Recreational Services

Prepare for Liftoff: Welcome to UToledo Kid’s Camp!

Kids Camp campers playing with waterballoons

Get ready for an unforgettable summer filled with fun, friendship, and exploration! At UToledo Kid’s Camp, we offer a dynamic and engaging program designed for kids aged 5-12, where every day is packed with exciting activities that inspire creativity, teamwork, and a love for the outdoors.

From thrilling nature hikes and arts and crafts to swimming, sports, and interactive games, our experienced counselors ensure a safe and supportive environment for all campers.

Join us this summer to make new friends, discover new passions, and create lasting memories! Registration opens soon, so keep an eye out for updates. We can’t wait to welcome your child to the UToledo Kid’s Camp family!


Know Before You Register

  • UToledo Kid’s Camp welcomes children aged 5-12 years old. Please note that there are no exceptions for kids outside this age range. Ensure your child meets the age requirement at the time of registration. Each week has a max capacity of 80 campers a week, be sure to secure your spot when registration opens as spots may fill up quickly.
  • Registration for Summer 2025 opens on Monday, March 3rd at 8:00am. Don’t miss your chance to secure a spot.
    • Weekly Registration: You must register for each week individually. Please note that you cannot register for multiple weeks at the same time.
    • Late registrations/Mess Up with Registration: Unfortunately, late registrations are not accepted. If you miss the registration deadline, you will need to join the waitlist and wait to see if a spot becomes available.
  • The total cost for camp is outlined below. Please note that our camp does not offer financial support or scholarships at this time. A down payment of $25 is required at the time of registration for each week your camper attends.

If you need to cancel a week, all cancellations must be submitted by the Monday prior to the week you wish to cancel. Please be aware that down deposits

Launch Your Journey: Ready, Set, Register!

Registration for Summer 2025 will open on Monday, March 3rd at 8:00 a.m. Check back in March 2025 for more details about Summer 2025 Kid's Camp!

If you are registering multiple children, please email kidscamp@utoledo.edu for your multi-child discount code prior to registration.

  • The discount price does not apply to the first child, but each additional child after will receive $15 off.
  • Note: Upon receiving the discount code, Rec Services staff can provide an estimated total.  All final totals are calculated at checkout in the registration portal or in person at the front desk of the Student Recreation Center. 

Jump to:


Weekly Themes: Blast Off into a New Adventure Every Week!

Session 

Theme 

Theme Description 

Field Trip 

Week 1: June 2 - 6 

Summer Blastoff

 Get ready for an explosive week of summer adventure! We’re diving into thrilling camp-style experiments and wild explorations that will unleash your inner scientist. It’s going to be a whirlwind of messy, hands-on learning, where every moment is packed with excitement and fun. Buckle up for a summer blast-off like no other! 

No field trip

Week 2: June 9 - 13

Time Warp!

Fasten your seatbelt and get ready for a thrilling journey through the ages! Campers will travel back in time to experience the coolest trends from the past, including nostalgic games, iconic music, and fabulous fashion. Get ready to dress up in styles from different decades as we celebrate the vibrant history of fun and creativity! Let the time travel adventure begin! 

Bowling

Week 3: June 16 - 20

(No camp 6/19)

To Infinity & Beyond

Welcome to the magical universe of Disney at our Summer Camp, where we’re blasting off to infinity and beyond! Prepare for a week brimming with enchantment, wonder, and limitless adventures inspired by your favorite Disney characters and stories. Whether you’re a fan of timeless classics or the latest animated hits, there’s an unforgettable experience waiting for every Disney enthusiast. Let the adventure begin! 

Wildwood Metro Park

Week 4: June 23 - 27

Wild Discoveries

Get ready for an exhilarating adventure as campers dive into the fascinating world of animals! They’ll explore diverse habitats, uncover what different creatures eat, and discover where they live—all while engaging in hands-on activities and interactive lessons. From tracking animal footprints to creating habitat dioramas, this week promises to be filled with wild fun and exciting discoveries about the incredible animal kingdom! 

Toledo Zoo

Week 5: June 31 - July 3

(No camp 7/4)

Holiday Madness: Around the World

Why wait until the holidays to celebrate our favorite traditions? Get ready for a week bursting with festive cheer and fun! We’ll kick things off with Diwali, the Festival of Lights, where we’ll light up our spirits and explore the meaning of this joyous celebration. Next, we’ll dive into the vibrant festivities of Chinese New Year, complete with colorful decorations and exciting traditions as we welcome a new lunar year. Then, we’ll celebrate Bastille Day, embracing French culture with music, delicious food, and a spirit of revolution. Finally, we’ll honor Día de los Muertos, where we’ll create colorful altars and learn about this joyous celebration of life and remembrance. Get ready for a whirlwind of global holiday cheer! 

No field trip

Week 6: July 7 - 11

Wild, Wild, West

Welcome to Wild Wild West Week at our Summer Camp—where the spirit of the frontier comes alive! Saddle up, cowboys and cowgirls, as we embark on an unforgettable journey back to the days of pioneers, outlaws, and breathtaking landscapes. Get ready for a week packed with adventure, excitement, and a whole lot of Western charm. Dust off your boots and let the fun begin! 

No field trip

Week 7: July 14 - 18

Color Craze

Get ready for a week bursting with vibrant hues and artistic expression as we dive into the dazzling world of colors! We’ll explore the science behind color while unleashing our creativity through an explosion of colorful crafts and activities. This theme week promises to be a kaleidoscope of fun and inspiration that will spark your imagination and brighten your spirit! 

Imagination Station

Week 8: July 21 - 25

Monster Mash

Get ready for a week packed with monstrous adventures, eerie crafts, and spine-tingling surprises! From classic monsters to legendary creatures, every thrill-seeker will find something to enjoy. Campers will embark on exciting quests, create their own creepy crafts, and dive into tales of the supernatural. Whether you’re conjuring up a friendly monster or exploring the lore of legendary beasts, this week promises to be a hair-raising good time! 

Urban Air

Week 9: July 28 - Aug 1

Beach Bonanza

Welcome to Beach Bonanza Week at our Summer Camp—where the sun, sand, and surf await! Get ready for an unforgettable week brimming with seaside adventures, ocean exploration, and endless fun in the sun. With the soothing sounds of waves and the warm embrace of the sun, our beach-themed week promises to be a refreshing escape. From beach games and treasure hunts to creative crafts and water activities, campers will soak up all the joy and excitement that summer has to offer! 

No field trip


Pricing and Payment

*Members/UToledo Affiliates are UToledo students, faculty/staff, or UToledo Rec Services Members. Anyone who does not fit into one of these categories is classified as a Non-Member/Non-UToledo Affiliate. 

Beginning March 4, 2024 a $25 deposit is required to reserve your child's spot for a summer camp session(s). There are no refunds for this deposit, special circumstances will be reviewed.


Ignite Your Imagination: Blast Off Into Fun Activities!

Arts and Crafts 
Creative and fine art skills are encouraged through the completion of a variety of simple and long-term projects.

Field Trips/Events 
Activities are planned weekly throughout campus and Toledo. Most trips are within walking distance; transportation is provided when needed. 

Fitness and Wellness  
Fun movement and wellness activities specially tailored to the age and skill level of campers.   

Special Guest/ Speakers  
Fun and exciting guest appearances from Rocky & Rocksy, UToledo Police, Fire Fighters, Ohio H20, and More!  Special Guests are revealed the week before in the parent email and flyers at the check-in/out table. 

Games 
Games and activities appropriate for each age group are facilitated by counselors and are focused on physical skills and friendly competition. 

Sports 
Summer campers learn the basic skills and rules of various games and team sports while playing and having fun. 

Rock Climbing 
Belay-certified instructors support campers through both the physical and psychological challenges of the participating on the climb wall. 

Swimming 
Campers do not swim everyday and swim days/ times are subject to change based on reservations in the pool. Parents are notified at Check-In/Out and via the Week in a Glance email (sent out the week prior).

Team Building 
Group activities are designed to promote and encourage leadership development. 


Your Guide to a Stellar Camp Experience!

Check back for more details about Summer 2025 Kid's Camp Handbook!


Meet Our Mission Specialists: The Team Behind the Adventure!

Gracelyn Jones

Gracelyn Jones, M.S. - Coordinator, Competitive Sports & Youth Camps 

Position: Camp Director

Mission: Kids are such a joy to be around and I always look forward to summer camp. I love impacting them to burst our of their comfort zone and grow into their personalities.

Life Outside of Work:  I enjoy anything DIY/crafty, Halloween, and the Beach! I love spending time with family, friends, and my Siamese Cat Juliet!


Launch Pad for Answers: Your FAQs Are Here!

What is the contact information for camp?

Student Recreation Center Member Services Desk: 419-530-3700.

Point of Contact: Coordinator, Competitive Sports & Youth Camps, Gracelyn Jones

Email: kidscamp@utoledo.edu

What’s the cost?

The cost of camp is $150 - $175 per week for one camper. 

What are the camp hours?

Camps runs Monday through Friday. Drop off is 8 a.m. - 9 a.m. Camp day with activities start at 9 a.m. and will end at 4 p.m. Camper pick-up is between 4 p.m. - 6 p.m.

Will food be included?

Snacks will be provided by Recreational Services every day. Lunch is not provided and campers are expected to pack a cold lunch. Campers should also bring a reuseable water bottle. Campers will not have access to microwaves. Lunch Boxes or bags should be labeled with the campers full name.

Lunches should NOT include the following food items or be contained in food items brought for lunch due to common allergy concerns:

  • Nuts
  • Cashews
  • Peanuts
  • Almonds
  • Peanut Butter
  • Shellfish

What is the Registration and payment Deadline?

The deadline for registration and payment is the Wednesday prior to the start of each camp week by 8 a.m. See Pricing and Payment Schedule section above with specific dates.

If camp is full, will there be a waiting list?

Yes! There will be a waiting list created. Full payment is due the Wednesday prior to each camp week. Thursday prior to each camp week, we will begin to pull from the waiting list for spots that have not been paid in full.

Are there any fees if I change the week of camp my child is going to attend?

We cannot transfer camp weeks in our system. If you need to change weeks, if appropriate conditions are met, a refund can be provided. It is the parent's/legal guardian's responsibility to register for the desired week. 

Are there any discounts available?

At this time, we only offer discounts for those who have multiple children attending camp. Please reach out to the coordinator of camp by emailing kidscamp@utoledo.edu.

How do you sign-up?

You can sign-up using our online Rec Portal or at the Student Rec Center front desk. If signing up before the active semester, make sure to click the current summer semester to view the sign-up link.

How does parking work on campus?

We partnered with ParkUToledo to offer complimentary parking for camp participants from June 3 through August 2 (excludes weekends and Camp Holidays: June 19, July 4, and July 5). Lot 18 is free during Camper Drop-off from 8 - 9 a.m. and Camper Pick-up from 4 - 6 p.m. This excludes metered parking spots.

Outside of these hours, pay at the metered lot or purchase a daily parking permit via the ParkMobile app.

  • Lot 8 use Zone #9236
  • Lot 9 use Zone #9264
  • Lot 18 use Zone #9239

Or, you can purchase a valid parking permit for the summer for $23.30 at the Student Rec Center front desk. 

Learn more about parking on campus.

What safety protocols will be in place?

Campers will be divided into small groups based on age and ability and will have assigned counselors for the duration of the day.

All Camp Rocket Staff and Recreational services staff receive the following training:

  • American Red Cross Basic Life Support (BLS), Automated External Defibrillator (AED), and First Aid which includes Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) skills
  • Emergency response Action Plans from the University of Toledo
  • Child Abuse and Neglect Training
  • Discrimination in the workplace
  • Title IX: Responsible Mandated Employees
  • Minors on Campus Training

All Camp Rocket Staff go through the following background checks:

  • Ohio Criminal (LUCAS) Check
  • Criminal Check

Campers will never be alone; campers will always be in a group with a counselor and a minimum of two campers. Parents will always have access to the weekly activity schedule to know location of their camper. Schedule is subject is change. 

Camp Rockets will teach and reinforce good hand washing techniques and covering coughs and sneezes.

What if my camper does not want to participate in an activity?

All activities are challenge by choice. This means campers have the right to refuse any activity, or the right to participate in any activity to their comfortability level. Camp Rocket Staff will encourage campers to participate in activities to develop new skills. If a camper chooses not to participate we ask that they are not a distraction for the other campers who are participating in the activity.

May I check in on my camper?

Parent(s)/Guardian(s) may want to call in to check on their camper during the day. While this is allowed, there should be a reasonable expectation that Camp Rocket Staff will not be able to immediately respond to a call. The call will be noted, and then information will be passed to the Camp Director or Kid's Camp Student Specialist who will call back when available.

What ages do you allow?

Camper age eligibility is 5 - 12 years old.

We offer a max of 80 spots a week for those who wish to sign-up for camp. Campers will be broken into three groups by their age. Color groups are broken down by: 

Blue group: 5 - 6 year Olds 

Purple Group: 7 - 8 year Olds 

Orange Group: 9 - 12 year Olds

** Request to switch groups to join friends or family members must be discussed with the Camp Director prior to camp. Accomodations are not guarunteed, but can be arranged by scheduling a meeting with the Camp Director.

Is there any before and after care?

As of Summer 2024 before and after care will no longer be offered. Camper check-in will be begin no earlier than 8 a.m. and camper pick-up will be between the hours of 4 - 6 p.m.

What should my camper bring to camp?

  • Closed-toed shoes
  • Sun Screen
  • Mosquite Spray
  • Reusable water bottle
  • Bathing suit and towel
  • Backpack or Bag
  • Medication (If needed, medication form must be completed at check-in)
  • Hat and Sunglasses
  • Extra Set of Clothing
  • Lunch Bag/Box (Food Items, Drink, Utensils in needed, Etc.)
  • Other snacks to have throughout the day

What not to bring?

  • Jewelry
  • Cell phones/ipods/ other electronic devices
  • Gum
  • Weapons are strictly prohibited
  • Medication without appropriate form completed
  • Personal life jackets (provided by Rec Services)
  • Valuable items that could be lost and stolen
    • If these items are brought to camp, this is an accepted risk. UToledo Rec Services is not responsible for lost or stolen belongings. Campers should not bring valuable items to camp with them, as we do not have a secure location to store those items.

Who are your staff members?

Our staff members are members of the community, often times University of Toledo students who have passion for early childhood development and leadership.

Do you background check your staff?

All Camp Rocket Staff go through the following background checks:

  • Ohio Criminal (LUCAS) Check
  • Criminal Check

What is camper to counselor ratio?

The minimum ratio is 1 counselor to 6 - 7 children.

Will my child be swimming? What safety precautions are followed in the pool?

Yes, there will be swimming activity time during camp. The aquatic center staff are certified American Red Cross Lifegaurds. Swim tests are required for campers who desire to swim without a life jacket. Wearing a Rec Services Life jacket is required for any camper that does not pass the swim test. Rec Services life jackets are checked annually for safety inspection. Personal life jackets are prohibited. 

What are the cleaning Protocols to help prevent the spread of germs?

Recreational Services staff are responsible to keep all facility spaces clean. Camp Rocket Staff are responsible to keep camp facility spaces clean and safe through the utilization of cleaning products and a schedule of cleaning duties. 

Campers are responsible for their personal items and are required to assist in maintaining a clean and safe camp environment.

Handwashing and general cough and sneeze protocols will be reinforced amongst campers and camp staff.

How should my child dress for camp?

Campers are required to always wear closed-toed shoes, unless in the aquatic center/pool or lockers rooms. Toledo weather is generally hot during the summer months. Campers should be wearing appropriate clothing for outdoor weather and are encouraged to bring a light jacket. Please be aware that campers will engage in outdoor and craft activites and campers should dress appropriatey. Protective clothing is provided as needed (i.e. oversized t-shirts for painting, etc.).

Parents will be encouraged to provide an extra set of clothing in case of accidents or messes.

Do you offer financial support or scholarships?

At this time, we do not offer any form of financial assistance or scholarships for camp fees.

What is an authorized Pick-Up person and How can I update this List?

  • An authorized pick-up person is someone designated by you who has permission to collect your child from camp. This ensures that only trusted individuals are allowed to pick up your camper for safety reasons.
  • To update your list of authorized pick-up persons, please contact our camp office or log into your registration account. Make sure to provide the names and contact details of any new individuals you wish to add or remove from the list. It’s important to keep this information up to date for your child’s safety!

Do you allow kids with intellectual or physical disabilities to attend camp?

  • Yes, we welcome children with disabilities, both intellectual and physical, to attend camp! We strive to create an inclusive environment where all campers can participate in activities and have a positive experience.
  • Please note that we are not experts in handling all disabilities, so if your child has specific needs or requires accommodations, we encourage you to reach out to us prior to registration. This way, we can work together to ensure a supportive environment for your child. Your child’s enjoyment and safety are our top priorities!

My Camper lost something!

  • If your camper has lost an item, please encourage them to check with their camp counselor or the lost and found area. We have a red Lost & Found bin for parents, guardians, and families to look through when dropping off or picking up their camper. This bin is located at the check-in/out table.
  • Please note that the lost and found box is emptied at the end of the day on Friday, and any unclaimed items will be taken to Goodwill. To help us return lost items quickly, we recommend labeling all personal belongings with your child’s name.

 

NEW CAMP UPDATE:

Effective Summer 2025, UToledo Kid's Camp will no longer provide snacks for campers; families are required to pack a snack for their camper(s) to enjoy during snack time. 

Last Updated: 11/15/24