With summer just around the corner, now is a perfect time for parents to start investigating camps for their children that encourage personal growth through the warm months. With a number of great summer camps all over the state there is no need to look far. Here are just a handful of unique opportunities Illinois has to offer.

Camp Kupugani Multicultural Camp, Leaf River
Camp Kupugani prides itself in encouraging children ages 7-15 to learn life skills and values such as conflict resolution, positive self-image and leadership while also gaining an appreciation for diversity. Camp director Kevin Gordon experienced the social impact camp can have on kids’ growth and transformation in other states and wanted to bring this to Illinois in a major way. Through camp activities such as rock climbing, archery, canoeing, swimming, fishing and so much more, this camp offers children days of fun activities that empower and challenge them.

GTA Photography Summer Camp, Chicago
Aimed toward teens, this summer camp activates both sides of the brain as young adults learn about the mechanics of photography such as aperture, shutter speed and ISO while also learning to create beautiful works of art. This camp is located in downtown Chicago and is the only location in the United States for GTA photography classes. Teens visit different locations in Chicago to learn the foundations of photography from well-established photographers and mastering their camera’s manual modes.

Camp Ondessonk, Ozark
Located in the Shawnee National Forest, this summer camp has become a destination for the Midwest. The large number of staff at this camp makes sure that each camper gets the most out of their experience. The camp recently announced they have $50,000 in scholarships for their 2016 summer camp to increase accessibility. They offer a number of different types of camps including boy, girl or co-ed adventure camps that explore through mountain biking, horseback riding and river adventures.

Emagination Computer Camps, Lake Forest
For a fun way to combine STEM and summer activities, Emagination Summer Camp offers programs for kids ranging 8-17. Their camps include a Computer Camp program that balances technology learning with fun summer activities like swimming and, for an even more unique experience, they offer a Minecraft Coding Camp that helps kids learn to code in Java while creating modifications for the popular Minecraft game. This is a highly sought after program that brings in young future coders from all over the world.

Camp Manitowa, Bend Lake
Encourage your children to build self-esteem and make lifelong bonds with friends at this summer camp. Campers come from all over to participate in baking classes, water games, art, sports, nature activities and jewelry making. Located near St. Louis, this is the perfect destination for children from all over the state of Illinois that want to have fun and learn in the outdoors.