Patch Picks: Summer Camps

Spring has yet to officially spring according to the calendar, but many are already planning for summer. While California and Florida are annually two of the more popular vacation destinations, Oak Park and River Forest have some enticing offers for those looking a little closer to home.

We're talking summer camps, of course, and the western suburbs are full of them. Patch picked five camps that best exemplify the spirit of the season still two seasons away.

Eco-Ranger Camps
There are three Eco-Ranger Camps offered by , each running three days a week for two weeks. The Eco-Ranger I camp is for ages 6-8; Eco-Ranger II for ages 9-11; and Eco-Ranger III for ages 10-12. The camps are designed “to create awareness and understanding of our connection with the environment,” according to the district's website, ideal for curious kids who enjoy exploring nature, hiking, gardening and much more. Dates vary; prices start at $144.

Guitar Camp
Tune up and tune in to the Guitar Camp (ages 6 and up for beginners, 7 and up for intermediate students). Included in the package is a review of the basics, how to care for a guitar, practice exercises and performing songs with the rest of the group. The one-week camp takes place at The Depot, 401 Thatcher Ave., and lasts from June 20-24. Prices start at $94.

Summer Cultural Arts Workshops (S.C.A.W.)
Oak Park Children will be delighted when enrolled in either the “Little S.C.A.W.” program (ages 6-8) or the “Big S.C.A.W.” (ages 9-13). Both programs run Monday through Thursday for 50 minutes a day for six weeks and give children the unique option of choosing their own adventures – up to three, anyway. These workshops allow children to select the classes that meet their needs or interests, whether it's in Ceramics, Painting & Drawing, Cartooning, Theater, Puppet Making or something else. Dates and prices vary.

Ultimate Girls Camp
Sorry, boys, this one is for the girls. This week long camp put on by the River Forest Park District runs from July 11-15. Over the course of the week, girls ages 6-11 will enjoy an arts and crafts session, a Hawaiian spa retreat, a clothing-creating workshop, an interactive Hula dancing lesson and more. It's a fast-paced week of fun in the sun – and away from the boys. Prices start at $100.

Sports Camps
Remember when all a kid needed to have fun was a torn-up ball and a couple friends? The Park District of Oak Park remembers, which explains the robust number of sports-themed summer camps it's offering this year. Included in the mix are a Basketball Camp (ages 8-11), a Tennis Camp (ages 4-17) and a Ramp Camp (for skaters age 8-14). Every camp is open to both boys and girls and runs for one week, except otherwise noted. Dates and prices vary.