Iowa summers tend to be warm and occasionally humid, with daytime highs in the mid 80s°F to low 90s°F. Thunderstorms are possible, especially in July and August. Evenings cool down nicely. Light clothing and rain protection are recommended.
Camps in Iowa typically run from early June through mid-August, with various session options available.
Families can find traditional overnight camps, day programs, and specialty camps focused on arts and sciences.
Key camp regions include the Des Moines area, Cedar Rapids, and natural settings like the Loess Hills.
Camps in Iowa are generally accessed via these airports:
Drive times to camps generally range between 30 minutes and 2 hours.
Flying is the primary travel option for families, with rental cars often used to reach camps.
Nearby cities and towns offer a range of accommodations including hotels and vacation rentals.
Choosing a camp in Iowa means finding programs that align with your child’s interests and comfort level.
Think about whether your child would prefer day camps or overnight experiences based on their personality.
Iowa offers camps that focus on outdoor fun, academic enrichment, and creative arts.
Use these resources to help:
Learn more about day camps essentials
Learn more about overnight camps essentials
Learn more about specialty camps essentials
Learn more about traditional camps essentials
You can also learn more in our guide to different types of summer camps for kids.
You can also learn about camp safety and camp accreditation to feel confident in your decision.
Iowa’s summer camps provide a welcoming atmosphere for kids to learn, play, and grow. Families can explore many programs suited to their child’s interests and readiness.