best stem-steam programs in Portsmouth, NH

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.

Seacoast Rep is a vibrant nonprofit regional theater located in historic downtown Portsmouth, New Hampshire. Through their mission of enriching the culture of the community, the theater has established itself as a bold innovator on the American theater scene. Their award-winning productions have been applauded in the New York Times and have been streamed live to audiences around the world. By providing a platform for shared experiences, the theater encourages its audience to take a walk in someone else’s shoes, deepening their understanding of the human condition and fostering a more empathetic society.

The Portsmouth Music and Arts Center (PMAC) has been inspiring and motivating music and art students of all ages since its founding in 2002. We believe that the commitment of our faculty to the highest educational standards, coupled with the dedication of the students, is at the heart of our success. At PMAC, we offer a broad selection of educational programs that meet the needs and ambitions of students regardless of age or ability. Our teaching methodology, regardless of genre or medium, strives to help our students build strong foundations. Our music curriculum has expanded in recent years to cover classical, jazz, blues, bluegrass, folk and rock. Additionally, we regularly welcome guest artists to introduce our students to a variety of culturally diverse traditions. Our visual arts program also focuses on strong foundations via a range of media and cultures. Our goal is always to give our students the opportunity to reach their full creative potential.

Bring your child to explore and experience some of the most pristine, protected and safe backwaters in New England. Our dynamic kayak camp is sure to provide the perfect opportunity for kids to learn the sport of kayaking while also having fun. We'll teach your child all the fundamentals of kayaking, along with important safety and rescue techniques. Plus, our camp has an environmental component, emphasizing the natural and local history of the region. Regardless of their level of experience, all campers will be challenged through adventure-based learning in nature's classroom. So why not give your child a summer to remember with an exciting kayak camp experience?

As parents of young children, it’s more important than ever to prioritize time spent outdoors. Experiences outside offer hands-on lessons, valuable social interaction, and much-needed restorative activity that just can’t be replicated through a digital device. Knowing how to make the most of these outdoor opportunities can be a challenge. But there’s good news: you don’t have to be an expert to provide your kids with meaningful outdoor experiences. Taking the first step of simply getting outside is the best place to start. From there, you can explore activities such as nature walks, outdoor games, gardening, or even a picnic. With a little creativity, you can create your own special family moments that are sure to bring smiles.

Established in 1854, The Granite YMCA has been part of the state for over 166 years. We have branches in six locations across the state – Manchester, Goffstown, Concord, Londonderry, Portsmouth, and Rochester – and provide a range of youth development, healthy living, family strengthening, and social responsibility services. We also offer camping programs to help foster growth and development in young people. Our commitment to the community extends beyond our programming. In 2020, The Granite YMCA provided over $1 million in assistance to 5,144 individuals across New Hampshire. This included a sliding scale fee structure to ensure those in need had access to our services, free use of facilities to various non-profits, camp scholarships, and reduced fee or free child care services.

This excellence has been noted and commended; most recently being featured in the New York Times and live streaming performances around the globe.

Gundalow Company's programs are the perfect way to enjoy the summer sun and the Piscataqua Maritime Region! Kids can explore the beauty of the region by participating in a variety of camp experiences on and around the water. These experiences are run aboard the Gundalow PISCATAQUA, at Creek Farm, owned by the Society for the Protection of NH Forest, and at other partner organizations. Parents can rest assured that their children are under the best possible supervision with Gundalow Company's camps. The Gundalow PISCATAQUA, Creek Farm, and other partner organizations all provide a safe and unique environment for kids to enjoy all that the Piscataqua Maritime Region has to offer. Whether it is sailing, kayaking, or learning about the history of the region, Gundalow Company's camp experiences will give children the chance to learn something new and have some fun in the sun! With these programs, kids can explore the beauty of the Piscataqua Maritime Region in a safe and exciting way.