Locations

CAMP HANTESA IN Boone, Ia

Camp Hantesa (pronounced Han-Teh-Sha, meaning ‘red cedars’) was created as a camp of high ideals and has been delivering the Camp Fire promise since our inception:

Young people want to shape the world. Camp Fire provides the opportunity to find their spark, lift their voice, and discover who they are. In Camp Fire, it begins now. Light the fire within.

At Hantesa, the traditions of friendship, learning, service, and leadership are the basis of our education, recreation, and camping programs.

Camp Hantesa is located in Boone, Iowa adjacent to Ledges State Park, and shares Its wonderful hills, views of the Des Moines River, and stone outcroppings. The facilities at Hantesa were built to immerse our participants in their natural surroundings.

We run weekly resident and day camp programs for boy and girls in grades 1-12. Throughout the year we also run family camps, school day off programs, winter and spring break camps, and we are available for group rentals, retreats, and weddings.

We look forward to seeing you at camp!

Programs

  • Hantesa Day Camp: For grades K–5

  • Hantesa Outrageous: For grades 6–8

  • Junior Apprentice: For grades 9–10

Mail

Camp Hantesa, 1450 Oriole Road, Boone, IA 50036

CAMP CANWITA In Ames, IA

Camp Canwita is a cherished day camp operated by Camp Fire Heart of Iowa, located at 2807 Duff Avenue in Ames, Iowa. Established in 1925 by Myrtle and Bill Gaessler, it was created to provide a dedicated outdoor space for youth development and nature-based learning. Over the years, community support helped build its facilities, including a lodge completed in 1926. The land was generously donated by Mr. Grove, who stipulated that it remain with Camp Fire as long as the organization exists.

Today, Camp Canwita serves youth from kindergarten through 8th grade, offering weekly summer day camps that blend outdoor exploration with structured enrichment. Campers participate in activities such as arts and crafts, swimming, games, STEM projects, and social-emotional learning, all within a safe and inclusive environment.

Camp Canwita remains a vital part of the Ames community, providing accessible, nature-based programming that supports youth development and community connection.

Programs

  • Canwita Day Camp: For grades K–5

  • Canwita Outrageous: For grades 6–8

  • SPARKS Ames: for grades preK-5

Mail

Camp Canwita, 2807 Duff Ave, Ames, IA 50010

SATELITE CAMPS

Camp Fire Heart of Iowa operates several satellite day camp locations across Central Iowa, providing accessible and enriching summer experiences for youth in various communities. These camps offer a range of programs tailored to different age groups and interests.

Locations:

Des Moines Area Camps

  • Discovery Day Camp:

    • Location: 4320 Grand Ave, Des Moines, IA 50312

    • Programs: For grades K–5

  • Adventure Day Camp:

    • Location: Des Moines, IA

    • Programs: For grades K–5

Jasper County Camps

  • SPARKS Prairie City (BASP)

    • Location: Prairie City Elementary, 309 E Plainsmen Road, Prairie City, IA 50228

    • Programs: For grades PreK-5