Summer in Denton County, TX, is more than just sizzling temps and sunny afternoons—it’s prime time for kids (and teens) to dive into new adventures, learn cool skills, and make lifelong friends at one of the many summer camps sprinkled around our community. Whether your child is an aspiring artist, a future scientist, a die-hard sports fan, or simply wants to splash around and explore, there’s a camp close by ready to welcome them. Here’s a look at some of the best public summer camps within about 30 minutes of Denton County, each with its own special twist that’ll keep your kid smiling all summer long.
Denton Parks & Recreation Camps
Right in the heart of Denton, the city’s Parks & Rec department hosts a lively line-up of summer camps that cover just about everything. From the all-day Summer Day Camps packed with arts, crafts, games, and field trips, to specialized programs like Camp Adventure (perfect for the outdoorsy kid), there’s a spot for everyone. They even have camps designed to keep teens active and engaged. Best of all, it’s budget-friendly and local, meaning more time for fun and less time in the car.
Coppell Arts Center Summer Camps
Just a short drive south, Coppell Arts Center offers a summer packed with creativity. Their camps range from musical theater and improv to painting and digital art. It’s an amazing option for kids who love expressing themselves or are eager to try the stage for the first time. Plus, the instructors here are working artists and performers, giving campers insider tips and real-world know-how. Parents rave about how their shy kids come out of their shells after a week of these camps.
Flower Mound Community Activity Center Camps
The CAC in Flower Mound is more than just a place to cool off in their famous outdoor water park—it’s also home to super popular summer camps. Kids can join the Adventure Camp, which keeps them moving with sports, swimming, and outdoor activities, or try themed specialty weeks like science, cooking, or superhero week. The best part? After-camp swimming is often included, so your camper can splash away the summer heat before heading home.
Lewisville Thrive Camps
Lewisville’s Thrive Multigenerational Center is making waves with its summer camps for kids ages 6-12. They mix traditional camp games and crafts with STEM activities, sports tournaments, and even cooking classes. Thrive is known for its welcoming atmosphere and staff who go out of their way to make sure kids feel included. For families living in or near the southern side of Denton County, it’s an ultra-convenient pick.
Sci-Tech Discovery Center Camps in Frisco
Got a kid who lights up at the mention of robots, rockets, or slime? The Sci-Tech Discovery Center in Frisco is your go-to. Their weeklong camps are all about hands-on experiments, engineering challenges, and real-world problem solving. Themes range from LEGO robotics to coding and chemistry. It’s a great way to keep those brain cells firing during the summer while having a blast. Bonus: they make sure kids come home with projects they can show off.
YMCA Cross Timbers Camps
Just west in Flower Mound, the Cross Timbers YMCA hosts classic day camps and sports camps that focus on building confidence, leadership, and teamwork. Whether your child wants to hone their soccer skills or just try a little bit of everything, YMCA camps offer well-rounded fun. They’re also known for their caring counselors and emphasis on values, which gives many parents peace of mind.
Sky Ranch Day Camp (Van-style drop-ins in Local Parks)
Sky Ranch, a well-known camp organization with deep Texas roots, often hosts traveling day camps (called Sky Ranch Launch Camps) in parks around the area, including sometimes right here in Denton County. These weeklong experiences bring all the energy of a big overnight camp—complete with crazy games, team competitions, and faith-based lessons—without having to sleep away from home. Keep an eye on their schedule to see if they'll set up near you this summer.
Wrap-Up: Make This Summer One to Remember
No matter what your child is into—sports, science, art, outdoor adventures, or simply making new friends—Denton County, TX, and its surrounding areas have a summer camp perfect for them. These camps do more than fill time—they help kids grow, build confidence, and make memories that last long after school starts again.
While you’re busy planning out those camp carpool schedules, remember that Huffines Kia Corinth is here to keep your summer running smoothly. Whether you need a spacious SUV to haul all that gear or just want to make sure your current ride’s ready for camp drop-offs, we’re right up the road and happy to help. Here’s to a summer full of new experiences, happy campers, and plenty of local fun!