best rock-climbing programs in Lake Zurich, IL

Swift Nature Camp is the perfect place for your child to spend their summer! Our overnight camp for boys and girls ages 6-15 is located in beautiful Wisconsin. We offer a unique blend of traditional summer camp activities and environmental education to help kids increase their appreciation for nature, science, and the environment. We’ve got it all – fun, friendships, adventure trips, and nature! Spend your summer with us – you’ll never forget it!

Upper Limits is the perfect place for rock climbers of all levels to come and practice their skills! Located in the heart of the Midwest, Upper Limits is a premier rock climbing gym and pro shop that offers something for everyone. With walls ranging from beginner-friendly to advanced, there's something for climbers of all abilities. Plus, the pro shop is stocked with all the gear and apparel you need for your next climbing adventure. Whether you're a beginner looking to get started or an experienced climber looking to take your skills to the next level, Upper Limits has the perfect climbing setup for you. With trained staff to help you out and special classes to improve your technique, you'll be sure to find the right fit. And don't forget to check out the pro shop for all the latest gear and apparel to help you reach your goals. At Upper Limits, you'll find a world-class climbing experience that's tailored to your needs. With a wide range of walls, pro shop, and experienced staff, you can count on Upper Limits to provide everything you need to get the most out of your climbing experience. Come and see what Upper Limits has to offer today!

Our travelers often come back with a better understanding of the world and the people in it. They are more aware of their global context and the need to make a difference. Through their service and stewardship of the natural world, our travelers learn to appreciate and respect the beauty of the places they visit. We strive to make a lasting impact on our travelers. We believe that the experiences we provide have the power to change young people’s lives. We are passionate about giving our travelers the opportunity to not only explore the world but also to make a meaningful impact on the places they visit. We want them to gain the skills, knowledge, and connections necessary to help make the world a better place.

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.

At Camp Ondessonk, we believe that learning should be exciting and memorable. Our Outdoor and Environmental Education programs provide experiences that are sure to stay with students for a lifetime. Our programs serve as a unique and powerful way to reinforce curricular topics in a fun and engaging way. We provide students with the opportunity to explore the natural environment and to develop an appreciation of the interdependence of the living world. Our programs also emphasize the importance of developing relationships with others and promote personal growth and self-esteem. Camp Ondessonk is committed to providing exceptional outdoor adventures year-round that will have a lasting impact on all who participate.

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.

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.

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!

The YMCA is the leading nonprofit committed to strengthening community by supporting young people, enriching the health and well-being of all ages, and inspiring action in our communities. The YMCA is an organization like no other. Our mission is to make an impact in our communities – to help empower young people and improve the health and wellbeing of all ages. We believe that by connecting people to their potential, purpose and each other, we can bring about positive change in 10,000 communities across the country. At the YMCA, we are dedicated to making a difference. We create partnerships with local organizations to bring about real change and create a better future for our communities. We are committed to providing a safe and supportive environment for young people to grow and become the leaders of tomorrow.

Little Grassy Camp and Retreat Center is an outdoor destination like no other. Located south of Carbondale, IL, on 157 acres of hills and trees, this United Methodist Church Camp and Retreat Center is a piece of nature’s beauty. Bordering a 1,000-acre Little Grassy Lake and set in the Shawnee National Forest, Little Grassy is bounded by a covenant with the Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge to exercise careful stewardship of the wildlife, vegetation, and landforms. The camp provides exciting opportunities to explore and reconnect with nature. On the grounds you’ll find a hotel-style lodge with a large meeting room, a year-round youth lodge, and a dining hall with a meeting room furnished with cozy furniture and a fireplace. Plus, there are air-conditioned cabins and an open-air tabernacle, making Little Grassy a great destination for a variety of housing and meeting needs. For visitors looking for outdoor activities, Little Grassy Camp has it all - from hiking and swimming to rock-climbing and rappelling. Plus, the camp offers spiritual formation programs in the Christian tradition for both youth and adults. Little Grassy Camp is also available to rent for special events like reunions, business meetings, or youth camps. Join Little Grassy Camp and Retreat Center to explore the great outdoors and connect with nature and Christ.

The Skokie Park District has been providing quality programs and services to the Skokie community since 1928. Serving more than 63,000 residents of Skokie, Illinois and customers throughout Chicagoland, the district is committed to protecting natural resources, preserving historical sites, and providing thousands of unique recreational opportunities across its 240 acres of parkland. The park district is a proud recipient of the “National Gold Medal for Excellence in Park and Recreation Management,” and offers a wide range of programs and special events, including summer camps, state-licensed full-day childcare and preschool, and before and after-school care for grades K-5. Families in the community can enjoy the district’s fun and educational activities all year long. The Skokie Park District is committed to providing the best for the Skokie community. With its dedication to offering quality programs and services, the park district is sure to continue to provide recreational opportunities and experiences that will be cherished for years to come.

At Lakeshore Sport & Fitness at Illinois Center, we understand that family dynamics are changing and that’s why we are here to provide the best services and events for the growing family community. We strive to create an enjoyable atmosphere and to provide the best possible experience for our members and their families. We look forward to welcoming you to the Lakeshore Sport & Fitness at Illinois Center family.

At My Gym, we believe that encouraging children to explore their physical abilities can open up a world of possibilities. We focus on developing motor skills, balance, coordination, agility, flexibility and strength. We also foster social skills, cognitive abilities, and positive self-image. Our experienced instructors thoughtfully plan each class to ensure maximum physical, cognitive, and emotional development for each individual child. With classes designed for kids from newborns to 10 years old, we’re here to provide an amazing experience that children will love.

Vertical Endeavors is the premier indoor rock climbing gym in the Midwest, offering a wide range of climbs for all ages and abilities. Whether it’s top rope, lead climbing, or bouldering, our knowledgeable staff is here to help guide you through the experience. Established in 1992, we’ve developed multiple locations across the Midwest, each equipped with Auto Belays, bouldering areas, and sport lead climbing. Our facilities are climate-controlled, and we offer a great selection of indoor and outdoor lessons, youth programs, group events, birthday parties, and a convenient pro shop with a wide range of climbing gear.

At Kent Fuller Air Station Prairie, visitors can explore the 32-acre tall-grass prairie and learn about the cutting edge sustainable technologies it has to offer. The Evelyn Pease Tyner Interpretive Center, known as the first LEED Platinum building in this area, demonstrates how to easily integrate “green” habits into everyday life. Whether you’re just visiting for the day or looking to take part in a volunteer program, Kent Fuller Air Station Prairie is the perfect place to explore the wonders of our Earth’s ecosystem.

Celebrating its 65th anniversary this year, Camp Little Giant has been a beacon of inclusivity since 1952. It was the first camp in the nation designed specifically to serve campers with disabilities, and was the first camp to be accredited by the American Camp Association. The camp's mission of providing a safe and enriching environment for campers has set the standard for special needs camps across the country, and has even paved the way for the Special Olympics. Camp Little Giant is dedicated to giving campers with disabilities a true camp experience. It offers traditional activities such as outdoor recreation, swimming, arts & crafts, and music & drama, and all activities are adapted to meet the needs of campers with disabilities. Through its commitment to inclusion, Camp Little Giant has been a leader in providing campers with disabilities an opportunity to enjoy all the benefits of a traditional camp experience. For 65 years, Camp Little Giant has been at the forefront of special needs camps, paving the way for the Special Olympics, and bringing joy and inclusivity to campers of all abilities.

Welcome to Willow! It is a place for people from all ages, backgrounds, and cultures who want to understand that life is about more than what the world says. Our desire is to love God and love people, and we hope to be a catalysts for hope, joy, and transformation. No matter where you are in life, you are always welcome at Willow. We believe that everything we do should be done together, with God and with each other. We have locations across Chicagoland and our online and on-demand services make it easy to find out more about us. So come join us and let’s see what we can create together!

Camp Gan Israel of Chicago offers a unique camping experience for children from diverse Jewish backgrounds and affiliations. From the exciting activities and stimulating environment, CGIOFCHI promises to provide an enriching experience that will leave your child with lasting memories. CGIOFCHI is proud to be part of the largest and fastest growing network of day camps in the world. With innovative ideas and creative activities, CGIOFCHI encourages children to have fun, learn, and try new and exciting things! CGIOFCHI is a pioneer in Jewish camping, with a commitment to providing a safe and enjoyable environment for children of all ages. Parents can rest assured that their children are in good hands with experienced and qualified counselors to ensure an unforgettable summer. CGIOFCHI offers a wide variety of activities, including sports, arts and crafts, swimming, and so much more, all designed to help children grow and develop in a positive way.

Since its inception, Apachi has been the secret sauce of summer for over 5,000 campers throughout the Chicago area. At Apachi, campers have an opportunity to spread their wings and test the waters. From arts & crafts to swimming and outdoor sports, Apachi provides campers with a safe space to explore, discover and learn new skills. Campers are also encouraged to push their envelope and find their bliss while partaking in various team building activities and field trips. Apachi Day Camps provide a unique summertime experience that gives kids a chance to explore, learn and grow. With its special blend of activities, Apachi offers campers a safe environment to have fun, make friends and gain valuable life skills. Over 5,000 children have been able to enjoy the benefits of Apachi every summer since its inception, making it the secret sauce of summer for Chicago-area kids.

It’s a great place for families to come together and connect with nature and God. Camp Wartburg is a welcoming retreat center and summer camp facility, offering activities for body, mind, and spirit. It is a safe and low-key space for families of all backgrounds to come together and have unique adventures. Camp Wartburg is a ministry of Lutheran Child and Family Services of Illinois. It provides a great opportunity for families to explore and experience God’s creation. This retreat center and summer camp facility offers a range of activities that are designed to nurture the body, mind, and spirit. It is a safe and inviting place for families to come together, reflect on their faith, and make memories in a beautiful natural setting.

Through exploration, creativity, and teamwork, kids will be able to have a blast while learning new skills and pushing their boundaries. Our counselors and staff will ensure that all campers are having the best summer ever, as they work together to conquer the toughest of challenges. So come join us for a summer of fun, growth, and discovery!

Living in Bloomington-Normal for many years, we understand the area well. As climbers, we have seen how the sport can have a powerful and positive effect on people of all ages. We have seen how it can foster friendship, bring families closer and give people more self-belief. This is why we created The Proving Ground, our town’s first dedicated bouldering gym. If you have tried climbing already, you will find lots of ideas and motivation at The Proving Ground. If you are new to climbing, our team will be here to help you take your first steps. You and your family will also find a great place to spend quality time together, healthy and enjoyable. Come and let us show you what we mean.