Best Iowa Performing Arts Camps Summer 2023-24 Directory

CAMP FACILITIES: Modern practice fields and facilites with top-notch training and safety equipment.

CAMP PROGRAM INFO: Since 1979, Skyhawks sports has led safe, fun and skill-focused sports camps and programs for youth between the ages of 3-12.

We offer many different different sports--and countless ways for your child to grow. The camps range from soccer to baseball to our popular mulit-sport camps where kids sample three different sports (soccer, basketball and baseball) in one camp.

Our camps and programs are offered locally throughout over 500 communities. The format includes traditional week-long summer day camps and year-round after-school programs that range from 45 minutes to 6 hours in duration, per day. Our progression of camps and programs, led by our expert staff, are generated toward youth looking for a sport introduction or those who want to refine and master their sport-specific skills.

For Detailed Information on ALL of our summer sports camps, please visit our website at Our Camp Website Link: www.skyhawks.com.

Our coaches and site directors make a significant difference to your child's on-field experience. Chosen for their strong personal character, responsibility, and capacity to effectively communicate sports skills to youth, our staff will make the extra effort every time to ensure that your children have the best on-field/court experience, emphasize teamwork, and learn life skills through sports. Our staff are required to complete our extensive certification process.

CAMP SCHOLARSHIPS OR FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE: We offer financial aid for those families that qualify. Please call 1.800.804.3509 for an application.

YEAR-ROUND PROGRAMS: We offer year round programs in select states, please see our website for complete information on all Skyhawks Sport Camps in your area.

OTHER CAMP INFO: Skyhawks Sports Camps are SAFETY FOCUSED!

At Skyhawks we go the extra mile to focus on safety, and we have a long-standing proven safety track record and processes to prove it. For example, all Skyhawks Sports camps start and end with our unique safety process called "Gate System and Parking Lot Duty." This process is where coaches come and greet both parents and campers in the parking lot when parents pull up to drop off their children.

Our staff guide the kids onto the field/court and out of harm's way by funneling them into our gate system. Eye contact is maintained from each one of our staff members until the kids make it onto the field/court where they are grouped by age. This efficient process ensures safety. Additionally, it develops a level of trust between parent, coach, and child that ultimately leads to a fun and skill-focused camp for youth.

CAMP SESSION DATES & FEES:
Skyhawks Sports Camps are offered throughout the summer, and specific dates and times vary from location to location.

Fees vary depending on age, duration of camp, and location.

You can find a complete list of sessions, times, and fees for ALL the Skyhawks Sports Camps in your area at: Our Camp Website Link: www.skyhawks.com.

Or feel free to call us at: 800-804-3509.

CAMP FACILITIES: Camp Tanager features 8 traditional wooden cabins for overnight campers, a heated outdoor pool, recreation/dining hall, indoor and outdoor basketball courts, soccer fields, baseball field, sand volleyball court, gaga ball pits, wooded trail with creek and an archery range.

CAMP PROGRAM INFO: Camp Tanager is celebrating it's 90th year. Our goal is to provide the best possible camp experience for our campers. Camp Tanager staff work with our campers to help them gain skill and independence, become better teammates and build on friendships within the cabin group. All staff go through a rigorous 6 day residential training program, are background checked and have completed CPR and First Aid prior to the campers arrival.

CAMP SESSION DATES & FEES:
Weekly sessions begin June 12, 2017. Cost per camp session is $175/week. Early bird pricing through March 31 - save $15 per week.

CAMP FACILITIES: Pilgrim Heights is a space to get away from the fast-paced daily demands of everyday life. A space to reflect and rejuvenate yourself. A space to enjoy and explore your relationship with your family, faith, or business community. Day-use visitors and over-night guests are invited to enjoy the wilderness resort gathering place. Rental of meeting spaces and overnight accommodations from tent camping, to rustic cabins, to retreat suites with private bathrooms are also available. Located on over 120 acres in the bluffs of the Iowa River, Pilgrim Heights borders an 80-acre recreational lake, provides spectacular views and loads of adventure. Within 1 hour's drive of 4 major metropolitan areas and 2 airports, Pilgrim Heights sits 1/2 mile north of Hwy 30 on the outskirts of Montour, IA.

CAMP PROGRAM INFO: We are looking for enthusiastic, outgoing, hard working people of all ages, to become Pilgrim Heights Camp & Retreat Center Volunteers. There are many ways you can give back, be good stewards, and get involved at Pilgrim Heights. Here are just a few ways you can help out and have fun: Summer Camp Volunteer Counselor – age 16 & older (summer only) Work Service Volunteer – all ages (year-round) Pilgrim Heights Program Volunteer – age 16 & older (program specific)

CAMP LEADERSHIP CIT/LIT PROGRAMS: Whether you are a returning counselor or first-timer, 10th - 12th grade high school students and adults interested in counseling for at least one session this summer... Come to CIT camp this year! We'll spend 24 hours together preparing for campers. Then, campers will join us for 3 days of on-the-job training.

FAMILY CAMP SESSION(S): Families come in all kinds of forms and each person is unique. So, we've given you options to fit your family: Sleep in the air-conditioned comfort of Autumn House or in a tent under the stars. Come for a day ($75) or two or the whole week. Join in activities or just relax. Everyone is invited to check out what God is doing at Pilgrim Heights!

YEAR-ROUND PROGRAMS: We are available to host your group throughout the year. Please contact us if you are looking for that perfect place to hold your meeting, team building retreat, family reunion or just need to have some quiet get away.

CAMP SESSION DATES & FEES:
Please refer to our website at: Our Camp Website Link: www.pilgrimheights.org

SUMMER CAMP JOBS:
Please see our website for positions available. 

CAMP PROGRAM INFO: Each student will participate in:

• A large ensemble—which will workshop and give the world premiere of a new work by one of the mentor composers
• A small ensemble—which will co-create, rehearse, and premiere new work(s) by the student participants
• A small home group—which will feature games and social activities
• (Optional) Two, hour-long private composition les- sons—which will give students professional feedback on their music and personalized instruction
• A final, virtual concert—on Friday, July 31, 2 PM EDT

CAMP SCHOLARSHIPS OR FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE: We desire to make it possible for everyone who wants to join us to be able to participate regardless of family finances. We have a limited amount of funds available. Please email for more information.

OTHER CAMP INFO: Technology Requirements:

• Desktop or laptop computer (Mac preferred)
• A separate device to record audio/video (such as a tablet or smartphone)
• Headphones or earbuds
• An external microphone and audio interface would provide a better experience, but are not mandatory
• All enrolled students will receive a FREE, 90-day license for Dorico Pro 3.5

CAMP SESSION DATES & FEES:
• No audition or prior composition experience required.
• Base Tuition: $450
• Registration Deadline: July 1, 2020

To learn more and to register, please visit Our Camp Website Link: www.musiccreatorsacademy.com

CAMP FACILITIES: We have over 25 cabins. The crown jewel of the cabin is the beautiful Clayton Lodge. Camp Hantesa also features a ropes course and climbing wall, an equestrian program featuring 14 horses, 2 riding arenas, and abundant pasture land. We also have a swimming pool with a zero entry section for those not as comfortable in the water.

We are proud of our multiple hiking trails, our archery and riflery ranges, our arts center, our drama building, our star observation deck, and our two science and nature centers. We also have the capabilities of hosting groups for conferences, team building retreats, overnight stays, and weddings.

CAMP PROGRAM INFO: We are an American Camp Association accredited camp.

CAMP LEADERSHIP CIT/LIT PROGRAMS: We have a 2 week leadership council program for 9th and 10th graders. We also offer a 4 week apprentice program for 11th and 12th graders.

CAMP SCHOLARSHIPS OR FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE: We offer need-based scholarships.

FAMILY CAMP SESSION(S): Family Camp

YEAR-ROUND PROGRAMS: We have day camps all 12 months of the year, we also have overnight options in October, December, January, and March.

CAMP SESSION DATES & FEES:
We have several day camp and sleep-away options for youth grades 1-12, including equestrian day and overnight camp options. Please see our website for more information, at Our Camp Website Link: www.hantesa.com

CAMP SCHOLARSHIPS OR FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE: Financial Assistance is available to families needing assistance through a short application process.

FAMILY CAMP SESSION(S): WE also offer Family camps on Memorial and Labor Day weekends.

YEAR-ROUND PROGRAMS: Wapsie is open year round for seasonal camps, Outdoor Environmental Education, Team-building and Retreats.

CAMP SESSION DATES & FEES:
Check our website Our Camp Website Link: www.campwapsie.org for current infomration.

SUMMER CAMP JOBS:
YMCA Camp Wapsie hires counselors for our day and overnight summer camps along with specialty staff in the areas of Adventure trips. Equestrian, Food Service, Health Aquatics and Leadership programs.

Please contact the camp for complete jobs information.

CAMP FACILITIES: We have 11 seasonal cabins with A/C and bunk beds, 3 cabins that are available year around. Our new Lakeview Lodge provides deluxe hotel style guest rooms for our adults for reunions, retreats, or personal getaways. We also provide excellent food service.

CAMP PROGRAM INFO: Camp activities take place in our Rec Hall/Chapel, Canteen/Art & Crafts buildings. We have High and Low Challenge Courses, Archery, Gaga ball, 9 Sq in the Air, Canoeing, Kayaking, Bike trails, and many more activities. The favorite of course is swimming, canoeing, or kayaking in beautiful West Lake Okoboji. Which is considered one of three blue water lakes in the world. Experience God's creation and beauty outdoors, learn more about God's amazing love for us, and meet new friends.

CAMP SCHOLARSHIPS OR FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE: We have scholarships available. Contact by phone, email, or our form is located on our website.

FAMILY CAMP SESSION(S): Family camp is a great way to get-a-way from the busyness of life and have fun with your family at the lake. We have lots of activities planned just for you. Very affordable and quality family experience.

YEAR-ROUND PROGRAMS: We have year-round activities and retreats. We have scrapbook retreats, quilting retreats, meditation retreats, pastor retreats, women's retreats, family reunions, weddings, business conferences, meetings, church youth events, adult church retreats, and personal getaways. Contact us for your next event.

OTHER CAMP INFO: Lakeshore Center at Okoboji is the perfect place for your next event. We have excellent accommodations and food service for year-round family reunions, school or college retreats, church gatherings or youth lock in, weddings, or just for your personal getaway to the lakes. Contact us by email at info[AT] lakeshorecenteratokoboji.org or phone 712-337-3313 to schedule your next event.

CAMP SESSION DATES & FEES:
For all our summer camps and year around retreat information, visit our website at: Our Camp Website Link: www.lakeshorecenteratokoboji.org.

SUMMER CAMP JOBS:
What a great way to spend your summer is working with children and playing at the lake.  Grow your faith, experience new skills, and meet lots of great people.  Call us at 712-337-3313 or apply online at: Our Camp Website Link: www.lakeshorecenteratokoboji.org.  We invite you to experience the life-changing love of Christ in the beauty of God's creation.

CAMP FACILITIES: The camps will be held in New Castle County schools in their computer lab.

YEAR-ROUND PROGRAMS: This program can also be delivered through our TUTORING service by appointment during the summer.

CAMP SESSION DATES & FEES:
$235.00 for Monday-Friday Camp
Choose the A.M. OR P.M. camp for this fee

SUMMER CAMP JOBS:
Seeking part-time technology coaches to assist with the summer camp hours. 

CAMP PROGRAM INFO: Youth should plan to be online 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. weekdays, and to work ten additional hours per week on their projects. Most of the scheduled time is for projects but some of it will be for meetings.

Required equipment: A tablet or phone with a front-facing camera. A video camera or DSLR camera will also work.

CAMP SESSION DATES & FEES:
June 16 - June 29

Tuition:
$240 for non-MNOHS students
$180 for MNOHS students--or free for those who qualify

Please see our web site for more information: Our Camp Website Link: www.mnohs.org

CAMP FACILITIES: We will be using Iowa State University's facilities, including dorms, recreation centers, theatre classrooms, and dining centers.

CAMP PROGRAM INFO: This camp will feature daily workshops throughout the week, led by Iowa State University students and alumni, and will culminate to a student-derived showcase performed on the Iowa State library lawn. We hope to teach that theatre can be done anywhere and with any resources, and hope to help campers become confident leaders within their own theater communities.

Immersed in Iowa State University’s campus, you will be staying within walking distance of the black-box theater and design lab workshop spaces. Come join us for a week of collaboration, creation, and exploration through the performing arts!

CAMP SCHOLARSHIPS OR FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE: Financial Aid can be attained through the Iowa 4-H website under "Funding for 4-H'ers", or can be found here: Our Camp Website Link: www.iowa4hfoundation.org

OTHER CAMP INFO: Final Performance: June 14 at Parks Library, Iowa State University

CAMP SESSION DATES & FEES:
Visit Our Camp Website Link: www.extension.iastate.edu for more information.

CAMP FACILITIES: Whether it's a large group function, a family reunion, a school or church retreat, a youth group lock-in, or just a quiet get-away to the lakes, we offer comfortable accommodations at affordable rates...year-round!

Lake Okoboji United Methodist Camp & Retreat Center can meet all YOUR needs for a stay in the lakes area. If you have any further questions, would like to schedule your retreat, or want to check on availability, please call toll free 1.866.856.9862. or email us.

CAMP PROGRAM INFO: At Okoboji Camp, we are excited to be a place where traditional camp activities like archery, swimming and campfires are blended with exciting adventure activities like go-karts, rock climbing and Rock-A-Boji.

More than just dynamic programs, however, all camping events at Okoboji are designed to create an environment where Christ�s message is shared in word and deed. For many youth and adults, time away at camp is a time where faith can be developed in a safe, comfortable place under the guidance of caring Christian staff.

If you'd like to know more about our summer programs, visit Our Camp Website Link: www.okobojicamp.com.

FAMILY CAMP SESSION(S): Family Camping.

YEAR-ROUND PROGRAMS: Year-round activities.

CAMP SESSION DATES & FEES:
For more complete information about our summer programs, visit Our Camp Website Link: www.okobojicamp.com

CAMP PROGRAM INFO: - Live Zooming and friendship-making time (prescheduled so your family can plan ahead!)
- Off-screen activities for independent play and learning (and naps! and yard time!)
- Hands-on activities with real art materials (art camp should be a little messy!)
- Small group sizes ensure that campers receive high quality instruction and individual attention from their teachers.
- Daily movement and mindfulness exercises integrated throughout the day to get the wiggles out

Camp tuition includes an Art Toolbox mailed to your home and a live exhibition every Friday that the whole family can attend, even those living far away.

Camp Staff:
Katerina Romanenko, Ph.D. Assistant Director of Youth and Family Programs

An experienced educator and visual culture historian, Dr. Romanenko specializes in Museum education, art history, American History, and object-based learning in formal and informal environments. She holds a PhD in Art History from the City University of New York and for more than 15 years teaches art history and works in Museum education. She also holds a BA in Education Sciences and has experience in research, development and implementation of educational programs for different age groups.

Alicia Mino, Art Educator, Manager of the School and Community Programs

An accomplished practicing artists and art educator, Alicia Mino received her Master’s in visual communication from the Metropolitan University of Chile, She spent fifteen years in Italy studying art history, oil painting, and sculpture. She presented in numerous art exhibitions and founded the Mates Art and Design Studio, where she taught drawing, oil/acrylic painting, and sculpture fundamentals for ten years. In 2008 Alicia moved to Philadelphia where she continues to exhibit her work and teaches art.

Lindsey Murphy, Art Educator and K-8 Program Coordinator

An art educator with over a decade of experience in the field of education, Lindsey Murphy has a Bachelor of Arts degree in Anthropology; concentration in Archaeology from Millersville University, and an Elementary Teaching Certification from Millersville University. She worked as a general education classroom teacher in the Oxford Area School District in Chester County, PA for 8 years, and has worked in PAFA’s education department over the past 11 years creating and implementing numerous museum tours and art making experiences for children and families of all backgrounds, becoming the K-8 Program Coordinator in 2019..

Melissa Hendrixson, Art Educator

Melissa Hendrixson is an artist and art educator who has worked in Museum Education for over five years. She has her Bachelor's of Fine Arts and Studio Certificate from Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts and has gained experience through assisting the coordination and development of various museum programming including family programs, youth art classes, and summer camps. She now works for the School and Community Partnership Program as an art educator where she develops and implements museum tours, school lessons, and community outreach programs to support student learning, parental engagement and visual literacy initiatives.

CAMP SCHOLARSHIPS OR FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE: It is our sincere desire that no child be denied the opportunity to attend camp because of financial difficulties. Thanks to our generous donors, PAFA is able to offer a limited number of scholarships.

Please email artcamp[AT]pafa.org to receive a scholarship application

FAMILY CAMP SESSION(S): Friday Art Show

YEAR-ROUND PROGRAMS: PAFA offers a year round programs, online and in person for youth and families that engage parents and children with the museum collection and art-making. Our programs inculde art classes for middle school students, afterschool program for kids 6-11, and Sunday Family workshops. please visit Our Camp Website Link: www.pafa.org

OTHER CAMP INFO: Drawing, painting, sculpture, photography, comic books and graphic novels, collage and mixed media, and video arts.

CAMP SESSION DATES & FEES:
Dates
June 21 - August 13, 8 weeks

Ages: 6-14 (groups: 6-8; 9-11; 12-14)

Mon-Fri from 9am - 3pm each day (except July 5rd).

For camps description, cost and schedule go to the registration website. Our Camp Website Link: www.pafa.org

SUMMER CAMP JOBS:
Camp Assistants and Camp Instructors.
Please visit for current job announcements and apply via 
Our Camp Website Link: hr.pafa.org

CAMP FACILITIES: The boys stay overnight in the Camp Dodge barracks hosted by the Iowa National Guard, we use the Camp Dodge facilities to administer the day to day activities of the camp

CAMP PROGRAM INFO: The American Legion of Iowa Boys State is a week-long, hands-on youth civics leadership experience in the operation of the democratic form of government. Students learn more in one week than they would in a semester of high school civics. In addition, there are opportunities to win scholarships and earn college credit to applicable schools.

Through the local American Legion Post, delegates or citizens of Boys State are selected and sponsored to participate. Find your local post to learn more and get involved. For more information and criteria, check out our FAQ section.

CAMP LEADERSHIP CIT/LIT PROGRAMS: The entire week is a leadership training camp for high school boys entering their senior year. Most of the military academies for example expect entering freshmen to have attended Boys State

CAMP SCHOLARSHIPS OR FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE: Boys State Delegate Scholarship Opportunities
Boys State awards and scholarships are made available to those students who have exemplified “statesmanship” in their qualities of character, scholarship, citizenship, patriotism,
and leadership. Some of them include:
• Donald E. Johnson Outstanding Citizen Scholarship — $6,000. The American Legion of Iowa Foundation gives this award annually to the Outstanding Citizen of Boys State.
• American Legion of Iowa Boys State Governor Scholarship – $1,000. Awarded to the elected Boys State Governor. NOTE: If he is also the Outstanding Citizen, he only receives
the Donald E. Johnson Scholarship, not both. This scholarship is paid by The American Legion of Iowa and The American Legion of Iowa Foundation.
• Andy Haverman Scholarship – $500. In memory of Andy Haverman, 1996 Boys State Citizen. Based on staff recommendations and performance during the Boys State session. This scholarship is provided by the Haverman family and Dedham Post #20.
• Keith Baker Scholarship – $500. Based on staff recommendations and performance during Boys State. Provided by the American Legion of Iowa Foundation.
• Legal Merit Award – $500. Presented to the delegate who scores the highest on The Boys State “Bar Exam,” administered to those delegates who become part of the law school at
Boys State. Provided by The American Legion of Iowa Boys State.
• Boys Nation Senators. All travel and expenses are funded by the National organization. Two Boys Nation Senators will be invited to attend The American Legion of Iowa’s Mid-Winter
Conference, to report on their experiences at Boys Nation.
• Boys Nation Senators (Alternates) – $750. Given to the two alternates chosen as Boys Nation Senators, if they are not called upon to attend Boys Nation. This is provided by the
American Legion of Iowa Boys State and The American Legion of Iowa Foundation.
• Sons of The American Legion Highway Patrol Award – $500. Presented to the delegate who completes the examination process of the Boys State Highway Patrol and is promoted to the rank of “Colonel” as a result.
• Sons of The American Legion Second in Command Award – $500. Presented to the delegate who is elected Lt. Governor of Boys State.
• Sons of The American Legion Outstanding Band Member – $500. Presented to the delegate who participates in The Boys State Band, and excels, as chosen by the Boys State Band
Director.
• Sons of The American Legion Outstanding Chorus Member – $500. Presented to the delegate who participates in The Boys State Chorus, and excels, as chosen by the Boys State Chorus Director.
• Samsung Scholarship Worldwide electronics leader Samsung endowed a scholarship fund of $5 million to be administered by The American Legion in 1996. Meant to show appreciation for U.S. veterans who came to Korea’s aid during its struggle against communist forces in the Korean War, the Samsung American Legion Scholarship Program established a series of scholarships derived from interest and other income from the principal amount. To date, the Samsung American Legion Scholarship has awarded more than $5.2 million to nearly 1,800 applicants. Ten (10) national recipients, known as “Samsung American Legion Scholars,” are anticipated.

Selection Criteria for The Samsung Scholarship: Eligibility – The student must be a descendant of an U.S. veteran who served honorably during one or more of the wartime periods. Descendant is defined as a “direct lineage, i.e. child, grandchild, great-grandchild, etc., and legally adopted children. The student must attend an accredited U.S. college or university. The scholarship is for undergraduate study only and may be used for tuition, books, fees (normal and customary) and room and board (university housing or its equivalent).

YEAR-ROUND PROGRAMS: Year round activities include staff activities to prepare for, recruit and seek funding for boys state

OTHER CAMP INFO: The American Legion of Iowa Boys State is a week-long, hands-on youth civics leadership experience in the operation of the democratic form of government. Students learn more in one week than they would in a semester of high school civics. In addition, there are opportunities to win scholarships and earn college credit to applicable schools.

Through the local American Legion Post, delegates or citizens of Boys State are selected and sponosored to participate. Find your local post to learn more and get involved. For more information and criteria, check out our FAQ section.

CAMP SESSION DATES & FEES:
Boys state is typically held in June each summer

SUMMER CAMP JOBS:
We employ counselors for the week of Boys State and administration staff is needed year round on an ad hoc basis