Aerial Arts

Aerobics

Aikido

Archery

Art & Crafts

Baseball

Basketball

Biking

Bilingual

Board Games

Boating/canoeing

Bowling

Boxing

Capoeira

Ceramics

Cheerleading

Chess

Coding/Programming

Cooking

Cricket

Dance

Drawing/Sketching

Drones

Embroidery

Entrepreneurship

Experiment

Exploration

Farming

Fencing

Field Hockey

Field Trips

Filmmaking

Fishing

Flag Football

Football

Futsal

Gaga Ball

Gardening

Glass work

Go-Karting

Gymnastics

Hapkido

Hiking

Hockey

Horse back

Ice Skating

Jewelry Making

Jiu jitsu

Judo

Karate

Kayaking

Kickboxing

Knitting

Kobudo

Krav Maga

Kung Fu

Lacrosse

Lazer Tag

Marathon

Math

Mini golf

Modeling

Muay Thai

Music

Music Therapy

Nature

Ninja

Occupational Therapy

Painting

Photography

Physical Therapy

Ping-Pong

Playing Instrument

Podcasting

Pottery

Printmaking

Reading

Religious service

Riflery

Robotics

Rock Climbing

Rope Course

Sailing

Scuba Diving

Sensory Play

Sewing

Skating

Sky Diving

Snorkelling

Soccer

Softball

Song Writing

Speech Therapy

Sportsfield activities

STEM/STEAM

Story Telling

Surfing

Swimming

Table Tennis

In the splendid state of Illinois, smack dab in the heartland of America, there exists a peculiar and thrilling spectacle. It's a land known for its towering skyscrapers, rolling farmlands, and, of course, the legendary deep-dish pizza. But there's another reason kids around these parts are celebrated - their genius at basketball.

Meet our imaginary friend, Dribbles the Dunking Dinosaur. Dribbles is a jovial green T-Rex obsessed with basketball. He's got a knack for blocking shots with his colossal tail and is something of a local celebrity on the courts of Illinois. Despite his short arms, his slam dunks would make even Michael Jordan's jaw drop!

Every afternoon, you'd see Dribbles and the rest of the high-spirited Illinois kids racing to the outdoor courts. They'd arrive in droves, lacing up their squeaky clean sneakers, eager to learn the latest trick from Dribbles. Even the unpredictable Midwestern weather couldn't dampen their spirits. Whether it was a sunny spring day or a frosty winter afternoon, their laughter and cheers echoed through the neighborhoods.

These kids, whether from the bustling streets of Chicago or the quiet corners of Springfield, shared a mutual love for basketball. Their eyes would light up at the sight of a bouncing basketball, hearts pounding in rhythm with the dribble. With Dribbles leading the charge, every game was an adventure - a whirlwind of fast breaks, alley-oops, and buzzer-beaters. 

Life in Illinois was never boring with Dribbles and the basketball-loving kids. Every day was a new chapter in their exciting book of basketball, filled with thrilling plot-twists and unforgettable characters. Because in Illinois, basketball was more than just a game - it was a way of life.

Inexpensive

Affordable

Moderate

Luxury

Nestled in 178 acres of lush woodland is a serene escape from the city, a place fondly known as Camp Swamp. This overnight Christian camp, located just two hours east of bustling Atlanta, has been serving as a peaceful retreat since 1992. We like to think of it as our own "little slice of heaven," offering a respite from the daily hustle and bustle, and inviting people to reconnect with nature and their spirituality.

Our primary offering is a week-long summer camp, but we've expanded over the years to include more than just summer fun. As part of our mission to support families and churches, we now also host three family camps throughout the year, as well as four parent/child retreats. These events offer a chance for families to bond, parents to connect with their children, and individuals to grow in their faith.

Moreover, our facilities are not exclusive to our organized events. Camp Swamp also offers rentals to schools, churches, universities, sports teams, and even business groups. Whether you're planning a camp, a retreat, or a team-building excursion, our serene setting and well-equipped facilities provide the ideal backdrop for an unforgettable experience.

Water activites

Vocal/singing

Writing

Visual Arts

Volleyball

Camp Swamp

The Park District and Park Foundation are collaborating to ensure that all park district residents have access to the recreational programs. To this end, assistance is provided to those facing financial hardship. This program is available to all who live in the park district boundaries and are in need of assistance. Individuals who have special medical, physical, psychological, and/or emotional needs or receive special services from the school district are also encouraged to reach out to the Park District. The staff at Lincolnway Special Recreation Association will work with the Park District to provide reasonable accommodations to participants with disabilities. Participants who would like to request inclusion services are asked to complete the appropriate forms provided by the Park District.

Yoga

Track and Field

Zumba

Manhattan Park District

For over 40 years, NWSRA has been making a difference in the lives of individuals with disabilities in the northwest suburbs of Chicago. This unique partnership of 17 Park Districts provides recreational opportunities for children and adults alike. Led by certified staff, NWSRA offers thousands of innovative programs and services each year. Individuals with disabilities have the opportunity to make friends, have fun, go new places, learn new things, be included, and celebrate their lives. 

NWSRA is dedicated to providing a safe, inclusive environment for all. This commitment has been recognized with a Distinguished Accredited Agency award from the Illinois Park and Recreation Association as well as the National Recreation and Park Association's Excellence in Inclusion Award for national leadership in diversity and inclusion initiatives. NWSRA has been enriching the lives of individuals with disabilities in the northwest suburbs of Chicago and beyond for over 40 years.

Northwest Special Recreation Association- NWSRA

Every summer, campers and staff from all around the globe, and from a variety of backgrounds, return to their own special home away from home. At our camp in Central Wisconsin, situated on an 80-acre lakefront compound, there’s never a shortage of activities and experiences for everyone to enjoy. From biking around Stratton Lake to water skiing, drama, rock climbing, and arts & crafts, our campers can stay busy for hours on end. 

At our camp, campers can explore, take on new challenges, and make lifelong friendships. Our campers and staff come from all walks of life, and every year they return to our camp to enjoy new experiences, make memories, and have the time of their lives. The beautiful lakefront facility in Central Wisconsin provides the perfect place for campers to explore, challenge themselves, and make lasting friendships.

Tennis

Waterskiing

Wakeboarding

Zip Lining

Camp Young Judaea Midwest

Our goal is to provide as many recreational opportunities to our constituency as possible, so that we can meet the needs of all residents of the district, no matter their age, interests or abilities. 

We continuously strive to expand our selection of classes and events to meet the changing needs of our community. Our team looks for new and creative ways to engage residents of all ages, from youth to seniors, and to offer a variety of events and activities for the whole family to enjoy.

The Plainfield Park District is committed to providing high-quality recreational experiences that are safe, enjoyable, and accessible for everyone. Our commitment to our community is unwavering, and we look forward to continuing to provide our residents with a wide range of opportunities to explore, learn, and grow.

Plainfield Park District Summer Day Camp

Camp Akita is a youth camp and Christian retreat center in Central Illinois that is owned and operated by the Illinois Conference of Seventh-day Adventists. Located along the beautiful Spoon River, Camp Akita offers an amazing outdoor experience for campers. With its wide range of activities, such as swimming, boating, sports, and arts and crafts, Camp Akita offers a variety of fun activities for children and teens of all ages. 

Camp Akita also provides a spiritual retreat experience for those seeking a deeper connection with God. Through Bible study and worship, campers will be able to strengthen their relationship with the Lord. In addition, the camp also offers inspiring presentations from guest speakers, a variety of outdoor adventures, and a variety of other activities to ensure that every camper has a great experience. 

Camp Akita is a wonderful place for children and teens to make lasting memories while learning about God and growing in their faith. With its idyllic location along the Spoon River, Camp Akita is the perfect place for campers to relax, explore, and have a ton of fun.

Tubing

Camp Akita (SDA)

Since 1981, WSRA has been providing recreational programs for individuals of all ages with special needs. Our experienced staff is professionally trained in therapeutic recreation to provide the best services possible. 

Each year, WSRA serves more than 100 individuals of all ages with disabilities through 75 recreation programs, special events, and trips. We provide transportation for our program registrants and network with local schools, nonprofits, and government agencies to ensure that everyone has access to the recreational activities they need. We are proud to be a part of the partnership of Gurnee, Grandwood Park, Wildwood Park Districts, and Warren Township and look forward to continuing to offer our services in the years to come.

Warren Special Recreation Association

In 2010, Dan and Andy bought and invested $1 million in construction and renovation of Camp Manitowa Rend Lake. Since then, the 40-acre property has been hosting sleep-away summer camps, retreats, and festivals. It is the newest, freshest camp in the Benton area of Southern Illinois, and is located only 90 minutes from St. Louis, MO and Paducah, KY.

At Camp Manitowa, campers entering grades 2nd through 8th can benefit from a tailored 1 or 2 week residential camp program. This program is designed with younger campers’ needs in mind, and encourages the development of independence, self-esteem, cooperation, and problem-solving skills. Campers also have the opportunity to make lifelong friends in a small, nurturing community. The camp also offers structured free play and choice time, allowing campers to feel a sense of belonging and empowerment to learn.

In 2013, Camp Manitowa is offering week long specialty camps that focus on water skiing, magic, rock school, science, and the popular sport of Gaga. With its unique program and offerings, Camp Manitowa Rend Lake is a great place for campers to experience all the fun and adventure of a summer camp.

Trampoline

Camp Manitowa

Eagle Crest Camp is proud to be a ministry of The Salvation Army, providing an opportunity for all to encounter Jesus Christ and enrich their lives through exposure to God’s Word, His Creation, and His People. We offer a week-long summer camp program that serves over 1,000 children each year, many of whom come through the social service programs of The Salvation Army. In addition to summer camp, we offer year-round retreat opportunities for adults and families throughout our division. Our facilities also host and serve a variety of schools, businesses, families, and churches in the Peoria/Central Illinois Region by providing lodging, meeting spaces, and on-site recreation opportunities.

Salvation Army Eagle Crest Camp

At Ivy League Kids, we believe that out of school hours are a pivotal time for children to experience growth and development that will set them up for success in school and in life. Our before and after school program focuses on fitness, recreational activities, and academic enrichment in a healthy, safe environment. Our passionate and experienced staff are committed to providing a fun-filled, rewarding program that supports the physical, mental and emotional growth of students from Kindergarten through 8th grade. We strive to provide an enriching and supportive atmosphere to help children reach their full potential.

Ivy League Before & After School Program

The Crystal Lake Park District is a unit of local government that is responsible for providing park and recreation services for the community. This independent district accounts for approximately 5% of a resident's property tax bill and serves over 55,000 people. With 42 parks spanning over 1,400 acres, the Park District offers families a variety of ways to enjoy the outdoors. The Nature Center, Main and West Beaches, Colonel Palmer House, Lippold Family Golf Center, Boncosky Softball Complex at Lippold Park, Grand Oaks Recreation/Active Adult Center, the Racket Club, Barlina House Preschool, and numerous picnic shelters are all part of the Crystal Lake Park District system. In addition, the district maintains miles of bike and hiking trails that can be enjoyed year-round. 

The Crystal Lake Park District is committed to providing its residents with an array of activities and opportunities to stay active and engaged. The district publishes three seasonal brochures filled with programs and special events designed for people of all ages. From swimming at the Main and West Beaches to playing a round of golf at the Lippold Family Golf Center, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a leisurely walk along the trails or an adventure at the Nature Center, the Crystal Lake Park District is the perfect spot for family fun. 

Parents can rest assured that their children are in good hands when they participate in the various programs and special events hosted by the Crystal Lake Park District. With an abundance of parks, facilities, and programs, there’s no shortage of ways for kids to explore and make memories. From the Barlina House Preschool to the Grand Oaks Recreation/Active Adult Center, the Crystal Lake Park District is dedicated to providing the best possible recreational experience for everyone in the community.

Crystal Lake Park District

kankakee

DEBUT Creative Center & Theater-Studio is a dual-language (English–Russian) program where kids explore creativity, confidence, and self-expression. From theater and dance to fencing and stage performance, children can try new activities and discover their unique talents.

Small class sizes let instructors give each child personalized attention, helping them feel comfortable, supported, and confident as they learn. Kids build artistic skills while also developing social confidence, teamwork, and poise on stage and in everyday life.

Our programs celebrate each child’s individuality, combining fun, hands-on experiences with a focus on personal growth—all while keeping Russian language and culture an important part of the curriculum.

Theater/Drama

Textiles

Debut Academy

The YMCA provides a safe, supportive atmosphere where everyone is welcome, regardless of their background or ability level. With a mission to strengthen the community, the YMCA offers a variety of activities and programs that promote social, emotional, and physical growth. Whether it’s team sports, swimming, or after-school enrichment programs, the YMCA works to ensure that everyone is able to take part and make the most out of their experience. 

The YMCA is more than just a gym - it's a movement of people coming together to create positive change. Through quality programming, the YMCA provides a place for people to learn, grow, and develop into better versions of themselves. When you join the YMCA, you join a supportive community that helps you reach your goals and strive for personal excellence.

best basketball programs in Kankakee, IL

Debut Academy

Kankakee Area YMCA