Texas’ Most Beloved Summer Camps

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For many Texans, nothing embodies the pure joy of summer quite like attending camp. But with so many summer camps to choose from, it can be hard to know which ones are truly worth your time and money. Thankfully, Texas is home to some of the most beloved summer camps in the country. These camps aren't just popular because of their picturesque locations or state-of-the-art facilities, either - many of them have been operating for generations, passing down traditions and creating lifelong memories for countless campers. So if you're looking to make the most of your summer in Texas, be sure to check out these iconic camps.

Camp Olympia

Camp Olympia is a highly regarded summer camp located in Trinity, Texas. Situated on the shores of Lake Livingston, Camp Olympia offers a comprehensive overnight camp experience for boys and girls aged 6 to 16.

Philosophy

Camp Olympia aims to provide a positive and nurturing environment where campers can grow, develop new skills, and create lifelong friendships. The camp offers a wide range of activities and programs to cater to the diverse interests and abilities of campers.

Camp Activities

Campers at Camp Olympia can engage in activities such as swimming, watersports, kayaking, paddleboarding, sailing, horseback riding, archery, riflery, arts and crafts, sports, and outdoor adventures. The camp's facilities include a waterfront area, a swimming pool, equestrian facilities, sports fields, arts and crafts studios, and adventure courses.

Location: 23 Olympia Dr, Trinity, TX 75862

Website: https://www.campolympia.com

Heart O' the Hills

Heart O' the Hills is indeed one of Texas' most beloved summer camps. Located in the scenic Hill Country near Hunt, Texas, it has been providing memorable camp experiences for girls for over 80 years.

Philosophy

Heart O' the Hills offers a traditional camp program for girls aged 6 to 16. The camp's mission is to foster personal growth, leadership skills, and lifelong friendships in a nurturing and fun environment. It provides a wide range of activities and experiences designed to promote physical, mental, and emotional well-being.

Camp Activities

Campers at Heart O' the Hills can participate in various activities such as swimming, horseback riding, arts and crafts, archery, tennis, drama, dance, and nature exploration. The camp's facilities include a swimming pool, riding stables, a lake for canoeing and fishing, sports fields, and a performing arts center.

Overall, Heart O' the Hills has earned its reputation as one of Texas' most beloved summer camps by offering a well-rounded experience that combines outdoor adventures, skill-building activities, and lasting friendships. It continues to be cherished by generations of campers who return year after year for the magic and camaraderie that this camp provides.

Location: 2430 TX-39, Hunt, TX 78024

Website: https://hohcamp.com

Camp La Junta

Camp La Junta is indeed one of Texas' most beloved summer camps. Located in the scenic Texas Hill Country near Hunt, Texas, it has been providing memorable camp experiences for boys for over 90 years.

Philosophy

Camp La Junta offers a traditional overnight camp program for boys aged 7 to 14. The camp's mission is to create a positive and nurturing environment where boys can develop character, leadership skills, and lifelong friendships. The camp aims to instill values such as integrity, respect, and responsibility through a variety of activities and experiences.

Camp Activities

At Camp La Junta, boys can engage in a wide range of activities designed to promote physical, mental, and emotional growth. These activities include swimming, water sports, horseback riding, archery, riflery, fishing, arts and crafts, team sports, and outdoor adventures. The camp's facilities include a swimming pool, a lake for water activities, sports fields, a ropes course, and nature trails.

Overall, Camp La Junta has earned its reputation as one of Texas' most beloved summer camps by providing boys with a well-rounded camp experience that combines adventure, skill-building, character development, and lifelong friendships. It continues to be cherished by generations of campers who return year after year for the unique spirit and sense of community that Camp La Junta offers.

Location: 1661 TX-39, Hunt, TX 78024

Website: https://www.lajunta.com

Camp Longhorn

Camp Longhorn is widely recognized as one of Texas' most beloved summer camps. Nestled in the picturesque Hill Country near Burnet, Texas, Camp Longhorn has been providing unforgettable camp experiences for children and teenagers since 1939.

Philosophy

Camp Longhorn offers a variety of summer camp programs tailored to different age groups and interests. They have programs for boys, girls, and even a co-ed program for teenagers. The camp's philosophy centers around fostering personal growth, building self-confidence, and creating lifelong memories in a supportive and fun-filled environment.

Camp Activities

Campers at Camp Longhorn can partake in a wide array of activities, including swimming, water sports, horseback riding, archery, riflery, arts and crafts, team sports, rock climbing, hiking, and camping. The camp's facilities include multiple waterfronts for water activities, stables for horseback riding, sports fields, climbing walls, and scenic trails.

The camp's picturesque location in the Hill Country further enhances the camp experience. Camp Longhorn allows campers to connect with nature, appreciate the beauty of the outdoors, and participate in activities that promote environmental stewardship.

Overall, Camp Longhorn has earned its reputation as one of Texas' most beloved summer camps by providing a well-rounded experience that combines adventure, personal growth, camaraderie, and cherished traditions. The camp's commitment to creating a positive and inclusive environment has made it a cherished destination for generations of campers seeking unforgettable summer experiences.

Location: Inks Lake: 1 Camp Longhorn Rd, Buchanan Dam, TX

Indian Springs: 1000 Indian Springs Road, Burnet, TX

C3 on Inks Lake: 108 Attaway Lane, Buchanan Dam, TX

Website: https://www.camplonghorn.com

Camp Mystic

Camp Mystic is widely regarded as one of Texas' most beloved summer camps. Situated in the beautiful Texas Hill Country near Hunt, Texas, Camp Mystic has been providing extraordinary camp experiences for girls for over 100 years.

Philosophy

Camp Mystic offers a traditional overnight camp program for girls aged 7 to 16. The camp's mission is to empower girls, promote personal growth, and foster lifelong friendships in a nurturing and supportive environment. Campers at Mystic have the opportunity to explore a wide range of activities and experiences while building character and confidence.

Camp Activities

Campers at Camp Mystic can engage in various activities, including swimming, water sports, horseback riding, tennis, archery, arts and crafts, dance, theater, team sports, and outdoor adventures. The camp's facilities include a swimming pool, equestrian center, waterfront for water activities, sports fields, arts and crafts studios, and performance spaces.

The natural beauty of the Hill Country surrounding Camp Mystic enhances the camp experience. The camp's location provides a serene and picturesque backdrop for outdoor adventures, nature exploration, and appreciation of the environment.

Overall, Camp Mystic has earned its reputation as one of Texas' most beloved summer camps by providing girls with a well-rounded experience that combines fun, personal growth, lasting friendships, and treasured traditions. It continues to be cherished by generations of campers who return year after year for the magical and empowering experiences that Camp Mystic offers.

Location: Camp Mystic, 2689 Hwy 39, Hunt, TX 78024

Website: https://www.campmystic.com

Camp Stewart

Camp Stewart is widely recognized as one of Texas' most beloved summer camps. Located in the scenic Texas Hill Country near Hunt, Texas, Camp Stewart has been providing exceptional camp experiences for boys for over 100 years.

Philosophy

Camp Stewart offers a traditional overnight camp program for boys aged 6 to 16. The camp's mission is to foster personal growth, character development, and lifelong friendships in a supportive and engaging environment. Campers at Stewart have the opportunity to participate in a wide range of activities that promote physical, mental, and emotional well-being.

Camp Activities

The camp's activity offerings include swimming, water sports, fishing, horseback riding, archery, riflery, sports, arts and crafts, hiking, camping, and outdoor adventures. Camp Stewart boasts excellent facilities, including a swimming pool, waterfront for water activities, riding stables, sports fields, arts and crafts studios, and dedicated areas for outdoor pursuits.

Camp Stewart also offers leadership development programs and opportunities for older campers to take on responsibilities and assume leadership roles within the camp community. These programs help campers develop important skills such as teamwork, communication, and decision-making.

Overall, Camp Stewart has earned its reputation as one of Texas' most beloved summer camps by providing boys with a well-rounded experience that combines adventure, personal growth, friendship, and cherished traditions. It continues to be treasured by generations of campers who return year after year to create lifelong memories at Camp Stewart.

Location: 612 FM 1340, Hunt, TX 78024

Website: https://campstewart.com

Vista Camps

Vista Camps is a well-regarded summer camp located in the Texas Hill Country near Hunt, Texas. With a history spanning over 90 years, Vista Camps has been providing memorable camp experiences for children and teenagers.

Philosophy

Vista Camps offers a variety of camp programs tailored to different age groups and interests. They have separate programs for boys and girls, as well as a co-ed program for teenagers. The camp's mission is to create a positive and inclusive environment where campers can grow, learn, and build lifelong friendships.

Camp Activities

Traditions play a significant role at Vista Camps, contributing to the camp's sense of community and nostalgia. From campfire gatherings and talent shows to themed events and special ceremonies, these traditions create lasting memories and a strong sense of belonging among campers and staff.

The natural surroundings of the Texas Hill Country add to the camp's appeal. Campers have the chance to appreciate the beauty of nature, engage in outdoor adventures, and develop a deeper connection with the environment.

Overall, Vista Camps has established itself as a beloved summer camp in Texas by offering a diverse range of activities, fostering personal growth, building friendships, and upholding cherished traditions. It continues to be cherished by campers who return year after year to experience the magic of Vista Camps.

Location: 175 Rio Vista Rd S, Ingram, TX 78025

Website: https://vistacamps.com

Camp Waldemar

Camp Waldemar is a highly regarded summer camp located in the Texas Hill Country near Hunt, Texas. With a history spanning over 90 years, Camp Waldemar has provided countless girls with transformative camp experiences.

Philosophy

Camp Waldemar offers a traditional overnight camp program for girls aged 7 to 16. The camp's mission is to inspire personal growth, foster leadership skills, and create lifelong friendships in a supportive and empowering environment. Campers at Waldemar have the opportunity to engage in a wide range of activities that promote physical, mental, and emotional well-being.

Camp Activities

Camp Waldemar is known for its rich traditions, which contribute to the camp's unique identity and sense of community. From the opening and closing campfire ceremonies to flag-raising, theme days, and special events, these traditions create lasting memories and foster a strong bond among campers and staff.

The natural beauty of the Texas Hill Country surrounding Camp Waldemar enhances the camp experience. Campers have the opportunity to connect with nature, appreciate the outdoors, and participate in activities that promote environmental stewardship.

Camp Waldemar also offers leadership development programs, encouraging older campers to take on responsibilities and assume leadership roles within the camp community. These programs help campers develop valuable skills such as communication, teamwork, and problem-solving.

Location: 1005 FM 1340, Hunt, TX 78024

Website: https://waldemar.com

Moolah U

Moolah U is not a summer camp but rather an entrepreneurial program for children and teenagers. It focuses on teaching financial literacy, entrepreneurship, and money management skills to young individuals.

Philosophy

Moolah U offers various programs and workshops where participants learn about concepts such as budgeting, saving, investing, and starting a business. The program aims to empower young people by providing them with practical knowledge and tools to become financially responsible and successful.

Camp Activities

Moolah U programs often involve hands-on experiences, where participants have the opportunity to start their own businesses, manage money, and make financial decisions. These activities allow participants to gain practical experience and develop a deeper understanding of financial concepts.

Overall, Moolah U offers a unique and engaging learning experience for children and teenagers interested in financial literacy and entrepreneurship. It equips young individuals with the skills and knowledge needed to navigate the financial landscape and become financially responsible adults.

Location: 5310 Helen St #167, Austin, TX 78751

Website: https://moolahu.com

Embark on an unforgettable urban adventure and explore the vibrant heart of Texas! During summertime, the bustling cities of Texas overflow with thrilling experiences that are sure to bring joy.

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