From lakeside adventures to high-ropes challenges, these summer camps around North Texas give kids the summer of a lifetime.
By Jenna Dolch
Summer camp has long been a rite of passage for kids ready to explore, grow and have unforgettable experiences. From classic lakefront camp fun to challenge courses and horseback riding, camps offer kids the chance to disconnect from screens and connect with nature and each other.
In this guide, we’ve rounded up some of the best summer camps near North Texas, including session dates, locations and contact details so you can start planning early. Whether you’re looking for adventure, overnight camps, new friends or simply a week under the stars, there’s something here for every camper.
Camp Grady Spruce – YMCA Overnight Camp
A classic YMCA sleepaway experience, Camp Grady Spruce sits on the shores of scenic Possum Kingdom Lake and offers a wide range of activities from wakeboarding and sailing to horseback riding and team building. Campers can expect a traditional Texas summer camp with outdoor adventure woven into every day. ACA-accredited and staffed with trained counselors, this camp excels at building confidence, friendships and outdoor skills.
Address 3000 Park Road 36, Graford
Dates May 31–Aug. 1
Ages 7–16
Phone 469-421-7734
Camp Olympia
On the shores of beautiful Lake Livingston, Camp Olympia delivers a classic Texas overnight summer camp with choice-driven activities and a camper-focused experience. With a wide range of options including arts, water fun, outdoor adventures and more than 45 activities overall, Olympia encourages independence and friendship in a supportive setting.
Address 723 Olympia Drive, Trinity
Dates May 31–Aug. 7
Ages 6–16
Phone 936-594-2541
Camp Thurman
Right in the heart of the Dallas-Fort Worth area, Camp Thurman blends classic summer camp fun with high-ropes courses, swimming, ziplines and more. Designed for boys and girls with age-specific programs, it’s a great choice if you want the camp experience close to home. With a sprawling outdoor setting and energetic counselors, campers make memories through games, crafts, outdoor challenges and community-building activities.
Address 3001 Sarah Drive, Pantego
Dates June 1–July 24
Ages 5–11
Phone 817-274-8441
Camp Fire Camp El Tesoro
Part of the Camp Fire First Texas network, Camp El Tesoro offers immersive summer overnight sessions designed to foster confidence, independence and outdoor skills. Campers can participate in horseback riding, kayaking, archery, woodshop and evening campfires during sessions. With more than five decades of camping history and ACA accreditation, El Tesoro blends traditional camp fun with meaningful personal growth.
Address 7710 Fall Creek Highway, Granbury
Dates June 7–July 24
Grades 1–12
Phone 817-831-2111
YMCA Camp Carter Overnight Camp
Just minutes from downtown Fort Worth, Camp Carter’s overnight sleepaway programs offer outdoor education, leadership development and traditional camp experiences like nature hikes, ropes courses, swimming and team challenges. With a focus on confidence, resilience and lasting camp friendships, this YMCA camp blends adventure with community values.
Address 6200 Sand Springs Road, Fort Worth
Dates June 14–July 17
Ages 7–17
Phone 817-738-9241
Camp Young Judaea Texas
Located in the scenic Texas Hill Country, Camp Young Judaea Texas (CYJ Texas) has offered Jewish overnight camp experiences since 1952. Weeklong sessions blend traditional summer fun with elective activities like ropes courses and waterfront sports, aimed at building community, confidence and lifelong friendships.
Address 5410 Bellaire Blvd., No. 207, Bellaire
Dates June 21–Aug. 4
Ages 6–14
Phone 713-723-8345