Summer Camp Guide
Big Adventures, New Friends & Endless Fun at the Area’s Best Summer Camps!
CRYSTAL LAKE PARK DISTRICT
READY, SET, GO! CLPD’s Digital Summer Camp Guide is LIVE and packed with unforgettable adventures for ages 3–17, from sports and sailing to robotics, theater and everything in between! Spots fill fast, so dive in now and start planning a summer full of creativity, discovery and nonstop fun.
“‘This was the best summer ever!’ according to my son! The entire camp worked great for our family. ”
CAMP RCSA - RAUE CENTER FOR THE ARTS
RCSA’s 2026 Summer Musical Theatre Camps return with two full-scale productions that challenge, inspire and build confidence on stage. Ages 7–12 will bring Disney’s The Little Mermaid JR. (June 8–August 2) to life at Raue Center, while ages 13–19 take on the audition-based intensive Hadestown: Teen Edition (May 26–July 18) with a professional rehearsal process and seven live performances; member on-sale begins March 3, with public enrollment opening March 10 – space is limited.
“The staff here is amazing and makes the kids want to come and learn every day.”
DOLPHIN SWIM CLUB
Make a splash this summer at The Dolphin Swim Club! Build confidence, water safety and strong swim skills through fun small-group or private lessons in a progressive, skill-based program. A great way to stay active and swim-ready all summer long.
“100% amazing. Staff has gone out of their way to make us feel welcome. It’s our favorite activity!”
YMCA CAMP DUNCAN
Overnight Camp at YMCA Camp Duncan gives campers the chance to build independence in a supportive, spirited community. Days are filled with classic camp fun and led by trained staff who create a safe, encouraging environment. Evenings bring campfires, songs, cabin bonding, and lifelong memories. Our Summer Day Camp participants gain confidence, make new friends, and enjoy a full day of discovery in the fresh air with age‑appropriate activities, theme days, and plenty of outdoor play. Families love the balance of structure, creativity, and pure summer joy.
“The two weeks I spent at YMCA Camp Duncan every summer were often the thing I looked forward to the most each year. I have so many fond memories of all the activities we did, the friends I made, and my favorite counselors. I feel lucky to have had the opportunity to experience that independence and enjoy the outdoors - being active, building a community with strangers, facing fears (high ropes) and challenging myself to grow at such a young age!”
MCC KIDS AND COLLEGE SUMMER CAMP
The Kids and College Program at McHenry County College offers a variety of year-round, hands-on programming for elementary, middle, and high school students. Students are immersed in career exploration across various fields, including culinary arts, science, technology, engineering, art, and manufacturing. The program strives to inspire new ideas and enhance students' skills, fostering a deeper knowledge and enthusiasm for learning. The Summer Program is held the first of June through the first of August with morning, afternoon, and full-day class options.
“I’ve recommended this program to all the families I know! The program runs seamlessly and safely, and my daughter has enjoyed every class she attended.”
WOODSTOCK PLAYGROUND PROGRAM
Registration Opens 9 a.m., April 6.
Woodstock Recreation Summer Playground Program offers flexible summer fun for kids ages 4–12 at Olson Elementary School. Families can choose morning (ages 4–7), afternoon (ages 7–12), or full-day themed weekly camps running June 1–July 24. Kids enjoy a variety of supervised activities including sports and games, arts and crafts, story time, special events, and Water Wednesdays at Woodstock Water Works. Discounts available: $10 off for siblings; and register by May 26 to receive an early registration discount!
“Our kids loved the Woodstock Playground Program! The themed weeks, crafts, games and Water Wednesdays were a highlight. It’s such a fun, affordable camp where kids stay active and make great summer memories. ”
MATHNASIUM – CRYSTAL LAKE
Mathnasium's summer programs are designed to prevent the "summer slide" –where students typically lose about 2.6 months of math skills. The programs offer a mix of customized instruction and interactive activities to keep students engaged during the break.
“Mathnasium is absolutely amazing! The staff has turned my daughter’s dislike of math into a love of math. If you’ve thought about enrolling your kid into their program, do it! You won’t regret it!
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CREATIVE ARTS INC.
Spend your summer drawing, painting, sculpting, stitching and experimenting with mixed media in hands-on art camps made just for you. June–August Art Camps (Mon–Thurs, 9:30am–2pm) Ages 7–11 & 12–16 — Explore it all: drawing, painting, sculpture, mixed media and fiber art! June–August Art Workshops (Tues–Thurs, 10am–12pm or 1–3pm)
Ages 9–13 & 11–17 — Focus your creativity with character design, digital art or sewing.
400 Highland Ave, Crystal Lake
815-219-9243
“My son is going on his 5th session there and I can’t say enough good things! They go above and beyond.”
CANLAN SPORTS – LAKE BARRINGTON
Looking for a fun, active summer your kids will love? Canlan’s camps keep them moving, trying new things and making friends every day. The Multi-Sport Summer Camp (Ages 5–12) is a high-energy, play-based experience where kids rotate through sports like soccer, basketball, football, baseball, and pickleball – plus exciting extras like laser tag, bubble soccer, and inflatable obstacle courses. With flexible half-day or full-day options and crowd-favorite Fun Fridays (think water play & ice cream sundaes), it’s an easy win for parents and a highlight of summer for kids.
“My kids couldn’t wait to go back every day! They loved trying different sports and the fun extras.”