Why should you send your child to a Northwest Arkansas summer camp? Summer camps are a great time for NWA kids to try new things, nurture unique interests, meet new friends, stretch their creativity, and have tons of Arkansas summer fun! You're guaranteed to find something on this list of Northwest Arkansas summer camps that your kid will be excited about!
Want to see your camp featured in the 2022 Macaroni Kid Northwest Arkansas Summer Camp Guide? Email us today!
Music or Theater Camps
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TheatreSquared (T2) Camps
T2’s camps specialize in building your creativity, confidence and collaboration through the arts for all experience levels. We are committed to training artists of tomorrow through professional classes that advance theatrical craft. Students gain experience working with other student actors, and the professional directors, actors and artists who teach each class. Classes will end with a showcase of work on the last day.
Summer Camps
Improv Camp/ ages 10-13
When: June 6-10, 2022- Mon-Fri 9 AM- 4PM
This fun (and funny) camp – focused solely on the craft of improvised performance – will give you the opportunity to act, think, and learn on your feet. You’ll begin the week building your collaborative communication skills through classic improv exercises. After mastering the basic building blocks of improvisation, you will hone your scene work and performance skills as you build towards an exciting end-of-week showcase. $175
Improv Intensive/ ages 14-18
When: June 6, 2022 - June 10, 2022 | 9AM - 4PM
This fun (and funny) camp – focused solely on the craft of improvised performance – will give you the opportunity to act, think, and learn on your feet. You’ll begin the week building your collaborative communication skills through classic improv exercises. After mastering the basic building blocks of improvisation, you will hone your scene work and performance skills as you build towards an exciting end-of-week showcase. $175
Acting Camp/ ages 10-13
When: June 13, 2022 - June 17, 2022 | 9AM - 4PM
Ever wanted to try out acting? In this week-long camp, learn about the fundamentals of acting, scene study, and performance based on the work of Stanislavsky and more. You will refine and apply acting techniques to age-appropriate group scenes and monologues to be presented at a showcase on the last day of class. $175
Acting Intensive/ ages 14-18
When: June 13, 2022 - June 17, 2022 | 9AM - 4PM
Want to continue to build those acting skills? In this week-long camp, learn about the fundamentals of acting, scene study, and performance based on the work of Stanislavsky and more. You will refine and apply acting techniques to age-appropriate group scenes and monologues to be presented at a showcase on the last day of class.
Musical Theatre Camp/ Ages 10-13
When: June 20, 2022 - June 24, 2022 | 9AM - 4PM
Take a step toward becoming a triple threat! In this skills-based camp, you will be trained in the foundations of voice, acting, and dance. Taught by professional artists, this musical theater camp will teach you the importance of breath, strength, and imagination when performing at your full creative capacity. Whether you’re new to musical theatre or live your life as a Broadway musical, this camp is perfect for you! $200
Sketch Comedy Camp/ ages 10-13
When: June 27, 2022 - July 1, 2022 | 9AM - 4PM
"Yes and…” with us as we take a deeper dive into the world of SNL and improvisation! Beginning with classic improv games, you will work with an ensemble to build your way up from quick-paced improv games to sketch comedy. The camp will end with a playful and hilarious showcase for your family and friends!
Sketch Comedy Camp/ ages 14-18
When: June 27, 2022 - July 1, 2022 | 9AM - 4PM
"Yes and…” with us as we take a deeper dive into the world of SNL and improvisation! Beginning with classic improv games, you will work with an ensemble to build your way up from quick-paced improv games to sketch comedy. The camp will end with a playful and hilarious showcase for your family and friends!
Playwrighting Camp/ Ages 10-13
Dates: July 11, 2022 - July 15, 2022 | 9AM - 4PM
Do you have stories just waiting to be told? In this camp, you will get to bring your stories to life with the support and guidance of a professional playwright. Over the course of the week, you will learn about various techniques used to develop character, plot, text, and more! Skills learned in this camp will be activated in writing exercises for the stage, and community feedback from fellow students.
Playwrighting Intensive/ Ages 14-18
Dates: July 11, 2022 - July 15, 2022 | 9AM - 4PM
Do you have stories just waiting to be told? In this camp, you will get to bring your stories to life with the support and guidance of a professional playwright. Over the course of the week, you will learn about various techniques used to develop character, plot, text, and more! Skills learned in this camp will be activated in writing exercises for the stage, and community feedback from fellow students.
Summer Shakespeare Academy/ ages 14-18 (PLEASE NOTE this is a 2-week camp)
Dates: July 18, 2022 - July 30, 2022 | MON-FRI | 9AM - 4PM
Performances: July 29, 2022, and July 30, 2022
TheatreSquared, Northwest Arkansas’ professional theatre company, offers its 16th annual Summer Shakespeare Academy. This summer day camp – led by professional directors, actors, designers and musicians – provides young theatre lovers some of the area’s best available training with a two-week immersion in the theatrical world of William Shakespeare.
The Shakespeare Academy is designed to bring you into working contact with the creative process by placing you in the world of a professional theatre company. Throughout the camp, you will work together to build a full production as you simultaneously advance your own performance and collaboration skills necessary to create an ensemble production. $325
APPLY FOR A SCHOLARSHIP
A limited number of scholarships are available for students with demonstrated financial need.
Learn more or register today for TheatreSquared Camps!
Thaden School- Bentonville
Songwriting
For students entering grades 4-6
9:00 am-3:00 pm daily
$350
Participants will write their own songs with the help of professional musicians from The House of Songs, a local nonprofit that invites songwriters from around the world to share the universal language of music. We will listen to classic songs and explore what makes them endure. Campers will use instruments and technology to write and perform their own original songs. No experience is required.
Stop-Motion Filmmaking
For students entering grades 4-6
9:00 am-3:00 pm daily
$350
Participants will explore the history and theory behind stop-motion filmmaking. Viewings of historic and contemporary stop-motion works will allow campers to identify and examine the underlying principles that make stories effective. Campers will also write their own short stories, design relevant sets, and bring their ideas to life with a unique brand of video production and Dragonframe software and hardware, just like Hollywood features. The week will culminate with campers presenting their short stories to their friends and family on the big screen at Thaden.
Please click the link here to find out details about our exciting summer camp offerings. These camps offer a 'taste of Thaden', diving deep into our unique signature, arts, and athletic programs. Camps are geared towards children and teens entering grades 4-12. Register here! Please note that you will first create an account on our summer camp platform, Popsicle, and then complete separate registrations for each camper.
Financial assistance may be available; for more information contact Allyn Rosenbloum at arosenbloum@thadenschool.org by April 29th before registering for camp.
Sports/Active Camps
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NWA Martial Arts Academy- Fayetteville
Want to burn some of your kids’ extra energy? Our fun martial arts style day camps in Fayetteville will teach your child life skills, basic martial arts techniques and anti-bullying skills! We will also have action packed camp activities: including nerf wars, games and movies! Spots are LIMITED to 20 kids per class. We pride ourselves on being an energetic, welcoming, family-oriented martial arts studio. Our studio is the realization of Master Michael Felix's lifelong goal to have his own studio grounded in positive mental attitude, inclusivity, and fun. 479-276-8271 | info@nwamartialartsacademy.com
Want to burn some of your kids’ extra energy? Our fun martial arts style day camps in Fayetteville will teach your child life skills, basic martial arts techniques and anti-bullying skills! We will also have action-packed camp activities: including nerf wars, games and movies! Spots are LIMITED to 20 kids per class. We pride ourselves on being an energetic, welcoming, family-oriented martial arts studio. Our studio is the realization of Master Michael Felix's lifelong goal to have his own studio grounded in positive mental attitude, inclusivity, and fun. 479-276-8271 | info@nwamartialartsacademy.com
Weapons Day Camp
June 13-17- 8:30-11:30 AM
This is a camp in which each student will learn how to use a new martial weapon every single day, with the safety of an instructors eye from beginning to end. Think ninja turtle weapons- Bo Staff, Nunchucks, Short Sticks, Kama, and Sword. Learn new skills, tricks and also great self-control with each weapon.
Day Camp (Karate Style)
July 11th-15th: 8:30-11:30 AM
A camp where you will learn martial arts basics and self-defense techniques. This will be mixed with games and activities to keep your child moving from beginning to end!
End of Summer Day Camp
August 8th-12th: 8:30-11:30 AM
A full-blown traditional summer camp with games, crafts, movies and fun activities! Great way to make new friends and celebrate the end of summer by staying active and moving!
Price:
$195- 5 days (Mon-Fri)
$45- 1 day (Drop-in)
Open to all ages 6 & up! Bring your water bottle and a light snack!
Each one of these camps is designed in mind with Beginners and Advanced campers attending. We would love to have you and would be happy to give you any additional information you need!
Text or Call us at 479-276-8271 to reserve your spot!
Thaden School- Bentonville
Athletic Camps
Includes basketball, soccer, and outdoor skills including, but not limited to, climbing and archery.
Basketball and soccer camps will run from 9:00 to 11:30 am.
OAKS (Outdoor Activated Knowledge and Skills) will run from 12:30 to 3:00 pm.
Tuition per camp is $200 (includes a t-shirt).
If a camper signs up for a morning athletic camp (basketball or soccer) and an afternoon OAKS camps, tuition will be reduced by $50 for a total of $350 for a week of camp from 9:00 am to 3:00 pm each day.
Campers will bring their water bottles (water and snacks will be provided at camp).
If campers register for a full day, they will need to bring their own lunch (snacks will be provided at camp).
Please click the link here to find out details about our exciting summer camp offerings. These camps offer a 'taste of Thaden', diving deep into our unique signature, arts, and athletic programs. Camps are geared towards children and teens entering grades 4-12. Register here! Please note that you will first create an account on our summer camp platform, Popsicle, and then complete separate registrations for each camper. You will find detailed descriptions of each of our camp offerings on our webpage here.
Financial assistance may be available; for more information contact Allyn Rosenbloum at arosenbloum@thadenschool.org by April 29th before registering for camp.
Bike School Bentonville
For students entering grades 6-12
9:00 am-3:00 pm daily
$350
Are you an intermediate to advanced mountain bike rider, ready to jumpstart your NICA season? If so, this camp is for you! Participants will practice fundamentals at Thaden's pump track and skills course before heading off to ride some of the incredible trails beginning in downtown Bentonville. Two days will be spent traveling further into our backyard to the remarkable regional trail systems, such as Hobbs Park or Devil's Den. Campers must be able to ride 10+ miles a day in order to be eligible to participate.
Outdoor Nature Camps
Botanical Garden of the Ozarks
Outdoor Nature Camps
Nature & Creativity Day Camp at Botanical Garden of the Ozarks. For kids ages 6-9 years. June 13 – 17 | 8:30 – 11:30 am daily. For children ages 6 to 9 years old
Get outside, learn about the natural world, and have fun creating art! Campers will apply critical and creative thinking skills through interactive and hands-on exploration of science and ecology concepts including butterflies, carnivorous plants, reptiles, mammals, insects and much more.
Participants will explore and create artwork made with a variety of media and processes inspired by their scientific discoveries!
Price: $110 for members; $130 for nonmembers (includes a $30 nonrefundable registration and material fee).
Register here!
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Garden Magic: A Single Day Camp
Tuesday, June 28 | 8:30 am – 3:00 pm
For children 5 to 7 years old
Join us for a magical day of creativity and science. Students will learn about the mysterious world of insects and plants while creating costumes for the upcoming Firefly Fling Festival! Activities will include decorating caps or wings, making wands and building a take-home fairy house or gnome home for their own yard, all while learning about the lore and science around gardens.
Price: $55 for members / $65 for nonmembers for the day. Register here.
Garden Magic: A Single Day Camp
Friday, July 1 | 8:30 am – 3:00 pm
For children 8 to 10 years old
Join us for a magical day of creativity and science. Students will learn about the mysterious world of insects and plants while creating costumes for the upcoming Firefly Fling Festival! Activities will include decorating caps or wings, making wands, and building a take-home fairy house or gnome home for their own garden, all while learning about the lore and science around gardens.
Price: $55 for members / $65 for nonmembers for the day
Cooking/ Culinary Camps
Young Chefs Academy
Culinary Camp At Young Chefs® Academy Is So Much More Than Cooking! For ages 6-14.
Camps are offered weekly between May and August 2022! See all the options here.
Young Chefs Academy seasonal cooking experiences deliver an immersive culinary adventure for the young chefs within our community, empowering budding chefs to grow in their knowledge of the culinary arts and self-confidence. Each day is filled with fun, hands-on adventures as we build upon new culinary skills and techniques. Our experienced staff is ready to deliver a well-rounded experience filled with culinary knowledge and fun!
Each fully immersive, 3-hour / multi-day camp experience will include:
- All new recipes, techniques and subject matter every week!
- The art of cooking AND the science of baking.
- Fun challenges and competitions
- Basic & NEW Culinary techniques, tips and tricks
- Curriculum developed and tested by our YCA team of expert chefs
- Lessons that are created to encourage creative expression and discoveries
- Something for all skill levels from beginner to the experienced chef!
Our young chefs will be introduced to some of the latest trends in the culinary world, taking their creativity to new heights! Join us for delicious fun, only at Young Chefs Academy! See all date options and register here.
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Thaden School- Bentonville
Food and Farm
For students entering grades 4-6
9:00 am-3:00 pm daily
$350
During this action-packed week, participants will explore connections with the food system and the natural world through hands-on cooking, gardening, and science activities. Campers can look forward to getting to know Thaden School’s flock of hens, learning to cook in the teaching kitchen, exploring all that is growing in the Thaden School greenhouse and garden, eating delicious food, taking a farm field trip to pick blueberries, and more! On the last day of camp, participants will take part in a culinary competition as they use the skills they have learned all week to try to create the most delicious pizza!
The Science of Food
For students entering grades 6-8
9:00 am-3:00 pm daily
$350
Participants will learn the science behind the food we eat. Campers will also learn technical cooking skills, ingredient sourcing, research and development, and food photography. We will explore food systems by creating our own pollinator box and harvesting honey.
Thriving Post-Pandemic
For students entering grades 5-6
9:00 am-3:00 pm daily
$350
Let’s face it, life can be stressful at times, but these past couple of years have seemed especially challenging. Participants will learn to find healthy ways to cope with transitions – whether changing schools, moving to a new town, or experiencing life post-pandemic. This camp will be filled with exciting activities including playing games, creating art projects, and riding bikes.
Please click the link here to find out details about our exciting summer camp offerings. These camps offer a 'taste of Thaden', diving deep into our unique signature, arts, and athletic programs. Camps are geared towards children and teens entering grades 4-12. Register here! Please note that you will first create an account on our summer camp platform, Popsicle, and then complete separate registrations for each camper. You will find detailed descriptions of each of our camp offerings on our webpage here.
Financial assistance may be available; for more information contact Allyn Rosenbloum at arosenbloum@thadenschool.org by April 29th before registering for camp.
