Summer Day Camp

Camp Fire Heart of Iowa offers a wide variety of summer day camp programs throughout central Iowa. Whether you like creek stomping, bugs, or sports, we’ve got a summer of fun waiting for you! Click on any of the tabs below to view detailed information about each of our day camp programs including location, pricing, dates, and themes.



  • Canwita Day Camp (Ames) – Grades K – 8
  • Hantesa Day Camp (Ames, Boone, & DSM) – Grades K – 8
  • Discovery Day Camp (Des Moines) – Grades K – 5
  • Adventure Day Camp (Des Moines) – Grades K – 5
  • Des Moines Outrageous (DSM) – Grades 6 – 8
  • Youth Service Coalition (Ames, Boone, & DSM) – Grades 9 – 12

CANWITA DAY CAMP



GRADES

Entering Grades K – 8

TIERED PRICING

Tier A: $192.00
Tier B: $230.00
Tier C: $275.00
**Proof of Income Required**

LOCATION

Camp Canwita
2807 Duff Ave
Ames, IA 50010

DETAILS

Breakfast & Lunch: Not Included
Swimming: Weekly

PROGRAM DESCRIPTION

Camp Canwita is located on North Duff in Ames, Iowa. This secluded day camp provides a wonderful natural setting for youth K-8 to run, explore, and experience nature! Campers spend the week in tight-knit groups led by our dedicated counselors that help them explore new activities centered around a weekly theme. Campers are divided into groups based on their age and each age range has a different, age-appropriate schedule of activities. Each week’s program is specifically designed to engage, challenge, and excite with a variety of outdoor-focused activities. Each week also includes STEM, SEL, and literacy activities to help campers have fun while practicing essential life and academic skills. Swimming takes place off-site at public pools and generally occurs twice per week along with a weekly field trip! Lunch is not provided; campers should bring a sack lunch daily.


DROP-OFF & PICK-UP


Camp Canwita

2807 Duff Ave
Ames, IA 50010

Drop-Off

7:30 – 8:30 AM

Pick-Up

4:00 – 5:30 PM

RESOURCES & FORMS



2024 DATES & THEMES

June 10 – 14

Time Travelers

Revisit the past and look into the future! You can expect history, inventions, and throwback games this week at camp.

June 17 – 21

*No camp held on June 19th, in honor of Juneteenth. Special prorated price.
Tier A: $142.00
Tier B: $180.00
Tier C: $225.00

SPARTS

The energy of sports and the flow of art combine into one epic week of SPARTS! This week at camp, you’ll have the opportunity to boost your skills in sports and refine your art abilities.

June 24 – 28

Full STEAM Ahead

This week, campers will focus on a part of STEAM each day through experiments, observations, and fun! Explore science, technology, engineering, art, and math at camp!

July 1 – 3

*No camp July 4th or 5th. Special prorated price.
Tier A: $102.00
Tier B: $140.00
Tier C: $185.00

Pay It Forward

Bring a friend to camp and spread kindness to others in this week’s special activities that give back! This week, we’re passing around camp magic and goodness with friendship bracelets, service to others, and embracing the nature around us.

July 8 – 12

Camp Olympics

Compete and take part in daily activities to lead your country to victory! Create your country’s flag and chant to cheer on your team as they compete for the gold!

July 15 – 19

*Campers will take a field trip to Adventureland this week! Add $40 to each tier price.
Tier A: $232.00
Tier B: $270.00
Tier C: $315.00

Pop Culture Palooza

Come kick it at camp this week as we celebrate all things pop culture! From comics to video games to movies and stories- it is a week-long party palooza!

July 22 – 26

Camp ‘n Community

Unlock some hidden gems in your community through this week of camp! Meet people who help make our community great and see what amazing things kids can do too!

July 29 – August 2

Planet Earth

The planet is full of wonders! We’re learning about creatures all the way from the worms in our backyard to giraffes at the zoo. Show off all the ways you care for our amazing planet Earth.

August 5 – 9

*August 8-9: Optional Overnight Experience at Camp Hantesa (transportation provided from primary camp location): $65

Camping 101

This week is all things camping! Learn a new camping skill or challenge yourself with a one-match fire. Join us later in the week for an (optional) all camp overnight!

August 12 – 16

Best of the Best

We’re combining all your favorite parts of the summer to make our last week even more amazing! Revisit your favorite games, crafts, and memories from summer 2024!

REGISTER NOW

HANTESA DAY CAMP



GRADES

Entering grades K – 8

PRICING

Starting at $285 per week – see tiered pricing options below.

LOCATION

Camp Hantesa
1450 Oriole Road
Boone, IA 50036

DETAILS

Lunch & Snacks: Provided
Swimming: Daily

TIERED PRICING

Camp Fire recognizes that families have differing abilities to pay and has introduced a voluntary tiered pricing program for overnight camp to enable all families the opportunity for a quality camp experience for their children. This program is voluntary, confidential, requires no paperwork, and in no way influences the experience your child receives. Simply choose the rate that works best with your family budget.

  • Tier A: $285.00
    • Tier A is our historically standard program rate. This price is subsidized to a greater extent, supported through contributions from alumni, sponsorships, and grants.
  • Tier B: $305.00
    • Tier B is a partially subsidized rate that reflects the direct costs of camp, including food, housing, staff, and materials.
  • Tier C: $325.00
    • Tier C most closely reflects the “true cost” of camp, including maintenance, insurance, administration, and utilities as well as direct costs like staffing and program supplies. Choosing Tier C helps support the cost of camperships so no child is unable to attend due to their family’s financial circumstances.

PROGRAM DESCRIPTION

Hantesa Day Camp offers a more traditional summer experience for children entering grades K-8. Campers spend the week in tight-knit groups led by our dedicated counselors that help them explore new activities centered around a weekly theme. Campers are divided into groups based on their age and each age range has a different, age-appropriate schedule of activities. Each week’s program is specifically designed to engage, challenge, and excite with a variety of outdoor-focused activities. Each week also includes STEM, SEL, and literacy activities to help campers have fun while practicing essential life and academic skills. Swimming takes place on-site at the Hantesa pool and each camper will generally swim two-three times per week depending on their group’s schedule! Lunch, transportation, and a morning and afternoon snack are included in the price of registration.


DROP-OFF & PICK-UP


Camp Canwita

2807 Duff Ave
Ames, IA 50010

Drop-Off

7:30 – 8:15 AM

Pick-Up

4:30 – 5:30 PM

Riley Park

*Add $10 to tier price for transportation*
5300 Urbandale Ave
Des Moines, IA 50310

Drop-Off

7:30 – 8:15 AM

Pick-Up

4:30 – 5:30 PM

Camp Hantesa

1450 Oriole Road
Boone, IA 50036

Drop-Off

7:30 – 8:15 AM

Pick-Up

4:30 – 5:30 PM

RESOURCES & FORMS



2024 DATES & THEMES


June 10 – 14

Survivor Hantesa

Outwit, outplay, and outperform this week on Survivor Hantesa. Campers will be searching for hidden immunity idols, playing minute-to-win-it style games, and learning survival skills.

June 17 – 21

*No camp help June 19th, in honor of Juneteenth. Special prorated price.
Tier A: $250/week
Tier B: $270/week
Tier C: $290/week

Trailblazers

Camp is for everyone! Join us this week as we enjoy all of our favorite camp activities while celebrating trailblazers that changed the world and becoming changemakers for our communities! We’ll be learning about the milestones and triumphs of the LGBTQ2S+ and BIPOC communities. We’ll also be exploring Camp Fire’s boundary-breaking history as a leader in the women’s and youth voice movements.

June 24 – 28

Heroes & Villains

Have you ever wondered what exactly is on the dark side? Find out this week as we explore our super selves. Train like a hero and scheme like a villain to discover your superpowers!

July 1 – 3

*No camp held July 4th or 5th. Special prorated price.
Tier A: $205/week
Tier B: $225/week
Tier C: $245/week

Full STEAM Ahead

This week, campers will focus on a part of STEAM each day through experiments, observations, and fun! Explore science, technology, engineering, art, and math at camp!

July 8 – 12

Camp Olympics

Compete and take part in daily activities to lead your country to victory! Create your country’s flag and chant to cheer on your team as they compete for the gold!

July 15 – 19

Mash-Up

Be prepared for anything because there’s a twist around every corner at camp… We’re mixing up all your favorite camp activities to make something totally new! Search and rescue, nature art, musical theater, and more await you at camp this week!

July 22 – 26

Around the World

This week we travel around the world to learn about new foods, languages, arts, and more! We’ll be celebrating our international counselors and exploring our heritage with this week’s activities!

July 24 – August 2

WoHa

“We welcome you to Hantesa, we’re mighty glad you’re here!” WoHa Week features long-time Hantesa traditions, some dating back to our founding in 1919! Hear camp stories, sing traditional camp songs, and take part in a wide variety of camp crafts, old and new. Come learn our traditions and make memories of your own!

August 5 – 9

*August 8-9: Optional Overnight Experience at Camp Hantesa (transportation provided from primary camp location): $65

Fantastic Adventures

This week we transport our campers into a world of magic, myths, and legends! We’ll be brewing potions, searching for mystical creatures, and adventuring across camp!

August 12 – 16

Best of the Best

We’re combining all your favorite parts of the summer to make our last week even more amazing! Revisit your favorite games, crafts, and memories from summer 2024!

REGISTER NOW

DISCOVERY DAY CAMP



GRADES

Entering grades K – 5

TIERED PRICING

Tier A: $275
Tier B: $295
Tier C: $315

LOCATION

Bergman Academy
100 45th St
Des Moines, IA 50312

DETAILS

Lunch: Not provided
Swimming: Weekly
Field trips: Weekly

TIERED PRICING

Camp Fire recognizes that families have differing abilities to pay and has introduced a voluntary tiered pricing program for overnight camp to enable all families the opportunity for a quality camp experience for their children. This program is voluntary, confidential, requires no paperwork, and in no way influences the experience your child receives. Simply choose the rate that works best with your family budget.

  • Tier A: $275.00
    • Tier A is our historically standard program rate. This price is subsidized to a greater extent, supported through contributions from alumni, sponsorships, and grants.
  • Tier B: $295.00
    • Tier B is a partially subsidized rate that reflects the direct costs of camp, including food, housing, staff, and materials.
  • Tier C: $315.00
    • Tier C most closely reflects the “true cost” of camp, including maintenance, insurance, administration, and utilities as well as direct costs like staffing and program supplies. Choosing Tier C helps support the cost of camperships so no child is unable to attend due to their family’s financial circumstances.

PROGRAM DESCRIPTION

Discovery Day Camp provides an exciting experience for youth going into Kindergarten through 5th grade providing the perfect balance of nature and urban adventures. Each week follows a specific theme exploring fun and engaging topics and includes trips to the local pool, group games, crafts, and exciting field trips. This program also features a literacy and STEM program, supported by United Way of Central Iowa, proven to help reduce summer learning loss. All campers will need to bring a sack lunch. If desired, campers can also bring additional snacks.


DROP-OFF & PICK-UP


Bergman Academy

100 45th St
Des Moines, IA 50312

Drop-Off

7:30 – 8:30 AM

Pick-Up

4:00-5:30 PM

RESOURCES & FORMS



2024 DATES & THEMES


June 10 – 14

Time Travelers

Revisit the past and look into the future! You can expect history, inventions, and throwback games this week at camp.

June 17 – 21

*No camp held June 19th. in honor of Juneteenth. Cost is prorated to $225.

SPARTS

The energy of sports and the flow of art combine into one epic week of SPARTS! This week at camp, you’ll have the opportunity to boost your skills in sports and refine your art abilities.

June 24 – 28

Full STEAM Ahead

This week, campers will focus on a part of STEAM each day through experiments, observations, and fun! Explore science, technology, engineering, art, and math at camp!

July 1 – 3

*No camp July 4th or 5th. Cost is prorated to $185.

Pay It Forward

Bring a friend to camp and spread kindness to others in this week’s special activities that give back! This week, we’re passing around camp magic and goodness with friendship bracelets, service to others, and embracing the nature around us.

July 8 – 12

Camp Olympics

Compete and take part in daily activities to lead your country to victory! Create your country’s flag and chant to cheer on your team as they compete for the gold!

July 15 – 19

*Campers will be taking a field trip to Adventureland this week! Cost is raised to $315.

Pop Culture Palooza

Come kick it at camp this week as we celebrate all things pop culture! From comics to video games to movies and stories- it is a week-long party palooza!

July 22 – 26

Camp ‘n Community

Unlock some hidden gems in your community through this week of camp! Meet people who help make our community great and see what amazing things kids can do too!

July 29 – August 2

Planet Earth

The planet is full of wonders! We’re learning about creatures all the way from the worms in our backyard to giraffes at the zoo. Show off all the ways you care for our amazing planet Earth.

August 5 – 9

*August 8-9: Optional Overnight Experience at Camp Hantesa (transportation provided from primary camp location): $65

Camping 101

This week is all things camping! Learn a new camping skill or challenge yourself with a one-match fire. Join us later in the week for an (optional) all camp overnight!

August 12 – 16

Best of the Best

We’re combining all your favorite parts of the summer to make our last week even more amazing! Revisit your favorite games, crafts, and memories from summer 2024!

REGISTER NOW

ADVENTURE DAY CAMP



GRADES

Entering grades K – 5

TIERED PRICING

Tier A: $275
Tier B: $295
Tier C: $315

LOCATION

West Des Moines United Methodist Church
720 Grand Ave
West Des Moines, IA 50265

DETAILS

Lunch: Not provided
Swimming: Weekly
Field trips: Weekly

TIERED PRICING

Camp Fire recognizes that families have differing abilities to pay and has introduced a voluntary tiered pricing program for overnight camp to enable all families the opportunity for a quality camp experience for their children. This program is voluntary, confidential, requires no paperwork, and in no way influences the experience your child receives. Simply choose the rate that works best with your family budget.

  • Tier A: $275.00
    • Tier A is our historically standard program rate. This price is subsidized to a greater extent, supported through contributions from alumni, sponsorships, and grants.
  • Tier B: $295.00
    • Tier B is a partially subsidized rate that reflects the direct costs of camp, including food, housing, staff, and materials.
  • Tier C: $315.00
    • Tier C most closely reflects the “true cost” of camp, including maintenance, insurance, administration, and utilities as well as direct costs like staffing and program supplies. Choosing Tier C helps support the cost of camperships so no child is unable to attend due to their family’s financial circumstances.

PROGRAM DESCRIPTION

Adventure Day Camp provides an exciting experience for youth going into Kindergarten through 5th grade providing the perfect balance of nature and urban adventures. Each week follows a specific theme exploring fun and engaging topics and includes trips to the local pool, group games, crafts, and exciting field trips. This program also features a literacy and STEM program, supported by United Way of Central Iowa, proven to help reduce summer learning loss. All campers will need to bring a sack lunch. If desired, campers can also bring additional snacks.


DROP-OFF & PICK-UP


NEW! – West Des Moines United Methodist Church

720 Grand Ave
West Des Moines, IA 50265

Drop-Off

7:30 – 8:30 AM

Pick-Up

4:00-5:30 PM

RESOURCES & FORMS



2024 DATES & THEMES


June 10 – 14

Time Travelers

Revisit the past and look into the future! You can expect history, inventions, and throwback games this week at camp.

June 17 – 21

*No camp held June 19th. in honor of Juneteenth. Cost is prorated to $225.

SPARTS

The energy of sports and the flow of art combine into one epic week of SPARTS! This week at camp, you’ll have the opportunity to boost your skills in sports and refine your art abilities.

June 24 – 28

Full STEAM Ahead

This week, campers will focus on a part of STEAM each day through experiments, observations, and fun! Explore science, technology, engineering, art, and math at camp!

July 1 – 3

*No camp July 4th or 5th. Cost is prorated to $185.

Pay It Forward

Bring a friend to camp and spread kindness to others in this week’s special activities that give back! This week, we’re passing around camp magic and goodness with friendship bracelets, service to others, and embracing the nature around us.

July 8 – 12

Camp Olympics

Compete and take part in daily activities to lead your country to victory! Create your country’s flag and chant to cheer on your team as they compete for the gold!

July 15 – 19

*Campers will be taking a field trip to Adventureland this week! Cost is raised to $315.

Pop Culture Palooza

Come kick it at camp this week as we celebrate all things pop culture! From comics to video games to movies and stories- it is a week-long party palooza!

July 22 – 26

Camp ‘n Community

Unlock some hidden gems in your community through this week of camp! Meet people who help make our community great and see what amazing things kids can do too!

July 29 – August 2

Planet Earth

The planet is full of wonders! We’re learning about creatures all the way from the worms in our backyard to giraffes at the zoo. Show off all the ways you care for our amazing planet Earth.

August 5 – 9

*August 8-9: Optional Overnight Experience at Camp Hantesa (transportation provided from primary camp location): $65

Camping 101

This week is all things camping! Learn a new camping skill or challenge yourself with a one-match fire. Join us later in the week for an (optional) all camp overnight!

August 12 – 16

Best of the Best

We’re combining all your favorite parts of the summer to make our last week even more amazing! Revisit your favorite games, crafts, and memories from summer 2024!

REGISTER NOW

DES MOINES OUTRAGEOUS DAY CAMP



GRADES

Entering grades 6 – 8

TIERED PRICING

Tier A: $275
Tier B: $295
Tier C: $315

LOCATION

West Des Moines United Methodist Church
720 Grand Ave
West Des Moines, IA 50265

DETAILS

Lunch: Not included
Swimming: Weekly
Field Trips: Weekly

TIERED PRICING

Camp Fire recognizes that families have differing abilities to pay and has introduced a voluntary tiered pricing program for overnight camp to enable all families the opportunity for a quality camp experience for their children. This program is voluntary, confidential, requires no paperwork, and in no way influences the experience your child receives. Simply choose the rate that works best with your family budget.

  • Tier A: $275.00
    • Tier A is our historically standard program rate. This price is subsidized to a greater extent, supported through contributions from alumni, sponsorships, and grants.
  • Tier B: $295.00
    • Tier B is a partially subsidized rate that reflects the direct costs of camp, including food, housing, staff, and materials.
  • Tier C: $315.00
    • Tier C most closely reflects the “true cost” of camp, including maintenance, insurance, administration, and utilities as well as direct costs like staffing and program supplies. Choosing Tier C helps support the cost of camperships so no child is unable to attend due to their family’s financial circumstances.

PROGRAM DESCRIPTION

Des Moines Outrageous offers new experiences and challenges for middle schoolers by making the most of their summer with exciting activities and action-packed days. Each week follows a specific theme exploring fun and engaging topics and includes weekly field trips, swimming at the local pool, group games, and other activities led by our professional staff. Plus, activities explored throughout the summer such as rock climbing, service learning, paintballing, canoeing, and much more! This program also features literacy, STEM, and SEL (social-emotional learning) components, supported by United Way of Central Iowa, proven to help students transition into middle school and reduce summer learning loss. All campers will need to bring a sack lunch. If desired, campers can also bring additional snacks.


DROP-OFF & PICK-UP


NEW! – West Des Moines United Methodist Church

720 Grand Ave
West Des Moines, IA 50265

Drop-Off

7:30 – 8:30 AM

Pick-Up

4:00-5:30 PM

RESOURCES & FORMS



2024 DATES & THEMES


June 10 – 14

Time Travelers

Revisit the past and look into the future! You can expect history, inventions, and throwback games this week at camp.

June 17 – 21

*No camp held June 19th, in honor of Juneteenth. Cost is prorated to $225.

SPARTS

The energy of sports and the flow of art combine into one epic week of SPARTS! This week at camp, you’ll have the opportunity to boost your skills in sports and refine your art abilities.

June 24 – 28

Full STEAM Ahead

This week, campers will focus on a part of STEAM each day through experiments, observations, and fun! Explore science, technology, engineering, art, and math at camp!

July 1 – 3

*No camp July 4th or 5th. Cost is prorated to $185.

Pay It Forward

Bring a friend to camp and spread kindness to others in this week’s special activities that give back! This week, we’re passing around camp magic and goodness with friendship bracelets, service to others, and embracing the nature around us.

July 8 – 12

Camp Olympics

Compete and take part in daily activities to lead your country to victory! Create your country’s flag and chant to cheer on your team as they compete for the gold!

July 15 – 19

*Campers will take a field trip to Adventureland this week! Camp cost is raised to $315.

Pop Culture Palooza

Come kick it at camp this week as we celebrate all things pop culture! From comics to video games to movies and stories- it is a week-long party palooza!

July 22 – 26

Camp ‘n Community

Unlock some hidden gems in your community through this week of camp! Meet people who help make our community great and see what amazing things kids can do too!

July 29 – August 2

Planet Earth

The planet is full of wonders! We’re learning about creatures all the way from the worms in our backyard to giraffes at the zoo. Show off all the ways you care for our amazing planet Earth.

August 5 – 9

August 8-9: Optional Overnight Experience at Camp Hantesa (transportation provided from primary camp location): $65

Camping 101

This week is all things camping! Learn a new camping skill or challenge yourself with a one-match fire. Join us later in the week for an (optional) all camp overnight!

August 12 – 16

Best of the Best

We’re combining all your favorite parts of the summer to make our last week even more amazing! Revisit your favorite games, crafts, and memories from summer 2024!

REGISTER NOW

YOUTH SERVICE COALITION



GRADES

Entering grades 9 – 12

PRICING

Starting at $240 per week – see tiered pricing options below.

LOCATION

Camp Hantesa
1450 Oriole Road
Boone, IA 50036

DETAILS

Lunch & Snacks: Provided
Swimming: Varies
Field Trips: Varies

TIERED PRICING

Camp Fire recognizes that families have differing abilities to pay and has introduced a voluntary tiered pricing program for overnight camp to enable all families the opportunity for a quality camp experience for their children. This program is voluntary, confidential, requires no paperwork, and in no way influences the experience your child receives. Simply choose the rate that works best with your family budget.

  • Tier A: $240.00
    • Tier A is our historically standard program rate. This price is subsidized to a greater extent, supported through contributions from alumni, sponsorships, and grants.
  • Tier B: $260.00
    • Tier B is a partially subsidized rate that reflects the direct costs of camp, including food, housing, staff, and materials.
  • Tier C: $275.00
    • Tier C most closely reflects the “true cost” of camp, including maintenance, insurance, administration, and utilities as well as direct costs like staffing and program supplies. Choosing Tier C helps support the cost of camperships so no child is unable to attend due to their family’s financial circumstances.

PROGRAM DESCRIPTION

Calling all Camp Fire teens – give back to your community by joining the Youth Service Coalition! In this youth-led program, Camp Fire teens explore real-world issues and solutions via service learning. Guided by our trained staff, teens will work together to advocate for change, complete service projects, and improve our community – for everyone! Teens will also participate in all of the most anticipated summer activities and field trips – make a difference in your community, earn volunteer hours, and have a blast while you do it!


DROP-OFF & PICK-UP


Camp Canwita

2807 Duff Ave
Ames, IA 50010

Drop-Off

7:30 – 8:15 AM

Pick-Up

4:30 – 5:30 PM

Riley Park

*Add $10 to tier price for transportation*
5300 Urbandale Ave
Des Moines, IA 50310

Drop-Off

7:30 – 8:15 AM

Pick-Up

4:30 – 5:30 PM

Camp Hantesa

1450 Oriole Road
Boone, IA 50036

Drop-Off

7:30 – 8:15 AM

Pick-Up

4:30 – 5:30 PM

RESOURCES & FORMS



2024 DATES


June 10 – 14


June 17 – 21

*No camp held June 19th, in honor of Juneteenth. Special prorated price.
Tier A: $225/week
Tier B: $245/week
Tier C: $260/week

June 24 – 28



July 1 – 3

*No camp July 4th or 5th. Special prorated price.
Tier A: $185/week
Tier B: $205/week
Tier C: $220/week

July 8 – 12


July 15 – 19

*$40 added to tier price for Adventureland.
Tier A: $280/week
Tier B: $300/week
Tier C: $315/week


July 22 – 26


July 29 – August 2


August 5 – 9

August 8-9: Optional Overnight Experience at Camp Hantesa (transportation provided from primary camp location): $65

August 12 – 16



REGISTER NOW

Need some questions answered?