Abilene Summer Camps 2025

Abilene offers a variety of engaging summer camps for kids. But camp options fill up quickly, so even though it’s just now spring break, it’s also time to start making summer plans for your children! This guide gives an overview of the options available at this time in the Abilene community. I will update the post as I learn of additional options, so be sure to check back over the coming months! (When two prices are listed below, the first is for members of that organization, and the second applies to non-members.)

1. YMCA of Abilene Summer Camp (ages 5-12)

The YMCA's summer camp provides activities such as youth sports, outdoor activities, arts and crafts, and more! The camp emphasizes core values like caring, honesty, respect, and responsibility. Beginning on June 2nd, camps run daily from 7:30am-6:00pm, and cost $110/$180 per week.

2. Grace Academy Summer Camps (grades K-12)

Tap into your child’s creative side at these half-day camps hosted by The Grace Museum. These camps offer diverse themes, including culinary arts, science experiments, engineering challenges, and various art projects. Camps last one week each, beginning on June 16th, and vary in cost.

3. Center for Contemporary Arts (grades K-12)

If art is your kid’s thing, also check out the half-day camps offered by the Center for Contemporary Arts. Details have not yet been posted, but these camps have proven to be quality experiences, so be sure to check back occasionally!

4. Abilene Zoo Summer Camp (ages 5-13)

The Abilene Zoo offers weekly camps with unique themes with activities, lessons, and animal encounters tailored to specific age groups. Weekly sessions begin on June 9th, run from 8am-1:30 pm daily, and cost $250/$275 per week. Registration for zoo camps closes on March 31st, and these camps fill up quickly, so act fast if you’re interested in this opportunity!

5. Hardin-Simmons University Summer Camps (varies)

Hardin-Simmons University provides a variety of camps depending on the year: craft camp, athletic camps, swim camps, outdoor recreation camps, finance and investment camp, and sometimes even a junior police academy! The diverse range of activities means parents can select camps that align with their child's interests and needs.

6. Beltway Summer Club (grades K-8)

Beltway’s faith-based camps begin on June 2 and run daily from 7:30am-6:00pm, making them a great option for working parents. Cost is $290 per three-week session, with discounts available for multiple children.

7. Gymnastics Sports Center Camp (ages 6-12)

Held from 9:00am-4:30pm on July 29-August 1, this four-day camp builds gymnastics and cheer abilities for boys and girls of all skill levels. Daily games, relays, and open gym time entail plenty of fun, and as does preparation for a performance on the final day!

8. Mentoring Alliance Summer Camps (grades 1-6)

Another great option for working parents is Mentoring Alliance. New to the Abilene area, Mentoring Alliance offers camps focusing on mentoring, academic success, and emotional resilience. This is a faith-based camp, but the camp also touts 10 hours of life skills and academic instruction per week, with the goal to help students be more prepared for the next grade level by the end of the summer. But it’s not all hard work—there’s plenty of fun and games too, with water inflatables, go-karts, and arts and crafts being part of the regular offerings! Week-long sessions begin May 27th, offering care from 7:30am-5:30pm and cost $169/week.

9. Buffalo Gap Presbyterian Camp (grades 4-8)

This faith-based overnight camp for elementary and middle school children has daily Bible study, crafts, swimming, group games, and star-watching. Get your kids “unplugged” and out in nature with this screen-free camp! Costs range from $210-$350, depending on the length of the camp.

10. Abilene Youth Sports Authority (grades 3-9)

AYSA hosts volleyball and basketball camps throughout the summer for kids of various ages. Costs vary, so check out their website for more details.

11. Abilene Performing Arts Center (ages 3+)

APAC’s camps immerse children in the performing arts: singing, dancing, storytelling, and musical theater! All are welcome to participate regardless of skill level or experience. Week-long camps range in price from $100-$150, and a $400 three-week production camp concludes with a performance at the Paramount!

12. Abilene Ballet Theater (ages 3+)

Creative movement, ballet, jazz—there are several options for kids of various ages. Children ages 3-8 can participate in 2-hour sessions for 4 days in a row for a total of $140. Junior and Senior technique classes and a summer intensive are available too!

13. ACU Sports Camps (grades K-12)

ACU offers camps of varying lengths for baseball, basketball, spirit, football, soccer, softball, tennis, track and field, and volleyball. Prices vary depending on the options you choose, so look for more details on their website.

14. TH!NK GT Camp (grades K-9)

This camp for students enrolled in a Gifted and Talented program offers a deep dive into a particular theme—whether that’s aviation, Vikings, engineering, or Artificial Intelligence. Documentation of GT participation is required, or testing for identification is available for an additional cost. Camp happens June 14-18. The half-day experience for kindergarten through 5th grade cost $155, and the full-day experience for 6th-9th grade is $235.

As you can see, options abound! By proactively engaging with camp staff and selecting environments that align with your child's preferences, you can ensure a rewarding and enjoyable summer experience in the Abilene area!

Speaking of which, if you are the parent of a child with ADHD or autism, here are some additional considerations you might think through as you make your summer camp plans:

• Communication: Reach out to camp organizers to discuss your child's specific needs and inquire about staff training related to those needs.

• Environment: Consider camps with structured routines and low sensory stimulation if your child is sensitive to noise or chaotic settings.

• Trial Visits: If possible, arrange a visit to the camp beforehand to assess its suitability and help your child become familiar with the environment.

Do you know of any other camp options for 2025 that I ought to add to the list? If so reach out and let me know!