Guide to Summer Camps in Lake County that Keep Your Kids Outdoors

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The Little Lake County Summer Camp Guide contains paid listings.

When I was a kid, camp meant playing outside, all summer long. Mosquito bites, sunscreen, hats and plenty of running. We rested in the shade of bur oaks, took a dip in lakes and entered school in the fall with sun-kissed cheeks and shoulders. Our spirits were lifted and our bodies were full of exactly what we’re supposed to get out of summer. Today, we see camps that are outdoors, indoors, partially indoor and out, and our kids can use them all! If you’re looking for a camp that aims to keep your kids outdoors for the majority of their day, we’ve got the best list for you!

Outdoor Camps in Lake County

COVID-19 STATEMENT: We are updating all our guides to reflect the lifting of stay-at-home orders on May 29, 2020. This information is being provided as a resource for our readers. Ultimately it is up to you what you and your family will do and if you choose to go out.

Editor’s note: for this guide, we defined outdoor camps as camps where children spend 80% or more of their camp time outdoors.

lake county forest preserves camp,virtual nature camp

Lake County Forest Preserves Camps
While we can’t meet in the preserves this summer, we can still learn about local nature and history.

All six Lake County Forest Preserves virtual summer camps offer a fun educational experience presented by our professional nature and history educators. Some camps, such as Wetland Explorers, feature a self-guided outdoor adventure component that families can do together.

Whether learning virtually indoors with our educators, or outdoors on their own, campers can explore some of the most beautiful natural areas in the region, hear about Lake County’s rich history, and discover what prehistoric times were like when dinosaurs roamed our area.
Dates: June 15-19, 22-26, July 6-10, 13-17, 27-31, and August 3-7, 10-14
Ages: 6-14
Size: 20 participants per camp
Fee: $25 per camp

Camp CBG – Chicago Botanic Garden
Glencoe

Camp CBG: Where Science, Nature & Fun Meet
Based on recommendations from state and local public health officials to help slow the spread of the coronavirus (COVID-19), the Chicago Botanic Garden has canceled all sessions of Camp CBG.

Stock up on the sunscreen and bug spray and get those kids outside! What is your favorite outdoor camp?

No more searching! We’ve got your summer in the bag…

…Or rather your inbox! Sign up now for Camp Trike and receive a weekly themed list of activities, all summer long! Each one will have things to do and ideas for easy summer fun you can do at home.

Camp Trike runs May 25 through August 14 and will include optional membership to a private Facebook Group to share ideas, comments and plan playdates.

Disclosure: Listings in this guide were paid for by the camps featured.