Best Summer Camps In Iowa 2026

Iowa is a great destination for the outdoors, with numerous rivers, prairies, hills, and more than enough local parks for children to play in. This makes it an ideal home for the many camps that receive children each year. At camp, kids can expect fun things like hiking, swimming, sports, and more. We’ve compiled this guide on the best summer camps in the state of Iowa. Each camp offers a unique experience for children to work on personal skills, develop communication skills, and have the best school break ever. With the beautiful outdoors in Iowa, your kid can have the time of their life here.

Top Summer Camps in Iowa

  • Boone, IA

  • Coed

This YMCA camp has been actively fostering children's independence, confidence, and faith since 1919. Located in the Des Moines River Valley in Boone, Des Moines Y Camp has access to hundreds of acres of wilderness for campers to explore.

Each...

  • Solon, IA

  • Ages 5-18

  • Coed

Camp Io-Dis-E-Ca began in the 1960s to promote the word of God through fun experiences in nature, individually and as a team. This established camp has a swimming pool, athletic field, and full-time employees in Solon.

From kindergarten to 12th...

  • Dubuque, IA

  • Boys

The Boy Scouts of the Northeast Iowa Council have been operating for around a century. They strive to teach young boys independence, how to work as a team, and to inspire strong values in youth. The camp location is in...

  • Iowa

  • Ages 5-18

  • Coed

Iowa State University offers access to various summer camps for children to experience based on their age. There are camp locations in different cities, and the cost is low to help everyone attend. The centers can change each year, but...

  • Iowa

  • Ages 2-12

  • Coed

Iowa County has multiple locations to give children from different areas an option for a memorable summer. Camp sizes are small to give children the attention they need and help them stay focused. Registration for these camps starts on April...

  • Iowa

  • Ages 4-21

  • Coed

The Easterseals programs have worked with families for almost a century to provide enrichment, support, and resources to people with special needs. They understand the difficulties of everyday life for people and families who have challenges with regular day-to-day activities.

  • Sioux City, IA

  • Coed

In Sioux City, Camp High Hopes offers a unique program that allows kids and adults with special needs and disabilities to enjoy their summer. Since 2004, this summer camp has cared for those who need extra support to enable them...