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.
This secluded day camp provides a wonderful natural setting for youth going into 1st through 5th grade. Each week follows a specific theme exploring fun and engaging topics and may include trips to the local pool, group games, crafts, and exciting field trips. This program also features a literacy and STEM program, supported by Story County ASSET and United Way of Story County, proven to help reduce summer learning loss. All campers will need to bring a sack lunch. If desired, campers can also bring additional snacks.
Canwita 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, exciting 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 Story County ASSET and United Way of Story County, 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.
Hantesa Day Camp offers a more traditional summer experience for children entering grades 1-5. Campers spend the week in a tight-knit group led by a dedicated counselor that helps them explore new activities centered around a weekly theme and swimming every afternoon. Each week is specifically designed to engage, challenge, and excite with a variety of outdoor-focused activities. Transportation from one of our drop sites, lunch, and a morning and afternoon snack are included in the price of registration.
At Camp Hantesa, middle school campers have the opportunity to create their own unique summer experience by choosing their own activities from a set of options aligned with the week’s theme—whether they are interested in art, sports, or other outdoor pursuits – we have something for everyone! Campers attend their chosen activities in the mornings and swim every afternoon! Each week includes transportation from one of our drop sites, a hot lunch, a morning and afternoon snack, and weekly swim lessons. Give your child the opportunity to find their spark, make their own schedule, and make new friends along the way!
Discovery Day Camp provides an exciting experience for youth going into 1st 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.
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.
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!