Get ready for an unforgettable summer packed with adventure and learning. Explore a variety of enriching experiences at some of the top summer camps for kids in southwest Missouri. From hands-on educational opportunities at Springfield Public Schools to creative exploration at Discovery Center or Springfield Little Theatre, there’s something for every child to discover and enjoy. Dive into the excitement and enroll today.
Life
Best Kids Summer Camps In Southwest Missouri
Help your child develop character, learn life skills and discover new interests. No matter what your child is into, there’s a summer camp for every kid in and around the Ozarks.
Mar 01 2025 at 8 a.m.
Photo courtesy Shutterstock
Choose a Summer Camp
This content is sponsored by Springfield Ballet, Springfield Little Theatre, Allison Sports Town, Cub Creek Science Camp, Discovery Center, History Museum on the Square, the Springfield Greene-County Park Board, Wonders of Wildlife, YMCA, Kids First Early Learning Academy, Springfield Public Schools and The Summit Preparatory School.
Arts
Photo courtesy of Springfield Ballet.Children will learn from seasoned dancers at Springfield Ballet’s summer camps, intensives and classes.
Springfield Ballet
411 N. Sherman Pkwy, Springfield, MO, 417-862-1343
Dates: June through July
Cost: Varies, see website for details
Best for: all ages
Type of camp: Day and half-day camps
Unlock the magic of dance this summer!
What it offers: Step into the enchanting worlds of Cinderella and The Wizard of Oz with Springfield Ballet’s summer camps and intensives. Designed for all ages and skill levels, their programs offer an immersive dance experience that combines fun, imagination, and education.
What’s unique: For younger dancers, the Springfield Ballet's themed camps bring beloved ballet stories to life through movement, music and crafts, inspiring creativity and joy. For aspiring pre-professionals and dedicated dancers, their tiered intensives provide rigorous, well-rounded training equivalent to a full month of classes—all in just one week! With classes ranging from ballet, modern and jazz, to acting, nutrition and pilates, dancers will leave feeling stronger than ever before. Participants will have the rare opportunity to work with esteemed guest artists from across the country, gaining invaluable insight and inspiration as they hone their skills.
Get more info: Summer is the perfect time to elevate your dance journey, build confidence and make lasting memories. Enroll today and be part of the magic that makes Springfield Ballet a cornerstone of arts education in our community. Don’t wait—spaces fill quickly! Visit Springfield Ballet's website to register now.
Photo courtesy Springfield Little TheatreChildren can dive into a creative and exciting summer at Springfield Little Theatre’s summer workshops.
Springfield Little Theatre
237 S. Florence Ave., Springfield, 417-413-2287
Dates: May through August
Cost: Varies, see website for details
Best for ages: 4–18
Type of camp: Varies, see website for details
Let your child try something they've never tried before or follow their passion and improve their craft at Springfield Little Theatre!
What it offers: SLT offers multiple one-week and two-week summer workshops during the months of May through August. These camps serve beginner to advanced students ages 4 to 18. SLT is proud to provide enriching, entertaining and exciting summer theatre camp experiences in acting, musical theatre, dance, performance, technical theatre, film or theatre administration for every child who participates.
What’s unique: At the conclusion of the summer season, participating families are invited back for the SLT Education Department’s Big Summer Blowout, a culminating celebration of all of the workshops and open houses showcasing fall opportunities. Youth involvement at Springfield Little Theatre encourages love and respect for the community, the arts and all aspects of theatricality. It promotes discipline and the pursuit of excellence, and also provides an outlet for friendship and fun!
Get more info: Program spots are limited. A detailed list of offerings, descriptions and registration information can be found on SLT's website.
Athletics
Adventure
Photo courtesy Cub Creek Science CampMany campers discover a passion for animals, science and nature while at Cub Creek Science Camp.
Cub Creek Science Camp
16795 State Hwy E, Rolla, 573-458-2125
Dates: Weekly from June 2 to August 10
Cost: $1,290
Best for ages: 7–17
Type of camp: Overnight camp
What it offers: Imagine a summer camp where kids eat breakfast in the company of ring-tailed lemurs, zoom down a zip-line and kiss a camel before lunch, try their hand at making pottery on the wheel in the afternoon and play a camp-wide game of Capture the Flag after dinner. Cub Creek Science Camp is that camp! With over 300 animals, a 6-element ropes course, archery and riflery ranges and activities in arts and crafts, digital photography, chemistry, entomology, crime science, pottery, culinary science and more, Cub Creek is not your average summer camp.
What’s unique: Cub Creek Science Camp is dedicated to cultivating and nurturing friendships, creating lifelong memories and enriching the lives of all campers ages 7–17. After 25 years, they have had campers join them from all over the world, facilitated thousands of strong and lasting friendships and introduced countless individuals to some of the wonderful animals we share this planet with. Foxes, lemurs, alpacas, miniature horses, parrots, lizards, armadillos, sloths, ferrets, porcupines, pigs and snakes are just a few of the 100+ different kinds of animals they love, care for, and nurture right here at camp. Facilities are air-conditioned and meals are served buffet style with alternative meal options available.
Get more info: You can read more about the camp on the Cub Creek Science Camp website, or give them a call at 573-458-2125 and follow them on Facebook and Instagram.
Photo courtesy Discovery CenterThe Discovery Center’s summer camps offer hands-on learning opportunities throughout the summer for children ages 3-14.
Discovery Center
438 E. St. Louis St., Springfield, 417-862-9910
Dates: Camps run from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., May 27 through August 15, with additional extended care options available from 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.
Cost: $180–300
Best for ages: 3–14
Type of camp: Day camp
What It Offers: Campers can reignite their love of learning after a long school year at the Discovery Center’s summer camps with everything kids love, like NERF, Minecraft, games and more. The Discovery Center is the perfect weather-proof summer camp destination with over 35 hands-on camps running all summer long for kids ages 3–14. With different camp sizes, your camper can enjoy the same small group size used in their award-winning school and make lots of friends in their larger group camps. Regardless of what they pick, kids get a summer to remember from their internationally acclaimed team.
What’s Unique: The Discovery Center’s diverse selection of camps ensures there’s something for every child. Campers can delve into the world of dinosaurs in “DinoDig Explorers,” unleash their creativity in “Messy Masterpiece” or embark on space-themed adventures with NASA curriculum in “Moon to Mars.” With over 35 hands-on camps running throughout the summer for kids ages 3–14, the Discovery Center provides inspiring, educational experiences that are sure to amaze. Best of all, Discovery Center members can save up to $60 per camp.
Get more info: Spots are limited, and camps can sell out quickly. Don’t regret waiting. Register with the Discovery Center today.
Photo courtesy History Museum on the SquareFor students in kindergarten through eighth grade, the History Museum on the Square is offering two camps this summer.
History Museum on the Square
154 Park Central Square, Springfield, 417-831-1976
Dates: June 9–13 and July 14–18
Cost: $300 per child
Best for ages: Kindergarten through eighth grade
Type of camp: Day camp
What it offers: The History Museum on the Square is offering two exciting kids' camps this summer. Secrets of Springfield, for fifth through eighth graders, takes children on an adventurous treasure hunt through history. Inspired by the movie National Treasure, campers will uncover the real stories of Springfield’s most prominent figures and explore some of the area’s oldest buildings. The July camp, Springfield’s Civic Superheroes, is for children entering kindergarten through fourth grade. This program teaches kids how to become real-life superheroes through hands-on, interactive activities, inspiring active citizenship and encouraging them to be their best every day.
What's unique: With these highly specialized camps, spots are extremely limited. Perfect for children passionate about history, parents are encouraged to register as soon as possible. 2025 Summer Camps at the History Museum on the Square are made possible by the Jeannette L. Musgrave Foundation’s Multi-Year Impact Grant for Student Citizenship and support from the Community Foundation of the Ozarks.
Get more info: For more information and how to register, visit the History Museum's website.
Photo courtesy of Springfield-Greene County Park BoardKids can enjoy all kinds of outdoor activities and destination field trips at Park Board’s summer day camps.
Springfield-Greene County Park Board
417-864-1049
Dates: Dates: June through August
Cost: $35/day–$250/week
Best for ages: 5–14
Type of camp: Day camp
Register now for Park Board summer day camps, including SPARC’s Ritter Springs, Summer Adventure and Summer Quest, open all summer long, or for week-long or one-day specialty camps!
What it offers: SPARC campers play games, learn sports, go swimming, have cookouts and go home exhilarated from a day of adventuring. Summer Adventure takes place on school property, with weekly themed activities for ages 5–12. Outdoor Ritter Springs includes hiking, creek walking, archery, caving and more, for ages 5–12. Summer Quest is for older kids, ages 11–14, and includes video games, movies and destination field trips.
What’s unique: Check out the Park Board’s specialty day camps, including themed farm and animal camps at Rutledge-Wilson Farm Park; riding at Valley Water Mill Equestrian Center; climbing, caving and kayaking with Outdoor Initiatives, sports camps, Wildlife Zooniversity at Dickerson Park Zoo and more.
Get more info: Learn about the Springfield-Greene County Park Board camps and register early as space is limited. SPARC: 417-837-5737. Park Board: 417-864-1049, parkboard.org/camps.
Photo courtesy Wonders of WildlifeExplore a variety of Summer Camp EdVentures at Wonders of Wildlife.
Wonders of Wildlife
500 W. Sunshine St., Springfield, 417-225-1162
Dates: May through August
Cost: $200–350
Best for: Kindergarten through 12th Grade
Type of camp: Day camp with some exceptions
What it offers: Dive headfirst into a summer of discovery, exploration and adventure with a Summer EdVenture Camp at Wonders of Wildlife! Perfect for nature enthusiasts and budding conservationists alike, these camps transport students to the sights, sounds and smells of some of the wildest places on Earth. Campers discover the amazing creatures that call Wonders of Wildlife home while creating memories to last a lifetime.
What’s unique: Running from mid-May through August, Summer EdVentures Camps are designed to engage students of all ages—from kindergarten to high school. Each camp offers unique opportunities to test survival skills, encounter live animals up close, explore the beauty of nature and foster creativity. Through hands-on activities such as games, crafts and experiments, campers develop a deeper understanding of the natural world while having an unforgettable summer. Whether your child dreams of being a scientist, an explorer or simply loves animals, these camps are an ideal way to spark curiosity and inspire passion for conservation. These camps are more than just fun—they empower young minds to connect with the environment, learn valuable skills and become future stewards of the natural world.
Wonders of Wildlife is committed to ensuring that every child has the opportunity to participate in its Conservation EdVenture Programs. Financial scholarships are available for Summer EdVenture Camps. These scholarships are specifically intended to assist under-resourced families, helping children experience the joys of nature and conservation education regardless of financial barriers. Each scholarship application is carefully reviewed by the Director of Conservation Programs, with awards based on demonstrated financial need. While 100% scholarships are not available, families are encouraged to contribute whatever amount they can. This collaborative approach allows Wonders of Wildlife to provide enriching educational experiences to as many children as possible.
Get more info: If you're interested in applying for a scholarship or registering for a camp, visit Wonders of Wildlife's website to learn more.
Photo courtesy YMCAYMCA Camp Wakonda offers children an unforgettable six-day, five-night adventure.
YMCA Camp Wakonda
22237 Lawrence 2080, Ash Grove, 417-491-4206
Dates: June through August
Cost: Varies, see website for details
Best for ages: 6–17
Type of camp: Overnight
Experience the magic of Camp Wakonda!
What it offers: Located in Ash Grove, Missouri, YMCA Camp Wakonda offers kids a transformative five-night, six-day adventure. Campers unplug from the world, experience the beauty of the Ozarks and discover where they truly belong while building confidence and making lifelong memories.
What’s unique: Each session features a unique theme with exciting activities like climbing, canoeing, archery, nature hikes, swimming, arts and crafts and team building, all designed to foster creativity, teamwork and personal growth. The team at Camp Wakonda prioritizes both safety and fun, ensuring a memorable experience for every camper. As an American Camp Association (ACA)-accredited camp, they meet the highest standards in safety, program quality and staff training. Their core values of caring, honesty, respect and responsibility guide everything they do, creating a positive environment for kids to thrive.
Get more info: With scholarships and flexible pricing available, Camp Wakonda is accessible to all families. Give your child the adventure of a lifetime! Visit Camp Wakonda's website to learn more.
Education
For children ages 1-6, Kids First Early Learning Academy offers many activities to keep your children engaged and learning this summer.
Kids First Early Learning Academy
1507 E. Lark St., Springfield, MO 65804, 417-887-2151
Cost: Varies, email kfspringfield@gmail.com or call 417-887-2151 for details
Best for ages: 1–6
Type of camp: Day camp
What it offers: Kids First Early Learning Academy is celebrating two decades of dedication to early childhood education and offering another sensational summer in 2025! Their professional team of teachers provides meaningful learning experiences. Through a developmentally appropriate curriculum, they provide individual attention to every child and set the foundation for success, all while having fun!
What’s unique: The curriculum is jam-packed with exploration, hands-on activities and opportunities to discover new talents and interests. Kids stay engaged through art, cooking, science, outdoor play, picnics, music and movement, water days, special guest visits and more! Kids First Early Learning Academy offers a newly licensed, secure building, passionate teachers and small class sizes. With flexible schedules, optional extended hours and enrichment opportunities, they provide a well-rounded learning experience.
Get more info: Enrollment is open to children ages 1 to 6 years old. To reserve your child’s spot for summer 2025 or for the 2025-2026 school year, email kfspringfield@gmail.com or call 417-887-2151. Space is limited, so contact Kids First Learning Academy today!
Photo courtesy Springfield Public SchoolsSpringfield Public Schools provides a variety of courses catering to diverse student interests.
Springfield Public Schools - Explore
Dates: June through July
Cost: Varies, see website for details
Best for: All ages
Type of camp: Day camp
Adventure awaits this summer with SPS Explore 2025!
What it offers: This summer, let your students embark on a journey of discovery—without leaving 417-land! Elementary and middle school students can explore a world of learning through our wide selection of seated and virtual courses. Whether they’re mapping out Missouri’s hiking trails, paddling into science with waterway exploration, spotting wildlife while birdwatching, or learning tips on performing center stage, there’s an adventure for every young explorer.
What’s unique: Creative minds can set up camp at Artworks, where third through fifth graders can craft, paint and sculpt in person, while the Middle School Fine Arts Academy gives learners the chance to dig into puppetry, pottery, improv and more. High schoolers can also chart their own path—by earning required credits in the summer, they’ll have more freedom to explore the classes they love next school year.
Get more info: Ready to hit the trail? Learn more and enroll at Springfield Public Schools website.
*Free meals and bus transportation are available for eligible students. Seated classes are offered June 2–27, and virtual classes are offered June 2–27 and June 30–July 25.
Photo courtesy Springfield Public SchoolsStudents can check off required courses over the summer with Launch Virtual Learning.
Springfield Public Schools - Virtual Learning
Dates: June through July
Cost: Varies, see website for details
Best for: All ages
Type of camp: Virtual
Hit play on summer learning with Launch Virtual Learning!
What it offers: Parents, help your students cue up the perfect summer soundtrack with Launch Virtual Learning! By enrolling in a summer course and earning required credits (personal finance, anyone?), your students will remix their schedules and make more room for the classes they love next school year.
What’s unique: Need a do-over on a past class? No problem—Launch offers more than 100 summer courses, so students can find the right track to keep them moving forward. Whether they’re tuning in for core subjects or dropping into electives that spark their creativity, there’s a class for every playlist! And the best part? Thanks to the flexibility of online learning, students can press play anytime, anywhere—whether they’re working a summer job, traveling or just chilling by the pool.
Get more info: Ready to pick up the pace with summer learning? Find out more at Springfield Public Schools Virtual Learning website. Registration opens March 3 at sps.org/explore.
Photo courtesy The Summit Preparatory SchoolYour child can continue learning throughout the summer at Camp Raven at The Summit Preparatory School.
Camp Raven at The Summit Preparatory School
202 E. Walnut Lawn St., Springfield, 417-869-8077
Dates: June through August
Cost: $125–140
Best for ages: All ages
Type of camp: Week-long day and half-day camps
What it offers: Spend your summer at The Summit with Camp Raven! Camps provide a fun and enriching way to continue learning over the summer. Weekly sessions are available for students of all ages! Jr. Camp Raven (Pre-K) is offered in the mornings for our youngest learners and features exciting and engaging themes in a playful environment. Elementary camps are offered for K–2nd graders and third through fifth graders in both the mornings and afternoons. Elementary camps include tons of hands-on learning, along with field trips every week! Campers can sign up for morning and afternoon camps in the same week, bring a lunch and stay all day! Middle and high school students are invited to enrich their summer at Sr. Camp Raven with a variety of two-, three- or five-day sessions.
What's unique: Each session, led by talented and enthusiastic instructors, focuses on a central theme from explorations in STEM and art to music and movement.
Get more info: To learn more about camp offerings, schedules and pricing, please visit The Summit Preparatory School’s website. Space is limited so don’t delay! Register today!
Prices on this page are accurate as of March 1, 2025. Please refer to the camp websites for the most up-to-date information and cost.
