Best 2026 Summer Camps for Kids in Indianapolis
The Ultimate Guide to Summer Camp Programs for Kids
If your house is like mine, planning for summer camp season starts earlier every year — and for good reason. The best summer camp programs, specialty camps, and summer day camps in Indianapolis (and really anywhere!) fill up quickly and yes, there have been years past when I'm left thinking "oh no, what am I going to do?!"
Whether you’re looking for:
Traditional day camps
Enrichment camps
Sports camps
Hands-on STEM programs
Creative arts camps
Leadership-building experiences
We've compiled this guide with the top Indianapolis summer camps for kids so you can map out your weeks of camp with confidence. Below you'll find your go-to resource for full-day programs to specialty week-of-camp experiences (like the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum camps!). Just don't wait too long to register, k?
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Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum Summer Camp Programs
There are summer camps… and then there are summer camps set inside one of the most iconic sports venues in the world.
At the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum, campers aren’t just learning about engineering or innovation from a worksheet - they’re immersed in it. The setting alone makes this experience stand apart from traditional day camps. Surrounded by legendary race cars, historic exhibits, and the energy of the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, kids step into an environment built on speed, creativity, and problem-solving.
These summer camp programs are designed to bring motorsports history and STEAM concepts to life through hands-on activities and collaborative challenges. Campers explore how things move, how things are built, and how ideas turn into machines. They work in teams, tackle design challenges, and gain real-world perspective on engineering and innovation - all while building leadership skills and confidence along the way. Options include:
Robo Racers: June 8-12 (Waitlist only)
Faces of the "500" with Borg Warner: June 15-19
Racing Careers: June 22-26 (Waitlist only)
Art In Racing: July 13-17
For families looking for enrichment camps in Indianapolis that offer something truly unique - not just another classroom setup - this is a standout option for Summer Camps Indianapolis 2026.
Location: Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum
More info: Visit imsmuseum.org for camp details and registration
Our Summer Camps testers loved the hands-on activities at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum, especially the robotics area.
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Indy Parks Summer Day Camps
When it comes to variety and accessibility across the city, Indy Parks makes summer planning easier.
With camps at 18 locations throughout Indianapolis, families can choose from arts-based programs, general day camps, sports camps, and specialty themes. While hobby-focused and nature camp options at Eagle Creek, Holliday, and Southeastway are always popular, arts and general day camp experiences across the city are great options to explore early.
Programs offer flexible pricing based on length and focus, and registration is managed through ActiveNet. Financial assistance may be available, and early registration is encouraged as spots fill quickly.
Indy Parks camps locations include Broad Ripple, Brookside, Eagle Creek, Ellenberger, Garfield, Holliday, Riverside, Southeastway, Windsor Village + more
More Info: Visit parks.indy.gov or call (317) 327-PARK
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YMCA of Greater Indianapolis Summer Camps
Looking for classic summer camp energy? The YMCA does it well.
The YMCA of Greater Indianapolis offers day camps and specialty programs with fun activities designed to build confidence, friendships, and independence in a safe, structured environment families trust. Camp offerings vary by location and may include outdoor adventures, swimming, STEM and enrichment activities, arts programming, and leadership-building experiences. With multiple branches across Greater Indianapolis, families can choose a camp that fits their schedule and location.
Location(s): YMCA branches throughout Greater Indianapolis
More Info: Visit the YMCA website for dates and weeks of camp available
More Summer Camps in Indianapolis 2026…
Below is a curated list of additional Indianapolis summer camps, organized by interest area to make your search easier.
Arts & Enrichment Camps Indianapolis
Indy Art Center (arts camps + hands-on experience including glass art)
Newfields (art & nature camp)
STEM & Specialty Camps
ONE OF OUR MOST POPULAR POSTS:
More Summer Camps in Indianapolis 2026…
Sports Camps Indianapolis
Nature & Outdoor Camp Experiences
Traditional Day Camps & Multi-Theme Programs
Cub Scout Day Camp - Camp Belzer
Discovery Day Camp - Camp Belzer
A Note for 2026 Camp Planning:
Details for all the Summer Camps Indianapolis 2026 - including camp fees, scholarship availability, field trips, themed weeks, and snack policies - may vary by location. Always visit the organization’s website for the most current information before registering.
Did we miss your favorite summer camp in Indianapolis? Email us at hello@theCityMoms.org so we can continue updating this guide.
