The top summer camp choices for Tennessee families.
Tennessee summers are magical – a perfect blend of golden sunshine, chirping cicadas, and endless opportunities for childhood adventure. Summer camps offer more than just a break from routine (and a break from… or for… you); they’re transformative experiences within welcoming communities. Imagine your child exploring beautiful forests, making lifelong friends, and developing essential life skills while creating memories against the backdrop of Tennessee’s breathtaking natural beauty. From the rolling hills of the Smoky Mountains to the serene lakes and vibrant outdoor spaces of West Tennessee, Tennessee summer camps provide a unique environment where your kids can unplug from technology, reconnect with nature, and embrace the joy of unstructured play and genuine human connection.
1. The Great Smokey Mountain Institute at Tremont
Location: Townsend, Tennessee
Cost: Varies depending on length and experience
Ages: children 4-9 years can attend camp with an adult, children 9-12 years, 13-17 years, Adult
Imagine a summer adventure where your child doesn’t just play, but truly discovers the wonders of nature. The Great Smoky Mountains Institute at Tremont offers more than a typical summer camp—it’s a transformative experience nestled in the heart of Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Children, families, and adults can immerse themselves in unforgettable outdoor experiences that connect them with the natural world. Campers will splash in mountain streams, climb ridges with breathtaking views, and learn about local ecosystems from experienced naturalists. These all-inclusive camps provide not just fun, but meaningful opportunities for self-discovery, scientific exploration, and building lasting friendships. Whether your child is curious about salamanders, wants to try backpacking, or simply needs an empowering outdoor experience, Tremont’s summer camps promise to inspire wonder, curiosity, and a lifelong love of nature.
2. Camp Tanase
Location: Burns, Tennessee
Cost: Beginning at $799.99
Ages: 10-14 years
Discover an extraordinary summer adventure at Camp Tanase, where young explorers ages 10-14 transform into junior park rangers in the stunning Montgomery Bell State Park. This unique one-week overnight camp, led by passionate Tennessee State Park Rangers, offers more than just a typical summer experience—it’s a transformative journey into outdoor education and personal growth. Campers will dive into exciting activities like survival skills, first aid, hiking, and team-building challenges, all while learning about nature conservation and sustainability. Nestled among shaded trees and beautiful lakes, Camp Tanase provides a safe, immersive environment where children can develop leadership skills, build confidence, and create lifelong memories. By combining fun, education, and outdoor exploration, this camp promises to inspire a love for nature and help children discover hidden talents they never knew they possessed. Give your child the gift of adventure, learning, and personal discovery at Camp Tanase—where summer memories are made and future environmental stewards are born.
3. Camp Bays Mountain
Location: Kingsport, TN
Cost: Beginning at $255
Ages: Grades 1-12, 18+ years
Discover a summer adventure like no other at Camp Bays Mountain, where outdoor education meets unforgettable fun! Located just five miles from downtown Kingsport, Tennessee, this United Methodist camp offers children an extraordinary opportunity to explore nature, build confidence, and create lifelong memories. With carefully designed day camp programs for students entering 1st through 6th grades, families can choose from multiple weekly sessions throughout the summer. The camp’s incredible facilities include a 35′ climbing tower, mountain biking trails, and a challenge course that encourages teamwork and personal growth. Each week is packed with immersive outdoor activities that go far beyond classroom learning—children will get their feet wet studying native fish, explore the night sky in interactive programs, and even learn survival skills through themed adventures. Camp Bays Mountain makes summer learning accessible and exciting. Give your child the gift of adventure, education, and personal discovery in a safe, supportive environment where they’ll connect with nature and build lasting friendships.
4. Camp Widjiwagan
Location: Antioch, TN
Cost: Starting at $540
Ages: Day camps for 6-15 years, Over night camps 6-16 years
Looking for an unforgettable summer experience for your child? Camp Widjiwagan offers an incredible opportunity for kids to grow, learn, and make lifelong memories. This YMCA day camp near Nashville provides a safe, nurturing environment where children can develop confidence, build friendships, and explore nature away from screens. With carefully selected and thoroughly trained staff who embody core values of honesty, caring, respect, and responsibility, Widjiwagan ensures your child will be in excellent hands. From traditional day camps to specialized programs like Pony Camp and Wranglers, there’s something for every child’s interests. The camp’s philosophy focuses on experiential education that helps children become more independent, confident, and capable, all while having an incredible summer adventure2. With options for different age groups, financial aid available, and a commitment to creating a magical, supportive experience, Camp Widjiwagan is the perfect summer destination for children looking to grow, learn, and have fun.
5. YMCA Camp Ocoee
Location: Ocoee, TN
Cost: starting at $875
Ages: 7-12 years, 13-16 years, and leadership camp for 11-12th grade students
Looking for an extraordinary summer experience that will transform your child’s life? YMCA Camp Ocoee offers an incredible overnight camping adventure just a short drive from Nashville. Located in the scenic Cherokee National Forest, this camp provides a traditional camping experience. Your children will enjoy a diverse range of activities, from lake adventures (Banana Boat, Canoeing, Swimming, Kayaking, Stand Up Paddleboards, Sit on Tops, Water Games, Water Slide, Water Trampoline, Water Jungle Jim, Water Rockit), land activities (Archery, Arts & Crafts, Climbing Tower, Dance, Drama, Fishing, Flag Football, GaGa Ball, High Ropes, Hiking, Horseback Riding*, Lanyards, Mountain Biking, Nature Study, BB Range, Sling Shot Range, Volleyball, Soccer, Team Sports, Ultimate Frisbee, 9 Square in the Air), and daily chapel services, all while making lifelong memories in a supportive environment. The camp offers carefully structured programs that keep kids active and interested, with attentive staff who help children overcome challenges like homesickness and build confidence.
6. Camp Y.I.
Location: LaVergne, TN
Cost: starting at $690
Ages: 8-14 years
Looking for an unforgettable summer adventure that will help your child grow and thrive? Camp Y.I. in LaVergne, Tennessee offers an incredible overnight camp experience that has been “Building Leaders for Tomorrow” since 1945. Nestled on a stunning 175-acre peninsula overlooking Percy Priest Lake, this traditional summer camp provides children with an extraordinary opportunity to unplug from technology and connect with nature. Campers can enjoy a diverse range of activities including horseback riding, lake adventures like waterskiing and tubing, swimming, climbing tower challenges, arts and crafts, and nightly campfire programs. More than just fun, Camp Y.I. focuses on developing self-confidence, independence, and lasting friendships in a supportive community atmosphere. With carefully trained staff, a commitment to character development, and a rich history of nurturing young minds, Camp Y.I. promises a transformative summer experience that will create memories to last a lifetime.
7. Pinecrest Camp
Location: Moscow, TN
Cost: starting at $75
Ages: grades K-12
Looking for an extraordinary summer experience that combines adventure, learning, and personal growth? Pinecrest Camp in Moscow, Tennessee offers the perfect solution for families seeking a transformative outdoor experience. Nestled on 450 rugged wooded acres, this remarkable camp has been dubbed “Memphis’ back porch” and provides children with an immersive environment rich in fun, friendship, and adventure. Pinecrest offers a serene and picturesque setting where your kids can unplug from technology and connect with nature, developing essential life skills and creating lasting memories. The camp’s expansive landscape provides numerous opportunities for outdoor activities, team building, and personal development, ensuring that every child experiences growth, challenges themselves, and builds confidence in a supportive, engaging environment. With a commitment to fostering learning and friendship, Pinecrest Camp promises a summer experience that will inspire, educate, and entertain children in ways they’ll remember for a lifetime.
8. Fort Bluff Camp
Location: Dayton, TN
Cost: starting at $300
Ages: 7-12 years, 13-18 years
Discover an extraordinary summer adventure at Fort Bluff Camp, nestled high atop Dayton Mountain in Tennessee’s breathtaking landscape. This remarkable 68-acre camp offers children an unparalleled experience that combines spiritual growth, outdoor excitement, and unforgettable memories. Located just six miles northwest of Dayton, Fort Bluff provides a serene escape from daily distractions, where your kids can engage in a wide array of activities including swimming, lake adventures, water slides, sports fields, game rooms, and human foosball. More than just a summer camp, Fort Bluff is committed to influencing young lives through a mission of presenting the gospel in a healthy, relaxed atmosphere, hosting over 14,000 visitors annually. With carefully prepared meals accommodating various dietary needs, comfortable cabin accommodations, and a dedicated staff focused on creating life-altering experiences, Fort Bluff promises a transformative week that will inspire, challenge, and delight your child. Whether your child seeks spiritual growth, outdoor adventure, or simply a chance to make lifelong memories, Fort Bluff Camp offers an exceptional summer experience that goes far beyond traditional camping.
9. Camp Nakanawa
Location: Crossville, TN
Cost: starting at $2,850 for 2 weeks
Ages: 8-17 years
Discover an extraordinary summer experience at Camp Nakanawa, a premier girls’ overnight camp nestled on the stunning Cumberland Plateau in Crossville, Tennessee. Founded in 1920, this remarkable camp offers girls ages 8-17 an incredible opportunity to grow, learn, and develop lifelong skills in a nurturing 1,000-acre wilderness setting. With over 30 diverse activities ranging from sports to arts, Camp Nakanawa is dedicated to empowering young women by cultivating confidence, courage, kindness, and leadership. Located at an elevation of 2,000 feet with a beautiful 150-acre spring-fed lake, the camp provides a safe, fun, and transformative environment where girls can step away from technology and discover their true potential. The camp’s mission goes beyond traditional summer programming, focusing on helping girls develop character and create lasting friendships through carefully designed outdoor experiences. Whether your daughter is seeking adventure, personal growth, or simply an unforgettable summer, Camp Nakanawa promises a life-changing experience that will inspire and challenge her in ways she never imagined.
10. Deer Run Camps
Location: Thompson Station, TN
Cost: starting at $849.95
Ages: grades 3-10th
Deer Run Camps & Retreats offers an exceptional summer camp experience for your child nestled on 150 private wooded acres in middle Tennessee, just 10 miles from historic downtown Franklin. This Christian camp provides both day and overnight options that focus on unplugging from technology and creating meaningful connections. Campers enjoy an incredible array of activities including swimming, water slides, archery, zip lines, a 45-ft climbing tower, and engaging recreational games like human foosball and GaGa ball. With bus transportation available from multiple locations including Brentwood, Nashville, Franklin, Spring Hill, and Murfreesboro, Deer Run makes summer adventure accessible and exciting for families across the region.
