Make this summer unforgettable with metro Detroit’s top camps

Summer is fast approaching, so don’t wait. Dig into our top list of Metro Parent advertisers’ summer camps.

From STEM to swim and everything in between, there’s a summer camp experience in metro Detroit just waiting for your child. Fun summer camps are the perfect place for your child to grow, learn, make friends and just have a great time. 

Should you go for what you know your kid will love? Or should you try something new? With so many quality summer camps to choose from, why not do both? No matter what, Metro Parent’s advertising partners have just what you are looking for. But spots fill up quickly, so register your child now — then put your feet up and let summer arrive in all its glory.

Looking for more summer camps? Check out our ultimate guide to find the best summer camps for Metro Detroit kids.

Top summer camps for metro Detroit kids

Featured camps in metro Detroit

In this section, Metro Parent’s advertising partners share their top camp offerings.

Camp Miniwanca

Camp Miniwanca campers pose together outdoors in matching shirts during summer camp in a wooded setting.
Photo credit: Camp Miniwanca

June 28-Aug. 7

  • Address: 8845 W. Garfield Rd., Shelby, MI 49455
  • Phone: 231-861-2262
  • Ages served: 8-18
  • Type: Overnight camp
  • Cost:
    1 Week: $1815
    2 Weeks: $3575
    3 Weeks: $5125-5415
    5 Weeks: $8465
    National Leadership Conference: $1000

Camp Miniwanca, a program of the American Youth Foundation, is a residential youth camp located on 360 wooded acres along a mile of private shoreline on Lake Michigan in Shelby, Michigan. Since 1925, Miniwanca has inspired young people to discover their “best self” through outdoor adventure, meaningful friendships and a supportive camp community built around personal growth and balanced living.

Each day blends classic camp experiences-hailing, high ropes, arts, sports and beach time-with intentional opportunities for reflection, leadership and community building. Campers live in small cabin groups with dedicated counselors and choose weekly interest groups that help them learn new skills while building confidence and independence.

From campfires on the dunes to canoe trips and all-camp traditions, Miniwanca creates a joyful environment where youth unplug, challenge themselves and form lifelong connections while discovering who they want to become.

Camp Mirage

Camp Mirage summer camp kids pose in costumes outdoors at metro Detroit day camp, showing fun, creativity and friendship.
Photo credit: Camp Mirage

June 8-Sept. 4

  • Address: 6 locations around metro Detroit:
    • 4440 Brighton Road, Howell  (810) 279-0189
    • 1240 Beck Road,  Canton  (734) 210-1360
    • 35415 West 14 Mile Road, Farmington Hills (248) 266-0949
    • 14501 North Haggerty Road, Plymouth (734) 420-4655
    • 45201 N. Territorial Road, Plymouth (734) 420-4655
    • 6363 Livernois Road, Troy (‪810) 279-0150‬
  • Ages served: 5-14
  • Type: Day camp
  • Cost: From $175-$225

Camp Mirage provides the excitement, camaraderie and feel of an overnight camp, all in a day camp setting.

You’ll pick up your kids blissfully happy, inevitably tired, a little dirty and ready to do it again the next day. We treat every camper like family. Our excellent counselors teach and guide campers and help build self-confidence, social skills and independence. Campers leave feeling like Camp Mirage is their camp, their family and their home away from home.

Kidcreate Studio – Wixom

Kids draw and create art projects during a Kidcreate Studio summer camp class in Wixom, Michigan.
Photo credit: Kidcreate Studio

  • Address: 50160 Pontiac Trl., Unit #3, Wixom, Mich., 48393
  • Phone: 248-600-5818
  • Ages served: 4
  • Type: Day Camp, STEAM Camp, Arts Camp
  • Cost: Cost varies, see website for details

Kidcreate Studio is where creativity comes to life! We offer fun, hands-on art and STEM classes, camps and workshops designed to spark imagination, encourage curiosity and build confidence in kids of all ages. Our programs give children the chance to explore painting, drawing, clay, crafting and science experiments in a welcoming environment where creativity is always encouraged and getting a little messy is part of the fun.

Our Summer Camps are packed with exciting, themed projects that keep kids engaged, inspired and creating all week long. From colorful art adventures to hands-on science activities, every camp offers something new to discover. Kids can also level up their creativity in our Extreme Art Studio, where bigger, bolder and messier projects come to life, or explore unique crafts and DIY creations in our Craft Academy. With so many creative options, there’s truly something for every young artist, builder and maker. Kidcreate Studio is the perfect place for kids to create, explore and make unforgettable summer memories.

The Future Innovators Academy

Students participate in hands-on STEM activities at The Future Innovators Academy summer camp in Ann Arbor.
Photo credit: The Future Innovators Academy

June 15-Aug. 28, 2026

  • Address: 4130 Varsity Dr., Ann Arbor, MI 48108
  • Phone: (734) 800-4189
  • Ages served: Incoming grades K-9
  • Type: Day camp, STEM camp
  • Cost: $450-$599
  • Before/after care: Yes. Options for 7:30 a.m.-5:00 p.m.

The Future Innovators Academy Summer Camps — Not Your Average Summer Camp! Ignite curiosity and unleash creativity at The Future Innovators Academy’s hands-on STEM summer camps for grades K-9! From robotics and coding to 3D printing, game design, digital arts and engineering challenges, every week brings a new adventure where kids build, code and create real projects they’re proud of.

Campers might 3D print a light-up dragon egg, code a robot to follow commands, design their own Roblox game or explore Minecraft Modding-all while developing problem-solving skills and teamwork in a fun, supportive environment.

With expert mentors, all materials provided and fresh outdoor time to reset and recharge, no two weeks are the same. Whether your child is new to STEM or ready to level up, FIA camps make this summer limitless, memorable and mind-blowingly fun.

Roeper Summer Programs
June 22-Aug. 14 2026

Students take part in Roeper Summer Programs, working together during a hands-on poolside activity at day camp.
Photo credit: Roeper Summer Programs

  • Address: 41190 Woodward Ave., Bloomfield Hills
  • Phone: 248-203-7370
  • Ages served: 3-12
  • Cost: Fees start at $1,005 for a two-week session and include a daily hot lunch and snack. Costs vary by program. Before and after camp care is available for an additional fee.
  • Type: Day camp

Discover the magic of summer at Roeper! Roeper Summer Programs give campers the freedom to design an unforgettable experience filled with adventure, creativity and endless fun. With a beautiful 13-acre campus, engaging classrooms and two sparkling pools, every day brings something new and exciting. Our Exploration Campers enjoy a full day of guided activities, while Activity Campers who have completed first grade and up build their own daily schedules, ensuring no two days are ever alike. Specialty Day Camps let kids dive deep into a favorite subject in the morning and enjoy free-choice fun in the afternoon. On select days, Theatre Campers get the best of both worlds, combining the thrill of performance with the variety of day-camp activities. Middle school students can ignite their imaginations in Creative Writing and Graphic Novel Camp. At Roeper Summer Programs, every child finds their perfect place to explore, grow and shine.

Schoolcraft College – Kids on Campus

Elementary students participate in a robotics activity during Kids on Campus summer camp at Schoolcraft College.
Photo credit: Schoolcraft College

  • Address: 18600 Haggerty Rd., Livonia, MI 48152-2696
  • Phone: (734) 462-4448
  • Cost: $275, cost of specialty camps may vary
  • Best for ages: 5-18

Kids on Campus offers an exciting way for children and teens aged 5-18 to spark their imaginations through hands-on learning experiences all summer long. Say goodbye to summer boredom with a variety of camps tailored to their interests including sports, science, art, math, computers and more.

Our camps take place on college campus and provide kids with a unique glimpse into college life. With a low instructor-to-child ratio, our passionate instructors are dedicated to fostering a love of learning. Camps run July 6-August 14, 2026. Before and after care and scholarships are available. Your summer adventure is just around the corner!

YMCA Camp Arbutus Hayo-Went-Ha

Campers jump for joy during waterfront activities on Arbutus Lake at YMCA Camp Arbutus Hayo-Went-Ha in Traverse City.
Photo credit: YMCA Camp Arbutus Hayo-Went-Ha

June 14-Aug. 8, 2026

  • Address: 1380 E Arbutus Lake Rd., Traverse City, MI 49696
  • Phone: (231) 946-8589
  • Ages served: 8-17
  • Number of students:
  • Type: Overnight camp
  • Cost: $2,875-$7,575

For over 100 years, campers and staff from around the world have gathered together at Camp Arbutus Hayo-Went-Ha, building a sense of community anchored in the traditions of the thousands of campers who came before them. “Each for all, all for each” is our camp’s rallying cry and motto as we seek to lift one another to new heights of personal and collective accomplishment.

Our campers experience incredible growth and personal transformation through our unique blend of traditional in-camp activities and wilderness adventure trips. Join us this summer and become part of something bigger than yourself!

YMCA Camp Nissokone

Campers sail together on Lake Huron at YMCA Camp Nissokone, enjoying a summer camp experience focused on outdoor adventure and teamwork.
Photo credit: YMCA Camp Nissokone

June 14-Aug. 22, 2026

  • Address: 6836 F41, Oscoda, MI 48750
  • Phone: 248-887-4533
  • Ages served: 5-17
  • Type: Day camp, overnight camp, sports camp
  • Cost:
    • Overnight camp = $779 per week
    • Day camp = $299 per week

Nissokone is a place like no other: a spectacular natural environment in which the majestic AuSable River meets the shores of Lake Huron. For over a century, this jewel of the YMCA has been Michigan’s premier destination for summer camp experiences, where spectacular natural beauty becomes the backdrop for extraordinary growth.

Named one of Newsweek’s Top Camps in the USA, Nissokone offers unforgettable experiences for kids entering grades K-12. Nissokone is perfect for getting out in nature for adventure and play, offering a wide variety of age-appropriate activities. Our 100+ acres of forest and pristine waterfront offer endless possibilities from sailing and horseback riding to ziplines, paintball and wilderness expeditions.

Here, friendships forge lifelong bonds, confidence flourishes and young people discover their limitless potential within a caring community. Our experienced camp counselors guide every adventure, grounded our core values: caring, honesty, respect, responsibility and inclusion.

Welcome to Nissokone where nature inspires, challenge transforms and memories last forever. Camp Nissokone is accredited by the American Camp Association.

YMCA Camp Ohiyesa

Campers smile together at YMCA Camp Ohiyesa in Holly during overnight summer camp activities in Oakland County.
Photo credit: YMCA Camp Ohiyesa

June 8-Aug. 28, 2026

  • Address: 7300 Hickory Ridge Rd., Holly
  • Phone: 248-887-4533
  • Ages served: 5-17
  • Number of students: Not listed
  • Type: Day camp, overnight camp, sports camp

YMCA Camp Ohiyesa is a historic camp located in Holly, Michigan, providing youth with a safe, inclusive and values-based camp experience for over a century. Nestled on the shores of Fish Lake, Camp Ohiyesa helps youth build confidence, independence and lasting friendships through outdoor adventure, skill-building activities and intentional community living. Our programs include day camp and overnight camp with activities such as swimming, archery, climbing, waterslide and horseback riding. As part of the YMCA of Metropolitan Detroit, Camp Ohiyesa’s programs are guided by the YMCA’s core values of honesty, caring, respect, responsibility and inclusion. Camp Ohiyesa creates meaningful experiences that support personal growth, character development and connection, helping young people thrive long after their camp experience ends.

YMCA Camp Torch Hayo-Went-Ha

Campers gather around a campfire during a group activity at YMCA Camp Torch Hayo-Went-Ha in Michigan, building community and summer camp traditions.
Photo credit:
YMCA Camp Torch Hayo-Went-Ha

June 14-Aug. 7

  • Address: 919 N. East Torch Lake Dr., Central Lake, MI 49622
  • Phone: (231) 544-5915
  • Ages served: 7-17
  • Type: Overnight camp
  • Cost: Cost varies, see website for details

Experience the tradition of Michigan’s premier all-boys summer camp. Established in 1904 and nestled on the crystal-clear shores of Torch Lake, which is consistently ranked among the world’s most beautiful, Hayo-Went-Ha offers transformative 2-to-4-week programs. We specialize in building character through a unique blend of traditional high-energy camp activities and world-class wilderness expeditions. From sailing our historic waterfront to trekking through the rugged beauty of the backcountry, campers develop lifelong friendships and a deep sense of belonging. Guided by over 125 years of history, we empower young men to step out of their comfort zones, embrace the outdoors and return home with newfound confidence. At Hayo-Went-Ha, we don’t just host a summer camp; we build a community that lasts a lifetime.

More camps in metro Detroit

This section includes additional camp options for families to explore. These listings are added separately from our paid listings.

Blue Lake Fine Arts Camp

Two-week sessions from June 24-Aug. 16, 2026

  • Address: 300 E. Crystal Lake Road, Twin Lake, Mich.
  • Phone: 800-221-3796
  • Cost: $1,875 – $1975 (varies depending on major; significant scholarships available for motivated students; discounts for siblings, Session 4, and those enrolling in more than one session)
  • Best for ages: 11-18

Celebrating 60 years, Blue Lake Fine Arts Camp offers immersive two-week summer programs for Grades 5-12 in music, art, theater, dance and writing. Located in West Michigan, Blue Lake provides an inspiring environment where students of all skill levels grow artistically and personally.

Summer Academic Programs at LTU

July 13-17, July 20-24, July 27-31, 2026

  • Address: 21000 W. Ten Mile Road, Southfield
  • Phone: 800-225-5588
  • Cost: Varies, see website for details
  • Best for ages: 14-23

Help shape the future of STEM with the Marburger STEM Center’s immersive high school summer programs! Connect with a dedicated community of innovators in engineering, technology, design, and science, all united by a passion for discovery and innovation.

Willoway Day Camp

June 15-Aug. 7, 2026

  • Address: 4654 Old Plank Road, Milford (Transportation included)
  • Phone: 248-932-2123
  • Cost: Varies, see website for details
  • Best for ages: 5-14

For generations, Willoway Day Camp has been a summer adventure destination. From the moment campers board the Willoway bus (transportation included), the fun begins. Willoway’s caring staff and top-notch facilities provide endless excitement.

Camp Carvela

June 15-Aug. 21, 2026

  • Address: 33 Bass Lake Road, Traverse City
  • Phone: 231-299-0005
  • Cost: $390-$3,295, cost varies depending on session type (day or overnight) and length
  • Best for ages: 7-18 (plus Family Camp)

Camp Carvela, part of Project Foxwood, is a small, creative camp nestled on Bass Lake in Traverse City. With day, overnight, adventure trips and family camps for ages 7-18, we offer a camper-driven experience—every day is unique!

Camp Westminster

June 21-July. 31, 2026

  • Address: 116 Westminster Drive, Roscommon
  • Phone: 313-341-8969
  • Cost: $840/week for overnight camp, $330/week day camp
  • Best for ages: 7-17

Camp Westminster on Higgins Lake has been a beloved summer camp and retreat center in northern Michigan for 100 years! Westminster creates a welcoming community where campers gain confidence, independence and lifelong friendships while exploring faith and nature.

Detroit Catholic Central Summer Camps

2026 Dates TBA

  • Address: 27225 Wixom Road, Novi
  • Phone: 248-596-3880
  • Cost: Cost varies, but typically around $140 per camp
  • Best for ages: 9-14

There is something for everyone at Detroit Catholic Central! Their summer camps are bigger than ever this year, with a ton of different athletic and STEM offerings to keep kids busy.

Community Sailing School

2026 Dates TBA

  • Address: 3206 Orchard Lake Road, West Bloomfield Township
  • Phone: 586-291-4802
  • Cost: $200-$700/week
  • Best for ages: 6-18

The Community Sailing School Foundation, CSSF, is Southeast Michigan’s premiere Junior Sailing Program. The program takes place on Cass Lake. Have fun on the lake this summer while learning how to sail and enjoy other water activities. 

Mad Science Metro Detroit Summer Camps

June 22- Aug. 21, 2026

  • Address: Various locations in metro Detroit
  • Phone: 248-773-8570
  • Cost: Cost varies, see website for details
  • Best for ages: 4-12

Get ready for a summer of discovery and hands-on fun! Mad Science offers exciting STEM-themed day camps for kids of all ages. Each week features a brand-new science adventure — from Secret Agent Lab and Digging Dinos to NASA Camp, Robot Academy and more!

Summer at Sacred Heart

June 8-Aug. 14, 2026

  • Address: 1250 Kensington Road, Bloomfield Hills
  • Phone: 248-646-8900
  • Cost: Weekly camp fees are $300 morning session, $180 afternoon session, $55 morning extended care and $85 afternoon extended care
  • Best for ages: 5-13

This summer at Sacred Heart, enjoy an exciting lineup of camps that promise fun, creativity and adventure for every child! From hands-on art and drama camps to engaging STEM experiences, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

WCC Future U Summer Camps

2026 Dates TBA

  • Address: 4800 E. Huron River Drive, Ann Arbor
  • Cost: $170-650 with scholarships available
  • Best for ages: 7-17

Future U camps provide innovative, hands-on learning opportunities motivated by fun activities. Whether your child is a Future Maker, Future Engineer,  Future Professional, Future Technologist, or Future Explorer they’ll have fun exploring in these summer camps delivered live in-person this summer.

This article was recently updated on Jan. 30, 2026 by Metro Parent’s writer, Sarah Knieff. The updates reflect the latest information. Questions? Please reach out to editor@metroparent.com.


Follow Metro Parent on Instagram.

Metro Parent Editorial Team
Metro Parent Editorial Team
Since 1986, the Metro Parent editorial team is trained to be the go-to source for metro Detroit families, offering a rich blend of expert advice, compelling stories, and the top local activities for kids. Renowned for their award-winning content, the team of editors and writers are dedicated to enriching family life by connecting parents with the finest resources and experiences our community has to offer.

LEAVE A REPLY

Please enter your comment!
Please enter your name here

- Advertisement -

LATEST STORIES

Adventure awaits at overnight summer camps for metro Detroit kids

Discover the best overnight summer camps for metro Detroit kids! Explore adventure, arts, STEM and more to create lifelong memories.

The Detroit school district considers a charter application with a cap on enrolling its own students

Sign up for Chalkbeat Detroit’s free newsletter to keep up with the city’s public school system and Michigan education policy. This story was originally published by Chalkbeat....

Spark curiosity with metro Detroit’s best STEM summer camps

Discover the best STEM summer camps in metro Detroit, offering hands-on experiences in science and other academic subjects.



- Advertisement -