There’s something truly special about sending your child off to their first overnight camp. The nerves, excitement, duffel bags packed with bug spray and favorite pajamas, and that bittersweet moment of waving goodbye. As an Iowa family photographer, I’ve had the chance to hear from so many families who say sleepaway camp was the moment their child found confidence, independence, and a little piece of themselves. If you’re considering overnight summer camps in Iowa, here are a few standout programs that are trusted, welcoming, and full of memory-making magic.
Give Your Child The Ultimate Experience At These Wonderful Overnight Summer Camps In Iowa
Y-Camp
1192 166th Dr. Boone, IA 50036
Located on nearly 400 acres along the Des Moines River, Y Camp has been a beloved destination for Iowa families for over a century. Their overnight programs blend outdoor adventure. Think horseback riding, canoeing, and hiking. Complete with leadership development and classic camp traditions like campfires and cabin bonding. It’s a place where kids can unplug, try new things, and build lifelong friendships.
Camp Tanager
1614 W Mount Vernon Rd. Mount Vernon, IA 52314
Established in 1926, Camp Tanager offers both day and overnight programs for children ages 6–11. Set on a 40-acre wooded campus, the camp features swimming pools, archery, nature trails, and themed weeks that keep kids engaged and excited. They also provide specialized medical camps for children with conditions like diabetes or hemophilia, ensuring every child has a chance to experience the joy of camp.
Camp Courageous
12007 190th St, Monticello, IA 52310
Camp Courageous is a year-round respite and recreational facility designed for individuals of all ages with disabilities. Their overnight summer camps offer tons of Iowa activities, including swimming, canoeing, arts and crafts, and nature exploration. All within a supportive and accessible environment. It’s a place where campers can build confidence, make friends, and enjoy the outdoors in a setting tailored to their needs.
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Camp Sunnyside
401 N.E. 66th Ave., Des Moines, IA 50313
Camp Sunnyside provides inclusive camping experiences for children and adults with and without disabilities. Their programs include swimming, horseback riding, nature trails, and arts and crafts, all designed to promote personal growth and social interaction. With a focus on accessibility and inclusion, Camp Sunnyside ensures that every camper has the opportunity to participate fully and enjoy the magic of camp life.
Kids Absolutely Love The Experience Of These Fantastic Overnight Summer Camps In Iowa
Overnight summer camps in Iowa offer more than just a break from routine. They give kids space to grow, explore, and come into their own in the most unforgettable ways. And when they return home, sun-kissed, full of stories, and just a little more grown, it’s a beautiful reminder of how quickly these seasons pass.
As an Iowa family photographer, I love helping families celebrate these transitions. Whether your child is stepping into new independence or you’re simply soaking in a slower summer rhythm together, I’d be honored to help you capture the connection, growth, and joy of this stage. Let’s plan a session that feels relaxed, meaningful, and completely you.
