Overnight Summer Camps create lasting memories

Is your child ready for more of an immersive summer camp experience? Overnight summer camps can be SO MUCH FUN for youth! For many, it’s the first time they are “on their own” without parents, though there are plenty of counselors to take care of your loves.

There are a variety of overnight Summer camps in Columbus and throughout Central Ohio, and since these don’t require drop-off/pick-up each day, you can even expand your search  throughout the Ohio and neighboring states!

These camps can be a transformative experience for youth, providing them with a unique opportunity to disconnect from the digital world, make new friends, and immerse themselves in a variety of activities.

Overnight camps often range for 2-5 nights and vary in price. They tend to be more expensive, as they include meals, accommodations, 24/7 staffing, and full amenities. Many offer scholarships or income-based discounts, so they may be more affordable than you expect.

Is your child interested, but unsure if they are ready? Find a friend for them to sign up with! This will alleviate some worry that they won’t know anyone or will have trouble making friends. They will remember these experiences forever! I still have summer camp memories from decades ago – from youth group camp at Atwood Lake, to basketball camp at Westminster College.

Not ready for overnight camp? Check out our HUGE list of Summer Day camps in Columbus. 

Overnight Summer camps around Central Ohio

YMCA CAMP WILLSON Summer Overnight Camp

Located in Bellefontaine, Ohio at Lake Mac-o-Chee. Activities include: Archery, Fishing, Rock climbing, Arts and Crafts, Hay Rides, Ropes Courses, Fishing, Canoeing/boating, Sports, Hiking, Horseback riding, Swimming, Nature Center, Campfires, Outdoor Cooking, and more.

Offers a variety of camp themes for ages 6-17, including Rangers, Ranch Mini-Camp, Pathfinders, 

Registration OPEN! (Opens in the prior year; get registration before January 1) Fees start at $400. YMCA of Central Ohio members receive an 11% discount on all camps. Financial assistance is available.

They also offer Willson weekend camps in Spring, Fall, and Winter, plus Family Camp, Women’s Camp, and Men’s Camp

2732 County Road 11 | Bellefontaine, OH, 43311

ymcacampwillson.org/

Big Brothers Big Sisters Oty’Okwa Summer Camp

Camp Oty’Okwa is a residential camp located in the forests of Hocking Hills State Park and Nature Preserves. It is open year round for summer camp, environmental education programs and use by other community groups. While it is run by the Big Brothers Big Sisters organization, campers do not have to participate in the program to attend. 

Camp Oty’Okwa has access to over 700 scenic acres with the immediate facilities set atop one of the highest hills in the area. The camp is surrounded by steep terrain, mature woodlands, rock formations, hollows and two large caves, providing an excellent site for exploration and appreciation of nature.

Ages 6-14 (youth entering grades 2-12). Camp options include Adventure Camp, Girls Camp, Camp Lionheart (see next entry, for children grieving loss of a parent, sibling or primary caregiver) , and Latino Week. The Special Care Program allows campers needing additional accommodations to attend with their peers.

Activities include swimming, canoeing, hiking, environmental education, team building, playing games, making crafts, and learning how to be comfortable in a new environment while making meaningful friendships with other campers. 

Registration opens in Spring, check website and Facebook for details. Scholarships are available to ensure that all kids have the opportunity to attend camp.

bbbscentralohio.org/youth-programs/

Camp Lionheart

Camp Lionheart is a free, week-long, overnight grief camp for children and teens in the State of Ohio ages 7-17 who have experienced the death of a parent, sibling, or primary caregiver. It’s a place of courage and healing where kids and teens come together to grow, connect, find support and have fun!

Camp Lionheart is full of regular summer camp activities such as swimming, hiking, games and crafts, while incorporating structured grief and trauma-informed group counseling sessions with trained, licensed professionals.

Registration opens in January and fills up very quickly (now full for 2024)

Location: Camp Otyokwa, Hocking Hills, Ohio

camplionheart.org/

Camp Wyandot Overnight Camp

Open to all youth entering grades 2 – 12. Whether it’s exploring Clear Creek or hiking the woods of the Hocking Hills, Camp Wyandot  offers a summer like no other – packed with friends, outdoor nature exploration, non-stop activities and fun.

Registration is open! Fees range from . Limited payment assistance/camperships available; apply by March 1.

They have a Fourth of July family camp option too!

23834 Clear Creek Rd, Sugar Grove, OH 43155

campwyandot.org/camp/camp-wyandot-hocking-hills/

Ohio 4-H Camps

While some 4-H camps require 4-H, many are open to any youth. 

There are 15 different camping facilities across Ohio. Options may include: 

Sea Camp
Shooting Sports Camp
Space Adventure Camp
Special Needs Camp
Forestry & Wildlife Conservation Camp

Franklin County 4-H Camp Ohio

Activities may include creeking, canoeing, swimming games, Native American life, archery, zipline, climbing wall/tower, 2-liter bottle rockets, Amish farm visit, pioneer life, geocaching, nature, line dancing, kitchen chemistry, crafts, and much more. Details and register here (now open). 

4-H Camp Ohio Youth Education Center, 11461 Camp Ohio Rd, St Louisville, OH 43071

Licking C0unty 4-H Camp Ohio

Youth ages 8-15. Group games, campfire, singing, outposts, crafts, fishing, team challenge initiatives, swimming, canoeing & kayaking, zipline, stream study, cookouts, and various recreational activities. Fees are $250; limited camperships are available. Details and register here. 

4-H Camp Ohio Youth Education Center, 11461 Camp Ohio Rd, St Louisville, OH 43071

WildeCamp at The Wilds

WildeCamp is a residential camp of 2-5 nights based on age. Campers sleep in yurts with other campers and counselors of the same gender. All camps have limited availability.

Campers ages 8-18 are welcome at this unique week-long summer experience, where they’ll have an opportunity to adventure outdoors as well as learn about the animals living at this incredible conservation organization.

Registration is open; fees start at $310. The “Learning is Wild” scholarship helps families in need of financial assistance to have a chance to attend WildeCamp.

The Wilds, 14000 International Road, Cumberland, OH 43732

thewilds.org/learn-wilds

Boy Scouts Summer Camp

Residential and day camp options available. Must be a registered boy scout to participate.

More info: Boy Scouts Summer Camp

skcscouts.org/camps/

Girl Scouts Summer Camp

Residential and day camp options available. Must be a registered boy scout to participate.

gsoh.org/en/discover.html

Check with universities!

Many colleges and universities offer residential camps for sports, specific subjects skills, pre-college experiences, and more. Price range greatly – from free to several thousand dollars. They also may offer day camp, which is a more affordable experience if you live nearby.

Benefits of Summer camp

Whether your child is outgoing or introverted, Summer camps can give kids the opportunity to develop character and express themselves without other campers knowing anything about them.

Did they have a tough year at school, at home, or with friends? The other campers won’t know about it – it’s a fresh start for the summer, and a break from tough situations. 

Other benefits include:

• Building Independence – campers learn to navigate new environments, make decisions, and solve problems on their own
• Creating Lasting Friendships – campers from diverse backgrounds often build connections and stay in touch for years after camp
• Outdoor Adventures and Recreation – Many overnight summer camps are situated in scenic locations, providing the perfect backdrop for outdoor adventures
• Skill Development – Camps often offer a variety of programs and workshops that allow youth to explore and develop new skills
• No screens/social media – With the exception of technology-based camps, overnight camps provide a much-needed break from the digital realm. They’ll have so much fun that they won’t miss the screens.
• Character Building and Leadership – Camps foster the development of important character traits such as teamwork, empathy, and leadership. Many campers go on to be counselors during high school and college years, which looks great on applications and resumes!
• Safe and Supportive Environment – Overnight camps prioritize the safety and well-being of campers. Trained staff members create a supportive environment where youth feel comfortable taking risks, trying new things, and expressing themselves. 

Is a day camp a better fit for your child? There are dozens and dozens of summer camp options available in Columbus and Central Ohio. 

2024 Summer Camps in Columbus, Ohio

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