Remember the days of heading off to summer camp? The excitement of getting dropped off, scoring a camp T-shirt and spending the day with other kids just as excited to be out of school as you were.
While summer camps have long been associated with fun and recreation, many offer something even more meaningful: opportunities for young people to experience community, creativity and connection through art, history and culture.
That mission comes to life at the Otis Redding Center for the Arts (ORCA) in Macon, Georgia. Founded in 2007 to expand the musical and philanthropic legacy of the late Otis Redding, the center is dedicated to empowering, enriching and motivating young people through music, songwriting and instrumental instruction.
The center offers two distinct summer programs, including its signature Otis Music Camp, which culminates this weekend after three weeks of helping students discover themselves through music.
“They don’t just write songs; they begin to craft the soundtrack of their lives, gaining confidence, boldness and an audacious belief in their potential,” said Kimberly Kelsey-Epps, Center Director at Otis Redding Center.
Along with experiential opportunities to master music and business, the participants get to hear from real-life success stories, such as recent celebrity guest Keri Hilson. “Our kids come here and prove to themselves that they can achieve far more than they imagined, finding their voice—literally and figuratively—and realizing their own power.”
That kind of transformation is one of the greatest benefits of attending a summer program with purpose.
“Many come back year after year to grow, collaborate and reconnect with who they are and what they can do,” Kelsey-Epps continued.
Beginning in July, ORCA will also host Camp Dream, a two-week musical arts exploration program for children ages 5 to 11, introducing younger students to the joys of music and creative expression.
“That is why we do the work we do at ORCA—to witness that transformation. It’s a really special thing.”
Programs like ORCA’s show that summer learning can be just as impactful as it is fun. Across the country, organizations are creating spaces where young people can explore their heritage, express themselves creatively and build confidence that lasts long after the season ends.
Here are five more camps dedicated to putting art, music and culture into the hands, feet and hearts of the next generation.
Camp Atwater — North Brookfield, Massachusetts
Founded in 1921, Camp Atwater is the oldest Black-owned and operated summer camp in the United States. For more than a century, the camp has helped shape generations of young leaders through a blend of outdoor recreation, sports, STEM programming, arts education, cultural enrichment and leadership development. The result is a well-rounded experience rooted in self-discovery, confidence and community.
Asase Yaa Summer Arts Camp — Brooklyn, New York
For children who love to move, the Asase Yaa Summer Arts Camp offers a vibrant introduction to African and African American culture through dance, music and storytelling. Centered on the traditions of the African Diaspora, the program helps young people strengthen their artistic skills while fostering a deeper connection to their cultural roots.
International African American Museum Summer Camp — Charleston, South Carolina
History, art, STEM and outdoor exploration come together at the International African American Museum’s summer camp. This year’s programming centers on themes of Gullah Geechee resilience, wellness and cultural discovery, giving participants hands-on opportunities to engage with history while building new skills and friendships.
Black Arts MKE Youth Performing Arts Camp — Milwaukee, Wisconsin
The mission of Black Arts MKE is to engage young people through African American arts and culture, and its I AM Performing Arts Summer Camp does exactly that. Beginning July 1, professional artists guide participants through musical theater, choreography, filmmaking, voice acting and performance while incorporating lessons rooted in African and African American history. The experience culminates in a final showcase that allows students to put their newfound skills on display.
Debbie Allen Dance Academy Summer Intensive — Los Angeles
Founded by actress, dancer and choreographer Debbie Allen, the Debbie Allen Dance Academy Summer Intensive helps young performers take their talents to the next level. Students receive training in ballet, jazz, modern, hip-hop and musical theater while learning the discipline and dedication required to succeed on stage. For children with dreams of performing, it’s an opportunity to learn from one of the entertainment industry’s most celebrated creative forces.