Summer Camp Fun for Scouts
Summer is a time for playing, learning, and making memories that last a lifetime. Camp Northern Star offers all the great opportunities your kids deserve, without forgetting that fun comes first.
If you’re looking for a place where kids can learn valuable skills like self-confidence, problem-solving, and leadership while making friends and getting plenty of fresh air and exercise, check out Camp Northern Star day camps and sleepaway camps.
**This article is in partnership with Camp Northern Star
Who Can Attend a Northern Star Camp?
Most Northern Star summer camps are open to both Scouts and non-members. Along with experiences for elementary-school-aged kids, we also have fun programs for older kids in middle school.
While we believe that there are wonderful benefits to being a Scout, we welcome all youth to join summertime with Camp Northern Star.
Northern Star Discovery Day Camps
Discovery Day Camp is a great experience for children who aren’t ready for sleepaway camps. Participants can enjoy meeting new friends and trying fun activities with the comfort of going back home at the end of the day. Many families try day camp to learn more about the experience before deciding on a sleepaway program.
Our five-day Discovery Day Camp program is open to members and non-members in kindergarten through fifth grade. We offer multiple sessions at multiple locations across the metro so that every family can find a camp time that fits their busy schedule. Activities include outdoor skills, swimming, hiking, archery, and crafts.
The accommodations for all-day camp programs include indoor restrooms and outdoor latrines, as well as a camp store that sells small items and souvenirs. Campers are divided into small groups by grade level. Parents are not included in day-camp programs.
Some activities for day camps vary by location. Make sure to check with your local staff if your camper wants to participate in a specific adventure. Find a complete list of recommended items to bring and other details on the Northern Star website.
We also offer winter camps with fun activities like sledding, snowshoeing, and broomball.
Northern Star Sleepaway Camps
Northern Star offers several sleepaway camps, including programs for families and for children only. Campers can choose from an exciting list of activities, such as geocaching, fishing, and canoeing.
All programs include guidance and instruction from well-trained and experienced counselors and directors. The safety of our campers is our priority. Every camp location follows BSA safety guidelines.
Accommodations vary and include cabins that can sleep small and large groups. Campers who want a wilderness experience may also opt for tent camping. Weekend camps provide kids with time to explore nature, participate in new activities, and make friendships that can last for life.
New STEM Camp at Northern Star
Who’s ready for Discovery STEM Camp? Northern Star welcomes kids in second through fifth grade to explore the outdoors, swim, make some cool crafts, and participate in STEM-focused activities.
Campers will be divided into small groups by grade level to ensure activities are age appropriate. Discovery STEM Camp is a day camp program.
Discovery Adventure Camp for Older Kids
Developed especially for sixth through eighth graders, Discovery Adventure Camp is a four-night sleepaway experience at Camp Tomahawk.
In addition to traditional camp activities like hiking, boating, and archery, campers will enjoy highlights such as a high ropes course, horse riding, and tomahawk throwing. Meals are provided, and a full packing list is included in the parents’ guide.
Northern Star Camp Locations
Northern Star maintains 10 locations in Minnesota to make it easier for families to find a camp that works for them:
- Tomahawk Scout Camp
- Many Point Scout Camp
- Base Camp
- Rum River Scout Camp
- Phillippo Scout Camp
- Kiwanis Scout Camp
- Andersen Scout Camp
- Stearns Scout Camp
- Camp Horace Johnson
- Adventure Base
Each location offers different features, and some have unique activities that aren’t available in others.
Camping Is Fun in Minnesota’s Northern Star Camps
Campfires, sing-alongs, canoeing on the lake, and building important skills are just some of the activities awaiting your children at camp this summer.
Northern Star welcomes members and nonmembers to join in most programs. However, we encourage Scouting packs and dens to participate in camps together. We believe that this is a great bonding experience and that camp is more fun when your friends are there.
Safety is always our priority. We employ trained and qualified counselors and directors and follow all BSA safety guidelines. With day camps, sleepaway camps, and other options, kids from kindergarten through eighth grade can have a foundational experience at a Northern Star camp. To learn more about our offerings and locations, visit Camp Northern Star!
