Local universities and museums offer exciting programs to area youth where they can learn to code robots, understand how science influences our world, and how to build a better future.

If your child loves creating, building, and tinkering, local Philadelphia STEM camps offer excellent ways to explore the world and learn more about it.

1. Champ Camp Great Outdoors

A world of exploration, learning, and serious fun!

Get ready for a summer of discovery, laughter, and nature-packed fun at Champ Camp Great Outdoors Camp! This one-of-a-kind location gives your camper exclusive access to unique resources and outdoor curriculum they can’t get anywhere else. They’re bringing the adventure to 3 convenient locations in the Aston, Newton, and Pittsburgh area: Neumann University, La Roche University, and Holy Family University.

Campers will explore the world around them through nature hikes, team games, outdoor science experiments, creative crafts, and plenty of time to connect with new friends. We feature a different theme each week, keeping things exciting and innovative for our campers.

Led by experienced and energetic staff, campers will build confidence, learn new skills, and develop a love for the environment while having a blast!

Early Bird Bonus!
Use promo code EARLYBIRD at checkout to save $25 per child, per week. But hurry—spots fill fast across our Philadelphia locations! Promo expires 6/30/25

2. Arena Stem PA

Get ready for a completely new and unique summer adventure at Arena Stem PA in our large 7,500+ square foot indoor facility!

Building on the success of last year’s camp, we are incorporating our proprietary STEM programs to create an unforgettable experience. We engage kids with daily high-energy topics, engineering challenges, and hands-on interactive activities.

Campers are grouped into small groups based on age and skill to ensure the best experience. We utilize every inch of Arena STEM for discovery—from designing cool prototypes and building complex models to diving into new technology and expressing creativity through arts & crafts.

Healthy lunch, snacks, and drinks are included every day. Campers will also spend time outside in the mornings (weather permitting), but will be in our air conditioned facility the rest of the day. 

We have created a program where boys and girls can enjoy their summer the way it was meant to be: learning new things, making lasting friendships, and just being kids in a safe, fully supervised environment.

3. Science Education Academy (SEA)

Our goal at Science Education Academy (SEA) is to get elementary students excited about science with exposure to hands-on activities teaching real scientific methods and inquiry. We work with volunteer students from local universities, and local scientists to provide high quality programming to Philadelphia and Montgomery County Maryland.

SEA was founded to help supplement the public school science curriculum as a way to address scientific gaps in 2nd through 5th graders. We provide programs in the Philadelphia and Washington DC/Maryland areas for community organizations, school programs, and libraries.

4. The Academy of Natural Sciences (Drexel University)

This summer kids can join the fun at The Academy of Natural Sciences, a popular natural science museum. Camps take place between June 23 and August 28 at 1900 Benjamin Franklin Parkway.

Mini Academy (ages 5-6) runs from 9 AM to 4 PM, each weekday. Weekly themes are Dino Dance-Off (music/dance), Creatures Create (arts/ crafts), Buggin’ Out (insect science), and include a weekly field trip.

Junior Academy Explorers (7-9) enjoy weekly themes at the museum and on field trips. Fun activities include digging for rock fossils, watching sci-fi movies, birdwatching around Philly, museum-inspired art projects, and creating a bug city.

Academy Explorers (10-12) will meet with scientists at the museum to study environmental issues and explore solutions, perform experiments, and go on field trips. All campers should bring lunch, a water bottle, and snacks daily.

5. Briar Bush Nature Center

Join us for a full day of excitement, education, and exploration in the outdoors at Briar Bush Nature Center! Each week, lessons and activities build campers’ knowledge of natural concepts while games, crafts, hikes, animal encounters, and free-play time to explore make learning tons of fun. Saplings Full-Day campers will participate in activities onsite at Briar Bush Nature Center, but may also walk to Highland Elementary School to utilize the playground and field.

Most activities will directly relate to the camp theme, but campers can always look forward to general summer fun, animal encounters, guided hikes, pond exploration, and visiting the Bird Observatory regardless of the theme.

Campers must be within the age range to participate. However, campers who turn 6 years of age up to one month after the camp start date will be eligible to register. The five camp themes below repeat two or three times throughout the summer. Campers cannot be registered for the same theme more than once as the programs are identical. Campers registered for more than one week per theme will be removed from the duplicate week.

6. Boys and Girls Club of Philadelphia (BGCP)

Last year, 84% of teens attending our Clubs planned to go to a 4-year college. However, across Philadelphia, only 25% of public school students enroll in college. Of those who do enroll, only 10% earn a degree. Within the STEM field, there will be 9 million STEM-related jobs in 2022. 95% of STEM workers have postsecondary education and training, larger than any other field of work. Additionally, STEM-related fields are among the fastest-growing industries, with a growth of 17% from 2008 to 2018.1 Furthermore, within the entire U.S. STEM workforce, minorities account for only about 20% of employees, primarily due to the lack of resources and preparation within schools.

Since 2014, Boys and Girls Club of Philadelphia ’s STEM Learning Labs program serves over 900 youth from grades K-12 within all 18 Club locations. The objectives of our STEM Learning Labs programming are to introduce youth to STEM Learning in a hands-on, engaging manner, ensure that youth have the knowledge and resources to pursue advanced STEM courses in higher learning, and increase participants’ knowledge and interest in STEM careers. BGCP offers a wide array of STEM programs for kids to accomplish these goals, including:

7. Penn Engineering (University of Pennsylvania)

Penn GEMS is an experiential learning, hands-on day camp at the University of Pennsylvania where middle schoolers dive into engineering, math, and science. Explore bioengineering, robotics, AI, materials science, and more—guided by Penn students, researchers, and faculty. Open to all genders, Penn GEMS is your chance to discover, create, and engineer the future.

Dates: June 22–26, 2026
Location: University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA
Time: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM (day camp only; no overnight accommodations)
Eligibility: Rising 7th, 8th, and 9th graders (current 6th–8th graders in the 2025–26 school year). 

8. Germantown Friends School

For Germantown Friends School, our 2026 summer camp season will run June 15-July 17 for Early Childhood campers (Rising Preschool and Rising PreK) and June 15-July 31 for campers entering Kindergarten through 9th Grade.

We will offer shuttle transportation for Early Childhood and Lower School campers from our Center City Early Childhood Campus (601 Walnut Street) through July 17 for an additional fee. 

Summertime at GFS is time for children of all ages to explore and cultivate their interests, make new friends, and enjoy fresh experiences. From sports to specialty camps—there is a wide variety of choices for everyone!

9. Temple University College of Engineering

The College of Engineering is actively engaged in nurturing science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) studies in our community and to the region’s youth, such as the Philadelphia Youth for STEM (PY-STEM) and high school robotics institute.  

Temple’s Philadelphia Youth STEM camp is an inclusive, one-week long experiential learning program for middle schoolers interested in exploring science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM). Our goal is to spark a curiosity in understanding how things around us work and to demonstrate that no matter our age, we are never done learning. 

Program Schedule:  

July 7, 2025 – July 11, 2025

Monday – Friday  

9:00am – 4:00pm 

For options in neighboring states, find more choices with our Baltimore camps page.

The post Best STEM Summer Camps In Philadelphia appeared first on The Maker Mom.

Parents will find an endless amount of STEM camps in Miami where your kids can participate in science activities, programming learning, robotics classes, and much more. 

Bridge to STEM

Bridge to STEM is hosted on the campus of Palmer Trinity School, featuring 60 acres of tranquil natural beauty just south of downtown Miami in Palmetto Bay. It’s open to all kids ages 6 to 15 interested in working in a friendly environment with the latest computer technology.

Topics covered during Bridge to STEM include the fundamentals of electrical circuitry and programming, basic computer hardware and software operation, internet safety, and much more. Kids get to work with several popular coding and development platforms like Minecraft and Roblox, applying what they learn in a combination of education and entertainment.

Bridge to STEM camps are five days in length and have a schedule similar to a typical school day. Registration is available on the website year-round.

Fun Camps

Fun Camps are hosted at three different locations across Miami, serving children in Boca Raton, near the University of Miami, and in Pinecrest. Future astronauts, scientists, and astronomers between the ages of 5 and 12 are invited to attend the two-week session camps.

There are four sessions to choose from, spanning all of June and July, wrapping up the first week of August, just in time for kids to get back to school. This provides a potential summer full of learning while they form awesome friendships and keep their mind active and sharp. 

Camp subjects include art & magic, a STEM-focused science program, and game tech, allowing your children to learn the ins and outs of coding and real-world applications. Fun Camps have been around for nearly 40 years, providing kids unique summer learning opportunities.

Frost Science

Frost Science camps are available all year on the campus of the Phillip and Patricia Frost Museum of Science in the heart of downtown Miami.

Kids 5-12 participate in camps dedicated to exploration and experimentation in animal encounters, planetarium shows, live science demos, and interactive demonstrations. Themes include oceanography, microscopic studies, robotics, and space exploration.

Camps during winter and spring are scheduled around break times and give kids a productive way to spend their time off from school. Summer camps run from the beginning of June to the beginning of August and are scheduled in week-long sessions that convene daily between 9:00 AM and 3:30 PM. Lunch and two camp t-shirts are included with the price of admission.

Miami Children’s Museum

The world-famous Miami Children’s Museum hosts week-long summer camps for campers ages 5-14 on its beautiful campus just east of downtown Miami in Biscayne Bay. Camps are scheduled between June and August and operate Monday through Friday from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM with early drop-off and late pick-up..

Every session features a different theme and fun activities, including field trips, art, music, dance, geography, games, sports, and more. It combines a traditional day camp experience with the learning opportunities of a STEM-focused program.

A discount is available for members of the Miami Children’s Museum, so consider getting a membership if your family doesn’t have one already for more educational opportunities. 

You can also find other STEM opportunities in Atlanta.

Zoo Miami

Camps at Zoo Miami are a stampede of fun and are offered all year in various formats, including individual days, a one-week spring camp in March, and weeklong sessions.

Zoo Miami offers your children a chance to see science in action through conservation practices and with one-on-one encounters with the big and small zoo creatures that call this place home. It’s a chance for students to get a behind-the-scenes look at how these animals live in the wild, and how they are cared for in captivity at the Zoo Miami.

Its older teen program covers all the possible careers and jobs offered by the zoo, like veterinarians, zoo keepers, and more. Teens interested in a future zoo job can see what it’s like to work at one. 

YMCA of South Florida

YMCA camps represent the best combination of learning and fun activities that keep students engaged when they might be prone to learning loss. The YMCA of South Florida has a partnership with the Miami-Dade County Public Schools and the Children’s Trust of Miami-Dade and brings the resources of all three organizations to campers aged 5 to 15.

YMCA camps are available across Miami in seven locations, with several elementary schools and academies participating, making it convenient no matter which side of town you live in. Programs are one week and run weekly from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM. 

There are several STEM-focused camps, covering marine biology and nature. However, all camps feature days filled with a combination of indoor and outdoor activities to take full advantage of the school break.

Girl Power Rocks

Girl Power Rocks provides an option for middle school girls to get a jump start on a career in STEAM fields as well as learn valuable skills in entrepreneurship. This free camp provides incredible value to young ladies and gives them a productive use of six whole weeks.

Girl Power Rocks programs are different since they provide social-emotional learning with a holistic approach to education. The programs teach valuable, practical skills such as effective management of finances, while informing them of the importance of taking care of their bodies through proper diet and exercise, including mindfulness and yoga.

Hope for Miami

Hope for Miami provides after-school and camp opportunities through its Kidz2Success program, available to students in grades K-12 at a half dozen locations. Hope for Miami is meant to serve as additional education outside of the classroom, providing students with homework help, academic support, as well as sports.

Summer sessions run from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM, every weekday. Kids can attend as many sessions as they’d like, and it’s free thanks to a partnership with the Children’s Trust.

Miami Dade County

Miami-Dade County sponsors summer camps at many of the parks across the city. There are opportunities for different types of indoor and outdoor activities. 

These are more along the lines of a traditional camp, encouraging campers to break free from home and take a break from technology to enjoy the great outdoors with new friends. They’ll be able to enjoy nature, sports, performing and fine arts, and other themes.

Camps are open to children between the ages of 6 and 14, and each session is two weeks long. Four two-week sessions are available and are filled on a first-come, first-served basis. 

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Kids of all ages can get excited about joining a summer program covering everything from tech to the arts and engineering. Let your children develop new skills, have leisure fun, and explore different subjects they’ve never learned about before. With such a big tech industry in Ashburn, your kids won’t need to look far from home after college.

1. iCode Ashburn

iCode Ashburn offers kids hands-on coding classes that follow a strong curriculum that makes learning fun and always uses up-to-date technologies. Your children can learn about robotics, coding, 3D printers, drones, gaming computers, and more. 

iCode Ashburn uses gamified learning to teach your kids STEM concepts and keep them engaged and always enthusiatstic about learning. Apart from tech skills, campers also work on soft skills like public speaking and critical thinking as they work on projects with other students. 

They don’t just host summer camps either, they also have homeschool programs, school holiday camps, and after-school classes. iCode’s team of computer scientists and software architects is always working on improving its curriculum so you can expect a high-quality education experience for your kid. 

2. Studio Dhoom

You can enroll your kids in a Studio Dhoom dance camp featuring STEAM activities in their daily routines. Culture and arts also form part of your camper’s experience. Performances happen every Friday for family and friends to see.

These fun dance camps combine Bollywood, science, arts and crafts, and athletics into one unique experience. Studio Dhoom offers spring break and summer camps with half-day and full-day sessions. Weekly themes include The Bollywood Treasure Hunt, Nature Science Unleashed, Amazing Arcades, and Superhero Academy.

Check out the Studio Dhoom website for an overview of their Camp Schedule and Daily Schedule. Early discounts are available, so sign up early.

3. Mindframe Education

Mindframe Education is a K-12 learning center focused on STEM enrichment programs. In addition to ongoing tutoring and classes, Mindframe offers summer camps for students in grades 1st through 6th.

Exciting weekly Mindframe Education sessions provide hands-on experience that kids will dive into using state-of-the-art equipment. Students in grades 1 through 3 can explore LEGO engineering, study ocean habitats, learn digital arts, or try their hand at creative arts like writing or illustration.

Those in grades 4th through 6th learn the basics of Scratch coding, core Python programming, and Minecraft and Roblox game design. Science-lovers can study forensics, rockets, and earth sciences.

Mindframe offers full-day and half-day camp sessions. Flex days and private tutoring are also available for students who may need it. Their various camps are scheduled across other places like Herndon and Gaithersburg.

4. Kidcreate Studio

Kidcreate Studio offers art-focused summer camps where children can express their creativity in entertaining ways. Whether your child is into painting, sculpture, or tinkering, Kidcreate Studio offers something for everyone. 

Kids ages 4-12 can choose from classes according to their age. Your child can try a Glow Magic camp and make bioluminescent paintings or a sculpture camp to recreate their favorite cartoon characters. 

Children can also study the science of sparkle, paint puppy-themed art while wearing their cozy pajamas, or create a snow globe. These mind-bending camps unlock your child’s inner creativity while they have a blast with other campers.

Camps are daily between 9 am and 12 pm or in the afternoons from 1 pm to 4 pm from June through August at the Kidcreate Studio on Generation Drive.

5. The Outer Limits VA

The Outer Limits Gaming Lounge is an innovative space where passionate gamers can level up their STEM skills. This summer, The Outer Limits is partnering with TDC Dance Studio to offer the week-long Gamers Groove Summer Camp for 8 to 13 year olds. 

A split-day schedule offers students hours of gaming focus along with plenty of time to get up and move their bodies. Campers will have tons of fun practicing in Virtual Reality environments while learning new games and enhancing their skills.

Weekly classes between June and August run in 6-hour sessions from 8 am to 4 pm, with snacks included. Campers should bring a lunch every day, except for Wednesdays when lunch is provided. The camp is held at a private building at 44933 George Washington Boulevard. 

6. STEM exCEL

STEM exCEL is a learning enrichment center encouraging the younger generation to excel in STEM topics. Each year STEM exCEL offers dynamic summer school camps for rising 1^st – rising 6^th graders, so they can enjoy STEM activities while having fun.

Summer camp themes include 3D Printing and Robotics, Cyber Media and Minecraft Programming, Printer and Gamer Adventures, Roblox Game Design and Computer Science, and Printing and Comic Book Illustration.

The weekday classes happen from 9 am to 4 pm. All campers just need to bring a daily lunch and snack. Classes are held at the BSTEM Enrichment Center on Main Street in Fairfax, with before and after-camp care hours also offered. 

7. NVCC Edu (NOVA)

NOVA has a robust community outreach program that introduces area students K-12 to various activities. Exposure to technology-related studies makes students more likely to opt for future careers in cybersecurity, engineering, and data center technology.

During NOVA’s Summer Bridge Outreach Programs and Student STEM Days area, youngsters are invited to the NOVA campus for hands-on STEM projects. They are introduced to NOVA programs in computer science, IT, and engineering. 

The community college also participates in citywide events at schools and libraries and sponsors VEX Robotics Competitions for local students. If your child is enthusiastic about a career in those fields, send them to NOVA to help accomplish their goals.

8. Celebree School of Ashburn Farm

The Celebree School of Ashburn Farm is a nurturing daycare center for children ages 6-12. The school’s  theme for this year is “Out of This World.”

From mid-June through August, week-long camps take your child on a scientific, mathematical, creative, and social journey with their peers. Topics include the study of space exploration, black holes and galaxies, constellations, and even an alien invasion! 

Learning is interactive and combined with lots of outdoor activities, including swimming. Team games and field trips enliven your child’s curiosity, developing a love for adventure.

Pre-school summer camps run alongside elementary school camps at the Celebree School on Clemens Terrace. As the season approaches, check the Celebree website for updates.

It’s also worth looking at our STEM camps in Baltimore page.

9. Snapology

At Snapology, children learn STEAM skills while immersed in interactive games and activities. In addition to ongoing after-school classes, Snapology offers camps where kids between 4 and 14.

Snapology camps are based on LEGO® bricks robotics, technology, coding, and science. Your child can build robots, make stop-motion movies, learn the foundations of construction, or explore the scientific world. All camps include plenty of social time and games to balance learning with play.

The 3-hour sessions are offered in the mornings and afternoons, with full camp days available. Camps are held at Emerick Elementary and Fairfax Christian School in Loudoun County.

10. Bean Tree Learning

Bean Tree Learning, a highly acclaimed children’s daycare center, offers programs for students K-12. The upbeat interactive sessions at the Bean Tree Learning Campus in Ashburn provide hands-on learning.

On campus, your child might cook something tasty in the kitchen, play computer games, or practice social skills in unique outdoor playscapes. Field trips include visits to fun local spots like nearby parks, Ashburn Monster Mini Golf, and the Udvar Hazy Air and Space Museum.

Day camp sessions are between 9 am to 3 pm, with meals and drinks included. Camp schedules are every weekday during the season. 

11. The Coder School

The Coder School is an after-school coding facility that inspires creativity through processes. The school offers coding camps for kids to continue developing their skills.

Week-long coding camps are organized by topics and peer groups (7-10 or 9+ ages). If your child can’t get enough of Minecraft, AI, or game development, The Coder School summer camps can hold their interest while challenging them to grow their abilities. 

The Coder School specializes in small camp groups of only six students per instructor. Your child gets personalized attention with ample time to practice working in a group. Sessions are half-days or full days over one week, from mid-June to mid-August at the Creek View Plaza. They also offer awesome full day Kick N Code camps with Loudoun Soccer and Skate N Code camps with Ashburn Ice House.

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With some of Nevada’s best educational facilities, museums, and learning centers, the city promotes robust STEM programs for Reno-area children and teens. If your child is excited about anything tech, ecological, scientific, or nature-related, you’ll find many after-school and camp options throughout the school year.

Whether they’re intrigued by coding a virtual world of enchantment, love playing in tinker labs, or are eager to spend time in the wilderness, Reno is a place where kids can choose from many different STEM camps.

1. Steve & Kate’s Camp

Steve & Kate’s Camp encourages Pre-K through 7th-grade campers to cut loose and try out enticing activities daily. This unique approach helps your child practice decision-making and independent thinking.

Children can focus on STEM projects like coding with iPad apps, exploring robot landscapes, and building forts using STEAM-based materials. They can also bake in the test kitchen, create a puppet theater, or enjoy an all-camp carnival.

Each day includes plenty of time for water sports, field games, go-karting, playing board games, or lounging with a book or a puzzle. Steve & Kate’s camp sessions run from 8 am to 6 pm. One-day and Full Summer Passes are available, or parents can drop off campers at Sage Ridge School any day without pre-planning. 

2. Sierra Nevada Journeys

Sierra Nevada Journeys offers a variety of summer camp experiences that combine hands-on learning with outdoor adventure. Campers enjoy exciting activities like ropes courses, zip lining, and scaling towers, while also building confidence, teamwork, and leadership skills through social-emotional learning.

Summer Day Camps for ages 6–12 are offered in Reno and Sacramento, providing a fun, local option for young campers to explore nature and STEM-based activities during the day.

The Girls in STEM Program, designed for girls ages 11–14, is a weekend experience that blends science and technology learning with outdoor adventure. Campers build new friendships, learn from guest speakers working in STEM fields, and discover how exciting and accessible science can be.

For a more immersive experience, overnight summer camps for ages 8–18 take place in Portola, CA, just a 50-minute drive from Reno. These week-long camps are packed with outdoor play, education, and unforgettable adventures in a beautiful mountain setting.

3. Project Discovery

Project Discovery offers adventure summer camps that place the emphasis on your child rather than the program itself. Your child can get an understanding and appreciation for the outdoors with any of their programs. 

With camp sessions for age groups from 6-17, Project Discovery has day camps and overnight camps with themes like The Backcountry Camp, River Camp, Rocks, Ropes and Boats Day Camp, The Leadership Adventure, and more. Each is slightly different but equally filled with fun, like hiking, caving, swimming, rock climbing, day camping, and outdoor leadership opportunities. 

For over 25+ years, they’ve helped campers grow stronger and learn more about themselves and new skills in the great outdoors. The camps have a high staff to camper ratio with a highly supportive staff that aims to help the young campers experience social-emotional growth and skill building.

4. PBSReno Camp Curiosity

PBSReno’s Camp Curiosity offers immersive, free virtual programs for Washoe County children from Pre-K through 12^th grade. These downloadable or streamed learn-at-home video camps allow children to participate in STEM activities during the summer. 

Younger kids can make a Cat-In-The-Hat-themed drawbridge or design a paper rocket using household materials. Curious George camps help Pre-K – 5^th Graders explore STEM concepts by building a wall, rocket, and boat with recyclables. 

Older kids in grades 6–12 can investigate sports science and take Occupation camps to learn about future careers. PBSReno also holds virtual language and culture, sports, and culinary camps.

5. Nevada Technology Academy

Nevada Technology Academy is a well-established training facility offering career certificates in technology. The Academy also runs summer robotics camps for those 5–13 years old. 

The two-and-a-half-hour morning and afternoon sessions in July are held at NevTech Academy’s office on Cadillac Place in Reno. The Edison Robotics Camp (ages 5-7) uses iPads to teach the basics of controlling machines with drag-and-drop interfaces. 

Lego WeDo2 shows kids (ages 8-10) how to build robots using the Lego interface. The more advanced Lego EV3 Camp teaches how to program robots to function in autonomous mode. 

In Basic Sphero, children learn to program the unique round Sphero robots. Advanced Sphero teaches Scratch fundamentals to program these fun robots.

Find other amazing programs in the western part of the U.S. by looking at our stem camps in Phoenix page.

6. University of Nevada Reno (UNR)

UNR’s College of Engineering has engineering camps for future engineers in grades K-12. This engaging summer program helps students maintain interest in STEM topics over their summer vacation.  

The college provides a lively learning and social environment where kids can enhance their science and math skills. Camps are age-specific and cover Engineering Exploration, Engineering Adventures, Civil Engineering, and Environmental Engineering. 

The 8-hour daily classes offer classroom learning at the UNR Engineering School Campus on Virginia Street in Reno. Camp groups also go on field trips and explore real-life STEM topics.  

7. The Discovery at the Nevada Discovery Museum

The Nevada Discovery Museum calls all curious kids to join in the fun of Camp Discovery! Throughout the year, The Discovery offers winter, spring, and summer break camps in addition to the museum’s ongoing science-based exhibits.

Students in K-12th can join the 9 am-4 pm week-long classes at the museum on S. Center Street. They’ll have a blast with fun topics like Rock ‘N Roll, where they learn about rocks and fossils, and Mind Benders with fun projects like puzzle games, escape challenges, and playing with invisible ink.

Your science-minded child can also learn to code video games, study medical science, or experiment with rockets, robots, and zombies.  Each camp includes time in the museum, and every camper just needs to bring a lunch, snacks, and a water bottle. 

8. Great Basin Outdoor School (GBOS)

The Great Basin Outdoor School promotes the outdoors as the best place for students to investigate nature sciences. 

Day camps are held during the school year at West Reno’s River School Farm and Mayberry Park for elementary and first-year middle school students. During these camps, kids delve into different daily science topics through experiments, crafts, and games.

Four-day overnight spring/fall camps and 3-day overnight winter camps offer kids the chance to study nature sciences like geology, astronomy, and ecology at beautiful Camp Galilee on Lake Tahoe’s eastern shore. 

At the outdoor camp, your child will have a ball hiking, playing games, watching the stars, and singing while learning new skills. GBOS has an exceptional staff that oversees activities and chaperones the separate girls’ and boys’ cabins. Home-cooked meals and attention to each camper round out this popular program.

9. Code Ninjas

Code Ninjas is a coding center where kids 5 to 14 can learn basic and advanced coding in a fun place. Your children can enjoy forging ahead with their favorite techie topics in the company of their peers. 

These action-packed learning “Dojos” offer after-school, weekend, and summer camps. Kids play and build games while they learn the basics of coding with tools like Unity, Makecode Arcade, and Scratch.

Using popular martial arts training concepts, qualified coding “Senseis” guide student “Ninjas” through nine levels, graduating from White Belts to Black Belts in programming.

Code Ninja camps feature topics like Minecraft and Roblox, where kids build weapons and forts and design escape rooms. This franchise in Nevada is found at the S. Virginia Street location. 

10. Boys and Girls Club of Truckee Meadows

The Boys and Girls Club of Truckee Meadows has long been a safe and joyful place for area youths to grow, have fun, and develop social skills. The Club offers dozens of STEAM options. 

One-week day camps are for kids between 7 to 12 years old, with an overnight camp for older students. Popular themes include Space, Paleontology, Film, Secret Spy, and Lego Robotics.

Sports Camps for soccer, tennis, and golf are always fun. Trail Blazing Camp takes kids into the wilderness, and Need For Speed Camp teaches race car speed science, where they build a pinewood derby car.

Children can also de-stress at the calming yoga and relaxation Recharge Camp, or opt for Art Explorers for hands-on art creation. Enroll your children in half-day morning and afternoon programs at various locations in the Reno area.

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Indianapolis is no exception, with a wide selection of in-person STEM camps year-round. Any of these programs can help your child prepare for a future where these skills will always be highly sought after.

These stem summer camps in Indianapolis can introduce students to fields that they might not have previously considered. Peaking your children’s interest in STEM at a young age can introduce them to an exciting career with many opportunities in their life.

1. iCode Fishers

iCode Fishers offers STEM camps and after-school programs that follow its proprietary STEM curriculum in Fishers, Indiana. Created by its experts, the iCode Fishers curriculum uses gamified learning with hands-on activities and helpful instructors to keep students motivated and excited about their STEM studies.  

Summer camp options are separated by age groups, including Battle of the Bots, Minecraft: Modding Adventure, YouTube Creator Class, Minecraft and Roblox Gaming, and much more. There are plenty of Roblox games, Minecraft games, and other programming activities children can look forward to. Everything from coding to robotics and other STEM disciplines is covered based on the program your child chooses.

Parents can also enroll their kids in other STEM Classes and programs in Fishers, IN, like the Belt Program for after-school activities. There are school holiday camps during spring and winter break where your child can continue their STEM education through engineering classes, robotics classes, programming classes, and much more, with its location near Indianapolis.

2. Club SciKidz Central Indiana

Club Scikidz Central Indiana is the best STEM enrichment company for children in grades PK-10th near you!

Club SciKidz was founded on the principle that parents want to provide their children with exciting, challenging, and life-impacting academic enrichment experiences. We are committed to demonstrating how science works in the real world by providing camps and program activities in a wide range of disciplines, such as veterinary medicine, robotics, space exploration, forensics, movie making, video game creation, food science, paleontology, engineering, chemistry and biology, astronomy, oceanography, emergency medicine, and special effects.

We offer over at least 60+ different themed science summer camps and have very robust In-School Field Trip and After-School STEM programs. We also conduct Science Assemblies, Birthday parties, Min-Camps and many more.

Our carefully researched STEM-based lessons help engage students in observation, measurement, identification of properties, and experimentation involving life, earth, and physical science concepts. Our science lessons often include language arts, history and mathematical components, which are crafted to enrich and empower children to their maximum potential in science exploration.

We trust our programs have the potential to make a significant impact on our community through the enrichment of our future minds!

3. Camp Cathedral

Camp Cathedral is dedicated to providing every camper with a safe environment where he/she can learn, discover, and have lots of fun! We build lasting memories for your children and we cherish that opportunity each and every year! Our campers will grow, laugh, and learn with each new experience! 

The summer camps have come to a close and we had a blast hosting camps of all sizes, interests, and passions! The 2026 Camp Cathedral schedule will be released in January 2026.

The 2026 Summer Schedule will be posted in mid-January! Registration will be open by the end of January. An exact date will be communicated before registration opens.

4. Center for Leadership Development

The Indianapolis Center for Leadership Development has a wide range of STEM programs in-house and through partnerships with companies like Cummins, Eli Lilly, Purdue, and Rose Hulman. These programs are designed specifically to aid and bolster opportunities for students in Central Indiana by providing unique educational opportunities.

Through a combination of hands-on learning, high-tech lab work, and real-world applications, students who attend the programs at the Center for Leadership Development will become immersed in the world of STEM. 

The programs hosted by the Center for Leadership Development are available for elementary to high school students between 4th and 12th grade. There are courses for all seasons and a selection of internship and career opportunities with some of the most well-recognized companies in Indiana. 

5. Girls, Inc. of Greater Indianapolis

Girls, Inc. offers a summer camp for young girls between 8th and 9th grade interested in pursuing STEM fields in college and beyond. The program is intended to help girls prepare and become inspired as they work toward becoming future leaders.

Eureka Summer Camp is a four-week day camp that meets daily between 9:00 AM and 3:00 PM. Girls who attend can enjoy days full of enriching activities as they work alongside 30 of their peers.

In addition to the summer camp, Girls, Inc. offers monthly meetups that include workshops and field trips to keep in contact with their newfound friends. The yearlong engagement allows for maximum retention while preserving the important relationships gained along the way. 

6. Carmel Clay Parks and Recreation

Carmel Clay Parks and Recreation hosts an annual Science of Summer camp for kids ages 5-11. This one-week camp has a maximum of 50 participants, and registrations are open in March of every year. Attendees can conduct fun experiments, watch demonstrations, and make take-home projects to show off their new knowledge.

In addition to camps focused exclusively on STEM, Carmel Clay Parks and Recreation hosts over a dozen other themed camps. These programs focus on art, adventures, sports, outdoor exploration, and more. The full list of camps and a brochure are available on their website.

7. Children’s Museum of Indianapolis

The iconic Children’s Museum of Indianapolis hosts a week-long summer camp that provides kids between 1st and 6th grade a chance to learn core STEM concepts. The camp is intended to serve children from the area, including those from Crown Hill, Highland Vicinity, Historic Meridian Park, and Mapleton Fall Creek.

Campers can choose from one of four sessions that each run Monday-Friday from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM. Lunch and snacks are provided, so students only need to bring their imaginations and enthusiasm. Spots are limited, and a list of priority eligibility criteria is available on the Children’s Museum of Indianapolis website.

This is an amazing opportunity for local kids to get a behind-the-scenes look at the Children’s Museum of Indianapolis facility. They’ll also enjoy guest presenters, field trips, and a chance to use some of the most cutting-edge computer technology.

You can also find camps in other Midwest cities like Des Moines.

8. Butler University

Butler University is one of the most renowned learning institutions in Indianapolis, and it hosts a large selection of summer camps for people between the ages of 7 and 18. They have STEAM camps that incorporate arts from all disciplines into every session.

Performing arts make up a bulk of the camp offerings at Butler, and kids can choose from traditional arts, such as dance, guitar, piano, and theatre. If you’re looking for something to do as a family, there are even a few choices that are open to both parents and children.

Registration for the Butler University camp season opens in December. Camps are offered in separate, all-inclusive, one-week sessions from 1:30 PM to 5:30 PM each weekday with an option to enroll in morning sessions to make a whole day of it.

9. The Heritage Group

The Heritage Group offers the 8-12-year-old children of its employees a three-day Kid’s Science Camp every year on the campus of the Children’s Museum of Indianapolis. This camp is intended to help children explore the possibilities of science and as a way to invest in future innovators.

Kid’s Science Camps hosted by The Heritage Group consist of a three-day intensive camp. The schedule is similar to that of an average school day and allows kids to enjoy their typical routine in the incredible surroundings provided by the Children’s Museum.

Students experience the thrill of discovery while learning about the practical applications of science as put to work by companies like The Heritage Group. It can even provide a head start at networking with like-minded people who will one day make up the future workforce.

10. National Inventors Hall of Fame

The National Inventors Hall of Fame has produced a STEM summer camp experience hosted at over 1,000 locations nationwide. There are over a dozen such locations in the Indianapolis metro area on all sides of the city.

Camp Invention helps students K-6 go from curiosity to innovation while maintaining a high level of fun. They’ll learn about STEM basics while performing hands-on experiments incorporating building, testing, and fine-tuning. The natural byproducts of attending Camp Invention include an increased understanding of fundamental engineering concepts, confidence in working with a team, and new friendships.

11. University of Southern Indiana

The University of Southern Indiana hosts its annual Summer Robotics and Science Camp, which is located a short drive from Indianapolis. They give campers a chance to work with LEGO Spike Prime robots and drag-and-drop coding. Camp sessions are one week long and run from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM.

The Summer Robotics and Science Camp is open to students between 6th and 8th grade and comes in two levels. The basic camp is best for true beginners to the subject matter, with the intermediate camp being well-suited for kids who have already attended basic.

The post Best STEM Summer Camps In Indianapolis appeared first on The Maker Mom.

Summer camps throughout Des Moines offer interactive programs to capture your child’s attention. These STEM programs introduce students to technology concepts from an early age and show them how fun science and tech can be.  

Whether based on the nature sciences or focused on engineering and coding, Des Moines has opportunities for every future scientist or techie.

1. Steve & Kate’s Camp

Steve & Kate’s Camp in Des Moines offers kids the freedom to choose summer camp activities that inspire them. Your child can dive into one or two STEM topics each day or try out many projects for shorter periods of time.

Steve & Kate’s approach to gamifying coding makes the activity even more fun to learn. Kids can opt for guided or self-directed programs in Robotics, Stop-Motion Animation, or Tinker Lab exercises.

Summer camp is open from mid-June to mid-August at Bergman Academy in Des Moines every weekday from 8 am to 6 pm. You can reserve daily, weekly, and full-summer passes for your children or simply drop them off any day without advance registration.

Entertaining physical activities such as sports, water play, and drama are available every day. Nutritious, tasty meals and snacks are also included with your camp fees.

2. Camp Fire Heart of Iowa

Camp Fire Heart of Iowa introduces young children to the outdoors and teaches them about self-discovery, community connection, and engagement with nature. They offer a day camp and overnight camp, with fun activities centered on the outdoors as well as weekly STEM learning. 

Camp Fire Heart of Iowa blends a fun camp environment with swimming, climbing, drama, and arts while also improving a camper’s academic skills. They have day camps in Des Moines, Ames, and Boone for students in grades K-8 and an overnight camp in Boone open to grades K-12. They also have an action-packed school day off camp, which happens multiple times throughout the school year whenever your kids are out of school. Before- and after-care is available for all their camps as well as throughout the school year.

There are different camp themes every week, including some fun ones like Eco-Adventures, Mad Science, Adventure Abroad, Into the Wild, and more. Parents can send their children to more than one session since each session offers something slightly different and rewarding.

3. DMACC

DMACC, the Des Moines Area Community College, hosts numerous Summer Kids College Youth Tech Camps focused on the world of computers. These fun, interactive sessions are held on the DMACC West Campus in 4-day blocks. Children ages 6-17 can join the morning or afternoon camps.

Younger kids can enjoy programs like Gamers Paradise for mobile game development and Young Engineers sessions to build interactive creations. Older students go deeper into video game and app design. There is also a 4-day AI Discovery camp for high school students. Several classes like Robotics-Battle Bots, Roblox Programming, and Movie Making are open to all ages.

DMACC also offers a virtual summer camp, so kids at home or from any other place don’t miss out on fun topics like virtual reality, eSports, and coding. 

4. Science Center of Iowa

The Science Center of Iowa (SCIOWA) offers Schools Out SCI Day Camps for students whenever Des Moines schools are out of session. The one-day camps during school breaks are for Kindergarten to 6th graders who want to make new friends and explore the fascinating world of science.

These engaging camps and interactive exhibits prompt curiosity and exploration into the mysteries of science. Popular topics include physics and motion, fossils and dinosaurs, creative 3D innovation, and planetarium space exhibits.

A camp day of STEM activities, lessons, and free-play recess times generally lasts from 9 am to 4 pm. Snacks are provided, and you just need to send your kids with cozy clothes, lunch, and a water bottle.

Classes for preschool children 3-5 years old and workshops for homeschooled kids are also available.

5. Tiger Lily Stem

Tiger Lily STEM in Des Moines offers educational activity camps for students. The weekday summer camps occur at elementary schools in Ankeny, Waukee, Urbandale, and Johnston. Students between grades K-9 from all districts can attend camps at any location.

Exciting topics for younger children include exploring the light spectrum, making seasonal crafts, studying solar energy, and mastering building challenges. Astronomy camps include programming a lunar robot, spacecraft design, and geology.

Older students can have a blast designing virtual reality worlds, coding games, and exploring graphics. These hands-on, half-day classes run from 9 am-12 pm or 1-4 pm in blocks during the week. Tiger Lily also provides science and math tutoring during the school year.

6. Tech Journey

Tech Journey is a non-profit whose mission is to introduce STEM career options to underrepresented local youths.

Each summer, a small group of 8th-9th grade students are selected to join a returning cohort to study STEM. Tech Journey packs the 4-day program with study sessions covering software and hardware, web development, media, and physical computing.

Hands-on sessions feature cloud computing, game development, cybersecurity, robotics, Python, and HTML/CSS, among other topics. Students receive educational advice from dedicated teachers and Des Moines professionals who volunteer as mentors.

Each Tech Camp member is invited to return for the next 4-5 years to continue their journey. The classes take place at Franklin Jr. High School in Des Moines. The camp provides each child with a computer and other needed tech equipment for use at the camp.

7. Camp Brainiac

Camp Brainiac was created by two licensed Des Moines teachers who wanted to keep students in grades K-5 engaged over the summer. Weekly themed camps take place at Ankeny and Waukee locations during June and July in morning, afternoon, or full-day sessions.

The focus is on experiential learning, which allows children to question, create, play, and challenge themselves. A typical day might include individual and group activities like science experiments, building gadgets, or escape room challenges. Children have time to play indoor and outdoor games with friends during scheduled free time.

Campers should come ready to gain knowledge and have fun! Parents just need to pack a lunch for their kiddos. Camp Brainiac also features a 2-day, 2-hour Kinder Prep Camp in August.

8. Des Moines County Camps

Des Moines County Environmental Camps are for children between 3 and 15 years old, grouped according to age. The fun camps teach kids about conservation and how to explore the wonders of nature.

The summer morning, afternoon, and evening camps meet at Starr’s Cave Nature Center (SCNC). Children under five attend camp with a parent or guardian and have fun on daytime nature walks, making crafts, and playing games. Students between 5-13 years enjoy creek stomping, critter catching, hiking, and cave exploring. An evening camp is also available for learning about nocturnal animals, observing fireflies, hiking, and playing games.

A 3-day overnight canoeing camp on the Skunk River is available for 12 to 15-year-old students. During this energizing trip, campers develop outdoor skills like rowing techniques and safety, tent set-up, and camp break-down.

9. Des Moines Y Camp

Des Moines Y Camp has 100 years of experience providing stellar camping adventures for families. They offer three-night and one-week overnight and day camps for students between 9 and 17 years, family camps, and Leadership Programs.  

All camps at Scenic Valley Camp in Boone encourage independence, caring, and responsibility within a group of peers. Campers expand their capabilities, learn to move with others and develop physical skills. Overnight campers stay in cabins with their age group, making new friendships during the day and enjoying special evening programs under the stars.

All campers can try daily fun activities such as horseback riding, canoeing, sports, archery, zip-lining, and making crafts. Des Moines Y Camps are accessible to all income groups with financial aid available.

10. Blank Park Zoo

Blank Park Zoo offers year-round school break Safari Camps for kids between ages 4-12. The full-day camps take place at the Zoo on SW 9^th Street in Des Moines.

Children can have a ton of fun with hands-on games, lessons, animal encounters, exploring the zoo, and creating art. Each day brings new and exciting ways to learn about animal life and nature.

Your child can get in on the action at the Spring Safari during Spring Break and the Summer Safari during the long school break. School’s Out Safari is offered during teacher holidays and other one-day holidays for Des Moines metro students during the school year. Winter Safari takes place during school winter breaks in line with specific vacation dates.

The post Best STEM Summer Camps In Des Moines (2026) appeared first on The Maker Mom.

You’ll find that this huge city has many learning opportunities in schools, museums, and more. Many of these organizations also have events throughout the year, so the fun doesn’t need to stop in the summer. 

Blue Shift Creative Coding

Blue Shift Creative Coding brings coding and robotics holiday camps to kids ages 4-14 at its Notting Hill campus. Classes run daily each weekday, 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM, giving kids full days of fun opportunities.

Course content at Blue Shift Creative Coding includes space exploration, Minecraft coding, Scratch programming, Python, Roblox, and more. Classes are organized by grade level, and children are placed with peers within a couple of grade levels. A student-to-teacher ratio of 8 to 1 ensures all students receive the attention they need to thrive.

Blue Shift Creative Coding offers summer camps from the middle of July through the end of August. You can score deals including buy one, get one half off weekly tuition rates and more.

Richer Education

Richer Education specializes in STEAM camps with the added benefits that the arts and humanities provide. There are programs for young children starting at age four that go all the way up to 17 for the most advanced students preparing to make the transition to university.

Camps through Richer Education are hosted at various locations throughout London including at the Richer Education Centre, More House School in Knightsbridge, and Imperial College London for advanced classes. There are also virtual classes to choose from so that students can see what it’s like to attend from home. 

In addition to summer camps, Richer Education offers half-term and holiday camps year-round. This allows kids to continue learning and growing during their downtime and helps them stay active and social. Richer Education is a full-service educational company offering tutoring services and weekend classes alongside its weekly camps.

Cypher Coders

Cypher Coders brings summer STEAM camp to kids 5-12 at four locations in Ealing, Fulham, St. John’s Wood, and Notting Hill. There are six weekly sessions with the option to join for two weeks of non-consecutive activities. 

Kids who attend a Cypher Coders STEAM camp can expect to learn about Scratch, p5.js, and CoSpaces while they build a basic understanding of coding concepts. This knowledge is then paired with a hands-on portion where students build robots and program them to complete tasks.

Cypher Coders also offers after-school coding clubs for children 4-15. These year-round clubs help kids dig deeper into coding with Python, JavaScript, TypeScript, and more. It is a great way to add STEAM learning to their school curriculum and keep them sharp.

Science of Sound

Science of Sound brings education, creativity, and entertainment for campers ages 5-12 at eight convenient locations across the city.

With over 200 lessons, students are spoiled for choice of what to learn about at Science of Sound. They can learn the fundamental concepts behind STEM with lessons in physics, biology, and technology. An innovative and fun platform and hands-on experiments keep things fresh.

Summer Splash Camps combine outdoor activities with indoor learning to keep campers active mentally and physically throughout their time off. Days are structured to mimic a class schedule, with activity periods, lunch to recharge, and a play period to let loose.

Science of Sound also offers workshops, holiday camps, after-school clubs, parties, and much more. 

Next Thing Education

Next Thing Education hosts technology camps across the United Kingdom. They are open to students 5-11 and can be purchased in blocks of one or two weeks. Every day is packed with four activity sessions, lunch with outdoor time, and breaks to allow students to absorb what they’ve learned. Activities include robotics, coding, engineering, and working with LEGO, and Minecraft Redstone. 

Next Thing also offers monthly subscription-based STEM boxes that deliver hands-on learning opportunities straight to your home. These boxes contain fun experiments and projects that allow children to follow instructions and build functional machines, including a Bluetooth speaker and hand-cranked generator. This is a new program, and early subscribers can get fantastic discounts.

Little House of Science

Little House of Science gives campers a place to experiment and explore through year-round programs.

STEAM summer camps are offered by the day or week across seven weekly sessions. Each has a unique theme covering the history and science of ancient civilizations, physics, astronomy, geology, and geography. Classes are hosted in Kensington, which is convenient to the High Street tube station and Earl’s Court Station.

For the rest of the year, Little House of Science offers live video courses covering a wide range of STEM subjects with a highly interactive experience. Half-term camps are also available to fill gaps during regular school holidays. 

Little House of Science also offers ready-to-go lessons to be utilized at a child’s school and can be a great addition to an existing science club. 

Mother Nature Science

Mother Nature Science offers holiday camps to students ages 5-12 in one-week sessions designed to fill the time during scheduled breaks. Classes run Monday through Friday, 9:00 AM to 3:30 PM, and are meant to be similar to a day of activities in a traditional classroom, complete with activity periods, playtime, and breaks.

Mother Nature Science camps help participants grow and maintain in eight different subject areas. They can unleash their creativity, complement their school curriculum, stay in shape, expand their imagination, be part of a team, and contribute to their cognitive development.

The activity camps are only the beginning of what Mother Nature Science has to offer. They also offer educational birthday parties, an online club with dedicated professors, after-school club materials, and coursework for in-class applications at your child’s school.

London School of Mathematics and Programming

London School of Mathematics and Programming offers holiday camps at three in-person locations, including South Kensington, Hampstead, and Wimbledon. Camps are sorted by age and include something for all kids between 3 and 12. 

The course content includes robotics, programming, mathematics, 3D art and science, and more. Registrations are limited, so it’s a good idea to reserve a spot ahead of time. 

Online camps are available all year and provide the same course materials with the convenience of attending from home. 

ASL Summer Program

The American School in London combines the outdoor activities of a traditional summer day camp with proven STEM learning. This all-in-one program gives students an exciting mix of indoor and outdoor pursuits where they can grow as individuals and as a group.

Programs last for ten weeks during the bulk of summer. Classes include photography, arts and crafts, emerging youth engineers, yoga, mindfulness, and swimming. This is just a tiny sampling of the courses available, and the ASL Summer Program site goes into much greater detail.

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