A Mom Exchange

A Mom Exchange Guide

Summer Camps Guide 2026

Your complete guide to summer camps in the Traverse City area. We know how hard it is to find spots — here's everything you need to know, all in one place.

Most camps fill up FAST. If registration is open, don't wait!

New to TC summer camps? Read the full guide — how to choose, when to register, what types exist.Open guide
Age:58 camps
LEAP Summer Camps (TCAPS)
Registration Open
Varies by program
Sports & Recreation
Preschool - 12th Grade

LEAP Summer Camps (TCAPS)

Traverse City Area Public Schools' Learning, Enrichment & Athletic Program offers a wide variety of summer camps — sports, robotics, music, arts, and enrichment programs. Affordable options for all ages with programs running throughout the summer.

Summer 2026 (check website for session dates)
Various TCAPS schools, Traverse City
Insider tip: Create an Eleyo account now so you're ready when registration opens. Call (231) 933-7480 for questions.
Visit camp website
Nature Day Camp (Grand Traverse Conservation District)
Registration Open
$425/week ($25 non-refundable weekly deposit)
Nature & Adventure
6-11 years old

Nature Day Camp (Grand Traverse Conservation District)

10-week State of Michigan Licensed Day Camp at the Boardman River Nature Center! Hands-on outdoor learning for kids 6-11, M-F 9AM-4PM. 10 themed weeks: • Week 1 (Jun 15-19): Nature Rocks — panning, geodes, Petoskey stones • Week 2 (Jun 22-26): Farming Fun (NEW!) — gardening at Great Lakes Incubator Farm • Week 3 (Jun 29-Jul 3): Winged Things — birds, bats & pollinators • Week 4 (Jul 6-10): Creek Quest — macroinvertebrates, tadpoles, frogs • Week 5 (Jul 13-17): Summer STEAM — nature-based STEAM activities • Week 6 (Jul 20-24): Aquatic Odyssey (NEW!) — life above and below water • Week 7 (Jul 27-31): Blast from the Past — ancient habitats & landscapes • Week 8 (Aug 3-7): Wildlife Wonders — Michigan animals + raptor visit • Week 9 (Aug 10-14): Camp's Got Talent! — nature crafts, songs & talent show • Week 10 (Aug 17-21): Nature Olympics! Register at app.campdoc.com/register/gtcddaycamp

10 weekly sessions, June 15 – August 21, 2026 (M-F, 9AM-4PM)
Boardman River Nature Center, 1450 Cass Road, Traverse City
Insider tip: State of Michigan Licensed Day Camp. Register early — spots fill fast. Questions? Email Rachel Straughen at rstraughen@gtcd.org.
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Interlochen Arts Camp
Registration Open
$2,050-$10,350 (85% of applicants receive financial aid)
Arts & STEM
Grades 3-12

Interlochen Arts Camp

World-renowned residential summer arts camp offering music, theatre, visual arts, dance, creative writing, and filmmaking. Also includes environmental studies and recreational sports. Over 3,000 kids attend each year. Day camp also available for grades 1-6 at $425/week.

June 20 - August 9, 2026 (1-6 week sessions)
Interlochen Center for the Arts
Insider tip: Don't let the sticker price scare you — 85% of families get financial aid. Apply early for the best scholarship opportunities. Tuition due May 1.
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Lake Ann Camp - Fresh Start
Registration Open
Contact for pricing
Faith & Community
Entering 9th Grade

Lake Ann Camp - Fresh Start

Fresh Start is the launchpad for high school. Campers spend three days on the Mighty Pine River navigating rapids, cooking over camp stoves, and sleeping under the stars. Prepares them for the next four years with courage and a clear sense of identity.

Summer 2026 (Mon-Sat, week-long session)
Lake Ann Camp + Pine River, MI
Insider tip: The river trip is a highlight kids talk about for years. Perfect for incoming freshmen.
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Lake Ann Camp - Jump Start
Registration Open
Contact for pricing
Faith & Community
Entering 6th Grade

Lake Ann Camp - Jump Start

Jump Start turns 6th graders into explorers. They head into the wild, wade through the bog, find insect-eating plants, and net crawfish. Tubing the Platte River and climbing Pyramid Point round out a week of treetop adventures and treehouse cabins.

Summer 2026 (Mon-Sat, week-long session)
Lake Ann Camp, 18400 Maple St, Lake Ann, MI
Insider tip: A great transition camp for kids heading into middle school. Fills up fast!
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Lake Ann Camp - Junior High
Registration Open
Contact for pricing
Faith & Community
Grades 7-8

Lake Ann Camp - Junior High

Junior High is built for action. Campers tackle crate-stacking, Thunder Karts, and team-based laser tag. Between sleeping under the stars and climbing Sleeping Bear Dunes, they encounter a God who is big and real. Daring challenges and faith-building moments.

Summer 2026 (Mon-Sat, week-long sessions)
Lake Ann Camp, 18400 Maple St, Lake Ann, MI
Insider tip: One of their most popular programs — don't wait to register!
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Lake Ann Camp - Juniors
Registration Open
Contact for pricing
Faith & Community
Grades 4-5

Lake Ann Camp - Juniors

Junior Camp is built for high-energy discovery. Fast-paced drama and chapel sessions show Christianity can be both meaningful and playful. Between the zip line, Zorbs, and LAVINRAC, your child stays active in a well-supervised environment. 340 beautiful acres in the northwoods of Michigan.

Summer 2026 (Mon-Sat, week-long sessions)
Lake Ann Camp, 18400 Maple St, Lake Ann, MI
Insider tip: Waitlists are common — register as early as possible to secure your preferred week!
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Lake Ann Camp - Senior High
Registration Open
Contact for pricing
Faith & Community
Grades 10-12 + Recent Graduates

Lake Ann Camp - Senior High

Senior High is camp at full throttle. Cabins team up for outrageous competitions and the legendary Fight Night, then dive into challenge courses, worship, and late-night conversations that spark purpose and perspective. Counselors and speakers bring Scripture to life.

Summer 2026 (Mon-Sat, week-long sessions)
Lake Ann Camp, 18400 Maple St, Lake Ann, MI
Insider tip: The legendary Fight Night is something every teen should experience at least once!
Visit camp website
Camp Carvela
Contact for pricing
Nature & Adventure
Varies

Camp Carvela

Join us for day camp Monday-Friday from 8:30AM-5:00 PM! Just like our residential camp sessions, our day camp program is designed to help campers unplug, explore nature, and make new friends. Led by our highly trained staff, day camp at Camp Carvela is a fun and welcoming place for campers ages 7 - 11 to enjoy their summer break! Register by the week or sign up for all ten sessions; the Summer 2026 camp season begins on June 15 and ends on August 21. ​ Breakfast, lunch, and snack are provided!

Summer 2026
Traverse City area (lakefront)
Insider tip: Contact them early to secure your preferred weeks.
Visit camp website
Camp Invention at OMPS
$285 per student
Arts & STEM
Kindergarten - Grade 6

Camp Invention at OMPS

Camp Invention is being hosted at OMPS, this STEM themed camp is for ages Kindergarten through grade 6. This year's theme is SPARK! Kids thrive at camp as they jump into hands-on fun and grow through enriching STEM experiences carefully crafted to spark joy and ensure the development of persistence, adaptability and creative problem-solving skills.

June 15-19, 2026 | 8:30 AM - 3:00 PM (Mon-Thu)
Old Missions Peninsula School, 2699 Island View Rd, Traverse City, MI 49686
Insider tip: STEM-themed with hands-on activities — great for curious kids!
Camp Island View at OMPS
$200 for Camp Island View / $350 for Preschool Camp Island View
Nature & Adventure
Preschool - Rising 6th Graders

Camp Island View at OMPS

OMPS offers camps for Preschool thru Rising 6th graders for three weeks. Each camp runs Monday through Friday from 9AM - 3PM. Our camps are run by Teachers and Staff members of OMPS, which is a great way to catch the feeling of OMPS as a school and connect with our Teachers/Staff and meet new friends! Sign up today! We cannot wait to meet you!

July 13 - July 31, 2026 | 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM (Mon-Fri, 3 weeks)
Old Mission Peninsula School
Insider tip: Run by OMPS teachers and staff — great way to experience the school!
Lake Ann Camp - Reborne Rangers
Contact for pricing
Faith & Community
Grades 10-12 (By nomination only)

Lake Ann Camp - Reborne Rangers

The most intense, transformative program at Lake Ann. Campers push past fear through demanding challenges, reflect on Lake Michigan's shore, serve in Traverse City, and practice bold, Christ-like leadership. Raw conversations help them step into leadership with humility and purpose.

Summer 2026 (Mon-Sat, week-long session)
Lake Ann Camp + Traverse City, MI
Insider tip: This is by nomination only — ask about it when your teen attends other Lake Ann programs.
Visit camp website
The Studio TC - Creative Arts Camp
$300
Dance & Movement
6+

The Studio TC - Creative Arts Camp

A high-energy week packed with movement, creativity, and fun! Kids explore hip hop, acro, musical theatre, games, and arts & crafts. Designed to keep kids active, creative, and engaged while they build confidence, learn new skills, and make great summer memories with friends.

June 22-26 & July 13-17, 2026 (9am-1pm)
The Studio TC, Traverse City
Insider tip: Two sessions available — book both for a full summer of creative fun!
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The Studio TC - Creative Preschool Camp
$250
Dance & Movement
3-5

The Studio TC - Creative Preschool Camp

The perfect introduction to summer camp for little ones! Preschoolers enjoy a fun-filled week of creative movement, music, arts & crafts, and imaginative play. Each day includes age-appropriate activities designed to build confidence, encourage creativity, and keep kids moving and having fun while making new friends.

June 22–26 · 10:00am–1:00pm daily
The Studio TC, Traverse City
Insider tip: Spots are limited — email or call to reserve your child's spot early!
Visit camp website
The Studio TC - Creative Preschool Camps
$250
Dance & Movement
3-5

The Studio TC - Creative Preschool Camps

Looking for something fun and engaging for your preschooler this summer? Our Creative Preschool Camp (ages 3–5) is the perfect mix of movement, creativity, and play! Each day includes: ✨ Creative movement & music 🎨 Arts & crafts 🤸 Beginner tumbling 🎭 Imaginative play & games Perfect for boys & girls — no experience needed! 📅 June 15–19 | 10AM–1PM 🔥 Spots are limited and these camps fill quickly! 👉 Register now: thestudiotc.com

June 15–19 · 10:00am–1:00pm daily
2506 Crossing Circle, Suite D, Traverse City
Visit camp website
Blue Lake Fine Arts Camp - Session 1 (Grades 7-12)
See bluelake.org for tuition
Summer Camps
Teens (13+)

Blue Lake Fine Arts Camp - Session 1 (Grades 7-12)

Blue Lake Fine Arts Camp has inspired young artists since 1966. Majors include Art, Band, Choir, Creative Writing, Dance, Harp, Jazz, Orchestra, Piano, and Theater. Grades 9-12 at Central Camp, Grades 7-8 at Camp Bernstein. Overnight residential camp with cabin life, daily arts instruction, and performances. Scholarships available. Apply at bluelake.org.

2026-06-24
Blue Lake Fine Arts Camp, Twin Lake, MI
See bluelake.org for tuition
Visit camp website
Camp Tanuga
Depends on length
Nature & Adventure
7-15

Camp Tanuga

Camp Tanuga is rooted in a traditional camp experience focused on confidence, belonging, and personal growth. Campers build friendships, embrace individuality, and gain skills that last beyond summer. The “Tanuga Magic” lives in everyday moments—shared laughs, challenges, and achievements—creating a strong sense of community and memories that stay with campers for life.

June-August
6874 Camp Tanuga Rd NE Kalkaska, MI 49646
Visit camp website
Grass River Naturalist-In-Training
$50/day
Nature & Adventure
12-16

Grass River Naturalist-In-Training

Behind-the-scenes look at the day of a naturalist — for older kids who love the outdoors. Campers shadow GRNA naturalists 1-on-1 to greet visitors, hike the trails, assist with teaching, and help with conservation projects. Custom single-day experiences (10am-3pm) scheduled individually with families on weeks when the 6-11 day camp is not running.

Single days throughout Summer 2026 | 10AM-3PM
Grass River Natural Area · Bellaire, MI
Insider tip: Great for kids who have aged out of traditional summer camps but still want hands-on outdoor experiences.
Visit camp website
Grass River Summer Camp — Week 1
Waitlist
$240/week
Nature & Adventure
6-11

Grass River Summer Camp — Week 1

Outdoor day camp at Grass River Natural Area in Bellaire. Campers catch salamanders in the wetlands, dip nets in Finch Creek, build shelters in the woods, make tie dye, and explore the Grass River. Intentionally small and personal — kids get direct, hands-on time with naturalists. Drop-off 9-9:15am, pickup by 3:15pm. Bring lunch + 2 snacks, sunscreen, hat, water bottle, rain jacket, swimsuit/water shoes, and close-toed shoes. ⚠️ All 4 weeks currently FULL — email james@grassriver.org for waitlist (cancellations happen, waitlist often gets in).

June 22-25, 2026 | 9AM-3PM
Grass River Natural Area · Bellaire, MI
Insider tip: Email james@grassriver.org early to get on the waitlist — cancellations are common and waitlist spots often clear.
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Grass River Summer Camp — Week 2
Waitlist
$240/week
Nature & Adventure
6-11

Grass River Summer Camp — Week 2

Outdoor day camp at Grass River Natural Area in Bellaire. Campers catch salamanders in the wetlands, dip nets in Finch Creek, build shelters in the woods, make tie dye, and explore the Grass River. Intentionally small and personal — kids get direct, hands-on time with naturalists. Drop-off 9-9:15am, pickup by 3:15pm. Bring lunch + 2 snacks, sunscreen, hat, water bottle, rain jacket, swimsuit/water shoes, and close-toed shoes. ⚠️ All 4 weeks currently FULL — email james@grassriver.org for waitlist (cancellations happen, waitlist often gets in).

July 6-9, 2026 | 9AM-3PM
Grass River Natural Area · Bellaire, MI
Insider tip: Email james@grassriver.org early to get on the waitlist — cancellations are common and waitlist spots often clear.
Visit camp website
Grass River Summer Camp — Week 3
Waitlist
$240/week
Nature & Adventure
6-11

Grass River Summer Camp — Week 3

Outdoor day camp at Grass River Natural Area in Bellaire. Campers catch salamanders in the wetlands, dip nets in Finch Creek, build shelters in the woods, make tie dye, and explore the Grass River. Intentionally small and personal — kids get direct, hands-on time with naturalists. Drop-off 9-9:15am, pickup by 3:15pm. Bring lunch + 2 snacks, sunscreen, hat, water bottle, rain jacket, swimsuit/water shoes, and close-toed shoes. ⚠️ All 4 weeks currently FULL — email james@grassriver.org for waitlist (cancellations happen, waitlist often gets in).

July 20-23, 2026 | 9AM-3PM
Grass River Natural Area · Bellaire, MI
Insider tip: Email james@grassriver.org early to get on the waitlist — cancellations are common and waitlist spots often clear.
Visit camp website
Grass River Summer Camp — Week 4
Waitlist
$240/week
Nature & Adventure
6-11

Grass River Summer Camp — Week 4

Outdoor day camp at Grass River Natural Area in Bellaire. Campers catch salamanders in the wetlands, dip nets in Finch Creek, build shelters in the woods, make tie dye, and explore the Grass River. Intentionally small and personal — kids get direct, hands-on time with naturalists. Drop-off 9-9:15am, pickup by 3:15pm. Bring lunch + 2 snacks, sunscreen, hat, water bottle, rain jacket, swimsuit/water shoes, and close-toed shoes. ⚠️ All 4 weeks currently FULL — email james@grassriver.org for waitlist (cancellations happen, waitlist often gets in).

August 3-6, 2026 | 9AM-3PM
Grass River Natural Area · Bellaire, MI
Insider tip: Email james@grassriver.org early to get on the waitlist — cancellations are common and waitlist spots often clear.
Visit camp website
Knights & Castles VBS
Faith & Community

Knights & Castles VBS

Join us at Bethlehem for three days of medieval fun at Knights & Castles VBS! REGISTRATION OPENS ON JUNE 1ST at 9AM! Space is limited, so don't wait! Registration links will be included both here on our website and in the event listing on our Facebook page. Vacation Bible School will be July 27, 28, and 29 (Monday through Wednesday) from 9am - 1pm each day. Kids ages 3-10 will enjoy crafts, games, storytime, music, snacks, and other fun activities, all while learning about God's love for them! Bethlehem Lutheran Church and Christ Church are partnering to bring this fun experience to community families! If you have any questions, please reach out to BLC Ministry Coordinator / VBS Director Alanna Steffunick-Boomer at alanna.steffunick@bethlehemtc.org We can't wait for you to join us on this fun medieval adventure

July 27 → May 29 · 9:00am–1:00pm daily
Nature Hooked
$40 per student
Nature & Adventure
2-5 years old & 6-12 years old

Nature Hooked

Nature Hooked will get you in the water — well, not you exactly… but your hook and worm! This hands-on class teaches students the art of fishing in a fun and supportive environment. Participants will learn: How to properly set up a fishing pole The basics of baiting a hook Safe and effective casting techniques Fishing etiquette and water safety Whether you're brand new to fishing or looking to sharpen your skills, this class if for you! Multiple sessions to choose from!

Session 1: Saturdays July 18 & 25 (9:30–11:30am) Session 2: Sundays July 19 & 26 (1–3pm) Session 3: Saturdays August 1 & 8 (9:30–11:30am) Session 4: Saturdays August 15 & 22 (9:30–11:30am)
Camp Greilick
Visit camp website
Whistle Stop Summer Camp
$220/week or $45/day
Summer Camps
School Age (6-12)

Whistle Stop Summer Camp

Weekly themes, weekly field trips, STEAM activities, and loads of fun! Monday-Friday, 7:00am-5:30pm. Breakfast and two snacks served daily (lunches need to be sent with campers). Children & staff utilize the Benzie Bus for field trips at no cost to families. $45/day part time or $220/week full time. $50 nonrefundable enrollment fee per child. Closed June 29-July 3. Contact ashley@whistlestoplearningcenter.com or call 231-378-2006 to reserve your spot.

2026-06-15 → 2026-08-20 (weekly)
Fresh Winds Church - Thompsonville Campus, 14595 Thompson Ave, Thompsonville, MI 49683
$220/week or $45/day

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This guide is updated regularly by the A Mom Exchange team. Last updated April 2026. For the most current availability, always check directly with each camp.

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