Summer camp in USA offer kids and teens a chance to make lifelong memories, build new skills, and enjoy the great outdoors. With thousands of options available, finding the perfect summer camp can feel overwhelming. That’s why we’ve compiled this SEO-optimized listicle of the top 10 summer camp in USA for 2025, packed with essential details like location, age range, activities, session lengths, and costs. Whether your child loves adventure, arts, or strategy games (like chess!), there’s a summer camp here for everyone. Let’s dive in!
1. Kingdom of Chess Summer Camp in USA (kingdomofchess.com)
Why chess?
Chess enhances cognitive skills, strategic thinking, and problem-solving abilities.
It builds patience, focus, and emotional resilience in both kids and adults.
Regular play improves academic performance and fosters lifelong learning.
- Location: Worldwide
- Age Range: 5–15
- Activities: Chess training (beginner to advanced), strategy workshops, tournaments, Personalized chess classes for all age group
- Session Length: 45 minutes per chess lesson (flexible online sessions; in-person varies by location)
- Cost: Economical
BOOK FREE DEMO HERE - Why It’s Great: Kingdom of chess is the best chess classes in USA and Perfect for young strategists, Kingdom of Chess elevates the summer camp experience with a focus on the timeless game of chess. Offering both virtual and in-person options, it combines expert coaching with fun, interactive challenges. Whether your child is a beginner or a budding grandmaster, this camp sharpens critical thinking and fosters a love for competition.
2. French Woods Festival – New York
- Location: Hancock, New York
- Age Range: 7–17
- Activities: Performing arts (dance, theater, music), circus, magic, visual arts, skateboarding, sports, horseback riding
- Session Length: 1–9 weeks (flexible sessions from June to August)
- Cost: Starts at $1,500 per week
- Why It’s Great: Located in the Catskill Mountains, this summer camp attracts campers from over 40 countries. Its focus on creative arts, paired with a massive 1,000-acre campus, makes it a haven for budding artists and performers.
3. Camp Chipinaw – New York
- Location: Swan Lake, New York
- Age Range: 7–16
- Activities: Watersports, archery, climbing, arts and crafts, team sports, theater
- Session Length: 4 or 7 weeks (June 25–August 10, 2025)
- Cost: $8,500–$14,000
- Why It’s Great: A co-ed summer camp with a rich history since 1926, Camp Chipinaw blends tradition with modern amenities. Set in the Catskill Mountains, it offers two camps on one property for a unique, community-driven experience.
4. Cheley Colorado Camps – Colorado
- Location: Estes Park, Colorado
- Age Range: 9–17
- Activities: Hiking, backpacking, horseback riding, rock climbing, rafting, archery, crafts, sports
- Session Length: 4 weeks (two sessions: June 15–July 12 or July 15–August 11, 2025)
- Cost: $6,250–$7,500
- Why It’s Great: At the gateway to the Rockies, this summer camp emphasizes character-building in a stunning natural setting. With over 100 years of experience, Cheley offers adventure and personal growth in equal measure.
5. Camp Matoaka – Maine
- Location: Smithfield, Maine
- Age Range: 7–15 (girls only)
- Activities: Sports (tennis, soccer), fine arts, watersports, outdoor adventure
- Session Length: 4 or 7 weeks (June 26–August 12, 2025)
- Cost: $9,000–$14,500
- Why It’s Great: This all-girls summer camp spans 150 acres of woodlands and fields, fostering sisterhood and confidence. With a wide range of activities, it’s ideal for girls looking to explore their passions in a supportive environment.
6. Raquette Lake Camp – New York
- Location: Raquette Lake, New York
- Age Range: 7–16
- Activities: Gymnastics, ice hockey, horseback riding, sailing, lacrosse, theater, arts
- Session Length: 7 weeks (June 28–August 14, 2025)
- Cost: $15,000+ (exclusive application process)
- Why It’s Great: Dubbed the “Harvard of summer camps,” Raquette Lake offers elite facilities and a selective admissions process. Separate boys’ and girls’ camps unite weekly, creating a dynamic, high-energy summer camp experience.
7. Camp North Star – Maine
- Location: Poland, Maine
- Age Range: 7–17
- Activities: Rock climbing, mountain biking, archery, watersports, arts, ropes courses
- Session Length: 2–7 weeks (flexible options from June to August)
- Cost: $3,500–$12,000
- Why It’s Great: Set on 200+ acres with a private lake, this co-ed summer camp blends outdoor adventure with life skills. Its flexible session lengths make it accessible for families seeking shorter or longer stays.
8. Timber Lake Camp – New York
- Location: Shandaken, New York
- Age Range: 7–16
- Activities: Watersports, adventure challenges, arts and crafts, sports, talent shows
- Session Length: 4 weeks (June 27–July 24, 2025)
- Cost: $10,500
- Why It’s Great: Known for its spirited Northeast vibe, Timber Lake packs a full summer camp experience into four weeks. With two private lakes and top-notch facilities, it’s all about fun, friendship, and personal growth.
9. Camp Olympia – Texas
- Location: Trinity, Texas
- Age Range: 6–16
- Activities: Watersports, archery, golf, cheerleading, arts and crafts, adventure courses
- Session Length: 1–3 weeks (early, mid, or late summer options)
- Cost: $1,200–$3,600
- Why It’s Great: Just 1.5 hours from Houston, this co-ed summer camp offers a mix of adventure and creativity. Affordable and flexible, it’s a top pick for families in the South looking for a classic camp experience.
10. Camp Laurel – Maine
- Location: Readfield, Maine
- Age Range: 7–15
- Activities: Waterfront sports (sailing, waterskiing), athletics, adventure (rock climbing, ropes courses), arts, tennis, equestrian
- Session Length: 7 weeks (June 25–August 10, 2025)
- Cost: $14,700 (additional fees for equestrian or extended trips)
- Why It’s Great: Nestled on Echo Lake, Camp Laurel is a premier co-ed summer camp known for its top-tier facilities and diverse programs. With over 30 sailboats, a gymnastics center, and a focus on skill development, it’s perfect for active kids seeking a well-rounded experience.
Why Choose a Summer Camp in 2025?
Summer camps provide more than just fun—they help kids develop independence, teamwork, and confidence. From the rugged Rockies of Cheley Colorado Camps to the creative haven of French Woods, these top 10 summer camps in the USA cater to diverse interests and budgets. Plus, with options like Kingdom of Chess, even strategy enthusiasts can find their perfect fit.