Summer Camp 2026
Are you looking for a hands-on adventure that sparks curiosity and fuels a passion for discovery? Our K-5 science camps blend excitement, creativity, and learning! Through fun experiments and exploration, kids deepen their understanding of nature, build confidence, and make lasting friendships. Join us for a summer of wonder and science that will inspire your child for a lifetime!
Find a Camp Near You!
Registrations are now OPEN!
We will offer a variety of Mad Science ("S" for Science) and Imagine Arts Academy ("A" for Arts) camps throughout summer 2026, with registration opening in early 2026. Link to access Imagine Arts Academy camps: https://colorado.imagineartsacademy.com/parents-camps
List of camps by location, from North Denver to South Denver:
- Louisville Rec Center: camps week of 6/22 (S)
- Town of Superior: camps weeks of 6/15 (S), 7/27 (S)
- Good News Community Church in Broomfield: camps weeks of 6/22(S), 7/6 (S)
- Apex Rec Center: camps weeks of 6/1 (S), 6/22 (S), 6/29 (S), 7/20 (S), 7/27 (S), 8/3 (S), 8/10 (S).
To get resident pricing, you will need to create an account with Apex.
- Evergreen Rec Center: camps weeks of 6/1 (S), 6/15 (S), 6/29 (A), 7/6 (S), 7/27 (A), 8/3 (S)
- Ken-Caryl Ranch: camps weeks of 6/8 (S), 6/15 (A), 7/6 (S), 7/20 (S)
- Trails Rec Center: camps weeks of 6/8 (S), 6/15 (A), 6/29 (S), 7/20 (S)
- Douglas County Library at Lone Tree: camp week of 7/13 (S)
- Douglas County Library at Castle Rock: camp week of 7/6 (S)
- Town of Castle Rock: camps weeks of 6/8 (S), 6/22 (S), 7/13 (S), 7/20 (S), 8/3 (S), 9/21 (S)
- The Grange at Castle Rock: camp week of 7/27 (S)
Check out our wide variety of camp themes!
STEM-Ulating Science Sampler:
Want to learn a little bit of everything?
Grab your lab coats and get ready to discover the exciting world of STEM as you explore five different science and engineering concepts with Mad Science! Learn the science behind secret codes, how cameras works, create potions with the science of chemistry, and much, much more. This is our most popular camp!
AstroInnovators by NASA
Developed by NASA and Mad Science, this camp will send students on an expedition to infinity and beyond as they explore our Earth’s atmosphere, the outer reaches of our solar system, galaxies far, far away -- and everywhere in between! Explore exciting developments in space travel, technology, astronomy and more as you create your own NASA branded projects to take home each day!
Bubbling Beakers and Radical Reactions
Embark on a magical journey through the world of molecules and chemistry in this exciting camp! Watch beakers bubble and experience radical reactions as you create your very own potions and chemical concoctions to take home. Explore the fascinating types of chemical solutions and learn how different substances react when mixed. It’s an enchanting dive into the wonders of chemistry!
Biology Blast!
It's a jungle out there, and this immersive camp from Mad Science will introduce students to all the different ways that scientists study it! From birds and beasts to bugs and blue oceans, campers will have a blast with biology as they explore concepts related to ecosystems, conservation, recycling and more!
Cracking the Case: Forensic Science, Investigation, and Spy-Craft
Think you can crack the case? Campers work together to solve mock crime scenes using logic, critical and analytical thinking, curiosity, and methodical deductive reasoning. Learn about careers in security, law enforcement, forensic science, crime scene investigation, anatomy, and more!
** Please note: All criminal scenarios presented in this camp are fictional, non-violent, and age-appropriate**
Underground Explorers
Calling all Jr. Archaeologists and Paleontologists! Uncover the mysteries of ancient civilizations, explore the history of dinosaurs and dig up the ancient past! Solve real-life mysteries. Learn about archaeology and the techniques scientists use to excavate long lost cities. Discover ancient civilizations and the tools and artifacts they used in everyday life.
ENGIneering and FUNgineering
Gears, pulleys, blueprints, and beyond—this camp dives into the thrilling worlds of engineering and architecture! Campers will collaborate to design intricate structures, explore how motors and machines work, create their own electrical circuits, and build fun take-home projects to continue their learning at home!
Red Hot Robotics
Delving into the world of robotics is not only exciting but also incredibly educational. From exploring the fundamental principles of robotics to diving into the rich history and current advancements in the field to circuitry, mechanics, and problem-solving, students are in for an enlightening journey. The hands-on experience of building and programming robots is where the real magic happens.
Eureka! Inventors and Explorers
It's alive! Inspire the inventor and scientist in you during this week of discovery and invention. From Dr. Frankenstein to Benjamin Franklin, learn about both real and fictional famous inventors and how their ideas changed and shaped our world. Explore the patent process and work with friends to create exciting new innovations of your own.
Art enrichment camp also available
Crayola Imagine Arts Academy - check it out!
FAQ
What do children do during Mad Science Camp?
We offer 9 different camps, so it will depend! Our camps offer a daily combination of in-class discovery and exploration, outdoor games and physical activities, and hands-on applications of the scientific principles presented. There is a very good mix of instructor demonstrations and hands-on experiments for the kids.
+What is the child to instructor ratio?
The child to instructor ratio varies depending on enrollment. We always have at least one instructor for every 12-15 students.
+What does a day at camp typically look like?
(Schedule subject to change) 9:00AM: Drop off and sign in 9:15AM: Science activities 10:30AM: Snack Break 10:45AM: Science activities 12:00PM: Half-day campers leave, Lunch break and recess for full-day campers 1:00PM: Science activities 2:30PM: Snack Break 2:45PM: Science activities 4:00PM: Pick up and sign out
+Can my child be grouped with their siblings or friends? What if their friend is only doing a half day?
Yes. We will certainly allow them to sit and work together during the camp. Full and half day campers will all be in the same class.
+Who are your instructors?
Our Mad Scientists tend to be college students pursuing degrees in education or science, former/retired teachers, or teachers on summer break. All of our instructors are CPR trained and have experience working with large groups of elementary-aged children and have undergone extensive background checks including fingerprinting through CBI.
+What should my child wear to camp?
Children should dress comfortably and be prepared for Colorado's ever-changing weather. For safety reasons, we ask that children wear closed-toe shoes to camp -- no flip-flops please! Please be aware that some activities get a bit messy, so don't send them in their finest clothes.
+What should my child bring with them to camp?
*We are a nut-free camp!* Please send your child with the following for each day of camp: - Sunscreen labeled with child's name - A water bottle labeled with child's name - One snack for half-day campers - Two snacks and a sack lunch for full-day campers (NOTE: We cannot guarantee refrigerator or microwave availability at all camp locations)
+What is your refund policy?
Except as otherwise stated by the recreation center, camp cancellations over one month before start get a full refund minus $25; between one week and one month, a full refund minus $50; less than one week, no refund. Transfers to other camps with availability are allowed anytime during the same summer season with no service fee.
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