Summer camps are a great opportunity for kids to try new things, be challenged, learn new skills, make friends, have fun, and so much more! The Sioux Falls Area has so many great opportunities for your family to get involved in amazing summer camp programming. For many families, figuring out what to do in the summer to fill the time can be hard.

Summer camps help give structure and activity to kids who are home during the summer months. If your child has been wanting to try out a new sport or activity, a summer camp program is the perfect place to start! The school year can become incredibly busy and summer offers kids the time to explore new possibilities. Summer camps are also a chance to focus on education in a new way! Maybe your child would benefit from specialized tutoring or therapies. Ignite a love for learning outside of the classroom. 

There are countless reasons that summer camps are great, but a kid-favorite reason for going to summer camp is because they love them! We asked our 2024 Summer Camps Guide cover stars some questions about why they love summer camps! We also made sure to ask Mom and Dad how camp benefits their family. 

Maverick, Age 3

Why do you love summer camp? They are fun!
What is your favorite part of summer camp? To see friends and play! Why do you think camp is good for kids? It’s fun!
Mom and Dad, how does summer camp benefit your child? We love the social interactions and learning skills it offers!
Favorite Types of Summer Camp: Swimming and Outside Camps

Arabella, Age 3

Why do you love summer camp? I love playing and my coaches.
What is your favorite part of summer camp? Soccer, running, playing, fishing, snakes, and fish! 
Why do you think camp is good for kids? I learn new things and because I like it so much!
Mom, how does summer camp benefit your child? Summer camps are great for teaching kids independence and teamwork while also providing a fun and safe activity that they are interested in.
Favorite Types of Summer Camp: Soccer, Gymnastics, Parks and Rec Programs, and the Washington Pavilion

Addie, Age 6

Why do you love summer camp? You get to do fun new things!
What is your favorite part of summer camp? They are fun, and I love summer. 
Why do you think camp is good for kids? Because they keep you entertained! 
Mom and Dad, how does summer camp benefit your child?: It allows them to take part in a variety of activities that they may not get to do during the school year. It’s great to have a structured activity to keep their minds busy and their bodies active, so hopefully, you can avoid the dreaded, “I’M BORED!”
Favorite Types of Summer Camp: Dance, Zoo Camps, and Swimming

Mattea, Age: 6

Why do you love summer camp? I meet new friends! 
What is your favorite part of summer camp? I got to go to a zoo camp with my cousin. 
Why do you think camp is good for kids? It’s so fun and we get to try new things
Mom, how does summer camp benefit your child?: I think it’s great to be in different environments where she has to listen, interact with other kids, and make independent decisions. She has always come home excited to share her experiences! 
Favorite Summer Camps: Dance, Zoo, and Theater Camps

Radian, Age 5

Raiden attends therapy programs at Lifescape and loves the care and attention he receives there. He might not be able to express his excitement for summer camp in his own words, but he makes it known in his own way!
Mom, how does summer camp benefit your child? Raiden’s summer activities/therapies help regulate him and keep him on a routine. It also gives him something fun to look forward to! 
Favorite Summer Camps: Aquatic Therapy, Music Therapy, and Hippotherapy.