more art-crafts programs near Lake Forest, IL

For over 50 years, Frontier Camp has been dedicated to making disciples of Jesus by sharing God’s Word amidst the beauty of His creation. Since our founding in 1969, we’ve been licensed by the Texas Department of State Health Services and are proudly accredited by the American Camping Association. We’re also a member of the Christian Camping and Conference Association. Our mission is to use Christian camping and outdoor recreation as a means to support local churches in fulfilling the Great Commission—evangelizing people of all ages and discipling believers toward deeper maturity in Christ. Frontier Camp offers a dual ministry: during the summer, we host a 10-week youth camp, and throughout the rest of the year, we serve as a retreat facility for churches and like-minded religious organizations. Whether through summer camps or retreats, our goal remains the same: to expose people to Christ and encourage their spiritual growth through His Word and by reflecting His character in everything we do. While we provide top-notch recreation and exciting programming, the heart of our camp is the spiritual impact, rooted in the truth of God’s inerrant Word.

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.

At Decoma Day Camp, every child is special to us and we pride ourselves on getting to know them as individuals. Our commitment to your children's safety and happiness has been a part of our camp since it first opened its doors back in 1949. Throughout the years, Decoma Day Camp has grown and flourished, and the Deutsch Family continues to provide campers with fun-filled summer vacations and lasting friendships. Our programs offer a variety of activities, from sports and swimming to arts and crafts, ensuring that your children have a summer full of fun and adventure. Decoma Day Camp has been a part of the community for over 70 years and we are proud to say that our campers and families have become part of the extended Decoma Day Camp family. We look forward to welcoming your children this summer and helping them create memories that will last a lifetime.

Through 4-H, Illinois youth are being prepared to become the leaders, innovators, entrepreneurs, stewards and builders of tomorrow that our state needs. 4-H provides a safe and encouraging environment for youth to practice the skills needed to become successful leaders. Youth engage in activities such as public speaking, problem solving, goal setting and decision making that help them develop leadership qualities. 4-H also encourages youth to become engaged in their local communities and take action to make a difference. Through service learning and community service projects, youth learn valuable lessons in civics, citizenship, communication, and collaboration that will help them become successful, responsible citizens.

As parents, we are always looking for ways to take the best possible care of ourselves and our families. That's why the Buehler YMCA is such a great resource! They offer a wide range of services, from personal training and wellness programs for adults to youth sports and day camps for kids. For adults, the Buehler YMCA offers a variety of services to help them stay healthy. From personal training programs to fitness classes and wellness programs, they have everything you need to stay in shape. For kids, the Buehler YMCA offers youth sports and day camps. They have a variety of sports leagues and activities to keep children active and engaged. The day camps give kids a chance to explore their interests and have fun with friends, while also learning about physical fitness and teamwork. No matter what your family's needs are, the Buehler YMCA has something for everyone! From personal training and wellness for adults to youth sports and day camps for kids, you'll find it all at the Buehler YMCA.

At Camp Carew, we provide a setting where children and young adults can experience the Christian faith in fellowship with others. We strive to help people deepen their understanding of God, each other, and the natural world. Our goal is to help build campers’ sense of personal worth and their relationship to Jesus Christ and their peers. Camp Carew is proud to be a member of the American Camp Association and has achieved accreditation status. Our activities and programs are designed to promote Christian community and help campers build relationships with each other. Campers and leaders work, plan, play, study, sing, and worship together in the small group living units. We offer Christian summer camps for children and young adults, and host retreats for people of all ages throughout the year. Camp Carew has been serving the community since 1952. The camp is nestled on sixty acres in the beautiful woods of Little Grassy Lake, located inside the Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge near Carbondale, Illinois. With this unique setting, Camp Carew provides the perfect atmosphere for strengthening faith and creating lifelong memories.

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.

In order to best serve the community, the Tri-Town YMCA has identified three primary areas of focus. Supporting its mission to unite and serve persons of any religious faith or none, the YMCA has identified Youth Development, Healthy Living, and Social Responsibility as essential components for strengthening the community and the individual. Through these areas, the YMCA strives to promote the growth of body, mind and spirit, while living by Christian principles. The Tri-Town YMCA’s commitment to its mission is evident in the wide variety of programs and services available to the community. From youth development through sports and recreational activities, to programs promoting healthy living, and to social responsibility initiatives, the Tri-Town YMCA is dedicated to helping individuals of all ages and backgrounds thrive. Through its three areas of focus, the YMCA is upholding the values and traditions that were set forth by the “founding fathers” more than 50 years ago.

Do you want to give your daughter a summer to remember? Send her to Camp Kupugani and watch her grow and learn with kids from all over the world. Located near Chicago, Illinois, Camp Kupugani is an inclusive multicultural camp that will provide your daughter with the opportunity to connect and appreciate children from all kinds of backgrounds. From Hispanic/Latine to White/Caucasian and Black/African American, Camp Kupugani celebrates diversity and encourages an atmosphere of understanding. Make this summer a special one for your daughter and send her to Camp Kupugani. She will be surrounded by kids from all over the world, learning about cultural appreciation and understanding. At Camp Kupugani, we strive to provide an environment where children can learn and grow together, regardless of their race, background, or country. From Hispanic/Latine to White/Caucasian and Black/African American, your daughter will have the opportunity to make new friends and gain new perspectives.

At Camp Duncan, we’re focused on developing important life skills, such as self-reliance, teamwork, and an appreciation for nature. We also strive to foster meaningful relationships and healthy practices. All of this happens while enjoying activities like campfires, canoeing, archery, and swimming. YMCA Camp Duncan is the perfect place for your child to learn, grow, and have a great time!

At our camp, we foster a cooperative environment that celebrates personal and group achievements. Our experienced staff lead small groups of campers in activities that develop valuable social skills, athletic ability and teamwork. We strive to build self-confidence in each camper by creating engaging activities that encourage learning and mastering new skills. At our camp, we understand the importance of age-appropriate activities that are fun and engaging. Through our various programs, campers are given the opportunity to develop their social and emotional growth while having fun. Our experienced staff lead small groups of campers in activities that develop valuable social skills, athletic ability and teamwork, all in a cooperative environment. Our goal is to help build self-confidence in each camper through a variety of activities that encourage learning and mastering new skills. At our camp, we realize that achievement should be celebrated. We foster a cooperative environment that encourages growth and celebrates personal and group successes. Our experienced staff lead small groups of campers in activities that develop valuable social skills, athletic ability and teamwork. Through these activities, we strive to build self-confidence in each camper by creating an environment that promotes learning and mastering new skills. We take pride in providing an engaging and fun atmosphere for campers of all ages.

At Camp One Step, we've been bringing joy, support, strength, and hope to campers and their families since 1978. Our camps and digital programs are designed for kids with cancer, their siblings, and even their parents. We believe that inclusion, accessibility, and connections are the key to creating a meaningful experience. Camp One Step builds lifetime friendships and helps kids reclaim the joy of childhood while allowing families to feel a sense of wholeness. We are passionate about creating a safe and welcoming environment for all campers and their families.

And the more they build on those skills, the more they’ll feel confident and independent. Camping is an amazing way for girls to strengthen their leadership skills, build confidence, and develop a strong appreciation for the natural world. It encourages them to put down their electronics and immerse themselves in the great outdoors. It also provides the opportunity to acquire outdoor skills that can’t be found anywhere else. These include building a campfire, putting up a tent, and canoeing across a lake. As girls gain more confidence and independence in these activities, they can better explore their leadership abilities and grow as individuals.

At Camp Nageela Midwest, children from all walks of life come together to create a special environment for Jewish youth to develop meaningful relationships with one another and have fun. Campers will learn what it means to be a leader in the Jewish community while learning important life skills such as communication, problem solving, and teamwork. Camp activities include sports, swimming, music, drama, art, and more. Parents Magazine is proud to feature Camp Nageela Midwest, an organization dedicated to helping young Jews build strong, affiliated, and proud identities. Located just an hour from Chicago and conveniently located near O'Hare and Midway airports, children of all backgrounds come together to create a vibrant and welcoming community. Here, campers learn what it means to be a leader while participating in activities such as sports, swimming, music, drama, art and more. Camp Nageela Midwest helps to empower youth to discover their hidden talents and develop them in the service of others, creating everlasting friendships and community along the way.

The Crystal Lake Park District is an independent agency of local government, representing about 5% of a resident's property tax bill. It provides park and recreation services for approximately 55,000 people, with 42 parks that span over 1,400 acres and over 1,000 program offerings each year. These parks, facilities, and programs include 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 many picnic shelters. The Crystal Lake Park District also maintains miles of bike and hiking trails, allowing residents to enjoy the outdoors year-round. To help residents make the most of these parks and programs, the Park District publishes three seasonal brochures filled with programs and special events suited to all ages. From golf courses to preschools, the Crystal Lake Park District has something for everyone. The Crystal Lake Park District is proud to provide a wide variety of options for residents to get outdoors and stay active. With over 42 parks and 1,000 program offerings, the Crystal Lake Park District is a great resource for families to explore and enjoy the outdoors. The Park District also provides seasonal brochures to help residents take advantage of the many activities available. With something for everyone, the Crystal Lake Park District is the perfect way to get outside and have fun!

Camp Shaw has been around for 75 years and we are proud of our rich history. We strive to continue our camp traditions while also introducing new activities and opportunities for our campers. From archery to swimming, from nature hikes to arts and crafts, we have something for everyone. Our campers will gain lifelong skills and have a great time doing it. We are so proud to be part of their summer adventures!

Since 1946, Tamarak Day Camp has been building a tradition of excellence. Our camp has a well-deserved reputation for providing quality programming, with an emphasis on swimming, beautiful grounds, and a team of experienced staff members. We are dedicated to providing a safe, enjoyable experience that allows your kids to develop their skills and build respect for their surroundings. The Tamarak spirit encourages kids to do their best and work together. Join us at Tamarak Day Camp to create a summer of memories!

At Camp Ben Frankel, we focus on creating a lifetime of memories for Jewish children of all backgrounds. Our leadership and staff are experienced and highly trained in providing a safe, welcoming camp environment, and we’re proud to be accredited by the American Camp Association. We strive to meet and exceed the expectations of our campers, parents, and staff. During the summer of 2021, we reopened our in-person camp and experienced no cases of Covid. In 2020, we launched CBF Online, our virtual summer camp program. It quickly gained recognition from the Jewish Telegraph Agency, The Forward, The Telegraph (UK), the St. Louis Jewish Light, and eJewishPhilanthropy. We partner with organizations like the Foundation For Jewish Camp, JCamp180, Jewish Camps USA, Life and Legacy, and Jewish Federations across the country to better serve our community. We are proud to have been presented with the JCamp180 Outstanding Board Leadership Award in October 2020. At Camp Ben Frankel, our mission is to provide a lifetime of memories to Jewish children from all backgrounds. We create an inclusive and welcoming environment that invites exploration of identity. Our staff are trained in safety protocols, and we use best-practices, strategic partnerships, and an open-minded approach to develop programs and activities that meet our high standards. We are thrilled to have been able to offer both in-person and virtual camp in 2021 and look forward to continuing to provide high-quality programming for years to come.

East Bay Camp & Retreat is the perfect destination to get away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Located in Central Illinois, only 12 miles north of Bloomington-Normal and a few minutes from Interstate 39, this beautiful retreat is situated on Lake Bloomington. With its attractive and functional facilities, East Bay provides the perfect setting for a range of activities such as team-building, fellowship, conferencing, and business. Adding to the enchanting atmosphere are the abundant wildlife sightings, including deer, wild turkeys, herons, and turtles. The 160-acre property is also home to a variety of hardwoods and evergreens, making it an ideal spot to relax and unwind.

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.

Since 2007, the Actors Training Center has been serving the greater Chicagoland area and we are proud to have been honored by the Illinois Theatre Association with their 2019 Award of Honor. ATC is a launching pad for actors of all ages who want to make a career in the performing arts, be it in film, television, or on the stage. Our passionate and dedicated staff are committed to helping our students to reach their full potential and to use their art to make a positive difference. We are proud of the work that the Actors Training Center has done since 2007, and are honored to have been recognized by the Illinois Theatre Association with their Award of Honor. Our program offers young actors the opportunity to hone their craft and to use their talents to make a positive impact in the world.

The American Camp Association (ACA) is a community of passionate camp professionals with over 100 years of collective experience. Our 10,000+ members come from all sorts of backgrounds, providing a wealth of knowledge and expertise. With our exceptional programs, we provide children and adults with invaluable opportunities to learn valuable life lessons. These lessons, which teach positive values like community, character-building, skill development, and healthy living, cannot be found anywhere else. At the American Camp Association, we believe in the power of community. We have been connecting camp professionals for over a century, sharing our knowledge and experience to ensure the quality of camp programs. Our diverse 10,000+ membership is a testament to our commitment to helping each other, and our programs are designed to help children and adults develop vital skills and values. The American Camp Association is proud to offer lessons in community, character-building, skill development, and healthy living - lessons that can only be found at camp. With our exceptional programs, we have been providing children and adults with the opportunity to grow for over 100 years. We are committed to helping others learn and share powerful life lessons.

DuBois Center, a United Church of Christ camp in rural Illinois, is the perfect place for your group to experience nature and create memories that will last a lifetime. Our facilities are available to serve a variety of needs, whether your group is looking for a more rustic experience, something that feels like home, or something in between. We believe in the value of all of God's people, and do not discriminate on the basis of race, ability, national origin, religious background, sexual orientation, or gender identity. We strive to accommodate those with a variety of physical, mental, emotional, medical, or dietary needs to the best of our ability. With our wide range of offerings, DuBois Center is the ideal spot for your next group adventure!

At our organization, we understand the importance of providing a learning environment that is both fun and inclusive. We have a range of youth programs that are designed to help kids and teens grow their appreciation for animals and nature. Our classes are collaborative, so that everyone can connect and learn regardless of their background or financial situation. We are proud to offer scholarships for most of our programs so that everyone has the opportunity to participate. Our commitment to learning and education is demonstrated by our diverse range of youth programs. These programs prioritize fun and collaboration as a way for kids and teens to learn more about the animals and nature around them. We understand that not everyone has the same financial means to participate, which is why we are proud to offer scholarships. This way, everyone has the chance to benefit from our programs, regardless of their financial standing. We are proud of our commitment to learning and education, and our range of youth programs. We strive to create an environment that is both fun and inclusive, so that everyone can benefit from our classes. Scholarships are available for most of our programs, as part of our commitment to providing an opportunity for everyone to participate and learn.

We understand that not all children have the opportunity to visit the zoo, so we’ve created an exciting video series, “Bringing The Play Zoo To You!” This series is a great way for young children to stay connected with the animals at Brookfield Zoo even from home. Each video includes an interactive activity that your child can do with you, and encourages them to explore nature and learn about animals. We hope these videos inspire your family to have fun and create lasting memories together.

At Fox Valley Youth, our vision is to ensure that all 46,000 youth in the area have access to a local church. We believe that spending time in a Christ-centered environment can be life-transforming. That's why we offer free overnight summer camps for youth to have the opportunity to learn more about Jesus and themselves. During the school year, our Teen Night Together (TNT) program and after-school clubs provide weekly support for teens and grade school children throughout the school year. We believe that the combination of our summer and school year programs will result in the greatest growth for all of our youth. We are committed to our mission of helping local youth in the Fox Valley, and we firmly believe that the best way to do that is to provide them with a life-transforming relationship with Jesus. We look forward to seeing the results of our efforts in the coming years.

The Royal Melbourne Country Club in Long Grove, IL is the perfect blend of old-fashioned elegance and modern style. Our diverse membership, phenomenal golfing opportunities, recreational activities, and culinary delights make us the ideal choice for a special event. Our picturesque grounds, local wildlife, and welcoming clubhouse make the perfect backdrop for a wedding or special occasion. Our country club is second to none when it comes to providing an unforgettable experience. With the combination of understated elegance and a contemporary attitude, we provide a welcoming atmosphere for our members and guests alike. Our golfing experiences, recreational activities, and social events are sure to please everyone. Our cuisine is sure to delight even the most discerning palate. At the Royal Melbourne Country Club, we put together the best of both worlds. Our picturesque landscape, local wildlife, and welcoming clubhouse make us the perfect venue for any event. We strive to provide our members and guests with the best possible experience, from our phenomenal golfing experiences to our wonderful dining opportunities. Our year-round social events are sure to please even the most discerning guests.

At Camp Tuckabatchee, counselors emphasize the traditional camp activities such as swimming, canoeing, archery and crafts. The highlight of the week is the Friday night campfire with skits and songs. In addition to the traditional camp activities, Camp Tuckabatchee also has a ropes course, a challenge course, an obstacle course, and a zip line. The camp offers something for everyone, with a wide variety of activities and programs. Camp Tuckabatchee is a safe and secure environment where children and adults alike can enjoy the camp experience. The camp is dedicated to providing a break from technology and an opportunity to connect with nature. Campers can participate in traditional camp activities such as swimming, canoeing, archery and crafts. For an extra dose of adventure, there are the ropes course, challenge course, obstacle course, and a zip line. With its rustic cabins and modern amenities, Camp Tuckabatchee is the perfect place for an unforgettable summer adventure.

Camp Widjiwagan, located six miles south of Springfield, is the perfect destination for your family’s next adventure! This 67-acre camp facility features a 40-foot climbing tower and zip line, three main lodges, an in-ground swimming pool, lake access for boating, platform tents, covered wagons, and an arts and crafts shack. Parents, you can rest assured that your kids are in good hands at Camp Widjiwagan. Every activity is carefully supervised and the facility is American Camp Association (ACA) accredited. Swimming, canoeing, creative arts, outdoor living skills, archery, and environmental education are just some of the exciting programming on offer. Make memories that will last a lifetime at Camp Widjiwagan! With its stunning location on Lake Springfield and plethora of activities, there’s something for every family member to enjoy.

Since 1984, Discovery Day Camp has been providing a unique experience for campers. Through a variety of activities, events, and field trips, campers are encouraged to explore, learn, and grow while building a sense of community through skill development, team building, and sportsmanship. Safety and comfort are also top priorities of the camp, and the camp is fully accredited by the American Camping Association. The camp has been a hit since its opening, with many former campers now joining the staff and sending their own children to the camp. The circle of Discovery speaks for itself! With a focus on fun, growth, and appreciation for the outdoors, Discovery Day Camp offers a fantastic opportunity for campers to make long-lasting memories with friends while gaining valuable life skills.

At Camp I Am Me, every program is designed to give burn survivors the opportunity to gain physical, psychological, and emotional support. From therapeutic games and activities to educational programs and field trips, Camp I Am Me is dedicated to providing a safe and meaningful experience for all participants. Camp I Am Me provides a unique environment where burn survivors can feel comfortable being themselves and build relationships that will last a lifetime.

Parents in the Prospect Heights Park District are celebrating the award of the Urban & Community Forestry Grant administered by The Morton Arboretum. Graft Tree Care, a qualified contractor, was chosen to complete the inventory and management plan, with the purpose of preserving and protecting existing trees, improving the understanding of the urban forest's composition and structure, and increasing the health and growth of the urban forest. The grant will be beneficial to the entire community, as a healthy ecosystem will improve quality of life for all. The grant will also provide an opportunity for improved management and care of the urban forest both in the short and long term. Parents in the Prospect Heights Park District can be proud that their community was awarded the Urban & Community Forestry Grant. This grant will ensure that the urban forest will be cared for and maintained, providing a healthy ecosystem and improved quality of life for all.

At Fox Valley Youth, our mission is to create an environment where youth in under-resourced communities can experience a life-transforming relationship with Jesus. Through our summer camp programs, we strive to give youth the opportunity to immerse themselves in a Christ-centered environment for a week, allowing them to view themselves and Jesus in a new light. We also offer year-round programs such as Teen Night Together (TNT) and after-school clubs for grade school children, providing ongoing opportunities for spiritual growth and development. We believe that the combination of the summer and school year programs will have the greatest impact on the lives of these youth.

Our experienced and knowledgeable staff strive to make each program and experience meaningful and engaging. From science and art to sports and outdoor activities, there’s something for everyone! Whether your child is interested in honing their skills or exploring something new, JCYS offers a wide range of activities and experiences. At Jewish Council for Youth Services (JCYS), we are dedicated to helping parents and families find the right educational, recreational and leadership experiences for their children. We offer a wide range of activities and experiences designed to nurture each child’s individual spirit, imagination, confidence and talents. Our family centers, multiple summer camps and specialty programs provide families with a variety of options throughout the year. Our experienced and knowledgeable staff strive to make each program and experience meaningful and engaging. From science and art to sports and outdoor activities, there’s something for everyone! Our commitment and dedication to service – and those we serve – remains constant as our programs and services continue to change and evolve to meet the demands of the community. At JCYS, we are here to help your child make the most of their time with us. Whether they are interested in honing their skills or exploring something new, our staff are dedicated to helping them discover and develop new talents and abilities!

Elaine Frank Apachi Day Camp is the perfect summertime destination for your family. Situated on 37 acres of lush grounds and surrounded by gorgeous Lake County landscapes, the camp provides a safe and fun-filled environment for campers of all ages. With sprawling green sports fields, natural wetlands, winding nature trails, two heated outdoor pools, a climbing wall, zipline, ropes course, athletic courts, and air-conditioned buildings, there's something for everyone. We also offer two specialty camps: Apachi STEM and Apachi Performing Arts Camp. Both are designed to engage campers in activities that allow them to explore their interests and develop their skills. Plus, the camp also features the amazing and unique Garoon Gateway to Science, an outdoor S.T.E.A.M. museum with over 50 engaging, hands-on exhibits to explore. Elaine Frank Apachi Day Camp is the perfect place for your kids to have a summer to remember. With so many exciting activities and adventures to be had, your family is sure to have a blast. So come join us for a summer of fun and learning!