When it comes to finding fun, reputable summer camps for teens in DFW, we know a thing or 10. With our local expertise and over 20 years in business, we’ve put together a list of amazing summer camps in the DFW area. Whether your teen loves coding, writing, performing, or STEM, there’s a camp on this list they’ll love.
These are the top 15 summer camps for teens in DFW:
Educational Summer Camps
Key School and Training Center
For decades, the Key Summer Program at Key School and Training Center in Fort Worth has been helping students with learning differences gain confidence and grow academically. With small classes and a personalized atmosphere, teens can focus on areas like math, reading, and writing while exploring creative outlets like digital animation and photography. From financial literacy to coding, parents appreciate how the program helps teens prepare for the next school year while boosting their confidence.
Legacy Preparatory Charter Academy
If your teen thrives in a tech-forward, innovative setting, Legacy Preparatory Charter Academy has one of the most dynamic summer camps for teens in DFW. Known for its dual-language programs and advanced middle school courses, this camp blends academics with hands-on experiences like STEM challenges and project-based learning. Teens can take part in bilingual education in Spanish or Chinese or explore cutting-edge programs like New Tech Network. With campuses throughout DFW, Legacy offers a wonderful opportunity for teens to grow academically while staying curious and inspired.
The camp also offers support for students with special education needs. Whether your teen is coding, creating, or collaborating with peers, Legacy ensures they leave camp inspired, confident, and ready to take on new challenges.
Code Wiz
If your teens have a passion for technology, Code Wiz in Keller will keep them entertained. This camp turns coding into an exciting, hands-on adventure, offering themes like Minecraft Modding, Game Development, and Robotics.
What sets Code Wiz apart is its Montessori-inspired approach, which lets teens work at their own pace with activities like designing Roblox games, making digital art with JavaScript, and coding their own microgames.
The Shelton School
For teens with academic differences, The Shelton School in Dallas offers one of the most supportive summer camps for teens in DFW. Located in Dallas, this summer program focuses on teens living with special needs like dyslexia and ADHD, offering small class sizes and discovery-based education. From digital animation and esports to theater and STEM, Shelton lists a variety of fun activities. Parents praise the school’s personalized approach, making it a trusted choice for kids who learn differently and want to explore their potential in a fun environment.
Write On! Creative Writing Center
Teens who dream of writing their next big story will appreciate the Write On! Creative Writing Center in Frisco, which offers the perfect outlet for their ideas. Each day is packed with creative journaling, group storytelling, and fun activities that help students build confidence in their writing. What makes Write On! special is its focus on the creative process rather than grades or pressure.
Whether your teen is a future author or just wants to explore the world of writing, this camp is all about boosting originality. Campers are encouraged to express themselves and take risks with their writing, whether they’re drafting imaginative tales or crafting thoughtful essays.
Write On! is a great way for teens to build self-esteem, further develop their talents, and connect with peers who share their love for words.
Adventure Summer Camps
Homegrown Nature School
If your teen loves the outdoors, Homegrown Nature School in Wylie will have them coming home tired, happy, and full of stories. This camp focuses on connecting with nature through hands-on exercises like gardening, water games, and outdoor survival skills.
Teens learn life skills like how to grow food and the basics of sustainability. The camp’s motto is “back to basics,” which means campers get their hands dirty while developing life lessons that are far from basic.
Whether it’s splashing through water games, mastering outdoor skills, or discovering how to take care of the planet, teens are encouraged to embrace adventure and imagination. For parents looking for summer camps for teens in DFW that are both educational and refreshing, Homegrown Nature School is the solution.
Music/Theatre Summer Camps
North Texas Performing Arts
Many teens dream of center stage. For them, North Texas Performing Arts offers an incredible summer theater experience. With locations across the DFW area, NTPA invites campers to bring their favorite stories to life through acting, singing, choreography, and set design. Campers are guided by professional directors and actors, many of whom have worked on Broadway and in film.
All programs cumulate with exciting performances that show the campers’ hard work.
Outcry Youth Theatre
If your teen loves acting and storytelling, Outcry Youth Theatre in Plano is an experience that can change their lives. This camp combines acting workshops with bold, full-scale productions, giving campers a chance to truly shine.
With one-week camps focused on performance skills and longer production camps that end with a weekend of shows, students get the full theater experience. Teens work alongside instructors to create performances that push the boundaries of creativity. For families seeking summer camps for teens in DFW that lead to innovation, teamwork, and a love of the arts, Outcry Youth Theatre is a top choice.
Center Stage Theater Camp
If your teen has ever dreamed of being in the spotlight, Center Stage Theater Camp in Plano will help them get there. This week-long camp focuses on improv games, acting techniques, and stage performance. At the end of the programs, teens will perform live, showcasing what they’ve learned. Whether they’re brand-new to acting or looking to sharpen their skills, this camp is welcoming, inclusive, and full of opportunities to grow. For parents looking for summer camps for teens in DFW that encourage self-assurance and self-expression, Center Stage Theater Camp checks every box.
Rockstars of Tomorrow Musician Academy
For teens with a passion for music, Rockstars of Tomorrow Musician Academy in Frisco is where dreams begin. Whether they’re just starting out or already have experience, this camp helps young musicians explore instruments like guitar, drums, and keyboard, as well as songwriting and music production.
Camps like Garage Band and Songwriting Camp allow teens to try their hand at creating their own tracks, learning to perform, and even producing their own songs.
Lone Star Music Academy
At Lone Star Music Academy in Flower Mound, music is just the beginning. From vocal lessons to musical theater and video game music creation, this camp is all about hands-on. Teens can explore instruments while diving into fun themes like Heroes and Villains or The World of Video Game Music. Beyond music, Lone Sar Academy has dynamic arts and crafts, STEM activities, and more.
The Art Centre Theatre
Art Centre Theatre in Plano takes a distinct approach to summer camps with its themed programs that lead up to live performances.
From Pirates of the Caribbean Meet Mermaids to Aliens & Monsters VS. The People of Dallas, each session is unique, creative, and fun.
Campers and staff share picnic-style meals, and everyone pitches in to keep the space welcoming and organized. Art Centre Theatre is a top pick among summer camps for teens in DFW.
Overnight Summer Camps
Sky Ranch
Looking for an outdoor, overnight traditional camp experience? Sky Ranch in Van, Texas, is quite the catch. This camp is packed with fun activities like zip lining, horseback riding, and water slides, and spiritual growth. Each week, campers participate in Bible studies, group campfires, and team-building exercises.
From the high ropes course to the giant treehouse, there’s always something new for teens to try. Sky Ranch is a standout among faith-based summer camps for teens in DFW.
Charis Hills Camp
Located in Northern Hill Country, Charis Hills Camp is a Christian summer camp designed for teens with ADHD, autism, and other learning differences. Campers experience a mix of traditional activities like swimming, riflery, and kayaking paired with skill-building opportunities in drama, music, and photojournalism.
Charis Hills is one-of-a-kind because of its focus on social skills development within a supportive, small-group setting. Teens can take part in geocaching adventures, therapeutic horseback riding, or even try their hand at gardening and snorkeling.
Beloved and Beyond Camp
Beloved and Beyond Camp in Rosebud, Texas, creates a magical experience for kiddos with special needs and their siblings. Each camper is paired with a dedicated buddy who helps them enjoy activities like fishing, canoeing, horseback riding, and even a giant swing. Fully accessible zip lines, crafts, and dance nights ensure everyone can participate. Led by experienced directors who focus on special needs camping, Beloved, and Beyond is a tight-knit community with daily worship sessions and uplifting carnivals that bring everyone together.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best winter camps for teens in DFW?
This question depends on what your teen likes to do. For example, winter camps for teens in DFW, like The Art Centre Theatre, offer creative outlets with acting, improv, and live performances, while Techie Factory keeps tech-savvy teens engaged with hands-on STEM programs.
What are the most popular summer camps for teens in DFW?
Some of the most popular summer camps for teens in DFW include Key School and Training Center, which blends academics with trendy skills like digital animation, and Young Chef Academy, a favorite in the culinary world.
Are there any overnight summer camps near Dallas, Texas, for teens?
Yes! Teens near Dallas can enjoy faith-based overnight camps like Sky Ranch in Van, Texas, with activities like zip lining and Bible study. Camp Chief Ouray in Colorado offers classic adventures like hiking and rafting, while Camp Barnabas in Missouri provides inclusive programs for teens with disabilities.
