Vandal Kids Camps

A group of kids looking down a glass beaker.

Our full-week summer camps at the Student Rec Center provide a fun, active and safe environment for kids ages 6-12. Each camp is packed with exciting activities like rock climbing, outdoor adventures, sports, science experiments, stunts and acrobatics. Youth are encouraged to explore new interests or dive deeper into their favorite activities through a variety of themed camp options.

Vandal Kids Camp registration opens each spring. To learn more, reach out to Peyton Teevens at vkcamp@uidaho.edu.

Time Travelers: Decades Week

Campers will journey through different decades, exploring music, games, fashion and pop culture from the past to the present. Each day highlights a new era with hands-on activities, themed challenges and creative projects. This camp encourages self-expression, teamwork and lots of throwback fun.

Camp dates: June 8-12

Cost: $325

Adventure Awaits: Water Edition

This adventure-filled camp focuses on water-based recreation and outdoor fun. Campers will participate in activities such as paddling, water games and team challenges while learning basic water safety skills. Kids of all experience levels will enjoy this exciting and refreshing week of adventure.

Camp dates: June 15-18
Cost: $325

Lost in Space Week

Blast off into an exciting week of space exploration and discovery. Campers will learn about planets, stars and space missions while creating rockets, galaxies and other space-themed crafts. This camp blends imagination, creativity and science for an out-of-this-world experience.

Camp dates: June 22-26
Cost: $300

Adventure Awaits: Land Edition

This camp is designed for kids who love exploring the great outdoors. Campers will participate in hiking, team-building games and land-based adventure activities that promote curiosity and confidence. Each day brings new challenges that encourage problem-solving, cooperation and active fun.

Camp dates: June 29 to July 2
Cost: $300

Storybook Adventure Week

Campers will explore creative worlds inspired by beloved books and movies. From magical schools and ancient myths to thrilling adventures, kids will engage in themed games, challenges and imaginative activities that bring stories to life. This camp encourages creativity, teamwork and a love of reading and imagination.

Camp dates: July 6-10
Cost: $325

Summit Seekers (Rock Climbing) Week

Learn the fundamentals of indoor and outdoor rock climbing in a fun and encouraging environment. Campers will participate in climbing games, technique lessons and friendly competitions while learning important safety skills. No previous experience is necessary.

Camp dates: July 13-17
Cost: $325

Olympic Week

Inspired by the Olympic Games, this camp introduces campers to a variety of sports and team challenges from around the world. Campers will build skills, practice sportsmanship and compete in friendly events designed for all ability levels. This high-energy week promotes teamwork, confidence and fun.

Camp dates: July 20-24
Cost: $300

Peak Performance Week

This second session offers more exciting climbing experience for campers who want to reach new heights. Activities include skill development, group games and climbing challenges that build confidence and strength. No experience is required.

Camp dates: July 27-31
Cost: $325

Vandal Kids Camp FAQs

Where do the campers go during the day?

Vandal Kids Camp will be held in the Student Recreation Center on University of Idaho’s main campus. Activities will be mostly held at this location, however there are times where we will go on field trip to areas in the local community.

What should my child bring with them to the camp?

Your child should have a backpack with everything they need to be comfortable for the full day.

  • Layers in case of inclement weather: long sleeves, rain jacket, extra socks (full change of clothes is recommended in case of accidents).
  • Lunch, water bottle, morning and afternoon snack (no peanut ingredients).
  • Swimsuit and towel for the weeks with pool activities.
  • Optional: sunblock, bug spray, medication (inhaler, EpiPen, etc.).
  • Optional: a book to read.
What kind of training do the camp counselors go through?

The counselors will go through a series of training courses before the youth camp begins. The training ranges from risk management, minor protection, CPR and first aid and guidelines from the American Camp Association.

What is the ratio of campers to counselors?

Five children to one counselor.

What does the schedule for a day of camp look like?

While each camp follows its own unique schedule, a typical day at Vandal Kids Camp generally includes the following:

8:30-9 a.m.Check in and free time
9-9:30 a.m.Group warm-up activity
9:45-10:45 a.m.Game
10:45-11 a.m.Bathroom break and snack
11 a.m. to noonGuided activity, depending on the theme for the week
Noon to 12:30 p.m.Lunch
12:30-1 p.m.Break: Free play (board games, cards, coloring, etc.)
1-4 p.m.Guided activities (rock climbing, field trips, small group games, crafts, etc.)
4 p.m.Pick up