Summer Camp

•  Our themes are designed to balance thematic learning with classic outdoor summer fun!

•  Camp days are spent participating in theme-related activities as well as free time and organized games on our playgrounds and natural playscapes, soccer field, blacktop, gymnasium, greenhouse, garden, theater, and our neighboring Lockwood Park.

•  Themes are shared throughout the age groupings.

•  Each session theme will have different, age-appropriate activities for Adventurer, Explorer, and Voyager campers.

•  Explorers and Voyagers will have one field trip each session.

•  All campers will visit the Webster Groves Pool for swimming twice per week.

•  Campers bring their lunch to camp each day.

•  A daily snack is provided.

•  Rest/nap time is optional for our younger Adventurer campers.

Session One: 6/2 – 6/6 

During this exciting week of discovery and hands-on learning, campers will explore the incredible world of pollinating insects and animals that help make our ecosystems thrive! This nature-based camp is designed for curious minds and budding environmentalists, offering engaging activities and educational experiences that focus on the vital role pollinators play in our food systems, biodiversity, and natural habitats. On campus, campers will explore our pollinator gardens, sow seeds, and plant natives cultivated in our own greenhouse. Additionally, a visit from a local beekeeper will educate campers on the honey making process and pollinator importance. This camp will accommodate all levels of interest with extra care and awareness to allergy and emotional sensitivities. 

Explorer and Voyager field trips may include Shaw Nature Reserve or Forest Park’s pollinator gardens.

Session Two: 6/9 – 6/13

Campers will embark on an exciting journey through Missouri’s rich history and heritage! This camp explores the fascinating stories of indigenous cultures, the wonders of Cahokia Mounds, and the mysteries unearthed by Missouri archaeology. Through engaging activities, hands-on projects, and guided exploration, campers will uncover the traditions, achievements, and daily lives of the people who shaped the region’s past. Perfect for curious minds ready to dig into history and make connections with Missouri’s legacy.

Explorer and Voyager field trips may include Cahokia Mounds or a dig at a local shelter cave.

Session Three: 6/16 – 6/20 (off on June 19)

Join us for a fun and engaging summer adventure, where science, nature, and fun flow together like the streams we’re set to explore! During this shortened, four-day week, campers investigate the important role watersheds play in the health of our environment, especially in Missouri and the Midwest. Each day is filled with activities, outdoor exploration, and interactive lessons that bring to life the science and importance of watersheds. Campers will learn how watersheds function, their impact on ecosystems, and the importance of conservation efforts to protect them. Explorer and Voyager campers will take a trip to explore LaBarque Creek while our younger campers discover our campus creek and pond. 

Explorer and Voyager field trips include a visit to our LaBarque Campus

Session Four: 6/23 – 6/27

Join us for a week of archery, sports, games, and accuracy challenges! Voyager campers will learn the basics of the Genesis compound bow before heading to the range for practice. Explorers and Adventurers will engage in individual and cooperative games. Sports and games may include soccer, ping pong, bowling, bocce, putt putt challenges, soft/magnetic darts, pool noodle tag, and more.   

Explorer and Voyager Field Trips: Archery range (Voyagers) and Crestwood Bowl (Explorers)

Session Five: 6/30 – 7/3 (off on July 4)

During this shortened, four-day week, campers will head to various locations on campus to play classic backyard and indoor party games. The field, gym, dining room, theater, and adjoining park, will all be utilized to play games like croquet, frisbee golf, badminton, bags, washers, hot foot, and kickball, to name a few. 

Although there will be no off-campus field trips this week, all campers will visit the pool on Wednesday for their scheduled swim.

Session Six: 7/7 – 7/11

Climb on! Climbing! ALL campers can participate in this TCS tradition. Our campus rock climbing wall will challenge and strengthen campers as they learn the safety and climbing skills necessary to summit! Climbing is an important part of our curriculum and our equipment is designed to fit campers of all ages. Harness and helmet fitting, basic knot tying, and climbing techniques are some of the topics discussed during this fast paced week. In addition to climbing, our youngest campers will engage in fun and interactive art projects while learning about famous climbers and explorers.

Explorer and Voyager Field Trips will be to the Upper Limits Indoor Rock Climbing Gym.

Session Seven: 7/14 – 7/18

Embark on a journey through the vibrant history of St. Louis and the iconic Route 66 in this exciting themed summer camp! Over five action-packed days, campers will dive into scavenger hunts, explore local landmarks, and experience hands-on activities inspired by the rich culture and history of the Gateway City. With daily itineraries featuring historic sites, fun challenges, and Route 66 nostalgia, this camp promises an unforgettable adventure celebrating the spirit of the open road and the charm of St. Louis.

Explorer and Voyager field trips may include Ted Drewes, Route 66 State Park, or The Missouri History Museum

Session Eight: 7/21 – 7/25

This theme is designed for curious minds and adventure seekers! Each day, campers will dive into a world of puzzles, riddles, and brain-teasing challenges that spark creativity and critical thinking. From decoding cryptic messages to solving problems and mysteries, this camp is packed with engaging activities that challenge and inspire. Our younger campers will focus on magic tricks and movement. Adventurers will be visited by a travelling gymnastics crew that will set up in our gym for a fun day of guided movement!

Explorer and Voyager field trips may include Escape From St. Louis Maplewood

Session Nine: 7/28 – 8/1

Wear your swimsuit everyday this week! To celebrate the end of summer, we’re diving into a week of splashing fun with our action-packed water-themed session! Each day is filled with exciting games, creative activities, and team relays designed to keep campers cool and engaged. From water and shaving cream filled balloon relays, to sponge tag and obstacle courses, this camp is perfect for kids who love to play and explore. Campers will also enjoy creating water-inspired crafts and participating in group competitions that build teamwork and laughter. Don’t miss this unforgettable week of wet and wild adventures! 

Explorer and Voyager field trips may include Slick City or Ultimate Ninjas. 

2025 Expedition Camp information

Sunday, June 1 – Friday, June 6, 2025
Appropriate age range: Rising Seventh, Eighth, Ninth, and Tenth Grade
Limited to 20 campers
Overnight expedition: Sunday, 8:30 AM – Friday, 6:00 PM
Price: $1350

This high-adventure, 6-day, 5-night expedition will have campers paddling two National Scenic Rivers: the Buffalo river, located in Northern Arkansas, and the Eleven Point river, located in southern Missouri. Campers will utilize National Park Service campgrounds while floating the Buffalo river and gravel bar camp while on the Eleven Point river. Both rivers are truly stunning in terms of natural beauty, featuring pristine springs, caves, and waterfalls. This expedition is only offered to our older, more experienced campers with previous paddling experience as the upper section of the Buffalo is one of the most technical sections that can be floated in the entire Midwest.

Trip Leaders: Scott “Stoats” McClintock, Austin Smith, Taylor Smith

Monday, June 9 – Friday, June 13, 2025
Appropriate age range: Rising Fifth, Sixth, and Seventh Grade
Limited to 17 campers
On campus: Monday and Tuesday
Overnight expedition: Wednesday, 8:30 AM – Friday, 3:00 PM
Price: $750

Discover canoeing and riding skills during a trip down the beautiful Courtois River, where we will explore gravel bars, gaze upon starry nights, and ride horseback through the forests. Two days will be spent at The College School and around the St. Louis area learning skills, building group unity, and preparing for the three-day, two-night trip. Paddles and Saddles is always a wonderful and fun experience!

Trip Leaders: Scott Phelps, Jenny Morrison, Scott “Stoats” McClintock

Monday, June 16 – Friday, June 20, 2025
Appropriate age range: Rising Fifth, Sixth, and Seventh Grade
Limited to 17 campers (Minimum 10 campers)
On campus: Monday and Tuesday
Overnight expedition: Wednesday, 8:30 AM – Friday, 3:00 PM
Price: $750

Due to high demand we have added a second session of Paddles and Saddles! 

Discover canoeing and riding skills during a trip down the beautiful Courtois River, where we will explore gravel bars, gaze upon starry nights, and ride horseback through the forests. Two days will be spent at The College School and around the St. Louis area learning skills, building group unity, and preparing for the three-day, two-night trip. Paddles and Saddles is always a wonderful and fun experience!

Trip Leaders: Scott Phelps, Jenny Morrison, Scott “Stoats” McClintock

Ages: Rising Sixth – Tenth Graders
Limited to ten campers per session
Session One: May 27 – 28
Session Two: May 29 – 30
8:30 AM – 3:30 PM
Price: $300 

We are excited to bring back Babysitter’s Training Camp. TCS nurse, Jen Martin, will teach the skills necessary to be a successful and safe babysitter. This course offers hands-on training in skills needed to babysit such as: developmentally appropriate play, safe handling of infants and toddlers, feeding, diapering, and much more.  This course will also include the opportunity to earn American Red Cross Babysitter’s Training Certification and infant CPR and first aid certification.  

Day one will dive head first into first aid and CPR.  Campers will have the opportunity to earn American Red Cross Babysitter’s Training with Infant CPR and First Aid certification. Students must successfully complete skills and an exam to become certified.

Day two will be all about the business of babysitting.  Campers will learn about developmental milestones and age-appropriate play, safe handling of infants and toddlers, feeding, and diapering.  Students will also learn about safety on the job, interviewing, setting prices, and building a resume/babysitting portfolio.

*CPR certification is not guaranteed.  Campers must demonstrate competence in CPR to gain certification.

Lead: Jen Martin, TCS Staff Nurse

Level One -$300 (Enrollment fee for CPR Certification) Level Two No Cost / Completion of Level One Required

All Summer

Ages: Rising Eighth – Tenth Graders

To register, contact John McElwain, Summer Camp Director, at jmcelwain@thecollegeschool.org. There are a limited number of spaces available. 

This opportunity is designed for rising eighth through tenth graders. After the completion of the two year program, students become eligible for a paid summer camp support position.

The CIT (Counselor In Training) program is for students interested in developing leadership skills, gaining experience working with children, and building self confidence.  The program includes many aspects of a camp counselors role including: CPR certification, training sessions on such topics as basic child development and behavior management, counseling techniques and best practices, communication and leadership, and environmental stewardship. In addition to obtaining CPR certification and childcare experience, CITs will be mentored by camp leaders, and interact with professional educators to obtain the skills necessary to create a fun, engaging, safe, and upbeat camp experience. Volunteering a minimum of four one-week sessions per summer is a requirement to complete each level. CITs may volunteer more than four sessions per summer. 

Level One / Year One 

The first step of our CIT program is to obtain child and infant CPR certification as well as a childcare training course. This course will need to be purchased and completed to advance. Once these accreditation requirements are met, CIT’s will be eligible to choose four sessions of camp to volunteer. CIT’s must volunteer for a minimum of four weeks in order to advance to level two. During that time, CITs will work alongside camp leaders and support staff. They will attend and support all camp activities, swimming, and field trip opportunities. Additionally, CITs will have weekly check-ins and meetings with a supervisor. CITs will have the opportunity to ask questions, receive feedback, and get support from lead camp staff in a group setting. 

Level Two / Year Two 

This portion of the CIT program focuses on the CITs’ personal and professional growth goals from the previous season. Additionally, they will choose which age group they are most interested in supporting. Building upon their experience, CITs will focus on specific areas of interest such as behavior management, team building and icebreakers, activity/game setup and support, arts and crafts activities, and outdoor adventure activities. Second year CITs will have the opportunity to lead activities and games under the supervision of leaders and support staff. In addition to weekly check-ins, CITs will establish their own goals and performance indicators for their meetings with camp leaders. Like the previous year, they will support all camp activities, swimming, and field trip opportunities. This level supports and encourages personal and professional growth as well as goal setting and accountability. After volunteering a minimum of four sessions during the season, and upon completion of level two certification, CITs are eligible for a paid support position the following summer.