As summer approaches, families are looking for ways to keep kids engaged, active and learning outside the classroom. Fortunately, local summer camps offer a wide variety of experiences, from outdoor adventures and sports to creative arts and STEM programs. Whether children are looking to explore nature, develop new skills or deepen their faith, there’s a camp for every interest. Here’s a look at some of the summer camps available in our community.

Camp Boggy Creek

30500 Brantley Branch Rd., Eustis
boggycreek.org

Camp Boggy Creek is more than just a summer getaway—it’s a transformative experience for children facing serious medical conditions. Since its founding in 1996 by actor Paul Newman and General H. Norman Schwarzkopf, the camp has provided a medically safe and adventure-filled environment where kids can leave behind the challenges of their illnesses and embrace the joys of childhood.

Since its opening, the camp has welcomed over 95,000 children and families, offering them a completely cost-free retreat filled with fun, support and a sense of belonging.

Spanning 232 acres, Camp Boggy Creek provides year-round programming for children ages 7-17 who have been diagnosed with serious illnesses such as cancer, epilepsy, heart disease, sickle cell anemia, immune deficiencies and other chronic conditions. The camp’s facilities include 16 camper cabins, a fully equipped medical center, an arts and crafts studio, a swimming facility, a sports complex, a ropes course and a nature barn, all designed to ensure that every camper, regardless of their condition, can participate fully and safely.

Children experience activities they may have never thought possible. Whether it’s catching their first fish, riding a horse, climbing a ropes course, or performing in a theater production, each camper is encouraged to step out of their comfort zone and embrace new experiences. Beyond the thrill of these activities, the camp fosters a strong sense of fellowship and camaraderie where children can connect with others who understand their journey. It’s a place where they don’t have to explain their condition or feel different—they can just be kids.

Camp Horizon

7369 Sunnyside Dr., Leesburg
camphorizon.org

For nearly five decades, children and teens have grown spiritually while enjoying outdoor adventures at Camp Horizon in Leesburg. The 87-acre camp established on Lake Harris in 1971 has hosted full summer programs since 1976, blending Bible studies, chapel sessions and nightly devotions with exciting activities like sailing, canoeing, archery, riflery and waterskiing.

Camp Horizon offers weeklong camps for ages 8-17, including Youth, Junior and Varsity programs, where campers engage in faith-building lessons and hands-on activities. Returning for the first time in 20 years, Christian Intensive Training (CIT) offers in-depth Bible study and service projects for campers 15 and older. For younger kids, Day Camp provides structured fun with daily devotionals, swimming and team activities, with early drop-off and late pick-up options available.

Beyond summer, Camp Horizon hosts year-round church retreats and faith-based gatherings that foster community, leadership and spiritual growth. With a legacy of faith and adventure, Camp Horizon continues to create life-changing experiences for generations of campers.

Central Florida Bible Camp

23813 CR 44A, Custis
cfbiblecamp.org

Since 1956, Central Florida Bible Camp has been a beacon of spiritual growth, adventure and community, offering summer camps and retreats that shape young lives. Nestled in Eustis, CFBC welcomes hundreds of children each year, creating an immersive experience where faith, friendship and fun go hand in hand.

CFBC’s summer programs are designed to nurture a child’s spiritual development while providing an exciting camp atmosphere. Campers participate in Bible studies, devotionals and chapel services, all seamlessly woven into a week filled with outdoor adventures. From zip-lining across the lake and paintball to swimming, fishing, archery and talent shows, there’s no shortage of excitement. The camp fosters an environment where children build lasting friendships, often forming lifelong bonds with peers and mentors.

Each summer, CFBC hosts nine unique sessions catering to different age groups, with programs for children as young as kindergarten through high school seniors. Special sessions like Teen Week, Forever Camp and Upward Bound provide older campers with leadership experiences and spiritual challenges. Winter Camp, held in January, offers a faith-filled retreat during the school year.

Beyond summer, CFBC serves as a year-round retreat center, hosting church gatherings, family events and weekend getaways that strengthen faith and fellowship. With its long-standing commitment to Christian values and personal growth, Central Florida Bible Camp continues to inspire the next generation, helping them develop into strong, faith-filled leaders.

Florida Elks Youth Camp

24175 S.E. Hwy. 450, Umatilla
floridaelks.org/camp

The Florida Elks Youth Camp in Umatilla offers a tech-free summer experience for kids ages 9-13 that blends adventure, personal growth and lasting friendships. Spanning 405 acres, the camp features swimming pools, a ropes course, archery, canoeing, basketball courts and modern cabins with air conditioning and private bathrooms.

The camp runs June 8-July 26 and offers one-week and two-week sessions, with scholarships available for families in need. Session 7 (July 20-26) is free for active military families. Transportation is provided from select Florida locations.

The youth camp provides state-of-the-art amenities, including two shaded swimming pools, a high ropes challenge course, an archery range and a large private lake for canoeing and paddle boating. Campers also have access to a fully equipped indoor gymnasium with three basketball courts, sprawling athletic fields and modern cabins complete with air conditioning and private bathrooms. In addition to exciting recreational activities, the camp emphasizes teamwork, leadership and personal development, while ensuring a safe and engaging environment guided by trained counselors and staff.

The Elks have supported communities for over 150 years, and the FL Elks Youth Camp continues that mission by helping kids build confidence, leadership
and teamwork skills.

Specialty Summer Camps

Photos: Provided