 outdoors in platform tents.

CAMP PROGRAM INFO: Your group can experience many activities while staying at Camp Tapawingo including team building on our high and low ropes courses, test your aim on our archery range or take a relaxing ride through the property on horseback. A small paddling lake can be explored in a canoe. If exploring on your own, hiking trails wind throughout the property. These activities are dependent on trained staff and/or volunteer availability.

CAMP LEADERSHIP CIT/LIT PROGRAMS: We have both CIT and LIT programs as well as Leadership Camps and camp assistants.

If you love working with younger campers and hanging out with older Girl Scouts at camp, you’ll love this two-week session! You’ll spend the first week improving your camping and leadership skills and observing the counselors in action as you begin the sisterhood journey. The second week you’ll be paired with a unit to lead daily camp activities. As a CIT, you’ll have plenty of time to stay up late making midnight grilled cheese and playing goofy games.

CAMP SCHOLARSHIPS OR FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE: Financial assistance is available.

FAMILY CAMP SESSION(S): Our summer activities are open to all girls, including non-Girl Scouts. Any girl entering first grade through twelfth grade is welcome at camp. You don’t have to have any camping experience to come to camp, and you don’t have to come with friends or a troop. You’ll make new friends while you’re here. The GSCI summer camp experience is available in many forms: resident camp; day camp; family events; and core camping, where troops stay at camp and camp staff run activities.

YEAR-ROUND PROGRAMS: Camp Tapawingo is a year-round camp with mainly activities and camping.

CAMP SESSION DATES & FEES:
Please visit: Our Camp Website Link: www.getyourgirlpower.org

SUMMER CAMP JOBS:
For camp jobs info please visit: Our Camp Website Link: www.getyourgirlpower.org.

Print (or view) Camp Profile for:
Camp Tapawingo

There are 13 Top Illinois Wilderness Camps Below


YMCA Camp Benson
Mount Carroll, IL

Visit Our YMCA Camp Benson Website
815-244-8722
gwyn[AT]ymcacampbenson.org
16355 Scenic Palisades Rd
YMCA Camp Benson
Mount Carroll, IL 61053

CAMP VIDEO LINK:
Watch Our YMCA Camp Benson Video

CAMPER AGES: 5-17

TYPE OF CAMP: Overnight/Sleepaway.

CAMPER GENDER(S): Coed Campers.

AFFILIATION(S): YMCA

BRIEF CAMP DESCRIPTION: YCB is an adventure based overnight summer camp in northwestern Illinois for boys and girls in 1st-12th grade. We’re dedicated to positively impacting the lives of our campers and providing a transformational camping experience.

CAMP INSTRUCTIONAL ACTIVITIES OFFERED:
Wilderness/Nature, Adventure, and more. Rock Climbing, Kayaking, Zip Lining, Cave Exploration, Outdoor Living Skills, High Ropes.

YMCA Camp Benson is a Top Wilderness Summer Camp located in Mount Carroll Illinois offering many fun and educational Wilderness and other activities, including: Adventure, Wilderness/Nature and more. YMCA Camp Benson is a top Wilderness Camp for ages: 5-17.
VIEW CAMP PHOTO

CAMP LOCATION: We are a short two hour drive from Madison, WI, the Chicago Suburbs, and only an hour from Rockford, IL and the Quad Cities.

CAMP FACILITIES: We have 12 modern, brand new cabins with heat and air conditioning. A brand new indoor climbing wall, covered pavilion, 250 seat amphitheater, and more make Camp Benson fun. Take a look around our site and discover why the Chicago-Tribune called our property one of the 7 wonders of the modern world.

CAMP PROGRAM INFO: It is the mission of YMCA Camp Benson to provide a safe, fun, transformational and educational experiences for our campers through the demonstration of the four core values.; caring, honesty, respect, and responsibility and by practicing a camper first philosophy. Sending a child to camp is an act of great faith by parents. As directors, we take that responsibility very seriously. We strive to maintain an environment that both encourages personal growth and creates an unforgettable summer experience. The Camp Benson Community is a caring and supporting one, and at the core of everything that takes place at camp.

ADVENTURE camp is our most popular camp. This is a 7 day overnight camp with every activity to chose from based on your age. ADVENTURE CAMP is for those who are ages 8 -14. Your camper will take their summer to new heights. From zip-lining, swimming, and climbing to exploring a cave, high ropes, archery, and campfires. ADVENTURE camp is everything you need for one amazing week of camp.

EXPLORER camp is our starter camp. This is your 4 day overnight camp with fun activities to chose from based on your campers age. Explorer CAMP is for those who have completed kindergarten through 8 years old. Never been to YCB before or still in their first couple of summers at camp? Then EXPLORER camp is just for them. It's one week of camp packed into 4 days. With skits, big games, campfires, songs, and more, your camper is sure to have a great time.

SPECIALTY camps are the camps that have a certain niche to them They include; MEGA camp, TEEN camp, and LITERARY camp. MEGA camp is more than twice the fun! This 14 day camp gives campers the chance to try more activities, participate in the special middle-weekend stay-over, and get to know their counselors and fellow MEGA-campers much better If you are ages 8-14, register early for this one. It will fill quickly. TEEN camp is the one that no camper ages 12-17 wants to miss.

CAMP LEADERSHIP CIT/LIT PROGRAMS: Simply put, an SDP (staff development participant) is a student entering the 9th-12th grade in the fall of 2014. While often this age group is overlooked and underutilized, this is not true at YMCA Camp Benson. SDPs attend Camp Benson for a week at a time serving and learning, growing and expanding, in both leadership and character. There are 4-levels of the Staff Development Program and placement is based on their grade in school, their attendance at weekend retreats, and an application process.

CAMP SCHOLARSHIPS OR FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE: Every child deserves a camp experience. Just one summer at camp can positively influence a child’s life forever. Our confidential Financial Assistance Program allows numerous children, who would otherwise not be able to attend, to experience all that YMCA Camp Benson has to offer.

Applications for assistance will be made available on our website beginning in November with submissions being accepted after that.

FAMILY CAMP SESSION(S): Every spring and fall YMCA Camp Benson hosts a Family. For more information visit Our Camp Website Link: srfymca.org

CAMP SESSION DATES & FEES:
Check out Our Camp Website Link: srfymca.org for rates, dates, and discounts.

Print (or view) Camp Profile for:
YMCA Camp Benson

There are 12 Top Illinois Wilderness Camps Below


 Check Out These *Featured Camp(s):

FUN CAMP GIFTS

SHIRTS - SWEATS - ART - SWAG
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Oasis Summer Day Camp
Winnetka, Illinois

Visit Our Oasis Summer Day Camp Website
847-858-0415
james[AT]oasisdaycamp.com
180
Ridge Avenue
Winnetka, Illinois 60093

CAMP VIDEO LINK:
Watch Our Oasis Summer Day Camp Video

MOST RECENT UPDATE:
More than 6 months ago. Contact camp for the latest 2024 camp info.

CAMPER AGES: 5 - 12

TYPE OF CAMP: Day Camp. A premier day camp on the north shore of Chicago. The hours are from 8-5:30, Monday through Friday.

CAMPER GENDER(S): Coed Campers.

CAMP INSTRUCTIONAL ACTIVITIES OFFERED:
Wilderness/Nature, Adventure, Fine Arts/Crafts, Swimming, Team Sports, Science, Academics, Technology, and more.

CAMP FACILITIES: This camp has two campuses located in Winnetka, IL and Highland Park, IL., from these drop-off and pick-up locations we visit a wide variety of destinations around the Chicagoland area to offer children every opportunity for fun. From swimming, to science classes, farms, museums and even amusement parks we have something that every child will enjoy.

CAMP PROGRAM INFO: Our program is geared to fully engage your child. There is no single focus, but more of a variety of programming to be sure our campers have a fun as well as educational summer. Please refer to our Calendar of Events for more detailed information about what this season has to offer at Our Camp Website Link: www.oasisdaycamp.com!

CAMP LEADERSHIP CIT/LIT PROGRAMS: Leadership program.

CAMP SESSION DATES & FEES:
Please see our website for detailed information about what this summer has to offer as well as pricing at Our Camp Website Link: www.oasisdaycamp.com.

Print (or view) Camp Profile for:
Oasis Summer Day Camp

There are 11 Top Illinois Wilderness Camps Below


Girl Scouts of Greater Chicago and Northwest Indiana Summer Camps
Illinois Location(s)

Visit Our Girl Scouts of Greater Chicago and Northwest Indiana Summer Camps Website
camper[AT]girlscoutsgcnwi.org
20 S Clark St., Suite 200
Locations in Illinois, Indiana & Wisconsin
Chicago, Illinois 60603

OTHER CAMP LOCATIONS:
Illinois, Indiana, and Wisconsin

CAMPER AGES: 5-17

TYPE OF CAMP: Overnight/Sleepaway. Day Camp.

CAMPER GENDER(S): All Girl Campers.

BRIEF CAMP DESCRIPTION: Summer day camp at GCNWI provides an opportunity for girls to meet new friends, learn outdoor skills, and grow in her courage, confidence, and character in a safe environment. She will have fun in the sun playing games, singing songs, and maybe even getting a little messy in the great outdoors!

CAMP INSTRUCTIONAL ACTIVITIES OFFERED:
Wilderness/Nature, Waterfront/Aquatics, Sailing, Adventure, Travel, Swimming, Science, Technology, and more.

CAMP LOCATION: Girl Scouts of Greater Chicago and Northwest Indiana offers outdoor programming at four camps and three gathering places!

GCNWI camps are located across three states in Illinois, Indiana, and Wisconsin.

Illinois: Camp Greene Wood and Camp Palos

Indiana: Camp Butternut Springs

Wisconsin: Camp Juniper Knoll

SUMMER CAMP JOBS:
Camp has a huge impact on girls through a supportive community. Are you up to the challenge to build that community? We are seeking hard-working, positive, enthusiastic, and caring adults ages 18+ to fill counselor and leadership positions at all of our camp locations. Apply online!
Our Camp Website Link: girlscoutsgreaterchicagoandnwindiana.applytojob.com 

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Girl Scouts of Greater Chicago and Northwest Indiana Summer Camps

There are 10 Top Illinois Wilderness Camps Below



Camp Ondessonk
Ozark, Illinois

Visit Our Camp Ondessonk Website
877.659.2267
camp[AT]ondessonnk.com
3760 Ondessonk Rd
Ozark, Illinois 62972

CAMP VIDEO LINK:
Watch Our Camp Ondessonk Video

CAMPER AGES: 8-17

TYPE OF CAMP: Overnight/Sleepaway.

CAMPER GENDER(S): Coed Campers. All Boy Campers. All Girl Campers.

AFFILIATION(S): Christian.

BRIEF CAMP DESCRIPTION: Since 1959, Camp Ondessonk has provided children and children-at-heart the opportunity to experience first hand the beauty of God’s creation. Located in the Shawnee National Forest of Southern Illinois, Ondessonk’s summer camp programs provide an experience that encourages campers to have fun, grow spiritually, make friends, grow in self-confidence and self-esteem, and develop values.

CAMP INSTRUCTIONAL ACTIVITIES OFFERED:
Wilderness/Nature, Waterfront/Aquatics, Adventure, Horses/Equestrian, and more.

CAMP LOCATION: Location & Directions:
Camp Ondessonk is located just east of Illinois Route 45, on Ozark Road, near the town of Ozark, IL. Ozark Road intersects Route 45 at the Ozark General store. This Intersection is 12 miles north of Vienna, IL, 2.7 miles south of New Burnside, IL, or 20 miles south of Harrisburg, IL on Route 45. A brown department of transportation highway sign marked “Camp Ondessonk” and “Bell Smith Springs” marks the turn from Route 45. From Route 45, take Ozark Road east one half of a mile to Ondessonk Road (look for the camp gate on right). Make a Right on Ondessonk Road.

CAMP FACILITIES: We have tree house cabins, St Noel Retreat Center, three lakes, recreation dining hall, horse stables, and a rustic amphitheater.

CAMP PROGRAM INFO: Camp Ondessonk a residential youth camp provides summer camp programs for children ages 8-18 years old. We are proud to be accredited by the American Camp Association. This accreditation means that Camp Ondessonk thoroughly reviews operational practices, seeks the wisdom of other summer camp professionals, and continually makes improvements within our summer camp program to comply with more than 300 written standards. Only one-fourth of the summer camps in the United States have earned this mark of distinction. In addition, Camp Ondessonk’s Equestrian Program is accredited by the Certified Horsemanship Association.

CAMP LEADERSHIP CIT/LIT PROGRAMS: The CIT program is a two week leadership development session designed to prepare participants for possible future counselor positions. Applicants to the CIT program must be 15 years old by May 30, 2017.

CAMP SCHOLARSHIPS OR FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE: In an effort to make Camp Ondessonk more accessible to children of all economic means, three scholarship opportunities are available. General and St. Kateri scholarship recipients receive partial tuition coverage. Monsignor Fournie Scholarship recipients receive full tuition coverage.

FAMILY CAMP SESSION(S): Fall Family Camp
September 15 at 4:00 pm - September 17 at 11:30 am
Event Navigation
Camp Ondessonk Fall Family CampCamp is for everyone! Join us for a weekend of family fun and experience a taste of summer camp as the leaves change and the weather turns down-right pleasant. Many of our best traditional camp activities will be available at Fall Family Camp. Go for a canoe paddle or an afternoon swim, take a horse ride or climb our climbing tower. For a taste of the extreme, give our high ropes course a try. Experience a Camp Ondessonk weekend the whole family can enjoy!

YEAR-ROUND PROGRAMS: Women in the outdoors IL Event March 31-April 2
Wildflowers, Waterfalls & Wineries April 7-9
Spring Lodge Reunion April 21-23
Father Son Weekend April 28-30
Camp Ondessonk Saturday Spectacular April 29
Camp Ondessonk 1980s Reunion May 5-7
First Time Camper Open House May 13
Annual Open House and Homecoming June 3
Camp Ondessonk Metro East Annual Golf Benefit June 16
2017 Great American Eclipse Event Aug 19-21
22nd Annual Camp Ondessonk Golf Benefit Sept 9
Fall Family Camp September 15-17
Mother Daughter Weekend Oct. 6-8

CAMP SESSION DATES & FEES:
Visit Our Camp Website Link: www.Ondessonk.com for session dates and fee information.

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Camp Ondessonk

There are 9 Top Illinois Wilderness Camps Below


Camp CBG at the Chicago Botanic Garden
Glencoe, Illinois

Visit Our Camp CBG at the Chicago Botanic Garden Website
247-835-8361
alabus[AT]chicagobotanic.org
1000 Lake Cook Road
Glencoe, Illinois 60022

CAMPER AGES: 6 months to 12 years

TYPE OF CAMP: Day Camp.

CAMPER GENDER(S): Coed Campers.

BRIEF CAMP DESCRIPTION: Camp CBG offers morning and afternoon camps, supervised lunch, and full-day camps to give parents flexible scheduling options from June 8 – August 14. Spend a week or the whole summer at the Garden!

SPECIAL NEEDS CAMPERS: We do our best to accommodate any special needs. Please let us know on your child’s Emergency/Health History Form if your child has special needs: i.e. physical, emotional, educational, or medical. Advise us of any severe allergies or chronic illness. This includes information regarding food or airborne allergies. If your child will require special accommodations, please call (847) 835-8361 to discuss your situation prior to registering.

CAMP INSTRUCTIONAL ACTIVITIES OFFERED:
Wilderness/Nature, Fine Arts/Crafts, Science, Math, and more. Cooking Camps

CAMP LOCATION: The Chicago Botanic Garden is easy to find and easy to reach, approximately 20 miles north of Chicago in Glencoe, IL.

CAMP FACILITIES: The Chicago Botanic Garden’s signature day camp provides exciting, fun, and enriching outdoor learning experiences for your child utilizing all the Garden facilities and spaces.

CAMP PROGRAM INFO: Camp CBG Mission
The mission of the Chicago Botanic Garden is to promote the enjoyment, understanding, and conservation of plants in the natural world.

Our Goals for your Camper: Make nature play a part of daily activities, Introduce activities that explore connections between nature and the following: art, science, math, literacy, movement, and cooking, Provide age-appropriate, hands-on activities, Incorporate experiential learning into camp curriculum, Offer opportunities for campers to take a piece of the Garden home. Camp CBG is an alchohol, drug, and weapon-free program.

Age Limits
Please note the age groupings for each camp group:

My First Camp Age 2: campers must be born on or before September 1, 2018.

My First Camp Age 3: campers must be born on or before September 1, 2017.

Green Sprouts: must be entering Jr. Kindergarten or Kindergarten September 2020 (most campers are ages 4-5).

Green Thumbs: must be entering grades 1-2 September 2020 (most campers are ages 6-7).

Explorers: must be entering grades 3-4 September 2020 (most campers are ages 8-9).

Adventurers: must be entering grades 5-7 September 2020 (most campers are ages 10-12).

We regret that we cannot make any exceptions to this policy. Campers in the Green Sprouts group and above must be toilet trained.

Parent Information
A weekly Camp CBG syllabus for each camp will be e-mailed to you the week prior to your child's camp. It will also be available from your child's teacher on the first day of camp. Each syllabus will list the day's activities and include suggestions to help you and your camper share the camp experience. The order of events may change due to weather or other circumstances beyond our control.


Before- and After-Camp Care
We are happy to offer before-camp and after-camp care for your camper. Program will be supervised by Camp CBG staff. Activities will include games, art projects, and gardening. Pack an extra snack for your camper for after-camp care. Morning fees are $50/camper/per week; afternoon fees are $63/camper/week, and cannot be pro-rated for partial use; no membership discount available.

Morning hours are 7:30 – 9:30 a.m. and afternoon hours are 3 – 5:30 p.m.

No drop-ins. Campers must be preregistered for this service. No on-site registration is available.
Children must be signed in with staff at the Learning Center at drop-off.
Evening pick-up will take place in the Learning Center. Parents/caregivers will be asked for photo identification at pick-up. There is a late fee of $15 for pick up between 5:30 and 5:45 p.m. An additional $1 per minute will be charged after 5:45 p.m. Late fees are payable by cash, check, or credit card at the time of pick-up. Repeated late pick-ups may result in the loss of this service.

Snacks
Camp CBG does not provide daily snacks to Campers. Please pack a nut-free snack for your camper each day. We will take a snack break mid-morning and mid-afternoon daily. Some camps may be making their own additional snacks during Camp CBG. If your child has food allergies or diet restrictions that may prevent him/her from consuming nut-free snacks, please specify to what degree on the Emergency/Health History Form.

Lunch
Camp CBG offers a supervised lunch period for campers in Green Sprouts, Green Thumbs, and Explorers who enroll in morning and afternoon camps for $10 per child/week. Pack a nut-free lunch for your child that does not require refrigeration, and we will supervise your child during the lunch break (noon – 12:30 p.m.) and escort your child to his/her afternoon camp.

Staffing
In order to provide the best possible experiences for your children, one-week camps are limited to 12 or 15 campers and two-week camps are limited to 20 campers. My First Camp is limited to 14 child/adult pairs per camp. Camps are led by Chicago Botanic Garden staff and qualified teachers, with assistance from interns and volunteers. Biographies of your campers' instructors will be available online this spring.

Camper Code of Conduct
You will be asked to review the CBG Camper Code of Conduct upon completion of the Emergency/Health History Form.

Campers will treat their fellow campers, instructors, and volunteers with respect.
Campers will follow directions and stay with their group.
Please read and discuss these expectations with your child. In the event that a camper does not follow the Code of Conduct, or his or her behavior endangers other campers or interferes with an instructor's ability to provide programming, the coordinator of Camp Programs or camp instructor will inform the parent at pick-up or through a phone call. If a second incident occurs, parents may be asked to withdraw their child from camp. Refunds will not be given for behavior-related withdrawals.

CAMP LEADERSHIP CIT/LIT PROGRAMS: Ages 13 – 15

Our Leaders in Training program is the perfect summer experience for teens with an interest in science and education. Participants help prepare for camps, assist teachers during the day, and learn life skills that will benefit them in future job searches and college preparation.

The LIT program is a two-week commitment, meeting Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 3:15 p.m. throughout the summer. Each LIT will be scheduled in weeklong timeframes. Two consecutive weeks are preferred, but not required. Applications will be available until the program fills. LIT interviews will be conducted from February through April, and participants will receive training before camp begins.

Application materials will be available in December. Please call (847) 835-8361 to request an application.

CAMP SCHOLARSHIPS OR FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE: Families in need of financial aid should fill out this form: Our Camp Website Link: www.chicagobotanic.org

YEAR-ROUND PROGRAMS: We also offer day camp sessions on certain school holidays/days off and over the Winter and Spring Breaks.

OTHER CAMP INFO:
Pick-up/Drop-off
We offer an optional in-car drop-off/pick-up for camp families and carpools on our Learning Center Campus driveway. Details about camper drop-off and pick-up will be communicated via e-mail in early June. Should you prefer to park and walk your child to his/her camp instructor daily, you may park in lot 6 and follow the crosswalk to the drop-off area, located in the Children's Learning Center Lawn. Camp groups will leave the drop-off area promptly at 9:30 a.m. for morning camps and 12:30 p.m. for afternoon camps. If a child misses the departure of his/her camp group, it is the responsibility of the caregiver who brings that child to check in, and then escort the camper to his/her camp location for that day. If your child will be absent, please let us know by calling (847) 835-8361. If you must pick your child up early from camp, you must contact us by phone or send a note to camp with your child so that we can make arrangements for early pick-up ahead of time.

Please Do Not Bring to Camp
The Garden is NOT responsible for any item lost or broken during camp. Please leave the following items at home: personal video game players, cellphones, MP3 players/iPods, and iPad-type devices.

CAMP SESSION DATES & FEES:
Please visit:Our Camp Website Link: www.chicagobotanic.org

SUMMER CAMP JOBS:
Any Camp CBG job postings will be found on the Chicago Botanic Garden's Employment webpage at: Our Camp Website Link: www.chicagobotanic.org.

Interested individuals may also contact the Manager directly at alabus[AT]chicagobotanic.org.

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Camp CBG at the Chicago Botanic Garden

There are 8 Top Illinois Wilderness Camps Below


 Check Out These *Featured Camp(s):

FUN CAMP GIFTS

SHIRTS - SWEATS - ART - SWAG
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IAJHSC Summer Leadership Camp
Monticello, Illinois

Visit Our IAJHSC Summer Leadership Camp Website
lthompson[AT]rankin98.org
515 Old Timber Rd
Monticello, Illinois 61856

CAMPER AGES: 6th - 8th grade

TYPE OF CAMP: Overnight/Sleepaway.

CAMPER GENDER(S): Coed Campers.

BRIEF CAMP DESCRIPTION: Purpose: To provide opportunities for the delegates to gain leadership skills, a deeper understanding of the democratic process and to participate in the exchange of ideas which will, in turn, help improve Student Councils in the delegates' home schools.

CAMP INSTRUCTIONAL ACTIVITIES OFFERED:
Wilderness/Nature, Adventure, Travel, and more. Leadership.

CAMP LOCATION: 4-H Memorial Camp/Allerton Park
Monticello, IL

The camp facility is Memorial Camp which is located at Allerton Park, near Monticello, IL. Each delegate must provide his/her own transportation to and from camp. Maps will be provided in a mailing to follow receipt of registartion materials.

CAMP FACILITIES: Camp delegates are assigned to live in cabins with other junior high students and one or two Junior Counselors. Delegates will not be housed with students from their home school. The cabins have bunk beds with foam rubber mattresses. Delegates must provide their own bedding. Delegate cabins are located in close proximity to the Senior Staff and the Camp Nurse.

CAMP PROGRAM INFO: >During the week of camp, each delegate is assigned to a mock Student Council of 15-20 students. In order for the delegates to meet students from other schools, each delegate is placed in a council with students from schools other thatn his/her home school. Each mock Student Council elects officers, establishes committees and has camp responsibilities to complete. Councils meet at least once during each day with a member of the Senior Staff and 2 or 3 Junior Counselors.

General Sessions are held each day for all camp delegates. These are learning sessions presented by members of the Senior staff and include such topics as job training, brainstorming, and much more. In addition, the Senior Staff presents information about planning agendas, project plannng, parlimentary procedure, and evaluation during the council meetings.

Recreation is held at least once a day. Delegates can go swimming, boating, shoot archery, play volleybal, or make crafts. The camp store is open at this time so delegates may purchase snacks.

The evening acivities include special events: a square dance, a picnic and junior olympics, and a dance. The final evening activity of the week is a banquet followed by Achievement Night which inlcudes a candle lighting ceremony. Each day ends with time to reflect and sing around the campfire.

Camp Staff
The Senior Staff is made up of teachers who are student council advisors in their home schools. In addition to the camp Director, and Senior staff, there is a staff nurse. The Junior Counselors (JC's) are high school students who attended IAJHSC Leadership Camp as junior high/middle school students. They are also involved in leadership experiences in high school. The Junior Counselors are a carefullly selected group of higly capable, responsible, and enthusiastic individuals.

CAMP LEADERSHIP CIT/LIT PROGRAMS: Leadership Camp.

OTHER CAMP INFO: Camp delegates are assigned to live in cabins with other junior high students and one or two Junior Counselors. Delegates will not be housed with students from their home school. The cabins have bunk beds with foam rubber mattresses. Delegates must provide their own bedding. Delegate cabins are located in close proximity to the Senior Staff and the Camp Nurse.

CAMP SESSION DATES & FEES:
June 18-24, 2023

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IAJHSC Summer Leadership Camp

There are 7 Top Illinois Wilderness Camps Below


Camp Kupugani Multicultural Summer Camp
Leaf River, Illinois

Visit Our Camp Kupugani Multicultural Summer Camp Website
815-713-4110
kupugani[AT]gmail.com
6903 W. White Eagle
Leaf River, Illinois 61047

CAMP VIDEO LINK:
Watch Our Camp Kupugani Multicultural Summer Camp Video

CAMPER AGES: 7-15

TYPE OF CAMP: Overnight/Sleepaway. Day Camp.

CAMPER GENDER(S): Coed Campers. All Boy Campers. All Girl Campers.

BRIEF CAMP DESCRIPTION: Less than two hours minutes west of Chicago, Camp Kupugani--in separate girls-only and boys-only sessions (plus a blended session incorporating certain intentional coed aspects)--provides a multicultural sleepaway camp that focuses on diversity and communication skills in a fun atmosphere, uniting children of varied backgrounds and providing them with empowerment and community-building skills.

CAMP INSTRUCTIONAL ACTIVITIES OFFERED:
Wilderness/Nature, Waterfront/Aquatics, Adventure, Horses/Equestrian, Video/Filmmaking/Photography, Swimming, Volleyball, Soccer, Team Sports, and more. GaGa, Rock Climbing, Sand Volleyball, & Mud Volleyball.

Camp Kupugani Multicultural Summer Camp is a Top Wilderness Summer Camp located in Leaf River Illinois offering many fun and educational Wilderness and other activities, including: Wilderness/Nature, Volleyball, Swimming and more. Camp Kupugani Multicultural Summer Camp is a top Wilderness Camp for ages: 7-15.
VIEW CAMP PHOTO

CAMP LOCATION: Camp Kupugani is located in the rolling hills and woods of northwest Illinois, less than 2 hours from Chicago. Please visit our website for lots of camp photos and videos.

CAMP FACILITIES: Located in the rolling hills and woods of Northwestern Illinois, our camp comprises beautiful woods, trails, a swimming pool, two all natural rock climbing walls, game fields, and a 5-acre lake for swimming, water games, and almost a mile of canoeing through the property. With 120 acres of forests, wildlife, and wildflowers galore, it offers fresh air, natural water, the robust smell of pure woods and a twinkling night sky.

CAMP PROGRAM INFO: Kids love it here…and parents are equally excited about our program. In our past 9 years of parent surveys, 99% of respondents would recommend our camp to friends. The overwhelming majority of our parents noted their child’s improvement in:

Acknowledgment and Appreciation of Diversity
Conflict Resolution Skills
Personal Growth and Self Confidence
Positive Self Image and Empowerment
Leadership Skills

Specific past parent comments include:

“When I see how [my daughter’s] face lights up when she speaks about camp, it’s a priceless experience.”

“She absolutely loves the camp, the staff, and all the friends she makes there. I consider Kupugani to be a big influence in helping her to grow and expand her mind each summer; it has become an integral part of her summer vacation.”

CAMP LEADERSHIP CIT/LIT PROGRAMS: Our leadership programs help future young leaders transition from camper to counselor. In addition to being able to participate in regular camp activities, campers receive training to build their leadership knowledge and skill base.

CAMP SCHOLARSHIPS OR FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE: Limited scholarships based on family size and income guidelines.

FAMILY CAMP SESSION(S): Mother Daughter Weekends
Parent Child Weekends

CAMP SESSION DATES & FEES:
Please visit Our Camp Website Link: www.campkupugani.com for information.

SUMMER CAMP JOBS:
We are always looking for great people to work at camp as bunk counselors and and activity instructors.  If you are excited to work with children and want to find out more about a fantastic summer job opportunity, please visit our website at Our Camp Website Link: www.kupugani.com.  

There you'll find pictures, videos, information, and our staff application. You're also welcome to call or email with any questions.  Thanks!

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Camp Kupugani Multicultural Summer Camp

There are 6 Top Illinois Wilderness Camps Below



One Step Programs
Illinois Location(s)

Visit Our One Step Programs Website
312-924-4220
312-235-6838

dperkins[AT]onestepcamp.org
300 Conference Point Road
Williams Bay, Wisconsin 53191

OTHER CAMP LOCATIONS:
Park City, Utah
Springfield, Illinois
Chicago, Illinois
Washington DC
Walworth, Wisconsin
Charlotte, North Carolina
Mauston, Wisconsin

WINTER (OFF-SEASON) OFFICE ADDRESS:
213 W. Institute Pl. Suite 511
Chicago, Illinois   60610

CAMPER AGES: 5 - 19

TYPE OF CAMP: Overnight/Sleepaway. Day Camp. 3-day, up to two-week long programs

CAMPER GENDER(S): Coed Campers.

BRIEF CAMP DESCRIPTION: We are an organization that provides programs to help campers with the special medical needs that they may have as a result of treatment for cancer.

SPECIAL NEEDS CAMPERS: We are an organization that provides programs to help campers with the special medical needs that they may have as a result of treatment for cancer.

CAMP INSTRUCTIONAL ACTIVITIES OFFERED:
Wilderness/Nature, Waterfront/Aquatics, Sailing, Adventure, Horses/Equestrian, Fine Arts/Crafts, Dance, Swimming, Golf, Basketball, Baseball, and more.

CAMP LOCATION: Our main program is located on the the beachfront of Lake Geneva, approximately 1 hour from Milwaukee, and 1 1/2 hours Northwest of Chicago, Ill.

CAMP SCHOLARSHIPS OR FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE: While we only ask parents for 10% of the cost, for a camper to attend a program, we offer partial or full camperships for families who may not be able to afford the tuition for a program.

FAMILY CAMP SESSION(S): We have a Brain Tumor Family Camp that is specifically designed for families with a child with a Brain Tumor diagnosis, and/or a Brain Tumor Survivor.

In addition, we have out "general" Family Camp for families with a child that has a cancer diagnosis, and/or are a survivor.

Print (or view) Camp Profile for:
One Step Programs

There are 5 Top Illinois Wilderness Camps Below


Camp Dean
Big Rock, Illinois

Visit Our Camp Dean Website
630-897-1565
630-556-3122

fdupczak[AT]girlscoutsni.org
46W253 Camp Dean Rd.
Big Rock, Illinois 60511

WINTER (OFF-SEASON) OFFICE ADDRESS:
200 New Bond St.
Sugar Grove, IL 60554

CAMPER AGES: 6-17

TYPE OF CAMP: Overnight/Sleepaway. Day Camp. Family Camp

CAMPER GENDER(S): All Girl Campers.

AFFILIATION(S): Girl Scouts

CAMP INSTRUCTIONAL ACTIVITIES OFFERED:
Wilderness/Nature, Adventure, Horses/Equestrian, Travel, Fine Arts/Crafts, Swimming, and more.

CAMP LOCATION: Camp Dean is 160 acres of woods and prairie, located about an hour west of Chicago.

CAMP SCHOLARSHIPS OR FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE: Camperships are available for current members of Girl Scouts of Northern Illinois

FAMILY CAMP SESSION(S): We have two family camp sessions in 2014.
Special Guy Overnight - July 11-July 12 - Spend some time with the special guy in your life, whether it's dad, step-dad, uncle, grandpa, or older brother.

Me & My Gal Weekend - July 18-July 20 - Spend the weekend with the special gal in your life whether it's mom, step-mom, aunt, grandma, or older sister

SUMMER CAMP JOBS:
We are currently hiring for all camp positions - counselor, kitchen staff, waterfront staff, and specialty areas. Please contact Felecia for more information.

Please send email to: fdupczak[AT]girlscoutsni.org or visit our website at Our Camp Website Link: www.girlscoutsni.org for application materials.

Print (or view) Camp Profile for:
Camp Dean

There are 4 Top Illinois Wilderness Camps Below


 Check Out These *Featured Camp(s):

FUN CAMP GIFTS

SHIRTS - SWEATS - ART - SWAG
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Swift Nature Camp
Illinois Location(s)

Visit Our Swift Nature Camp Website
630-654-8036
swiftcamp[AT]aol.com
W7471 Ernie Swift Rd
Minong, WI 54859

OTHER CAMP LOCATIONS:
Wisconsin, Minnesota, Illinois

WINTER (OFF-SEASON) OFFICE ADDRESS:
25 Baybrook, Oak Brook, Il. 60523

CAMP VIDEO LINK:
Watch Our Swift Nature Camp Video

CAMPER AGES: 6 - 17

TYPE OF CAMP: Overnight/Sleepaway. Overnight

CAMPER GENDER(S): Coed Campers.

AFFILIATION(S): Non-denominational... believing in a higher power.

BRIEF CAMP DESCRIPTION: Swift Nature Camp is an overnight nature camp for boys and girls ages 6-15. Our focus is to blend traditional summer camp activities while increasing a child's appreciation for nature, science and the environment.

SPECIAL NEEDS CAMPERS: Our small size allows us to give individual attention to each and every child.

CAMP INSTRUCTIONAL ACTIVITIES OFFERED:
Wilderness/Nature, Waterfront/Aquatics, Sailing, Adventure, Horses/Equestrian, Travel, Fine Arts/Crafts, Swimming, Soccer, Basketball, Baseball, Science, Academics, and more. Nature, Science, Outdoors.

Discovery Camp Is Our -Special 1st Time Camper Program That Is Only For 1st Time For All 60 Campers. We Meet The Special Need Of The Younger & New To Camping Children. See How On Our Website. Money Back Guarantee.

Swift Nature Camp is a Top Wilderness Summer Camp located in Minong Illinois offering many fun and educational Wilderness and other activities, including: Waterfront/Aquatics, Basketball, Fine Arts/Crafts and more. Swift Nature Camp is a top Wilderness Camp for ages: 6 - 17.
VIEW CAMP PHOTO

CAMP LOCATION: Swift Nature Camp is located deep in the Northwoods of Wisconsin. Our 80 acres are contiguous with a county forest. Our 1200 acre lake is perfect for swimming, skiing, knee-boarding, fishing, sailing and much more

CAMP FACILITIES: We are a small camp with nearly 1/2 mile of lake frontage. Our 10 cabins are neat and clean they have electricity and heat for those cool summer nights. See more pictures and video on our website Our Camp Website Link: snc.camp

CAMP PROGRAM INFO: Swift Nature Camp is an overnight nature camp for boys and girls ages 6-15. Our focus is to blend traditional summer camp activities while increasing a child's appreciation for nature, science and the environment.

Our special Discovery Camp is a nurturing program for first-time overnight campers, offering additional staff to provide support and encouragement to overcome homesickness and build confidence. The program welcomes no more than 50 first-time campers, and the special attention that this intimate group receives is the reason that more than 92% of them wish to return.

Swift Nature Camp offers traditional summer camp activities along with an environmental focus. Campers enjoy an active Nature Center, Pet Zoo, and Department of Natural Resources sponsored programs, plus recreational activities that include canoe and backpack trips, horseback riding, swimming, arts & crafts, team courses, archery, sailing, water skiing, tubing and sports.

In addition to these traditional activities, Swift Nature Camp is so much more. We are a child-centered program located away from technology, celebrity culture and academic pressures. Through fun activities and positive staff role models, we help children develop lifelong skills such as confidence, teamwork, leadership, compassion and communication. Our small size allows us to promote each child's personal development by providing fun, friendship and leadership in a supportive and noncompetitive environment. While away from home, children will have the opportunity to act on their own, become self-reliant, and try things for themselves.

Many of our kids return year after year saying that "Swift allows me to be my real self with real people." And we feel that's a good thing!

All of this happens in the fun and sun of the north woods of Wisconsin. For staff and campers alike, Swift Nature Camp is more than just a place to be: it is their summer home. So why not have your child join our summer camp family this summer?

CAMP LEADERSHIP CIT/LIT PROGRAMS: Yes we have a leadership program for those who are 16 & 17 years old.

CAMP SCHOLARSHIPS OR FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE: YES, scholarships are available. Please, see our website.
Our Camp Website Link: swiftnaturecamp.com

OTHER CAMP INFO: We are most excited by 1st Time Camper Program that is only for children that have never been to summer camp before. This program has only 5 children in a cabin with 2 counselors. Allowing us to give every child loads of attention for their first time away from home.

CAMP SESSION DATES & FEES:
Our programs begin mid June and go till mid August

DISCOVERY CAMP (2 WEEKS), June 4-June 16
Boys & Girls 6-12, Cost $1550

PATHFINDER CAMP (2 WEEKS), June 18-June 30
Boys & Girls 6-12, Cost $1550

EXPLORER CAMP (3 WEEKS), July 2-July 21
Boys & Girls 7-15, Cost $2400

EXPLORER CAMP (3 WEEKS), July 23-August 11
Boys & Girls 7-15, Cost $2400

ADVENTURER CAMP (6 WEEKS), July 2-August 11
Boys & Girls 7-15
Cost $4600

CANADIAN CANOE TRIP (5 days), August 10-14
Boys & Girls 14-17, Cost $599

See our Dates & Rates for more Information
Our Camp Website Link: swiftnaturecamp.com

SUMMER CAMP JOBS:
Swift Nature Camp is looking for great young people to be Camp Counselors and activity specialist. So if you want to spend your summer outside, being a role model to kids be sure to see our website.

Also we need a camp nurse and Outdoor Education Director. Interested, please see our website.

You can change a child's life this summer and in turn change yours.

Watch Our Swift Nature Camp Jobs Video at: Our Camp Website Link: swiftnaturecamp.com

Watch Our Swift Nature Camp Promo Video at: Our Camp Website Link: swiftnaturecamp.com

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Swift Nature Camp

There are 3 Top Illinois Wilderness Camps Below


Camp McCormick
Stillman Valley, Illinois

Visit Our Camp McCormick Website
815-234-8622
630-897-1565

fdupczak[AT]girlscoutsni.org
9995 N. Girl Scout Rd.
Stillman Valley, Illinois 61084

WINTER (OFF-SEASON) OFFICE ADDRESS:
200 New Bond St.
Sugar Grove, IL 60554

CAMPER AGES: 6-17

TYPE OF CAMP: Overnight/Sleepaway. Family Camp

CAMPER GENDER(S): All Girl Campers.

AFFILIATION(S): Girl Scouts

BRIEF CAMP DESCRIPTION: Summer Family Camp

CAMP INSTRUCTIONAL ACTIVITIES OFFERED:
Wilderness/Nature, Adventure, Horses/Equestrian, Travel, Fine Arts/Crafts, Swimming, and more.

CAMP LOCATION: Camp McCormick is 425 acres of woods and prairie, located about an hour and a half northwest of Chicago and 25 minutes southwest of Rockford.

CAMP SCHOLARSHIPS OR FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE: Camperships are available for current members of Girl Scouts of Northern Illinois

FAMILY CAMP SESSION(S): Family Fun Overnight - July 25-26 - A family that camps together, makes a s'more together! Splash in the pool, go for a hike, and make something in arts & crafts to remember this camp session together.

SUMMER CAMP JOBS:
We are currently hiring for all camp positions - counselor, kitchen staff, waterfront staff, and specialty areas. Please contact Felecia for more information.

Please email fdupczak[AT]girlscoutsni.org or visit our website nat Our Camp Website Link: www.girlscoutsni.org for application materials.

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Camp McCormick

There are 2 Top Illinois Wilderness Camps Below



JCYS Camp Henry Horner
Ingleside, Illinois

Visit Our JCYS Camp Henry Horner Website
(847) 740-5010
ibrubaker[AT]jcys.org
26710 W. Nippersink Road
Ingleside, Illinois 60041

CAMP VIDEO LINK:
Watch Our JCYS Camp Henry Horner Video

CAMPER AGES: Kindergarten - 10th Grade

TYPE OF CAMP: Overnight/Sleepaway. Day Camp.

CAMPER GENDER(S): Coed Campers.

AFFILIATION(S): Jewish.

BRIEF CAMP DESCRIPTION: From one-week to eight-week camp experiences, and Day Camp and Overnight Camp options, our fantastic location on Wooster Lake has a plethora of opportunities to offer each camper, including: a high-ropes course and zipline, lake activities and pool fun, sports galore, arts & crafts, campfires – and friendships that last a lifetime.

SPECIAL NEEDS CAMPERS: Located on the same 180 acres in Ingleside, Camp Red Leaf (CRL) is specially designed to serve individuals ages 9 and upward with developmental disabilities, emotional and behavioral needs. The highly adaptable programs at CRL strive to increase self-esteem, promote interaction, improve social skills and encourage independence in a natural environment.

As the only American Camp Association accredited camp serving both children and adults with disabilities in metropolitan Chicago, Camp Red Leaf fulfills a vital need for safe, reliable, and enriching programming for individuals with special needs

CAMP INSTRUCTIONAL ACTIVITIES OFFERED:
Wilderness/Nature, Waterfront/Aquatics, Adventure, Fine Arts/Crafts, Dance, Music/Band, Swimming, Volleyball, Cheerleading, Soccer, Tennis, Basketball, Baseball, Team Sports, and more.

CAMP LOCATION: We are located on 180 acres on the shores of Lake Wooster about an hour from Chicago, IL and Milwaukee, WI in Ingleside, Illinois.

CAMP FACILITIES: JCYS Camp Henry Horner accommodations range from small lodges with kitchen facilities to large dorm-style housing that can accommodate over 100 people at a time. Located on Lake Wooster, our boathouse is full of canoes and kayaks for your water adventures while the lake is home to multiple large inflatables for swimming fun.

Camp is also home to the High Sierra Adventure Center that has a high and low ropes course, zipline and climbing wall, through traditional rock climbing is also available for the more adventurous camper! A heated pool, tennis courts, basketball courts, soccer fields, baseball diamonds, Ga Ga pit and more make up a sports-lover's paradise. But it is the campfires by the lake that make the best ending to any day at Camp.

CAMP PROGRAM INFO: Accredited by the American Camp Association, Camp Henry Horner brings the beauty of nature, the adventure of the wild, and the creature comforts of our home together in one amazing summer camp experience.

Our summer staff of 200 professional and talented role models from around the world provide the highest level of care for each and every camper. Our extremely skilled team includes day and overnight counselors, program specialists and health center staff. For 100 years, Camp Henry Horner has provided a beautiful outdoor backdrop to summer camp memories and friendships.

CAMP LEADERSHIP CIT/LIT PROGRAMS: All of our campers are mini-counselors in training, and several overnight campers have become some of our favorite counselors as they get older!

CAMP SCHOLARSHIPS OR FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE: Jewish Council for Youth Services provides over $100,000 in scholarships to families each year. Families are able to apply for financial scholarships when they register for JCYS Camp Henry Horner. For more details, contact Camp Director Isaac Brubaker at ibrubaker[AT]jcys.org.

FAMILY CAMP SESSION(S): Families can choose from anywhere from one-week to eight-week camp experiences, and Day Camp versus Overnight Camp options. Our flexibility and ability to work within your schedule, makes JCYS Camp Henry Horner an ideal fit for your family's perfect summer.

YEAR-ROUND PROGRAMS: JCYS Camp Henry Horner hosts outdoor excursions for groups of all ages. Perfect for an office retreat or a school field trip, for just the day or a full week, Camp Henry Horner’s campus is easily accessible and adaptable to your group’s needs.

Group activities can include team-building adventures on our high and low ropes course, zipline and climbing wall; kayak and canoe excursions on Lake Wooster; outdoor education programs tailored for your group and take advantage of our sprawling 180 acres of Camp; and cookouts, campfires and more!

CAMP SESSION DATES & FEES:
Families can choose from anywhere from one-week to eight-week camp experiences, and Day Camp versus Overnight Camp options. Our flexibility and ability to work within your schedule, makes JCYS Camp Henry Horner an ideal fit for your family's perfect summer.

For more information regarding dates and fees, along with online registration, please visit Our Camp Website Link: www.jcys.org.

Print (or view) Camp Profile for:
JCYS Camp Henry Horner

There is 1 Top Illinois Wilderness Camp Below


Illinois YMCA Camps
YMCA Camps in Illinois

YMCA Camp Duncan
http://www.ymcachicago.org/duncan/
32405 North Hwy. 12
Ingleside, IL 60041
847.546.8086

Visit website for more information.


Illinois Boy Scouts Camps
Summer Camps in Illinois

http://www.neic.org/
Northeast Illinois Council
2745 Skokie Valley Road
Highland Park, IL 60035
(847) 433-1813

For more info visit the website.


Northern Illinois Girl Scouts Camps
Summer Camps in Northern Illinois

Girl Scouts of Northern Illinois
http://www.girlscoutsni.org/camps
Elgin Service Center
12N124 Coombs Road
Elgin, Illinois 60124
Phone: 847-741-5521

Freeport Service Center
5040 Business Route 20 West
Freeport, Illinois 61032
Phone: 815-235-8777

Rockford Service Center
2820 McFarland Road
Rockford, Illinois 61107
Phone: 815-962-5591

Sugar Grove Service Center
200 New Bond Street
Sugar Grove, Illinois 60554
Phone: 630-897-1565

CAMP INFO:

Camp Dean
46W253 Camp Dean Rd
Big Rock, IL 60511

Camp Far Horizons
9702 S Lost Horizon Rd
Hanover, IL 61041

Camp McCormick
9995 N. Girl Scout Rd
Stillman Valley, Illinois 61084

Chapman Hills
N9372 Scout Rd
East Troy, WI 5312

Mary Ann Beebe Center
17501 Streit Rd
Harvard, Illinois 60033


MORE ILLINOIS SUMMER WILDERNESS CAMPS ARE COMING SOON. YOU CAN CHOOSE ANOTHER STATE FROM THE LIST BELOW.

ILLINOIS WILDERNESS CAMP OWNERS & DIRECTORS: If you would like to submit your camp for listing in our 2024 Best Illinois Summer Wilderness Camps Directory, please click on the "SUBMIT YOUR CAMP" link above.

ILLINOIS WILDERNESS CAMP PARENTS & CAMPERS: If you are looking to find info on how to choose the best summer camp to attend this summer, please check out our 2024 GUIDE TO CHOOSING THE BEST SUMMER WILDERNESS CAMP for some great camp research tips and lots of important 2024 summer camp info.

In addition to our 2024 Illinois Summer Wilderness Camps Directory we have also created quite a few SPECIAL INTEREST CAMP DIRECTORIES, and have included brief descriptions of these and links to their dedicated websites on the 2024 CAMP GUIDE page.

You can go directly to any of our other 2024 Special Interest Camp Directories from the list in the black bar at the bottom of this page.

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