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Day camps, overnight camps and everything in between

Published February 20, 2006 at midnight

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Ready to help your kids create some camp memories of their own? Here's where you get started.

The Rocky Mountain News' annual guide to summer camps consists of information provided by camp operators. Categories are:

Day camps

Overnight camps

Camps for special-needs youths

Sports camps

Camps specializing in arts, hobbies and other interests

Most camps run June through August. If dates or costs aren't specified, please contact the camp for details.

If your camp is not included, send details to Summer Camps, Lifestyles, Rocky Mountain News, 100 Gene Amole Way, Denver, CO 80204, or e-mail Spotlight@RockyMountainNews.com. Additions will appear in next Monday's Spotlight.

Parents may check on a camp's quality and background with the American Camping Association, a nonprofit organization that accredits camps. To request its free directory of accredited camps in Colorado and Wyoming, call 1-888-926-2267 or go to the Web site

Arts and special interest camps

Academy of the Performing Arts Children's Dance and Theatre Dance Camp, 12792 W. Alameda Parkway, Lakewood. Ages 5-12. 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday, July 10-Aug. 11. Daily classes in ballet, character dance, hip-hop and traditional theater program. Camp concludes with a performance on Aug. 12. Details, 303-716-5707;

Acting Up! Theatre Arts Program for Teens, Theatre Group's Theatre, 13 S. Broadway. Ages 12-18. June 5-Aug. 12. Offers one- to three-week showcases in playwriting, auditioning, sword fighting, and full-length productions of Dearly Departed and The Tempest. Call for cost and details. 303-730-8229;

Act Out Productions Musical Theatre Day Camp, Our Lady of Lourdes Performing Arts Facility, 2256 S. Logan St. Campers must be entering grades 2-8 in fall 2006. 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. June 12-16; June 19-22; June 27-30. Focus on learning musical numbers with choreography. Campers also learn about lights, sound, costumes and sets, and will put on a performance the last day of camp. $175. 303-517-9503

Art Camp-Valorie Snyder Studio of Fine Art, 5186 S. Lowell Blvd., Littleton. Ages 8 and up, all levels. Small classes, individual attention, with emphasis on eye training and skill building. 303-734-4208;

Arts Advantage Summer Academy, 13200 W. 32nd Ave., Golden. All ages. June 12-16. Expert instructors in music, art, writing, drama, more. 303-279-4726; www.arts-advantage.org

Arvada Center for the Arts and Humanities Summer Camps, Arvada. Ages 6-18. Drawing, African drumming, storytelling, drama, chorale, photography, more. Call for session dates and class descriptions. $45-$350. 720-898-7200;

Ballet Nouveau Colorado Summer Dance Camp, Broomfield. Ages 3-18. June 26-Aug. 4. Daily ballet classes, specialty courses in modern, hip-hop, character dance, pantomime, choreography. Other camps teach ballet, musical theater, character; also a Fairytale Ballet Camp, which includes a fairytale production and musical theater classes. 303-466-5685;

Boulder's Dinner Theatre Academy Camp, 5501 Arapahoe Ave. Middle-school-age youth, June 12-30; high-school-age youth, July 10-28. Professional training for kids interested in the dramatic arts taught by the BDT acting company, directors, choreographers and tech staff, with each workshop culminating in presenting a production of The Music Man Jr. $600 if paid by March, $650 after. 303-449-6000, ext. 193

Camp JCC, 2450 S. Wabash St. For children entering grades 1-8. 9 a.m. to noon and 1 to 4 p.m. with full-day options available. The Robert E. Loup Jewish Community Center and The Denver Campus for Jewish Education are partnering with the Skyhawks, Denver Soccer Club, Children's Technology Workshop and Science Matters to offer a collection of specialty camps including movie making, sports broadcasting, science, computers, sports, art, chess, dance and TaeKwonDo. 720-449-9558; ;

Candu-Creativity Day Camp, First Presbyterian Church, 219 E. Bijou St., Colorado Springs. Grades 3-8. 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. July 17-21. Campers will try a variety of art forms. $65 before March 1; $70 after. 719-884-6207; www.first-pres.org

Centerstage Theatre Company Summer Day Camp, at the Dairy Center for the Arts in Boulder. Three age groups: 4-6; 7-8 and 9-13. Various camps available for all levels of performing experience. $125. Call for details, 303-673-9095;

Chess Academy of Denver Camps, Englewood. June 12-16, July 17-19. Full- and half-day options. Five two-day camps also offered throughout the summer. All abilities and ages. Participants learn scorekeeping, etiquette, tournament preparation, logical thinking, strategic planning for all phases of the game. 303-770-6696;

Colorado Heritage Camps Inc., 2052 Elm St. Ages 3 to high school seniors. Locations vary. Cultural and family-related experiences for children who have been adopted from specific cultures, and their families. Fees for registration, camp $55 to $125 per person, plus lodging fees. African-American Heritage Camp, June 29-July 2; Cambodian Heritage Camp, July 20-23; Chinese Heritage Camp, Sept. 1-4, July 27-30 or Aug. 3-6; East Indian Heritage Camp, July 13-16; Filipino Heritage Camp, July 20-23; Korean Heritage Camp, June 22-25; Latin American Heritage Camp, June 29-July 2; Russian (Commonwealth of Independent States) Heritage Camp, Aug. 10-13; Vietnamese Heritage Camp, Aug. 10-13. 303-320-4234; hcamps@juno.com;

Colorado International School Language Immersion Camps, 2290 S. Clayton St. Day camp ages 3 and up; Keystone Camp, ages 8-13; Overseas camp ages 10 and up. Day camp offered in Spanish, French, Mandarin and Farsi. Each camp offers a variety of linguistic, cultural, culinary, artistic and athletic activities with monthly themes. Call for details and cost. 303-282-6666;

Colorado Masonic High School Band Camp, University of Northern Colorado. Ninth- through 11th-grade students in good physical condition and with experience in at least one marching band instrument. June 30-July 4. Five-day camp conducted by University of Northern Colorado band staff. Students sponsored by Masonic Lodges and affiliates throughout Colorado. Band will play a concert on campus July 3 and march in the Greeley Stampede Parade on July 4. Free. 303-771-2889; mafhorn@comcast.net;

Colorado School of Protocol and Etiquette, Mount Vernon Country Club, 24933 Clubhouse Circle, Golden. Etiquette and dining skills camp for ages 4-21; business etiquette, dining skills, international protocol for ages 23 and up. Tuition varies. 303-237-2842

Colorado Youth Pipe Band Summer Camp, Church of the Ascension, East Sixth Avenue and Gilpin Street. 8 a.m. to noon, June 20-23. Bagpiping: ages 9 to 15; Highland Drumming, ages 9-15 and 6-15. World-champion class instruction in bagpiping, drumming or dance. Instruments provided. $150. 720-530-5801;

Cool Cultural Camps, D.L. Parsons Theatre, 11801 Community Center Drive, Northglenn. Kidzart Camp, ages 6-12; June 12-15; July 10-15; KITE-Kid's Interactive Theatre Experience, ages 5-7; Behind the Scenes-Your Backstage Pass, ages 8-15; Acting Up! ages 8-11; Shakespeare Camp-Bring on the Bard! ages 12-18, SpaceTime Cadets Camp, ages 6-12, Wizard School Magic Camp, ages 6-12. Call for session dates, details and cost. 303-450-8800;

Denver Center Theatre Academy, 1101 13th St. Part of the Denver Center for the Performing Arts. Ages 3-18. 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. June-August. Classes in acting, singing, design, dance. Scholarships available. 303-446-4892;

Denver International School Summer Day Camp Program, 1958 Elm St. All ages. Weeklong camps June 12-Aug. 25. Various camps including language (French, Spanish and Mandarin Chinese), sports, cultural exploration, creative arts, dance classes with Cleo Parker Robinson. $145 to $210 per week. 303-756-0381 or

Engineering Design Camp, Colorado School of Mines, Golden. For high school students who have completed ninth grade. 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday. Dates TBA. Students employ technical, team and communication skills to solve a hands-on engineering design challenge. $375. 303-273-3995

"E" Project Theater Company Drama Camp, the Event Center, 9797 W. Colfax Ave. Sessions begin in June. Focus on play production and improvisation. Playwriting for Teens and Stage Combat Techniques will be offered throughout the summer. For details, call 303-883-0204;

Evergreen Players Drama Camps, Evergreen. Dramady for age 13-18; Improv Theatre Workshop & Performance for students entering grades 9-12; Teen Triple Threat for ages 13 and up; Drama Camp for ages 5-12; Scene Stealers ages 5-8; In the Spotlight for ages 9-12. Costs and sessions vary. Call for specifics. 720-935-1136;

Fabulous Feet Dance & Gymnastics Academy's Summer FunCamp, 6452 Fig St., Arvada. Ages 4-16. 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. July 10-13 and July 17-20 for ages 7-16; 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. July 24-27 for ages 4-7. Classes in tap, jazz, ballet, lyrical, hip-hop, pom and musical theater, gymnastics. $175-$400. 303-467-0334;

Hot Pots Day Camp, 2570 W. Main St. Littleton. Ages 7-13. 8:30 to 10:30 a.m. Monday through Friday, July 17-21 and July 31-Aug. 4. Campers will make hanging bird feeder, mosaic chalkboard, mural, flower pot pen holder. $120/week. 303-798-5242

iD Tech Camps, University of Denver. Ages 7-17. Weeklong day and overnight summer programs specialize in technology, computers. Learn digital video and movie production, multimedia and game creation, Web design, robotics. 1-888-709-TECH;

Infuse-Day Camp for Beginner English Speakers, First Presbyterian Church, 219 E. Bijou St., Colorado Springs. Grades 3-8. 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. July 24-28. Call for free brochure. 1-719-884-6207; www.first-pres.org

Inspirations Dance Company Summer Dance Camp, 8000 S. Lincoln St. Suite 1. Ages 3-12. One-week morning and afternoon camps. June-August. Creative movement, involving ballet, tap, jazz, jumps, turns and crafts. $75-$100/session. 720-283-8000;

JA Business Week, Johnson & Wales University. For high school students, June 11-16. Up-close look at business and leadership. Participants receive $500 scholarship and are responsible for $250 registration fee that covers meals, lodging, programs. Further financial assistance available. 303-260-6285;

Junior Ranger Day Camp, Castlewood State Park, Franktown. Ages 6-12. 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. July 7, 14, 21 and 28. Learn the basics of being a park ranger. $10. 303-688-5242

KIDLINGUA, Mesa Elementary School, Boulder. Ages 5-11. 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Monday-Friday, June 12-23. Language camp for beginner and intermediate. Spanish, French, German, games, songs, sports. $350; family discount available. Registration deadline May 15. 303-499-1671

Kids & Critters Summer Day Camp, Longmont Humane Society, 9595 Nelson Road. Ages 9-12. 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Monday through Friday. June 12-16; June 26-30; July 10-14; July 17-21; July 31-Aug. 4; Aug. 7-11. Observe an actual surgery, train shelter dogs, learn pet responsibility with fun activities, help shelter staff care for animals, participate in art and journaling and study animal behavior. $150/week. 303-772-1232, ext. 65;

Kids and Teen Cooking Camps, Stir It Up Cooking School, 1140 S. Lashley Lane, Boulder. Kids Cookin' Camp, ages 5-7; Junior Chef Camp, ages 8-11; Chef Camp, ages 12-15. Call for session dates and times. $85-$185. 303-494-COOK;

Kidzart Camp, Highlands Ranch Community Association Recreation Center, Castle Rock Parks and Recreation Center and Walnut Hills Elementary School. Ages 5-13. Weeklong nationally recognized drawing program with the addition of daily creative arts projects. Call for details. $150. 303-791-2500; 303-660-1036; 720-883-2646

Lakewood Heritage, Culture & the Arts Summer Camps, various locations. Numerous camps including Painting With Pulp/May I Pour You a Piece of Paper, ages 10-14; Exploring Ideas in Sculpture, ages 10-14; Kids Theatrical Workshop, ages 10-14; Performance Acting and the Stage for Young Actors, ages 10-14; Young Comedians, the Art of Improvisational Performance for ages 12-15; Kids Comic Strip Cartooning, ages 10-14; Hand-built Clay Sculpture for Young Artists, ages 10-14; Summer Singing Workshop, ages 10-14; Shapes in Space-Kids Sculpture, ages 7-9; Dramatic Expressions, ages 7-9; Mudslinging/Clay Camp for Kids, ages 7-9; more. Tuition varies. Call for cost, camp descriptions and session dates. 303-987-5436

Memory, Magic & More Day Camp, A Scrapbook Boutique and Color Me Mine at Lowry Town Center, 200 Quebec St. Grades K-6. 10:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. July 10-Aug. 4. A multimedia art adventure for children bringing timeless tales to life by using scrapbooking and ceramic techniques. $200/week. 720-859-0758

Musical Theatre Workshop, The Logan School for Creative Learning, 1005 Yosemite St. Junior Workshop I-World Wisdom Stories, ages 6-8, Junior Workshop II-Marvelous Movement, ages 6-8; Broadway's Children Theatre Workshop, ages 9-16; $225-$690. Call for camp descriptions and details. 720-291-9562

Perry-Mansfield Performing Arts School and Camp, Steamboat Springs. Ages 8-21. Dance, theater, musical theater, dramatic writing, electives in visual arts and equestrian. One-week Equestrian Camp for ages 10-12, June 4-10; two-week Junior Camp for students entering grades 5-7, June 25-July 8; four-week Intermediate Young Artists Intensive for students entering grades 8-9, July 10-Aug. 5; 10-day New Noises Studio Dramatic Writing Workshop for grades 10 through college, June 7-17; eight-day Composer's Stage Project in Musical Theater for grades 10 through college, June 10-17; six-week High School & College Pre-Professional Intensive for grades 10 through college, June 16-July 30; one-week Theater Study Abroad for grades 10 through college, Aug. 6-13; one-week Equestrian Camp for ages 13-16, Aug. 6-12; and one-week Discovery Day Camp for ages 8-10, Aug. 6-10. Cost varies. 1-970-879-7125; www.perry-mansfield.org

Quill Kids, ages 6-13. 9 a.m. to noon June 26-29 in east Denver, July 10-14 south Denver and Aug. 7-10 west Denver. Recreational program guides budding authors through the experience of creating imaginative prose and poetry. $85. 303-618-9701;

Robotics Camp, Colorado School of Mines, Golden. For students who have completed grades 6-8. 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday through Friday. June-July, dates TBD. Students work in pairs to design, build, program and test a robot. $299/week. 303-273-3995

Singing Summer Day Camp, 11905 W. 107th Ave., Broomfield. Ages 9-12. 9 a.m. to noon July 24-28. Vocal training through entertaining songs, performance with solos and choreography. Audition required. $100. 303-466-8275;

Space Voyage Academy, Littleton. Choose from nine weeks of camp, June 5-Aug. 11. Pathfinder program for ages 6-8, Cadet program ages 9-16. Summer job opportunities for qualified high-school students. Focus on shuttle flight, space-station operations, problem-solving, teamwork, communication skills, emerging technologies and space art. 303-985-3143;

Spanish is Fun Day Camp, Colorado Academy, (Park Hill and Highlands Ranch.) Ages 3 1/2 to 12 years. One or three weeks depending on location. Spanish Immersion for kids. $230-$550. Call for session dates and times, 303-200-0622;

State of the Arts Dance, Pom & Cheer Camps, 3265 S. Wadsworth Blvd. Lakewood. Ages 3 1/2-6; 7-12 and 13-18. Dance Camp includes styles of hip-hop, lyrical/ballet, tap, jazz and modern. Pom and Cheer will be taught by a former NFL professional cheerleader. Call for details. 303-979-6419; http://sotadance.home.att.net

Summer Arts Academy, Colorado Academy, 3800 S. Pierce St. For kids entering grades 1-8. 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. June 19-Aug. 11. Camp offers exciting, hands-on opportunities for young studio artists to learn serious art technique in areas including art, photography, music, performance, technology and more. $95-$160. 303-914-2531;

Summer Science Camp at the Spine Education and Research Institute, Thornton. Camp runs 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. for ages 7-10, June 20-22; ages 11-14, July 11-13; ages 15-18, Aug. 1-3. Hands-on dissections, crime investigation, life science talks, arm casting. $295 includes lunch and snacks. Scholarships available. 720-540-7374; www.spine-education.org

Upbeat Music and Drama Day Camp, First Presbyterian Church, 219 E. Bijou St., Colorado Springs. Grades 3-7. 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. June 19-23. Campers learn staging, makeup, costumes, songs while putting together a musical. $95 before March 1, $100 after. 1-719-884-6207; www.first-pres.org

Western Chamber Music Institute, Western State College, Gunnison. Ages 14-19. June 18-24. Daily chamber ensemble coaching sessions with WSC and guest faculty, private lessons, more. $475 includes tuition, housing, meals, recreation. 1-970-943-2169

Western State College Math and Computer Science Camp, Gunnison. For high school juniors and seniors interested in pursuing math or computer science in college. June 25-July 1. $450 includes lodging, meals, instruction and recreational activities. 1-970-943-2392

Young Americans Center for Financial Education 2006 Summer Day Camp Programs, Denver and Lakewood locations. Various camps offered for grades 2-7, including Jr. Money Matters, Running Your Own Biz, Young AmeriTowne, Be Your Own Boss, International Towne, Girls Can and Money$sense.$175. Call for details. 303-321-2265;

The Younger Generation Players, 2701 W. Oxford Ave., Englewood. For children entering grades 1-12. June-August. Variety of two-week workshops in musical theater, dance-ballet, tap and jazz, voice. All workshops will present a fully staged performance. 303-789-4444;

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Day camps

ABN Christian School Summer Fun Program, 5231 S. Santa Fe Drive, Littleton. Ages 5 to 16. Full-time or part-time schedule. June 1 to Sept. 1. Certified elementary-school teachers supervise. Daily field trips include swimming, bowling, hiking, skating, movies, museums. Breakfast, lunch and afternoon snack. $90 to $125/week. 303-798-8885

Academy Adventures, St. Mary's Academy, 4545 S. University Blvd. For ages 5 to 14. Three two-week sessions: June 5 to 16 and 19 to 30 and July 24 to Aug. 2. Technology/computers, swimming, science, creative writing, archery, USA Chess camp, fine arts, performing arts, sports camps and more. $345 and up per two-week period. 303-783-6217

Active Learning Camp, Our Lady of Lourdes School, 2256 S. Logan St. For students going into second through eighth grades. 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. June 19 to 23 and June 26 to 30 and July 24 to 28. Hands-on activities focus on math, language arts and physical education. $50 to $450. 303-722-7525, ext. 260

Adventure Quest Day Camps With Renaissance Adventures, Boulder. Ages 6 to 16. Active outdoor Renaissance-theme games. Solve mysteries and riddles, brainstorm creative solutions to puzzling dilemmas, swashbuckle with foam swords and negotiate peace treaties. Call for details and cost. 303-786-9216;

Alexander Dawson School Summer Camps, 10455 Dawson Drive, Lafayette. Ages 5 to 18, 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. June 12 to July 21. Sports camp, art camp, academic classes and more. Prices vary; average $195/week. 303-665-6679, ext. 612; or

Aurora Summer Day Camps, city of Aurora, various locations. Programs include Leisure Lifestyles Camps for ages 6 to 12, Camp Cook-A-Munga for ages 6 to 12, Science Camp for ages 6 to 12, as well as cooking and crafts camps, dance camps, drama camps, Gymnastics Camp of Champs, history camps, Pioneer Camp and Kids Club. Call for complete list of camps, session dates and cost, 303-326-8630;

Avid4 Adventure, Boulder. Ages 7 to 12, 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.; ages 5 and 6, 9 a.m. to noon. One-week sessions June 12 to Aug. 18. Rock climbing, mountain biking, hiking, kayaking and more. $150 to $300/week. 720-249-2412; www.Avid4.com

Brain Respiration Day Camp, 2900 S. University Blvd. Ages 6 to 14. 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. June 26 to 30, July 24 to 28. Brain-integration exercises and fun activities. Games encourage self-esteem, self-discovery, creativity, imagination, concentration and peer interaction. Call for cost. 303-773-1034

Camp FRCC at the Children's Place at Front Range Community College, 3645 W. 112th Ave., Westminster. Ages kindergarten-10 years old. 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. June 12 to Aug. 11, with before and after options available. Science activities, computers, arts, crafts, sports, swimming, excursions and more. $30/day plus excursion fee. 303-404-5529

Camp Gan Israel Westminster, Front Range Community College. Ages 3 to 14, with special tiny-tots program. Camp runs 4 weeks in July. Children will learn about Judaism in a fun and exciting way. Activities include day trips, overnights, sports, swimming, arts, crafts, mad science, woodworking, pottery and kosher cooking. Tuition starts at $165/week. 303-429-5177;

Camp Genesee, Genesee Park. Girls ages 6 to 12. 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. June to August. Enjoy the outdoors and discover nature in a mountain setting close to Denver. $125/week; bus transportation available for $85/week. 303-778-8774;

Camp PSI: Plant Science Investigators, Denver Botanic Gardens, 1005 York St. Ages 12 to 14. 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. July 31 to Aug. 4. Learn techniques of plant scientists as you delve deep to explore the science of plants. $199/members; $219/nonmembers. 720-865-3580

Camp Shai, Jewish Community Center, 350 S. Dahlia St., Grades 1-12. 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. (extended hours available), three-week sessions. Swimming, hiking, field trips and overnights. One-on-one counselors available for children with special needs. 303-316-6392; .

Camp Shalom, Jewish Community Center, 350 S. Dahlia St., Ages 2 1/2 to 5. 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. or 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., camps for two, three or five days a week. Three-week session activities range from arts and crafts to drama, science and sports. One-week theme camps include field trips and interactive concerts. 303-316-6377;

Camp U-Hills, 4949 E. Eastman Ave. Ages kindergarten through eighth grade. 6:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday-Friday. Christian-based camp that offers crafts, computer games, theme weeks, swimming and more. Weekly rate $145; daily $35. 303-759-5363

Camp Wood Christian Day Camp, Aurora. Ages 4 1/2 to 12. 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday, June 12 to July 28. Emphasis on learning stories from the Bible, field trips, arts and crafts, drama club. Cost $120 to $130 weekly. 10 percent multiple-camper discount per family. 303-755-4483

Carefree Early Learning Center, 15151 E. Wesley Ave., Aurora. K-12 years. 6:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday, June to August. Field trips and tours, crafts, swimming, bowling, skating and picnics. 303-751-4004

Christ the King Lutheran Church Christian Summer Day Camp, 2300 S. Patton Court. Preschool to sixth grade. 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Monday through Thursday and 9 a.m. to noon Friday, July 17 to 21. Bible study, music, arts and crafts, games, special speakers. $20 per child; family maximum of $40. 303-935-4669

Church of the Holy Comforter, 1700 W. 10th Ave. Broomfield. Ages entering kindergarten through fifth grade. June 26 to 30. "Get Fired Up About Jesus" in a south-of-the-border themed vacation Bible school and learn about Jesus through crafts, games, songs and interactive Bible stories. Free. 303-466-2667

Cornerstone Montessori School, 15970 W. 50th Ave., Golden. Preschool through first grade. 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday. Half-days available. June 5 to 30, July 5 to 28, July 31 to Aug. 25. Introduction to Montessori outdoor education, including nature walks, gardening, outdoor exploration, picnics, gymnastics, music and theater. 303-277-0245;

Chronicles of Colorado: Everything Has a History, Plains Conservation Center, 21901 E. Hampden Ave. Ages 6 to 12. 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. July 17 to 20; optional overnight 3 p.m. to 9 a.m. July 20-21. Experience and record the adventures of people, plants and animals, past and present. $95/nonmembers; $85/members; optional overnight $25. 303-693-3621;

Denver Academy Summer Day Camps, 4400 E. Iliff Ave. Wide variety includes: College Visitation for grades 9-12; Playful Performances, elementary-school age; Summer Theatre, middle-school age, Creative Canvas, elementary-school age; Summer Day Camp for ages 8 to 12; International Welding, ages 14 to 18; the Art and Science of Rocketry, grades 2-5 and 6-8; Photography Camp, ages 12 to 18. 303-777-5870, ext. 260;

Denver Parks and Recreation Summer Camp 2006, various locations. Ages 6 to 12. 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. (before and after care hours available), Monday through Friday. Eight-week summer day camp offering outdoor adventures, sports, fitness, arts and cultural enrichment. $105/week. 720-913-0693.

Denver Public Schools "Camp in the City," Crofton Elementary School, 2409 Arapahoe St. Ages 4 to 12. 7 a.m. to 5:45 p.m. Monday through Friday, May 30 to Aug. 11. Arts and crafts, walking field trips, physical games and playground activities. $140/week. 720-424-8291

Denver Zoo's Summer Safari Camp for Kids. For preschoolers through fifth grade. Half- and full-day sessions, June 5 to Aug. 11. Explore the extremes of the animal world. Hands-on activities, animal visits and observations, crafts, games, projects and zoo tours. $125 to $250. 303-376-4888, option 2;

Eastridge Discovery Camp, 9568 S. University Blvd., Highlands Ranch. Ages 5 to 8, Monday through Friday. Three field trips a week planned around a theme. Also gym games, art projects, swimming and more. $135/members, $145/guests. 303-471-8921

Elementary Explorers, 155 Tartan Drive, Johnstown. Ages 5 to 12. 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday, with before- and after-camp care available. Camps include Animal Safari, Colorado Adventures, Space Odyssey and Underwater Explorers. $199/week. Call for details. 1-970-691-7342;

Englewood Parks & Recreation KidConnections Day Camps, Englewood. Ages 5 to 9 and 10 to 13. 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday, June 5 to Aug. 4. $30/daily, $115/week. For details on activities, call 303-762-2650;

Evergreen Country Day School Summer Camps, 1037 El Rancho Road, Golden. 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday through Friday. Camps include: Space Camp for 5-year-olds; Cooking Camp for 4-year- olds; Art Camp for all ages; Nursery Rhymes for 3-year-olds; Movement Camp for 5-year-olds; Movement/Dance Camp for 3- and 4-year-olds; Science Camp for ages 6 to 12; Sports Skills for ages 6 to 12; Adventure Camp for ages 6 to 12; and Drama Camp for ages 6 to 12. $60 to $200. 303-674-3400

Four Mile Historic Park's Summer Pioneer Day Camps, 715 S. Forest St. Ages 6 to 11. Weeklong camps include: How the West Was Fun! Pioneer Camp and Homesteading Camp. Focus on historical and cultural learning. Call for cost. 303-399-8497;

Funtastic Primary Day Camp, First Presbyterian Church, 219 E. Bijou St., Colorado Springs. Grades K-2. 9 a.m. to noon or 1 to 4 p.m. June 12 to 16. Crafts, games, skits, field trips and more. $55 before March 1, $60 after. 1-719-884-6207; www.first-pres.org

Girl Scout Day Camp, locations throughout metro Denver. Girls ages 6 to 18. 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. June to August. Crafts, games, songs, traditional Girl Scout skills, science and nature. $100 to $200. 303-778-8774;

Golden's Adventure Summer Day Camp, 1470 10th St. Ages 6 to 12. 7:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. June 5 to Aug. 18. Field trips, swimming, hiking, sports, climbing, arts and crafts, cooking, games and more. Daily rate $28/residents, $33/nonresidents; weekly rates $125/residents, $135/non- residents. 303-384-8124;

Greeley Museums Summer Programs, Lone Valley School in Centennial Village and Plumb Farm Learning Center sites, Greeley. Ages 6 to 12. 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Six one-week sessions. June 6 to July 29. $50 to $60/week. Camps include Old Time Tales, Architecture Quest, Schoolhouse Simple Pleasures, Short Chefs, Farmer Boys & Prairie Girls and ArtFarm Animal Antics. 1-970-350-9220; www.greeley museums.com

Highlands Ranch Summer Nature Camp, Redstone Park, 3280 Redstone Park Circle. Ages 6 to 12. 8:15 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. June 26 to 30. Fishing, underwater wonders, animal tracking, how Native American children lived, plant identifica- tion and more. $75/resident; $87/nonresi- dent. 303-791-2710;

Hit the Road, sponsored by the Colorado Historical Society, 1300 Broadway. Ages 9 to 11, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. July 10 to 14 and July 24 to 28. Ride the Georgetown Loop Railroad, explore an old silver mine or uncover some of Denver's hidden secrets. $200 for five days. 303-866-4688

Junior Master Gardeners, Denver Botanic Gardens, 1005 York St. Ages 8 to 12. 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. June 26 to 30. Week designed for the young interested gardener to explore the plants and gardens in depth. $199/week members, $219/week nonmembers. 720-865-3580

KC Kids Weekly Summer Theme Camps, ages 3 to 6, 4 to 12 and 6 to 12. 7 a.m. to 5:45 p.m. May 30 to Aug. 4; extended camp available through Aug. 11. Art Ache, Camp Chemistry, Make & Create, Things That Are Great, Music Madness, Prop & Play, Team Players, Totally Toyriffic and Water Wits. $175/week per child; sign up for three or more weeks, $175/week. 720-424-8291

Ken Caryl Ranch Discovery Camp and Summer Survivor Camp, 7676 S. Continental Divide Road. Discovery Camp for grades 1-3; Summer Survivor Camp for grades 4-6. Weeklong sessions June 5 to Aug. 18. Field trips, science, sports, cooking, games, art and more. $145/week resident; $170/week nonresident. 303-979-4070

KidCamps at the Gardens, Denver Botanic Gardens, 1005 York St. Ages 6 to 12, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. July 17 to 21 and July 24 to 28. Explore the world of plants through a different theme every day. $199/week members, $219/week nonmembers. 720-865-3580

Kiddie-Kipia Preschool Summer Camp, Lafayette. Ages 2 to 8. 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Monday through Friday. Various other schedules available. Offers low ratio of teachers to children. Campers will explore nature, insects, outdoor adventure walks, fishing and outdoor safety. 720-436-9367.

Lafayette Summer Day Camps, Bob L. Burger Recreation Center, 111 W. Baseline Road. Grades 1-6. 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday, Wednesday, Friday. Extended hours avail- able. Various themed camps available June 12 to Aug. 11. Prices vary. 303-665-0469

Learn About GPS Treasure Hunt Camp! Ages 9 to 16, 1 to 4 p.m. May 22 and 23, June 14 and 15, July 5 and 6 and Aug. 8 to 10. Campers will learn about GPS technology, how to use a GPS receiver, how to prepare a high-tech treasure hunt and participate in two treasure hunts. $60. 303-619-5252;

Logan School for Creative Learning Day Camp, 1005 Yosemite St. Ages 5 and 6, 7 and 8, 9 to 12. Three one-week sessions for each age group. June 12 to 16, 19 to 23, and 26 to 30. Hands-on exploration based camp that travels the Front Range in search of adventure and fun. Destinations include Cave of the Winds, the Botanic Gardens, Water World and Rocky Mountain National Park. Bowling, movies, hiking, swimming and more. $295 to $370/week. 303-340-2444, ext. 112

Mad Science Camp, Colorado Athletic Club Inverness, 374 Inverness Parkway. Ages 3 and 4, and 6 to 12. A mad scientist will take the campers on a journey inside a human body or teach the campers how to decipher the world around them. Call for session dates and details. 303-790-7777, ext. 239;

Middle School Leadership Center, Ken Caryl Ranch Community Center, 1 Club Drive. Grades 6-8. Weeklong sessions July 10 to Aug. 4. Campers will travel in teams to local preschools, senior centers, food banks and parks for service, fun and games. $170/week resident; $190/week nonresident. 303-979-4070

Montclair Academy Summer Experience 2006, 212 Syracuse St. Ages 5 to 13. 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. June 12 to Aug. 18. Field trips and enrichment classes. Flexible scheduling; cost varies. 303-361-6729; mfisher@montsclairacademy.org

Mountain Day Camp, Boulder. Ages 7 to 11. 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. June 12 to 23, June 26 to July 7, July 10 to 21. (Pickup and dropoff options for Boulder.) Environmen- tal education, traditional campfire events, "Leave No Trace" ethics, climbing, hiking, crafts and music. $400. 720-249-2997;

Northglenn Day Camps, 11801 Community Center Drive. Ages 6 to 12. 7:15 a.m. to 5:45 p.m. Monday to Friday June 12 to Aug. 18. Swimming, crafts, field trips, pedal boats and skating. $80/week resi- dents, $90/week nonresidents. Call for registration dates, times. 303-450-8800

Notre Dame Early Learning Center, 2141 S. Zenobia St. Ages 3 to 10. Half- and full-day sessions available. Includes field trips and swim lessons. $32/day; $5.35/hour. 303-935-8810

Parker Montessori Educational Institute Summer Camp, 10750 Victorian Drive. Ages 3 to 5 and 6 to 9. Full- and half-day programs, June 12 to 30, July 10 to 28. Games, arts and outdoor adventures, with each camp having a theme that leads campers to discovery and learning about other worlds, cultures, habitats and the world of science. 303-841-4325;

Regis Reading Rangers Day Camp, Regis University, 3333 Regis Blvd.; for students entering grades 1-5. 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. July 11 to 14. Practice reading and writing skills in a group setting and one-on-one with a master teacher. 303-458-4968

Roving Recreation, E.B. Rains Park, Northglenn. For those entering grades 5-9 in fall 2006. 10 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Monday through Thursday, June 12 to Aug. 18. Flag football, volleyball, kickball, tetherball, crafting and more. $20/resident; $22/nonresident.

St. John's at Wash Park Summer Day Camp, 700 S. Franklin St. Ages 6 to 12. June 7 to Aug. 15. Weekly field trips, swim- ming at Washington Park Recreation Cen- ter, one-week sports camp, more. $35/ day; $140/week. 303-733-3777, ext. 21

Salvation Army Summer Day Camp, 2915 High St. Ages 5 to 12. 7:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday. May 30 to Aug. 11. "Around the World" theme will be experienced through local field trips, sports, educational activities, crafts, nature study and Christian education. $50/week; $100 maximum per family. 303-295-2107

Science Camp, 19650 E. Mainstreet, Parker. Ages 5 to 7, 9 a.m. to noon; ages 8 to 12, 1 to 4 p.m. July 10 to 14. Create an electrical circuit, experience the mysteries of magnets, design a tie-dye T-shirt, make a glowing lava tube and more. $85. 303-841-4500

Science Discovery Summer Camps at the Butterfly Pavilion, 6252 W. 104th Ave., Westminster. Spiders, Bugs and Butterflies I, ages 6 to 8, June 12 to 16, July 10 to 14; Spiders, Bugs and Butterflies II, ages 7 to 9, July 17 to 21, Aug. 7 to 11; Dragonfly's Tale - Insects in Native American Stories and Art, ages 7 to 9, June 19 to 23; Weird & Wacky Wet World, ages 7 to 9, July 31 to Aug. 4. $160. 303-492-7188;

Shepherd of the Hills Christian Summer Camp Program, 7691 S. University Blvd. Ages 3 to 12. 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. May 30 to Aug. 10. Activities include swim lessons, vacation Bible school, arts and crafts, field trips, five days a week for children ages 6 and up. $35 full-day, $25 half-day; price covers all trip fees and transportation. 303-707-4378

Southridge Adventure Camp, 4800 McArthur Ranch Road, Highlands Ranch. Ages 9-12. Monday-Friday. Field trip or special activity every day of the week planned around a specific theme. $195/ members; $230/guests. 303-471-7040.

South Suburban Family Sports Center Adventure Camp, 6901 S. Peoria St., Centennial. Ages 6-13. 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday-Friday, June 12-Aug. 7. Activities include golf, ice skating, arts, crafts, laser tag, climbing wall, swimming, weekly field trips. $210 district rate, $225, out-of-district. 303-708-9500 Ext. 223

South Suburban Parks and Recreation Summer Camps, Centennial. Offers a variety of camps for all age groups, including: Science Quest for ages 6 to 10; Clubmid for ages 11 to 14; Youth Multi-Sport Camp for ages 7 to 12; Performing Arts Camp; Youth Art Camps for ages 6 to 13; Kids' Nature Clubhouse for ages 6 to 10; Dance Blast Camps for ages 9 to 13; and Advanced Junior Rangers for ages 13 to 15. Call for session dates and costs. 303-798-5131

Summer Camps at the Denver Museum of Nature & Science, 2001 Colorado Blvd. Various full-day, weeklong camps to choose from, including: Mad About Science, Camping Adventures, Fossil Hunters, Explorers, Behind the Scenes, Zoology: What Makes a Mammal a Mammal?, and Backpackers Survival. Call for details. 303-303-322-7009;

Summer in the Parks, Bible Park, City Park, Clayton College, Congress Park, Lindsley Park, Rosamond Park and Garfield at Athmar Recreation Center, Denver Parks & Recreation programs for ages 7 to 12. 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday through Thursday, June 5 to July 28. Activities include arts, crafts, active games and sports, playground and water games, field trips and special events. Call for costs; scholarships available. 720-913-0693

Summer Sun Club, Wheat Ridge Recreation Center, 4005 Kipling St. Ages 6 to 13. 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, June 6 to Aug. 10. Rock climbing, basketball, swimming, games, arts and crafts and wellness activities. Designed for flexibility; parents choose which days they would like their children to attend. Daily cost is $28/ resident; $33/nonresident. 303-231-1313

Village Enrichment Center, East Eighth Avenue and Ivanhoe Street. Ages 5 to 12. Prepatory summer camp that offers an individualized curriculum that prepares students for their next year. Includes twice-a-week field trips, for fun and education. 720-941-8365

Westridge Day Camp, 9650 S. Foothills Canyon Road, Highlands Ranch. Ages 5 to 12. Half- and full-day. Play games, create artwork, swim, field trips, more. Call for cost. 720-348-8213

Wild West Ranch Summer Camp, 7969 Alkire St., Arvada. Ages 8 and up. 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday through Thursday, June 12 to Aug. 10. Learn all about horses and horseback riding. $300. 303-425-8902

Youth Program Camps, Robert E. Loup Jewish Community Center, 350 S. Dahlia St. Ages 4 to 7. 9 a.m. to noon (optional 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.), one- and two-week programs with five-, three- and two-day choices. Indoor soccer, floor hockey, basketball, Nerf baseball, track and field camps. 303-316-6306;

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Special-needs camps

Adam's Camp, Granby. For children with special needs and their families. Pediatric therapists work with five children over five consecutive days, focusing on each child's needs and assets. Call for details. 303-563-8290;

AD/HD & Sensory Integrative Camp, 2900 S. University Blvd. Ages 7 and up. 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. June 19 to 23. Therapy-intensive camp led by speech, music and occupational therapists. Therapeutic activities and games to help children learn to regulate their energy levels and improve socialization skills, self-esteem and motor skills. 303-773-1034; www.uniqueprints-si-therapy.com

Adventure Camp, Breckenridge Outdoor Education Center. Ages 12 to 16 with developmental disabilities. June 15 to 18. Program is designed to allow participants to experience camping and nature. The pace of the program is based on the abilities of the participant. $500. 1-800-383-2632; ; cindy@boec.org

American Lung Association of Colorado's Champ Camp, Glacier View Ranch, Ward. Ages 7 to 14. Overnight July 23 to 29. For children with moderate to severe asthma. Campers receive medical supervision and asthma education while participating in traditional activities. Registration deadline July 1. $485; financial aid available. 303-388-4327;

Brain Injury Association Special Needs Camp, Griffith Lodge, Breckenridge. Ages 18 and over with brain injuries. Each camper is assigned a buddy for the week. Activities include rafting, fishing, preparing meals, a ropes course and a climbing wall. Partial scholarships available. Call for details and session dates. 303-355-9969, ext. 6

Camp Big Tree, Breckenridge Outdoor Education Center. Ages 12 to 16 with sensory integration disorders, learning and attention deficits. July 11 to 15. Through rock climbing, river rafting and camping, students have the opportunity to practice social skills and teamwork that transfer into everyday life. $600. 1-800-383-2632; ; cindy@boec.org

Camp Comfort, near Georgetown. Ages 6 to 12. June 23 to 25 and July 28 to 30. Ages 6 to 12 grieving the deaths of family members or friends. Supervised by licensed social workers. $150 covers all meals, snacks, accommodations, recreation and workshop materials. Scholarships available. 303-674-6400;

Camp Hope at Buckhorn United Methodist Camp, 2120 County Road 41, Bellevue. Ages 18 and over with physical and developmental disabilities. June 19 to 23 and 26 to 30. Social interaction, opportunities for creativity, physical activity. Fishing, horseback riding, animal therapy, arts and crafts, movement and music and more. $540/week. 1-970-484-2508;

Camp Paha, Lakewood. Ages 6 to 25 with disabilities. 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. (before- and after-camp care available). Monday through Friday June 19 to Aug. 4. Swimming, nature activities, sports, games, arts and crafts, drama, music, outdoor skills and outings in the community. All activities adapted to meet needs and disabilities of camper. $625 to $1,250. 303-987-4866

Camp To Belong, 7177 Colorado River Road, Gypsum. For siblings 8 to 19. Reunites brothers and sisters placed in separate foster homes, adoptive homes and kinship homes for fun activities and sibling connection. River rafting, horseback riding, swimming, interactive art programs and more. 303-791-0915;

Camp Vincent, 4159 Lowell Blvd. Ages 5 to 14. For kids with AD/HD and learning disabilities. 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday June 12 to July 29. Two- to eight-week sessions available. Academics and activities include swimming, pottery, computers, arts and crafts. $200/week. 303-458-7220, ext. 247; rsinger@msvhome.org

Camp Wapiyapi, near Estes Park. Ages 7 to 17 with cancer and their siblings. Weeklong camp offers safe, nurturing environment in which children with cancer and their siblings can experience the natural freedoms of childhood. Campers matched one to one with adult volunteers to ensure unlimited access to all camp activities. No cost. 303-315-8255;

Center for Families and Children of Colorado Inc. Summer Programs, for children affected by brain-based, executive-function deficits such as AD/HD, Asperger's, bipolar disorder, Tourette's, OCD, L.D. Boys and girls ages 6 to 15, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday June 11 to Aug. 18. Therapeutic Summer Camp program with learning activities designed for mild-needs children, and Summer Treatment Program with intensive treatment interventions in an active summer-camp setting for higher-needs children. Activities include group challenges, team building. For registration and information, e-mail addguru@hotmail.com.

CNI Cochlear Kids Camp, YMCA Family Conference Center, Estes Park. Ages 1 to 18 with cochlear implants and their families. Overnight, June 12 to 18 and Aug. 17 to 20. Team-building activities for families; confidence and self-esteem building and recreational activities including archery, rock-climbing, and more for cochlear-implant children and their siblings; language therapy, technology updates and more. $250 for family of 4. $350 for family of 5. 303-806-7416;

Colorado Lions Camp, Woodland Park. Ages 8 and up who are visually impaired, hearing-impaired, developmentally delayed, have ADHD, Down syndrome and other disorders. Sessions with different age groups. Swimming, horseback riding and more. $450/week; financial aid available. 1-719-687-2087; LionsCampCo@aol.com

Easter Seals Colorado Rocky Mountain Village, residential camp for children and adults with disabilities. One-week sessions early June to mid-August. Experience with fishing, swimming, riding, zip line and more. 303-569-2333;

First Descents, Vail. Ages 15 to 18 and up who have, or have had, cancer. June 24-30 and July 8-14 camp held in Kalispell, Mont.; Aug. 4-10 and 12-18 camp held in Vail. Kayaking, climbing, hiking and rafting to help campers face challenges and fears associated with cancer. No cost; families/individuals asked to cover cost of transportation to and from camp if able. 1-970-328-1806;

Junior Adventure Camp, Breckenridge Outdoor Education Center. Ages 8 to 14 with special needs and disabilities. July 24 to 26. Explore nature, boost self-esteem, and develop valuable life skills. Activities include team building, adaptive ropes course, nature skills, campfire and river rafting. $400. 1-800-383-2632; ; cindy@boec.org

National Sports Center for the Disabled Day Camps, Winter Park and Granby. May to September. Summer Woods Adventure Camp for Families Session I, May 27 to 29; River Camp for Families, June 17 and 18; Summer Woods Adventure Camp for Adults With Developmental Disabilities Session I, June 19 to 22; Canoe Camp Session I, June 24 and 25; Mountain Bike Adventure Camp for Youth at Risk, June 28 and 29; Summer Woods Camp for Families Session II, July 1 to 4; Horse Packing Adventure Camp I, July 10 to 12; Summer Woods Adventure Camp for Teens With Physical Disabilities, July 17 to 22; Women's Weekend Camp, July 28 to 30; Summer Woods Adventure Camp for Teens With Developmental Disabilities, July 31 to Aug. 3; Canoe Camp II, Aug. 11 to 13; Summer Woods Adventure Camp for Adults With Developmental Disabilities Session II, Aug. 21 to 24; Horse Packing Adventure Camp II, Sept. 2 to 4; Leaf Peep and Canoe Tour, Sept. 16 and 17. Various costs. 303-316-1544;

Trinity Ranch Angle Tree Summer Camps, near Pueblo. For children of parents who are incarcerated. Weeklong camps for elementary to high school age students. Christian camping experience for children and youths, encouraging them to grow in their faith. Horseback riding, archery, rafting and more. $300 to $325. 303-837-1173, ext. 77; mstern@coloradodiocese.org

Wilderness Camp, Breckenridge Outdoor Education Center. Ages 16 to 28 with developmental disabilities. Aug. 1 to 5. Through outdoor activities, designed around established education models, students develop social skills, teamwork traits and leadership qualities that will transfer into everyday life. Mobile course based on the Upper Colorado River. $600. 1-800-383-2632; ; cindy@boec.org

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Overnight camps

Adventure Quest Overnight Camp with Renaissance Adventures Cal-Wood, Jamestown. Ages 9 to 16. July 11 to 14. Active outdoor Renaissance-theme theater games. Solve mysteries and riddles, brainstorm creative solutions to puzzling dilemmas, swashbuckle with foam swords, and negotiate peace treaties. 303-786-9216;

Ascent Overnight Camp, First Presbyterian Church, 210 E. Bijou St., Colorado Springs. Grades 6 to 8. July 2 to 7. Water slides, horseback riding, hiking, bowling and more. $280 before March 1, $295 after. 1-719-884-6207; www.first-pres.org

Camp Corland Dietler, Boy Scouts of America, 2901 W. 19th Ave. For Boy Scouts ages 11 to 17. Seven sessions of camps are available (6 day/5 night) starting June 11 to 17 and running through July 23 to 29. $185. 303-455-5522

Camp Cris Dobbins, Boy Scouts of America, 2901 W. 19th Ave. For Boy Scouts ages 11 to 17. Eight sessions of camp available (6 day/5 night) starting June 11 to 17 and running through July 30 to Aug. 5. $185. 303-455-5522

Camp RedCloud, Lake City. All ages. Various camps available including: Youth Camp; Horsemanship Camp; Wilderness Trips; Basecamp Multi-Adventure Camp; Backpack Camp; Teens in Training Camps; Family Camps. Call for cost. 1-970-944-2625;

Camp Rocky, Grand Junction (camp held near Divide). For youths who have completed eighth grade through age 19. Outdoor, environmental adventures. Learn about forest management, rangeland science, soil and water conservation, fish and wildlife management and more. 1-970-248-0070;

Camp Tahosa, Boys Scouts of America. Ages 14 to 20. Eight sessions (6 days/5 nights) June 18 to Aug. 11. High-adventure backpacking treks, rock climbing, ropes course. $250. 303-455-5522, ext. 115;

Camp Tzivos Hashem Overnight Travel Camp. For boys ages 11 to 16. June 25 to July 16 and July 16 to Aug. 20. Campers have the opportunity to travel the Southwest. One session explores the Rocky Mountains, northern Utah and Wyoming; the second session explores Colorado's southern plains, New Mexico, Arizona, Southern California and Nevada. 1-888-613-CAMP;

C.O.P.E. (Challenging Outdoor Physical Experience), ages 15 to 18, June 6 to 8 or June 15 and 16. Leadership training, low-ropes course, two nights in a hut on the Continental Divide, full day rafting the Arkansas River. $275 to $425. 303-777-5870, ext. 260;

Eagle Lake Summer Camp, near Colorado Springs. Ages 8 to 18. Sunday through Friday June 4 to Aug. 11. Christian youth camp offers a variety of programs including resident, equestrian and excursion camps. 1-800-US-EAGLE;

Educo Colorado, Fort Collins. Ages 9 to 18. Multiday coed courses range from four to 15 days. May to August. Outdoor leadership school featuring backcountry camping, backpacking, rock climbing, hiking, solo time, rafting, orienteering. $400 to $1,495. 1-970-494-0785;

Flashpoint Youth Camp, Highlands Presbyterian Camp and Retreat Center, Allenspark. Ages 13 to 18. Includes daily workshops, activities and a service each night. Cost covers all meals from Saturday through Friday morning. $300. 720-320-9466

Flying "G" Ranch, Deckers, sponsored by Girl Scouts - Mile Hi Council, 400 S. Broadway. Girls ages 9 to 18. Six- or 13-day overnight camp sessions, June to August. Horseback riding, hiking, ropes challenge course, homesteading skills, crafts. $300 to $525/week. 303-778-8774;

Glacier View Ranch, 8748 Overland Road, Ward. Ages 7 to 17. Christian camp offers 30 activities including horses, rock climbing, water sports and mountain biking. $250 to $300. Various sessions available. 303-459-0945;

High Adventure Camps, sponsored by Shepherd of Love Fellowship, Broomfield. Variety of overnight camps available for grades K-8. $15 to $95. Various sessions. 303-466-5749

Horizon Adventures Inc., 1370 Birch St. Ages 12 to 18. Four nine-day, two, 12-day courses and two specialty courses, (one eight-day/one six-day) June 10 to Aug. 12. Wilderness courses in the Rocky Mountains include backpacking, mountain biking, rock climbing, river rafting, backcountry safety, wilderness education and environmental awareness. $650 to $1,295. Financial aid available. 303-393-7297; horizon@earthnet.net;

J Bar CC Ranch Camp, Black Forest, Elbert. Grades 2-11. Sessions of 7, 12, 14, 19 and 26 days offered. High-ropes course, hiking, horseback riding, sports, crafts, swimming, singing, creating art. 303-316-6384;

Kanakuk Kamps-Christian Summer Camps for Kids, 9658 County Road 501, Bayfield. Coed, ages 13 to 18. Six- to 13- day terms starting June 1. Mountain biking, fly fishing, climbing and rappelling, whitewater rafting, Christian Worldview Teaching with Andy Braner, backpacking and more. $1,725. 1-417-266-3284;

Kent Mountain Adventure Center, Estes Park. Ages 9 to 17. Wilderness and rock-climbing overnight camps. Sessions are seven to 16 days. Rock climbing, canoeing, backpacking, backcountry skills, camp skills and more. Emphasis on challenge-by-choice, self-esteem, responsibility and group problem-solving. 1-970-586-5990;

Lutheran Valley Retreat, Woodland Park. Variety of camps for ages 6 to 17. Activities include mountain biking, horseback riding, climbing, rappelling, high and low ropes, hiking and more. $305 for Sunday through Friday. 1-719-687-3560;

Magness Adventure Camp, "On the Colorado Trail 2006," Boy Scouts of America, 2901 W. 19th Ave. For Cub Scouts ages 6 to 10. 14 sessions (3-day/2-night) available starting June 18 to 20 and running through Aug. 3 to 5. $75. 303-455-5522

Outdoor Leadership Camp, Breckenridge Outdoor Education Center. Overnight program for high school students. June 11 to 18. Provides students opportunity to expand leadership abilities, gain outdoor-education technical skills, work with people with special needs, and complete a hands-on volunteer component. $900. 1-800-383-2632; ; cindy@boec.org

River Conservation and Fly-Fishing Camp, Ouray Ranch, Granby. Sponsored by Colorado Trout Unlimited. Ages 14 to 18. June 18 to 23. Colorado students must submit application by March 30. Designed to educate students on the importance of cold-water conservation and provide hands-on fly-fishing instruction. $350. 303-543-0939. To download application,

St. Andrew Lutheran Church Summer Camp, 6774 W. 66th Ave., Arvada. Grades K-6. Call for details. 303-421-5197

Sanborn Western Camps, P.O. Box 167, Florissant. Ages 7 to 16, and Sanborn Junior Camps for grades 1-4. Provide noncompetitive, individualized programs. Emphasize personal growth, outdoor adventure and interpersonal skills on 6,000 private acres, an hour west of Colorado Springs. Various sessions and costs. 1-719-748-3341; info@sanbornwesterncamps.com;

Sky Ranch Camp, Lutheran Ranches of the Rockies, 805 S. Shields St., Fort Collins. For children beginning first grade through high school. Weekly sessions, June 11 to Aug. 11. Nature study, arts and crafts, hiking, ropes course, games, campfires and more. $175 to $355. 1-970-493-5258;

Southwestern Writing Experience, sponsored by Denver Academy. Ages 14 to 18. June 19 to 26. Campers spend seven nights under the stars camping in three National Parks: Chaco Canyon, Canyon de Chelly and Mesa Verde. Includes hiking, photography and journaling. $995. 303-777-5870, ext. 260;

Spelunking Adventure Camp, Sponsored by Denver Academy. Ages 13 to 18. June 22 and 23. Low-ropes training, overnight stay in a Mongolian yurt and caving experiences will be highlights of this unique adventure. $245. 303-777-5870, ext. 260;

Summer Enrichment Program, University of Northern Colorado, Greeley. Grades 5-10. July 9 to 22, July 23 to Aug. 5. Residential academic program. Curriculum developed according to basic principles of gifted education. Courses in band/orchestra, chemistry, composition, drama, culture, drawing/painting, photography, rocketry, art, dance and more. $1,225 per session. 1-970-351-2683;

Telluride Academy, 725 W. Colorado Ave., Telluride. Ages 4 to 17. Mixed day camp, overnight backcountry camping, 10-day regional expeditions and international travel programs. Six one- to two-week sessions June 12 to Aug. 18. Program focus as diverse as wildflowers, whitewater, visual art, original theater, rock climbing, mountain biking, ecology and mountaineering. Prices vary by program; $320 and up. 1-970-728-5311; .

Tomahawk Ranch, near Bailey. Sponsored by Girl Scouts-Mile Hi Council, Bailey. Girls ages 7 to 17. Three- or six-day sessions June to August. Basic camping skills, hiking, arts, crafts, caring for farm animals, songs, games. $145 to $250. 303-778-8774;

University of Colorado College of Engineering & Applied Science Camp. Applicant must be entering junior or senior year in high school in fall 2006. Four-day campus residential program introduces engineering through hands-on activities in aerodynamics, biotechnology, robotics and other areas. $325. Information and applications available online at http://engineering.colorado.edu/hshi or 303-735-2440.

Upon the Rock, La Veta. Grades 3-10 and 9-12. June 22 to 25 and July 10 to 15. Christ-centered, servant-based youth and family camp ministry. 1-719-742-6777;

Upward Bound - Overnight Camp, First Presbyterian Church, 219 E. Bijou St., Colorado Springs. Grades 3-5. June 3 to 5. Games, swimming, zip line, Bible study and more. $261 before March 1, $275 after. 1-719-884-6207; www.first-pres.org

Wilderness-Backpacking Camp, sponsored by First Presbyterian Church, 219 E. Bijou St., Colorado Springs. Grades 9-12. June 26 to 30. Hiking and camping in the Colorado wilderness. $218 before March 1, $230 after. 1-719-884-6207; www.first-pres.org

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Sports camps

At Impact Golf School Camps, 1801 S. Huron St. Ages 6-17, Junior Academy; ages 8-17, Golf Camps. $55-$225. Various session dates. 303-380-6400; info@atimpact.com

Boys Basketball Camp, Lutheran High School of the Rockies, Parker. For boys entering grades 4-9 in fall 2006. June 5-9. $75, includes lunch. 303-324-9065;

Camp Melo - Carmelo Anthony Youth Basketball Camp, Gold Crown Field House, Lakewood. Ages 7-11, 8:30 a.m. to noon; ages 12-18, 12:45 to 4:15 p.m., July 10-13. Each camper will be placed on a team according to his or her skill level and age and will play a minimum of one game each day in addition to participating in various camp competitions. $199, includes two tickets to a Nuggets preseason game. 1-513-229-3618;

Challenger Sports Soccer Camp, Parker Recreation Department and Challenger Sports, Stroh Soccer Fields. Ages 4-9, June 26-30. All skill levels welcome. $90-$105. 303-805-3267;

Cherry Hills Christian Basketball & Volleyball Lions Camp, grades 5-8. Various camps, including Boys Basketball Camp, June 5-9; Half-Day Volleyball Camp, June 12-16; Girls Basketball Camp, June 19-23; Half-Day Basketball, July 10-14. $85-$120. 303-325-8373

Colorado Athletic Club Inverness Summer Camps, 374 Inverness Parkway. Blast! Summer Sports Camp, ages 5-12; Start Smart Basketball Camp, ages 5-10; Metro State Satellite Volleyball Camp, grades 9-12; Speed, Agility & Conditioning Camp, grades 9-12; Baseball Pitching/Catching Camp, ages 8-14. Call for camp descriptions, session dates and cost. 303-790-7777, Ext. 239;

Colorado Rising Stars Lacrosse Camps, Grandview High School. Girls Lacrosse, June 19-22 and July 24-27; Youth Lacrosse Clinic, July 10-12; Boy's 3v3 Chumash Lacrosse Tournament, July 29. 720-274-1985;

Colorado Rockies Day Camp Days at Coors Field, for groups of children preschool and up, 11:30 a.m. until game ends, June 7, July 26 and Aug. 17. Includes pregame parade around Coors Field warning track, scoreboard message, shaded seating, block seating for groups. $7. Limited seating, early reservations recommended. 303-312-2481

Colorado School of Mines Football Team and Youth Camp, 1500 Illinois St., Golden. Team Camp for ages 9-12, June 18-21 and June 21-24; Youth Camp for ages 3-8, July 10-13. $150-$225. 303-273-3527

Colorado School of Mines Soccer Camps, 1500 Illinois St., Golden. Ages 6-18, half- or full-day, June 12-15; ages 10-18, Keepin' and Krankin' Training for Champions, July 21-23; ages 10-18, Mines Team Camp, July 28-30. $75-$225. 303-384-2295

Cornerstone Farm Summer Horsemanship Camp, 4255 Nelson Road, Longmont. Ages 8 and up. 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday through Friday. Camp includes daily riding lesson and sessions on horse care and stable management. Call for session dates and details. 303-828-9040; www.triplecreek-ranch.com

Dardano's School of Gymnastics Kids Club Summer Adventure Camp, 2250 Kearney St. Ages 3-6. 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Monday through Thursday. Gymnastics, games, puzzles, crafts, outdoor activities. $36-$355. 303-355-0080

Denver Fencing Camp, Denver Fencing Center, 1938 S. Navajo St. Ages 8-14. 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily, June 12-16, July 10-14, July 17-21, July 31-Aug. 4. Campers will learn to fence and develop an understanding of how fencing's strategy, rules and conduct relate to the history of swordsmanship. All equipment and protective gear provided. 303-922-7288;

Denver Lutheran High School Summer Sports Camps, 3201 W. Arizona Ave. Girls Basketball, June 6-8; Boys Basketball, June 12-15; Track/Cross Country, July 24-28; Tennis, July 25-28; Football, Aug. 7-10; Volleyball, Aug. 7-10. 303-934-2345

Denver Nuggets/Bill Hanzlik Basketball Camps, Gold Crown Field House, Lakewood. July 17-21, coed camps for grades 2-4, 9 to 11:30 a.m.; boys grades 4-6, 1 to 4 p.m.; boys grades 7-10, 5 to 8 p.m. July 24-28, coed camps for grades 2-4, 9 to 11:30 a.m.; boys grades 4-6, 1 to 4 p.m.; boys grades 7-10, 5 to 8:30 p.m. Full-day programs, including art, technology and educational enrichment also available. $125-$150. 303-773-1442

Denver Nuggets Youth Basketball Camps. Several summer basketball camps for children of all ages and ability levels. 303-405-1107

Denver Pioneers Girls Golf Camp, Englewood Golf Course, 2101 W. Oxford Ave. Ages 8-18. Mini day camp, 9 a.m. to noon, June 5-8, for ages 8-15. Full-day camp, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., June 5-8, for ages 10-18. Full-swing lessons, mental game preparation, physical training advice, rules and etiquette. 303-762-2670

Discover Sailing, Standley Lake Regional Park in Westminster and Cherry Creek State Park in Greenwood Village. Sponsored by Community Sailing of Colorado Ltd. Ages 8-17. June 5-Aug. 11. One-week and multiple-week camps. $290-$410. Summer-long camp available, $9/day. 303-757-7718

Earl Boykins' Basketball Skills Camp, Washington Park Recreation Center, Denver. Grades 3-6 and 7-9. Dates TBA. Focusing on fundamental skill development. Register in person at Washington Park Recreation Center. 303-698-4962

First Tee of Denver Summer Golf Camps, City Park Golf Course, Willis Case Golf Course and Wellshire Golf Course. Ages 7-17 (sometimes younger, depending on golf ability). June 5-Aug. 11. Participants have the opportunity to receive individual lessons. $45; financial assistance/ scholarships available. 303-370-1554;

George Gwozdecky Summer Hockey Camp, University of Denver, 2201 E. Asbury Ave. Ages 6-14. July 10-14; July 17-21; July 24-28; July 31-Aug. 4. Includes classroom lectures, individual video skating analysis, off-ice instruction, lunch, instruction by DU Pioneer coaches and varsity hockey players. $385-$530. 303-871-4597; dtenzer@du.edu

Girls Hoops Camp, Denver Christian High School, 2135 S. Pearl St. For girls entering grades 5-8. 9 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. June 12-15. Learn basketball fundamentals. $70. 303-349-6694;

Girls Volleyball Camp, Lutheran High School of the Rockies, Parker. Grades 6-12. Various camps, including Hitting and Setting Individual Skills, Passing and Serving Individual Skills, Girl's Volleyball Skills, Defense Camp. Session dates, hours and costs vary. 303-995-9838

Greg Buckner's G-BUCK Basketball Camp, Denver Athletic Club, Downtown Denver. Ages 6 and up, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. July 10-14. Fundamentals taught through drills, contests, games. Daily full-court competition. 1-864-354-2693

Gymnastics Plus, 6180 E. Warren Ave. Gymnastics Plus Mini-Camps for ages 4-6, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., Monday-Friday; Gymnastics Plus Summer Camp for ages 7-17, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday-Thursday; Gymnastics Plus Team Challenge Camp, girls gymnasts level 4-10, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday-Friday. Call for description, dates and cost. 303-512-0799;

Horse Camp, Whistlepig Riding Academy, Broomfield. Ages 7-16. 9 a.m. to noon, Monday-Friday, June-July. Beginner, intermediate and advanced. Horse care plus skill-based instruction, games, social activities. Special-needs equestrian camp and riding lessons also available. $325/week. Sibling discounts. 303-466-RIDE;

Jeff Huson Baseball Camp, Parker Recreation Department, Salisbury Park, 9200 Motsenbocker Road. Ages 6-10. 9 to 11:30 a.m., June 26-29. All skill levels welcome. $125

Junior Jazzercize Camp, 2600 E. Colfax Ave. Ages 5-12. 1:30 to 3:30 p.m., July 12-14. $55. 303-333-0033

Karate Camp, Eclectic Martial Arts, 12650 W. 64th Ave., Arvada, and 8351 N. Rampart Range Road, Littleton. Ages 3-17. 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., June 12-16 and June 26-30. Punching, kicking, Kata, weapons, self-defense, sparring, grappling, more. $295, first child; $245, second child. 303-940-8556 or 303-973-9100

Lakewood Junior Sports Camp, ages 7-11. 9 to 11 a.m., July 31-Aug. 4 and Aug. 7-11. Sports include baseball, football, basketball, soccer, floor hockey. $50, Lakewood resident; $65, nonresident. 303-987-5422

Lakewood Pee Wee Sports Camp, ages 3-6. 9 to 11 a.m. Weekly sessions, June 12 through Aug. 11. Each day offers introduction to a sport in a fun environment. No experience required. $50, resident, $65, nonresident. 303-987-5422

Lakewood Youth Sports Camps, various locations. Grades K-8. 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., Monday through Friday, June 5-July 28. Sports instruction and recreational activities, field trips, swimming, special events. $100/week or $20/day. resident; $125/week or $25/day, nonresident. 303-987-4804

Littleton Hockey Association Academy of Hockey, South Suburban Ice Arena, 6580 S. Vine St. Ages 6-18. July 31-Aug. 4. Conditioning for and instruction in the playing of ice hockey. $350. 303-798-7881

Mile High Football Camps, 2178 Placid Drive and 180 S. Garrison St., Lakewood. Ages 8-14. Overnight and daytime options. June 18-22. Special clinic featuring quarterback Drew Brees of the San Diego Chargers and NFL defensive rookie of the year Shawne Merriman, as well as other NFL coaches and players. $100-$425. 303-665-6565;

Northglenn Sports Camps, Northglenn Recreation Center, 11801 Community Center Drive. Various camps available, including basketball for ages 7-14, Mini-Hawk Multi-Sport for ages 4-7, soccer for ages 7-14, tennis for ages 7-14. Various dates, times and costs. 303-450-8800;

Olympic Fencing Camps, South Denver Fencing Academy, 7075B S. Alton Way, Centennial. Ages 8-18. 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., June 12-16, June 19-23, July 17-21, July 24-28 and July 31-Aug. 4. Each day consists of warm-up games, stretching, footwork, bladework and electric fencing in 5,600-square-foot, state-of-the-art facility. $250/week. 720-200-5588

Pam Tanner Girl's Basketball Camps, University of Denver, 2201 E. Asbury Ave. Ages 8-14, FUNdamentals Camp, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., June 12-15, and Offensive Skills Camp Camp, ages 14-18, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., June 19-21. First camp is designed to improve fundamental basketball skills, including ball handling, dribbling, passing, shooting and defense through drills, games, clinics and competitions. Second camp is designed to teach offensive skills through clinics and competitions. $170-$225. 303-871-4714

Power Up-Sports Day Camp, First Presbyterian Church, 219 E. Bijou St., Colorado Springs. Grades 2-4 and 5-8. 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., July 10-14. Sports include basketball, soccer, swimming, tennis, in-line hockey and volleyball. $85 before March 1; $90 after. 719-884-6207; www.first-pres.org

Rick Heinz Goalie and Hockey Camp, South Suburban Ice Arena, 6580 S. Vine St. Ages 7-18. July 17-21. Instruction in playing ice hockey goalie. Regular, $475; elite, $550. 877-434-6977

Rocky Mountain Hunting Coaches Camp, ages 10-16. Overnight camp, three days/two nights. Teaches how to safely operate a compound bow, .22-caliber rifle and shotgun; learn to fish for brook trout; how to set up a campsite; basic outdoor skills; more. $195. 303-506-8563;

South Suburban Summer Figure Skating Camp, South Suburban Ice Arena, 6580 S. Vine St. Ages 4-10. June 5-Aug. 11. Conditioning for and instruction in the science and art of figure skating. $100-$850. 303-798-7881

Star Goalkeeper Academy at Colorado State University, Fort Collins. Ages 8 through high school. Overnight or day camp, June 25-29. Internationally recognized soccer coaching organization specializing in the education of goalkeepers. $550/day campers; $685-$785/residential campers. 970-482-3779;

Start Smart Basketball Camp, ages 5-10, 9 am. to noon, and ages 11-15, 1 to 4 p.m., June 26-30. All skill levels welcome. 303-841-4500;

Stepping Stones Riding Camp, 7860 N. Flintwood Road, Parker. Ages 6-12. Equestrian camp for all riding levels. Activities include horse care, horsemanship skills and riding. $175-$375. 720-971-3509

Straightline Action Sports Skateboarding Camp, skateparks around the Denver area. Ages 9-17. 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday. Weeklong sessions with 12 sessions to choose from. Camp includes coaching, camp T-shirt, lunch, uplifting message at the end of each day, end of session competition, prizes and more. $325, first session, $300, each additional session. 303-683-5638;

ThunderRidge Girls Basketball Camp, ThunderRidge High School, 1991 Wildcat Reserve Parkway, Highlands Ranch. Grades 3-8. 4 to 8 p.m., June 19-20, and 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., June 21-23. Instruction on individual skills and fundamentals and 3-on-3 and team skills. $130 before June 1, $150 after. 303-387-2186;

Turcotte Stickhandling Hockey Camp, South Suburban Ice Arena, 6580 S. Vine St. Ages 7-15. July 31-Aug. 4. Instruction in stick handling and its role in playing ice hockey. $385. 800-732-2894

University of Colorado Volleyball Camps, Boulder. Little Spiker, grades 3-6, July 11-14; All Skills Camp, July 15-17; and One-Day Specialty Camps, July 19-20, for grades 7-12. No experience necessary. Elite Camp, July 20-23. 303-492-6141;

University of Denver Boys Lacrosse Camps, 2201 E. Asbury Ave. Ages 8-18. Day camp, July 12-15, $275; overnight camp, July 10-13, $495. 303-871-3732;

University of Denver Girls and Boys Soccer Camps, 2201 E. Asbury Ave. Ages 5 to high school. Four- or five-day competitive camps. July 10-20. Camps provide an opportunity for advanced players to improve in all areas of the game, concentrating on both individual skill and team concepts. Call for specific dates and times of camp. $90 to $250. 303-909-4074

University of Denver Summer Tennis Camp, Stapleton Tennis Pavilion, 2201 E. Asbury. Ages 9-16. 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to noon, Monday through Friday. Warm-up, stretching, tennis instruction and games, match play, strategic tennis instruction. $300 full-day/week; $180 half-day/week. 303-871-2512

University of Denver Volleyball Camps, Daniel L. Ritchie Center for Sports & Wellness, 2201 E. Asbury Ave. Junior Pioneer Camp, grades 6-8, July 13-14 and July 17-18, $150; Libero/Defense Camp for grades 9-12, $150; Nike High School Advance Camp, for students entering grades 9-12. $440 overnight, $340 extended day. Contact for Nike only, 800-645-3226; . For all other camps, 303-871-2326; bhardisco@du.edu or

Vail Mountain Bike Camps, Vail. Ages 7-13. Bike handling skills, coached rides on single track, ride with world-class staff. Kids' Race Academy for ages 10-18 teaches how to ride the local race courses and includes coached rides, nutrition and training. $120-$480. Various session dates. 970-470-3431

Western State College High Altitude Distance Camps, Gunnison. Ages 14-17. July 23-28. Camp covers interval training, weightlifting, mental approach to running and ways to improve as a distance runner. $405. 970-943-2068

Western State College Rocky Mountain Wrestling Camp, Gunnison. Grades 7 through high school. June 11-15, June 16-20 and June 21-25. Five-day intensive camps with one-on-one training with a college wrestler from Western's nationally ranked team and coaches. $285. 970-943-2089

Western State College Track and Field Camp, Gunnison. For junior high and high school athletes. July 13-16. Four-day session will enhance junior high and high school athletes' knowledge through expert coaching in a fun, exciting environment. $225-$300. 970-943-3257



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Camp listings compiled by Elaine Goodman, or 303-892-5309