sleep-away camps for St. Louis kids

At YMCA Camp Lakewood overnight summer camp, ages 6-17 get to discover the wonders of the outdoors while making friends and memories that last a lifetime. Why is it such a memorable experience? When campers from all walks of life come together to try new things without judgment, to feel safe, happy and wanted – they discover more than a home away from home – they discover themselves. YMCA Camp Lakewood is an experience like none other. Kids come away with new skills, confidence and friendships that broaden their perspectives and strengthen their character. Their experience includes a 5,200-acre campus with forest-covered hills, caves, a creek, a lake, and lots to explore. The private lake offers a ton of waterfront activities like swimming, fishing, snorkeling, paddleboarding, kayaking and canoeing.

Bear Pole Expeditions is changing the world through transformative outdoor adventures, one camper at a time. At Bear Pole, we have been offering fun, safe, exciting epic adventures for more than 50 years. Campers age 11-17 are invited to join us in exploring pristine wilderness and experiencing the thrill of outdoor adventure with new friends. From the Rocky Mountains to the Olympics, from the Colorado River to the Pacific Ocean, join campers from across the US and around the world for the most amazing summer adventures you ever imagined. 

Camp Jump Start at Living Well Village is a residential WHOLE health camp specializing in healthy lifestyles and weight management. Kids ages 9-18 years old live at camp for 4 or 8 weeks. Those needing to lose weight typically lose 7-10% of their body weight in 4 weeks which is enough to reverse disease such as Type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, metabolic syndrome and fatty liver disease, and improve depression and anxiety. Normal weight kids also attend to learn how to be healthy/prevent disease while disconnecting from electronics to re-connect with people.