Camper in the wilderness walking across a fallen tree

Camp Description

UMass Discovery Camp is a vibrant summer experience where imagination takes flight and every day invites a brand new adventure. The camp blends active exploration with creative discovery, giving children a space to learn, play, explore and grow in a supportive environment. This camp runs Monday – Friday with full day sessions with aftercare available.

Designed for young creators, explorers, and problem solvers, UMass Discovery Camp encourages kids to dive into hands on challenges that spark curiosity and nourish their creativity. One day might bring a science mystery waiting to be solved; the next could unfold into an art challenge, a nature quest, an athletic adventure, or a team-building mission. Each experience encourages campers to follow their interests, try bold ideas, and uncover passions they did not even know they had.

Guided by enthusiastic mentors, campers learn to think creatively, collaborate with new friends, and embrace the joy of curiosity driven learning.

UMass Discovery Camp is not just a summer program, it is a launchpad for imagination and a place where every day brings a new discovery.

Age Details
Open to campers ages 7–13. Campers will be placed in small groups of up to 10 with peers in similar age ranges.
Location
UMass Amherst’s Department of Recreation & Wellbeing: 161 Commonwealth Ave, Amherst, MA 01002
Child coloring in colored pencil

Dates and Times

Monday–Friday 8:30 a.m.–3:30 pm
Aftercare available 3:30–5:30 p.m. (+$50 per session)

Includes daily lunch in UMass dining halls
 

Two sessions to choose from

Session 1
Monday August 3, 2026–Friday August 7, 2026

Session 2
Monday August 10, 2026–Friday August 14, 2026

Note: campers may register for both sessions

Sample Daily Schedule

TimeActivity
8:30–9 a.m.Drop Off
9–9:25 a.m.Welcome / Morning Movement
9:30–10:15 a.m.Group Play
10:15–11:45 a.m.Specialty Activities
11:45 a.m.–1:45 p.m.Lunch at the Award-Winning UMass Dining Commons
1:45–3:15 p.m.Campus Discovery: On Campus Field Trips
3:15–3:30 p.m.Prepare for Pick-Up
3:30 p.m.Camper Pick-Up
3:30–5:30 p.m.Aftercare Program

 

 

Registration

Online registration is now open!
Online registration closes June 1, 2026

Note: Enrollment is limited and will close once filled.

 

Cost

$350 per child, per session
$25 off each additional sibling registration after the first. All campers must reside at the same address. This discount cannot be combined with other offers.

Aftercare available for an additional $50 per child/per session

Includes daily lunch in UMass dining halls
#1 Best Campus Food voted by the Princeton Review, 9 years in a row

 

FAQs

UMass Discovery Camp Frequently Asked Questions

Campers meditating

Cancellation Policy

We have designed our cancellation policy to minimize the number of camp spots that are unused due to last-minute cancellations. Cancellations made more than 30 days prior to the start of the camp will incur a $35 administrative fee. No refunds will be given for cancellations made within 30 days of the start of the camp.