Every spring, our kids start getting excited about summer, and every year I find myself deep in a dozen browser tabs trying to track down all the different camp options around Lake Norman. From sports and sailing to STEM, theater, and art, there is so much out there, but it is surprisingly hard to find everything in one place. This is why we created the Lake Norman Summer Camps Guide for 2026.
So this year, just like last, we pulled together the most complete and locally focused camp list we have. Over 65 summer camps across Huntersville, Cornelius, Davidson, Mooresville, Denver, Sherrills Ford, and the wider Charlotte metro. Whether you are looking for full-day programs, half-day options, sports-focused camps, or creative STEM and arts adventures, this guide includes everything from well-known favorites to hidden gems you will not find on national directories. Some fill up quickly, so we hope this saves you hours of searching.
Lake Norman Summer Camp Guide 2026
What is New for 2026
We verified every listing this year and a few things have changed. Huntersville Family Fitness and Aquatics added a Junior Lifeguard track for ages 11 to 14, alongside their classic Summer Splash Camp. Huntersville Athletic Association expanded their multi-sport camps up to age 18. Camp Cornelius is now offering both full and partial day options. Carolina Ninja is now operating in the space that previously housed Ninja Nation in Huntersville. Sweetwater Farms nor Rowdy Acres were advertising a summer camp program when we last checked, so we have left them out of this year’s guide. King Tiger Tae Kwon Do in Lake Norman has published their full 2026 theme weeks and field trip schedule. Several camps still list age ranges as call for details, so the contact links go straight to the most current source.
If you are looking for real feedback from real campers, check out our companion post: Lake Norman Summer Camps Our Family Has Tried (and Loved), where we share what our own three kids loved most about the camps we have personally experienced.
Note (as of May 2026): Always confirm availability and details directly with camp organizers as summer approaches. Pricing, age groups, and field trip offerings may shift.
Huntersville
Full Day
Huntersville Family Fitness and Aquatics (HFFA) Splash Camps
Ages: 3 to 10 (Summer Splash Camp), 11 to 14 (Junior Lifeguard Camp)
Schedule: Full and half day options
What it is: Water-based camps with swimming and splash pad activities. New Junior Lifeguard track this year for tweens.
More info: hffa.com/summer-camps-2026
Discovery Place Kids-Huntersville Summer Camps
Ages: 4 to 10
Schedule: Full and half day options
What it is: STEM camps with robotics, chemistry, and engineering themes.
More info: discoveryplace.org
Latta Nature Preserve Eco-Explorers Camp
Ages: 4 to 13
Schedule: Full day
What it is: Nature camp with kayaking and wildlife studies at one of the area’s most beloved preserves.
More info: Quest
Soaring Eagle Baseball Camp
Ages: 5 to 16
Schedule: Half day
What it is: Unlock your baseball and softball potential with focused skills training.
More info: soaringeaglesbaseball.com/summer-camps
Half Day
Huntersville Athletic Association Sports Camps
Ages: 6 to 18
Schedule: Half day
What it is: Multi-sport camps (baseball, basketball, soccer) with expanded age range this year through high school.
More info: Huntersville Parks and Rec (secure.rec1.com)
Build Strong Girls Run Club
Ages: 11 to 18
Schedule: Monday, Wednesday, Friday 9 am to 11 am ($90 per week, choose your weeks)
What it is: Personalized coaching in a small group atmosphere (15 spots per week) covering proper running form, speed and hill workouts, distance running, strength training, nutrition, goal setting, and community. Led by Andrea Dell, certified running coach and CrossFit Level 1 trainer. Runs June 15 to August 7 at various Huntersville and Davidson locations.
More info: andreadellcoaching.com/buildstronggirls
King Tiger Tae Kwon Do
Ages: 4 to 13
What it is: Martial arts and fitness training with weekly themes and field trips. Full 2026 theme schedule now available.
More info: kingtigerlakenorman.com/camp
Carolina Ninja
Ages: 5 to 12
What it is: Activities, skill sessions, team building, and competitions in a ninja-style obstacle environment. Now operating in the space that was previously Ninja Nation.
More info: Carolina Ninja
Bach to Rock Huntersville
Ages: 4 to 10+
What it is: Learn from music pros and play real instruments, no experience needed.
More info: bachtorock.com/huntersville/music-camps
Camp Invention Huntersville
Ages: Grades K through 9 (varies by program)
What it is: Dive into limitless STEM fun full of opportunities to imagine, experiment, and create.
More info: invent.org/program-search
Elysium School of Innovation
Ages: Grades 6-8
What it is: Dive into the world of animals through experiments, games, art, music, theater, storytelling, making, movement, challenges, and hands-on projects. From biomimicry to mythological creatures, ecosystems, and fascinating animal behaviors, every day is packed with discovery, creativity, and chaos in the best way.
When: Monday–Friday, June 22–26, 2026, 8am–12pm
Where: Spartan Park in Huntersville
More Info: To Register or Contact Dr. Emily Frazier-Rath or Ms. Kristyn Lucci at Elysium School of Innovation
Cornelius
Full Day
Camp Cornelius (Town of Cornelius Parks & Recreation)
Ages: 4 to 14
Schedule: Full and partial day options
What it is: The local classic. Full-day camp with crafts, games, themed weeks, field trips, and specialty options (sports, STEM). Now offering partial day options as well.
More info: cornelius.org/park/classes___programs/camp_cornelius.php
Does your kiddo feel borderline too old for camp? Check out our post on the Cornelius Parks & Rec Counselor-in-Training program and how it shaped our daughter from camper to paid counselor → From Camper to Counselor
Lake Norman Community Sailing Program
Ages: 7 to 17
Schedule: Full day, 9 am to 4 pm
What it is: Sailing on Lake Norman with regatta practice for older campers.
More info: lakenormansailing.com
Half Day
Husky Baseball Camps
Ages: 7-13
Schedule: Half day
What it is: Baseball Camp at Hough High School includes skills like hitting, pitching, fielding, base running and competitive games
More info: To Register
Lake Norman Tennis Academy Summer Camp
Ages: 9 to 12
Schedule: Half day
What it is: Tennis for all skill levels at one of Cornelius’s most established programs.
More info: Lake Norman Tennis
Independence Soccer Academy Camp
Ages: 5 to 14
Schedule: Half day, 9 am to 12 pm
What it is: Soccer skills and scrimmages with structured small-group instruction.
More info: Independence Soccer
Safe Harbor Peninsula Yacht Club Sailing Camp
Ages: Pre-K through 5th grade
What it is: Sailing instruction on Lake Norman through one of the area’s premier yacht clubs.
More info: peninsulayacht.com
Cain Center Arts Camp
Ages: 6 to 15
What it is: Painting, drawing, and sculpture in Cornelius’s beautiful arts and culture facility.
More info: Cain Arts Center
Grand Central Performing Arts Camp
Ages: 3 to 12
Schedule: Full and half day options
What it is: Themed performing arts camps including Barbie, Wicked, Bluey, and more.
More info: gcapa.net
Snapology Lake Norman STEAM Camp
Ages: 4 to 14
Schedule: Full and half day options
What it is: LEGO robotics and animation in a hands-on STEAM environment.
More info: Snapology
School of Rock Cornelius
Ages: 7 to 18
What it is: Learn to play, sing, or write music with experienced instructors.
More info: School of Rock Cornelius
The Serve Pickleball Summer Kids Clinic
Ages: 9 and up
Schedule: Half day
What it is: Pickleball clinic for the area’s fastest-growing sport.
More info: theservepickleball.com
Davidson
Full and Half Day
Summer Studio – ART (LEAF CoLearning Collective)
Ages: Elementary and middle school
Schedule: Half Day 9 am to 1 pm, Full Day 9 am to 4 pm, Monday through Thursday
What it is: Drawing and character design (including manga), weaving on real looms and fiber arts, filmmaking and visual storytelling, mixed media and sculpture, and collaborative creative projects. A spacious, supportive studio environment with four session dates between June 15 and July 30.
More info: townofdavidson.recdesk.com/Community/Program (search SUMMER STUDIO) | LEAFCoLearn.com.
Half Day
Build Strong Girls Run Club
Ages: 11 to 18
Schedule: Monday, Wednesday, Friday 9 am to 11 am ($90 per week, choose your weeks)
What it is: Personalized coaching in a small group atmosphere (15 spots per week) covering proper running form, speed and hill workouts, distance running, strength training, nutrition, goal setting, and community. Led by Andrea Dell, certified running coach and CrossFit Level 1 trainer. Runs June 15 to August 7 at various Huntersville and Davidson locations.
More info: andreadellcoaching.com/buildstronggirls
AR Workshop Davidson
Ages: 7 to 14, plus a Tweens and Teens track
Schedule: Half day
What it is: Explore art and design while crafting unique, personalized projects.
More info: AR Workshop Davidson
Little Passports Playschool
Ages: 0 to 5
Schedule: Half day
What it is: Themes include pirates and mermaids, rainbows, the beach, camping, outer space, Disney, dinosaurs, fairy tales, and adventures with books.
More info: little-passports-playschool.jimdosite.com
Swim Carolinas
Ages: Check website for details
Schedule: Half day
What it is: Swim camp for kids who are potty trained and able to swim 12.5 yards.
More info: Swim Carolinas
Town of Davidson Parks & Recreation Summer Camps
Ages: 7 to 16 (varies by program)
What it is: Specialty camps in art, science, and sports through our local Parks & Rec.
More info: Town of Davidson Summer Camps
Davidson College Sports Camps
Ages: 6 to 18
What it is: Basketball, soccer, volleyball, and swimming on the Davidson College campus. A real college-experience feel even for younger kids.
More info: Davidson College Summer Camps
Read About Our Family’s Experience with the Davidson Soccer Camp! https://www.kbfisher.com/blog/lake-norman-summer-camps-our-family-has-tried-and-loved/
Woodlawn Summer Camps
Ages: 4 to 12
What it is: STEM and arts with robotics and coding in a small-group environment.
More info: Woodlawn Summer Camps
Davidson Community Players Theatre Camp
Ages: 4 to 16
What it is: Acting and stage production through our beloved community theater.
More info: davidsoncommunityplayers.org
Ada Jenkins Center Learn Works Camp
Ages: 5 to 12
What it is: Academic enrichment and fun activities at a Davidson institution.
More info: adajenkins.org
Mooresville
Full Day
Camp Iredell
Ages: 5 to 13
Schedule: Full day
What it is: Day camp with crafts, swimming, and field trips through Iredell County Parks & Rec.
More info: Camp Iredell
Half Day
Camp Pit Crew
Ages: 14 to 17
Schedule: Half day
What it is: Experience being a member of the pit crew at PIT Instruction and Training. Truly unique to our area.
More info: PIT Instruction and Training
Ride Wake and Surf Co
Ages: Call for details
Schedule: Half day
What it is: Wakeboarding, wakesurfing, and tubing on Lake Norman.
More info: Ride Wake and Surf
Lake Norman YMCA Summer Day Camp
Ages: 5 to 14
What it is: Swimming and themed activities at the YMCA.
More info: YMCA Camps
Summer Art Academy Camp (Mooresville Arts)
Ages: 6 to 10+ (varies by program)
What it is: Pottery, painting, and digital design in a dedicated arts environment.
More info: Mooresville Arts
Mooresville Public Library Summer Reading Program
Ages: All ages
What it is: Literacy with storytelling and special guests. Always free and always wonderful.
More info: Read This Summer Mooresville Library
Beehive Learning Academy
Ages: 3 to 12 (varies by program)
What it is: A fun and exciting environment for kids to explore and discover the world around them.
More info: Beehive Learning Academy
Denver
Half Day
LKN Gym Academy
Ages: Call for more information
Schedule: Half day
What it is: Themed weeks include Pokemon, Camp Swiftie, Wizard Camp, and more.
More info: LKN Gym Academy
Full and Half Day
Danse Elan
Ages: 3 to 14 (varies by program)
Schedule: Full and half day options
What it is: Dance with ballet, tap, and jazz.
More info: Danse Elan
YMCA Summer Adventure Camp
Ages: Varies by program
What it is: Swimming, crafts, and sports through the YMCA of Catawba Valley.
More info: Catawba Summer Camp
Sherrills Ford
Full Day
Camp Invention at Sherrills Ford Elementary
Ages: Grades K through 6
Schedule: July 20 to 24, 2026, 8:00 am to 2:30 pm, 8103 Sherrills Ford Rd
What it is: STEM and innovation-focused day camp held right at Sherrills Ford Elementary, with both standard and Leaders-in-Training options.
More info: invent.org (search Sherrills Ford Elementary)
NC Lions Camp Dogwood
Ages: Varies by session
Schedule: Weekly overnight sessions, Camp Dogwood Drive
What it is: Overnight summer retreat for blind and visually impaired campers with boating, fishing, tubing, swimming, arts and crafts, and social activities. A truly special program that has served the visually impaired community for decades. 2026 camper applications are open.
More info: nclionscampdogwood.org
Sherrills Ford families also have great options in the nearby Denver, Mooresville, and Lake Norman YMCA listings throughout this guide.
Troutman
Half Day
Summer Horse Camp
Ages: Call for details
Schedule: Half day
What it is: A fantastic opportunity to learn about horses, develop riding skills, make new friends, and create lasting memories.
More info: Text (607) 743-1309 for more information
Charlotte Metro Area
A Special Note: Bounce Out the Stigma
Worth flagging on its own. Bounce Out the Stigma is a basketball clinic specifically designed for children and young adults with Autism, ADHD, epilepsy, neurological disorders, spectrum diagnosis, and mental or emotional challenges. The clinic is non-competitive and built around motor skill development, confidence building, peer trust, and fun, with a full-time nurse in attendance. They have served families for over 20 years across 24 states and are considered by many to be the most successful special needs basketball camp in the country. This is their 11th year running in our area, and the camp has sold out the last four years.
Bounce Out the Stigma Challenged Youth Basketball Clinic
Ages: 7 to 21, co-ed
Schedule: June 8 to 12, 2026, 9:30 am to 1:00 pm, Red Ventures Corporate Center, 1101 Red Ventures Dr, Fort Mill SC
What it is: Non-competitive basketball clinic for children and young adults with special needs. Cost is $60 per attendee and includes free healthy snack each day, camp t-shirt, souvenir basketball, and achievement medal for all campers. Skills showcase and camper award ceremony Friday at 12 pm with family invited. Camp is limited to 40 campers and has sold out for the last 4 years, so register early.
More info: bounceoutthestigma.org
Full Day
Nascar Hall of Fame Summer Camps
Ages: Call for details
Schedule: Full day
What it is: Campers will discover the race cars, tracks, music, and art that make Charlotte the racing capital it is.
More info: Nascar Hall of Fame Summer Camps
Hornet’s Hoops
Ages: 7 to 14
Schedule: 9 am to 4 pm
What it is: Basketball camp run through the Charlotte Hornets organization.
More info: Hornet’s Hoops
Aerial and Circus Camp
Ages: 8 to 14
Schedule: 9 am to 3:30 pm
What it is: Core classes on a variety of aerial apparatus, ground acrobatics, and aerial games.
More info: Aerial and Circus Camp
Half Day
Charlotte Culinary Camp
Ages: Call for details
Schedule: Half day
What it is: Campers will take field trips, help cultivate crops, and cook delicious recipes.
More info: Charlotte Culinary Camp
Charlotte Cirque and Dance Center
Ages: 6 to 17
Schedule: Half day
What it is: Instruction in dance, acrobatics, and aerial dance. Intermediate and advanced tracks available.
More info: Charlotte Cirque and Dance Center
Full and Half Day
Whitewater Center
Ages: 4 to 17
Schedule: Full and half day options
What it is: Educational experiences, water activities, and outdoor sports at one of Charlotte’s signature outdoor destinations.
More info: Whitewater Center
Charlotte Chess Camp
Ages: Varies by program
Schedule: Full and half day options
What it is: Enjoy the royal game of chess.
More info: Charlotte Chess Camp
CMS Summer Enrichment Camp
Ages: 5 to 13
What it is: Academics, arts, and sports through Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools.
More info: Charlotte Mecklenburg Schools Summer Camp
i9 Sports Summer Camps
Ages: 3 to 14
What it is: Multi-sport (soccer, basketball, flag football) for kids of all skill levels.
More info: i9 Sports
Independence Soccer Academy Camp
Ages: 5 to 14
What it is: Soccer skills and scrimmages with multiple Charlotte-area locations.
More info: Independence Soccer
UNC Charlotte Summer Camps
Ages: Varies by program
What it is: Topics range from engineering, science, art, math, robotics, and reading. Athletic camps also available.
More info: UNC Charlotte Summer Camps
Children’s Theatre of Charlotte
Ages: 3 to 18 (varies by program)
Schedule: Full and half day options by program
What it is: Professional teaching artists lead campers in acting, singing, and dancing activities.
More info: Children’s Theatre of Charlotte
Carolina Panthers Junior Top Cats Summer Camp
Ages: 5 to 12
What it is: An engaging, fun-filled, four-day cheerleading and dance summer camp through the Carolina Panthers.
More info: Carolina Panthers Junior Top Cats Summer Camp
Queens University of Charlotte
Ages: Varies by program
What it is: Sports camps (men’s and women’s) plus academic camps at one of Charlotte’s most respected universities.
More info: queenssportscamps.com
Highland Creek
Highland Creek Summer Camps
Ages: Check website for details
What it is: A variety of activities and sports camps for Highland Creek and surrounding families.
More info: Highland Creek Summer Camps
Cabarrus County and Concord
Half Day
Cabarrus Arts Council Summer Camp
Ages: 3rd to 6th graders
Schedule: Half day
What it is: A fun and exciting singing, performing and visual arts camps.
More info: Cabarrus Arts Council Summer Camp
Code Ninjas
Ages: 5 to 14
Schedule: Half day
What it is: Transform your child’s love for technology into an exciting learning adventure.
More info: Code Ninjas
Woodland Discovery Camp
Ages: Call for details
What it is: Fun activities in a natural, discovery-based environment.
More info: Woodland Discovery Camp
Indian Trail
Full and Half Day
Extreme Ice Center
Ages: Call for details
Schedule: Full and half day options
What it is: Hockey camps for ice enthusiasts.
More info: Extreme Ice Center
Waxhaw
Half Day
Providence Equestrian Center
Ages: 5.5 to 12
Schedule: Monday through Thursday, 9 am to 1 pm
What it is: Horseback riding camps in a warm, well-structured environment.
More info: Providence Equestrian Center
Belmont
Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden
Ages: 6 to 14
What it is: Wonders of nature, science, and adventure through hands-on camp offerings in one of the region’s most beautiful settings.
More info: Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden
Want Real Feedback From Real Campers?
If you want to know which camps our own three kids still talk about, the ones they couldn’t wait to go back to, check out our companion post: Lake Norman Summer Camps Our Family Has Tried (and Loved). It’s the honest version, with what they remembered most, which field trips were favorites, and what made each one worth it.
Need Help Mapping Out Summer AND Your Move?
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