The Salvation Army Summer Camps

Columbus, IN

mapColumbus, IN

About

The Salvation Army Summer Camps offer swimming, canoeing, hiking, archery, other sports, arts and crafts, music, drama, scouting, and hands-on projects. Camp sessions are available as both day and overnight summer camps, and activities include team-building, leadership training, and community service projects. The summer camp programs provide a safe, structured, and positive environment under supportive supervision by trained counselors, and kids benefit daily from fresh air, exercise, and new friendships.

• Price: The Salvation Army’s network of free summer camps allows kids of all ages, despite their family’s income level, to have a safe, fun, unforgettable summer camp experience; most summer camps accept state-provided child care subsidies and offer scholarships, and the free summer camps also help strengthen family bonds while providing enriching experiences.

The Salvation Army camp counselors are equipped to help children navigate complicated emotions and struggles that can arise for those who experience poverty and related hardships. Counselors are trained to recognize the effects of the stressors of poverty on children and respond to a child’s emotional needs so kids feel safe, included, and welcome. Summer programs are specifically for kids from low-income households and areas where disadvantage is concentrated, and free summer camp programs are offered so kids can be kids. Camps offer outdoor recreation, educational activities, and hands-on projects, and programs are programmed with hands-on activities that spark curiosity and collaboration and foster education. Summer camp can provide a beneficial reprieve from nature deprivation, and research cited by the program states that spending time outdoors in natural environments can improve a student’s test scores, reduce aggressive behavior, increase positive social interactions, and speed physical healing for children. According to the program’s stated information, summer camp can have a positive impact on a child's self-esteem, confidence, and overall well-being, and summer camps provide kids with the opportunity to learn new skills, make friends, and create lasting memories.

The Salvation Army states that it is one of the largest social service providers in the United States and is committed to serving neighbors in need of assistance in every zip code throughout the nation. The Salvation Army also serves local families through Kroc Community Centers, which offer after-school programs, recreational opportunities, and community programs dedicated to fostering healthy futures. With over 400 after-school programs nationwide, The Salvation Army fosters an environment of learning long after the school day ends, and these after-school programs often complement The Salvation Army summer camp programs throughout the year. The organization offers a wide array of community programs to help cultivate brighter futures, including summer camps and after-school programs for students of all ages and numerous music, art, and athletic programs for aspiring youth.

The Salvation Army describes itself as an international movement and an evangelical part of the universal Christian Church. Its message is based on the Bible, its ministry is motivated by the love of God, and its mission is to preach the gospel of Jesus Christ and to meet human needs in His name without discrimination.

Last updated May 13, 2026.

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