MONADNOCK REGION, N.H. (MyKeeneNow) As winter fades and summer approaches, children eagerly anticipate the freedom of vacation. While the first few days may bring relaxation, boredom can soon set in.

Luckily, with a variety of incredible summer camps—both day and overnight—designed for different ages and interests, there’s no reason for dull moments.

Beyond keeping kids engaged, summer camps provide valuable experiences that foster independence, socialization, and physical activity while helping reduce screen time.

Darlene Doucette Smith, Director of Chesterfield Parks & Recreation, highlights the excitement of Wares Grove Beach day camp on Lake Spofford:

Green Mountain Camp for Girls in Dummerston, VT/Courtesy

“Our lakefront location makes our camp truly unique. Campers enjoy fun-filled themed activities each week, and all can swim safely under the watchful eyes of lifeguards and counselors,” she said.

Smith also emphasizes the importance of camp in a child’s development: “Camp provides kids with social interaction, teamwork, and fun—similar to school but without academic pressure. The camaraderie among campers, counselors, and staff is incredible.”

For those seeking an overnight adventure, the region offers fantastic options.

Vicki Senni, Executive Director of Green Mountain Camp for Girls, explains the benefits of a sleepaway experience:

“Camp provides a safe, trusting environment where children can explore independence while also learning interdependence and gaining a newfound appreciation for family and home,” she said.

Green Mountain Camp, welcoming girls ages 5-16 from all backgrounds since 1971, fosters an inclusive environment. “Campers and staff can truly be themselves—free from technology, mirrors, or judgment,” Senni added.

Summer camps offer more than just fun—they provide lifelong memories, personal growth, and friendships. Now is the perfect time to start planning an unforgettable summer.

Day Camps

Keene Family YMCA
200 Summit Road, Keene

Offering adventure camp (Camp Wakonda), sports and gymnastic camps and specialty camps for youth grades 1 through 8.
When: Weekly June 23-Aug. 22.
Cost: Rates vary between $100 and$290/week depending on the program; financial assistance is available.
Registration: Open on a first-come, first-served basis. Early registration is recommended due to limited space.
More info: www.keeneymca.org

Stonewall Farm
242 Chesterfield Road, Keene

This camp immerses children in farm life, teaching them about agriculture, sustainability, and nature for ages 3- 17.
When: Weekly June 23-Aug. 22.
Cost: $255/week with financial assistance available on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Registration: Open, with mid-March recommended for securing a spot.
More info: www.stonewallfarm.org

Swamp Bats Baseball Camp
Alumni Field, 77 Arch St., Keene

Open to kids ages 5-12, this camp groups children by age and focuses on skill development with guidance from Swamp Bats coaches and players.
When: Week One is June 16- June 19; Week Two is June 23- June 26, 8:30 a.m. to noon.
Cost: $150/week, $235/two weeks.
Registration: Open for one- or two-week sessions. $150/week, $235/two weeks.
More info: www.swampbats.pointstreaksite.com

MoCo Arts
40 Roxbury St., Keene

MoCo Arts’ CupCAKE for ages 4 through grade 3, introduces performing and creative arts. Each week features a unique theme with singing, dancing, and art projects, culminating in a musical theatre performance.
When: The last week of June and the first three weeks of August.

MoCo Camp Creative Arts at Keene a.k.a C.A.K.E. Summer Camp for students in grades 3 through 12.
When: The first four weeks of July, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Cost: $235/week, $804/four weeks.
More info: www.moco.org/camps

New Hampshire Dance Institute (NHDI)
25 Roxbury St., Keene

The 2025 NHDI summer programs offer a variety of dance and performing arts camps for children of different age groups from 3rd through 9th grade. Hosted at locations such as the Redfern Arts Center, Peterborough Community Center and Marlborough Elementary School, these camps include NHDI @ Redfern Arts Center for 2nd-8th graders, Dance Makers and Extensions for 5th-12th graders, REACH Camp for children and young adults with special needs, NHDI Experience-The Wall for 3rd-8th graders, and the Summer Intensive for 2nd-9th graders.
When: Three- and four-day sessions (Summer Intensive is 12 days) from June 23 through Aug. 8.
Cost: $80-$460; financial assistance is available for the Summer Intensive, and NHDI is also seeking camp counselors and CITs for leadership roles.
Registration: Open
More info: www.nhdi.org

Camp Squanto
156 West Shore Road, Swanzey

A camp that offers fun, games, outdoor exploration and more for kids in grades 2 through 12
When: June 25-Aug. 9; three-, four- and six-day sessions
Cost: $310-$975
Registration: Open
More info: www.pilgrimpines.org

Spofford Lake Rec Camp
9 Route 9A, Spofford

Day camp at Wares Grove Beach with each week featuring a different theme; for campers entering kindergarten and 5th grade in the 2025 school year.
When: Weekly June 16-Aug, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Cost: $200/week, $800/four weeks, $1450/eight weeks (special discount for residents)
More info: www.chesterfield.nh.gov/programs

New England Center for Circus Arts (NECCA)
10 Town Crier Drive, Brattleboro, VT

At NECCA’s summer camp, kids develop confidence and perseverance while learning circus skills such as acrobatics, aerial arts, juggling, and clowning in a non-competitive environment. For ages 5 to 17, with full- and half-day options available.
When: Weekly June 25- Aug. 22\
Cost: Starting at $410/week.
Registration: Open until full.
More info: www.necenterforcircusarts.org

Overnight Camps

Green Mountain Camp for Girls
565 Green Mountain Camp Road, Dummerston, VT

Set in a secluded woodland area of Dummerston, Vermont, this camp empowers girls aged 6 to 14 by fostering self-confidence and leadership while allowing them to enjoy nature.
When: Weekly July 6-Aug. 1
Cost: $650/week with scholarships available.
Registration: Open, but Week One is waitlist only.
More info: www.greenmountaincamp.com

YMCA Camp Takodah
55 Fitzwilliam Road, Richmond

Voted Best Camp in New Hampshire for ages 8 to 15.
When: June 22-Aug. 15
Cost: $1,375 (one-week camp), $2,700 (two-week camp)
More info: www.camptakodah.org

Camp W
83 Waubanong Road, Brattleboro, VT

The ultimate Vermont summer camp for wilderness adventure for youth aged 7-17.
Cost: Overnight weekly tuition from $613; day camp weekly tuition from $375; subsidies and scholarships available.
More info: www.campw.org