Summer vacation! Those two magical words whisk us back to carefree days of sunshine, endless possibilities, and adventures waiting around every corner. But for parents, summer can also mean juggling work schedules and finding enriching childcare that keeps their little ones happy and engaged.
Here in Parkersburg and the Mid-Ohio Valley, we’re fortunate to have a fantastic selection of summer camps catering to all interests! This blog post is your one-stop guide to help you find the perfect camp for your child, ensuring a summer filled with fun, learning, and unforgettable memories.
Let’s dive into some amazing options!
For the Active Kid:
Nature Lovers: Rejoice!
Camp Crawdad: Budding explorers, rejoice! Camp Crawdad is an outdoor paradise, immersing kids in the wonders of the natural world. They’ll learn about the local ecosystem through exciting activities like hiking, fishing, and exploring tide pools. Camp Crawdad emphasizes environmental stewardship and outdoor skills, helping children develop a deep appreciation for nature. From identifying different plant species to understanding wildlife habitats, this camp offers an educational adventure that’s both fun and enriching. Camp Crawdad | Camp Crawdad
Angie Evans is one of the head counselors at Camp Crawdad now after years of teaching pre-schoolers at Fairlawn Academy (including all three of my own children) – she is a fabulous person and wonderful with kids.
Another great thing about Camp Crawdad is that it is located inside the DERC park, so kids have the opportunity to swim at the DERC pool all summer long.
YMCA of Parkersburg: The YMCA offers the classic summer camp experience! Their program keeps active kids engaged with a mix of sports, swimming, arts & crafts, and exciting field trips. The YMCA is known for its inclusive and supportive environment, making it a great place for children to build confidence and make new friends. Whether your child is a budding athlete or just loves to stay active, the YMCA’s diverse range of activities ensures there’s something for everyone. YMCA of Parkersburg
Building Champions:
Boys & Girls Clubs of Parkersburg: This fantastic organization provides a safe and fun environment for kids of all ages. Their summer program offers a fantastic mix of activities, including educational programs, sports leagues, arts programs, and field trips. It’s a great way to foster a sense of community and belonging. The Boys & Girls Clubs focus on developing leadership skills and encouraging positive relationships, ensuring your child not only has fun but also grows as an individual. Boys & Girls Clubs of Parkersburg | Boys & Girls Clubs of Parkersburg
Exploring Faith:
The Wilderness Christian Camp: Nestled in the beautiful West Virginia countryside, The Wilderness Camp offers a unique summer experience focused on faith exploration. Through outdoor adventures, Bible study, and team-building activities, your child will grow in their faith while making lasting friendships. The camp’s serene environment provides a perfect backdrop for spiritual growth and reflection, making it an ideal choice for families seeking a faith-centered summer experience. The Wilderness Christian Camp
Learning Beyond the Classroom Walls:
Ely-Chapman Education Foundation: This organization is all about sparking curiosity! Their unique summer programs combine education with fun, offering themes like robotics, coding, and creative writing. These programs are perfect for kids who love to learn in a hands-on way. Ely-Chapman’s summer camps are designed to make learning exciting and interactive, ensuring children stay intellectually stimulated while having a blast. Ely-Chapman Education Foundation
STEAM Fun
Discovery World: Our kids love exploring and playing at the new local science museum! Located on Market Street in downtown Parkersburg, Discovery World offers lots of activies and summer camps that are always so much fun and well planned out.
Nurturing Young Minds:
Precious Angels Early Learning Center: For younger children (ages 2–5), Precious Angels offers a nurturing summer camp environment. With age-appropriate activities, playtime, and opportunities to develop social skills, your little one will have a summer filled with joy and learning. The center’s caring staff focuses on creating a safe and loving environment, allowing young children to explore and grow at their own pace. Precious Angels Early Learning Center
Tips for Choosing the Right Summer Camp
Selecting the perfect summer camp for your child can be a daunting task. Here are some tips to help you make the right choice:
- Understand Your Child’s Interests: Consider what activities your child enjoys and look for camps that offer those programs.
- Visit the Camp: If possible, visit the camp beforehand to get a feel for the environment and meet the staff.
- Check Reviews and References: Look for reviews from other parents and ask for references to ensure the camp has a good reputation.
- Ask About Safety Measures: Inquire about the camp’s safety protocols and staff-to-child ratio to ensure your child will be well taken care of.
- Consider the Camp’s Values: Make sure the camp’s values align with your family’s beliefs and goals.
Capture Those Magical Moments!
With all these exciting adventures, you’ll want to preserve those precious memories! As a professional photographer specializing in capturing the joy and wonder of childhood, I, Lori Pickens, can help! I focus on candid moments that showcase the true essence of your child’s summer camp experience. Visit my website at Lori Pickens Photography to learn more about my services and let’s create lasting memories of your child’s unforgettable summer!
Remember: Camp offerings and registration information may change from year to year, so be sure to visit the camp websites or social media pages for the most up-to-date details.
Now that you have a fantastic selection of camps to choose from, it’s time to find the perfect fit for your Parkersburg kiddo! With so many amazing options, your child is sure to have a summer filled with fun, learning, and memories that will last a lifetime!
Meet Lori Pickens, Parkersburg, WV Photographer
Lori Pickens is a mother, wife, and geek from Parkersburg, WV, and the podcast host of Photo Goals. She is a true lifelong local and has been photographing in the area for over a decade. She serves families from Parkersburg, WV, to Marietta, OH. Lori is also a Click Pro Elite and Click Community Mentor. When she’s not capturing pictures or spending time with her kids, she enjoys organizing her lists and spending time on her family farm.
Stay connected and get inspired by following Lori Pickens Photography on Facebook, Instagram, and Pinterest for the latest updates, behind-the-scenes looks, and beautiful images from recent sessions.
