Explore Camps by Grade Level

Click below to view full schedules and descriptions for your child’s age group.

Kindergarten Camps (Ages 5-6)

Focus: Socialization, sensory play, and introduction to science.
Top Themes: Space (Blast Off), Animals (Animal Adventures), and LEGO® Building (Tiny Tinkering).
Why Parents Love It: A safe, supportive environment for your child’s first full-day camp experience.

1st & 2nd Grade Camps (Ages 6-8)

Focus: Structured inquiry, foundational STEM skills, and teamwork.
Top Themes: Paleontology (Age of the Dinosaurs), Engineering (Engineering Extravaganza), and Marine Biology (Underwater Discoveries).
Why Parents Love It: The perfect mix of education and fun that keeps academic skills sharp during the summer slide.

3rd & 4th Grade Camps (Ages 8-10)

Focus: Critical thinking, complex problem solving, and independence.
Top Themes: Coding (Creative Coding), Chemistry (Captivating Chemistry), and Forensics (Investigation).
Why Parents Love It: “Big kid” challenges that respect their growing maturity and intellect.

5th & 6th Grade Camps (Ages 10-12)

Focus: Career exploration, advanced technology, and digital creation.
Top Themes: Robotics (Tech Trailblazers) and Integrated STEAM (Science Smorgasbord).
Why Parents Love It: A cool, tech-forward experience that pre-teens actually want to attend.


Explore Camps by Interest

Does your child have a specific passion? Jump straight to the camps they’ll love.

Engineering & Robotics: For the builders, tinkers, and coders. Features LEGO® engineering and robot programming.

Space & Astronomy: For the future astronauts. Explore the solar system, stars, and beyond.

Girls in STEM: A supportive, girls-only environment to build confidence in science and math.

Nature & Animals: Dive deep into our aquarium and rainforest with camps like Deep Sea Divers and Animal Adventures.



Camp Logistics: What You Need to Know

Location: All camps are held at Discovery Place Science, located at 301 N. Tryon St., Charlotte, NC 28202. Our central Uptown location makes drop-off and pick-up convenient for working parents.

Camp Hours: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM (Monday – Friday)

Extended Care: Available from 7:30 AM and until 5:30 PM for an additional fee.

What to Bring: Campers should bring a nut-free lunch, two snacks, a reusable water bottle, and their curiosity! We provide all science materials and technology.



Frequently Asked Questions about Charlotte Summer Camps

Q: When does registration open for 2026?
A: Member registration typically opens in early winter, with public registration following shortly after. Join our newsletter to get the alert!

Q: Are these camps accredited?
A: Yes, Discovery Place Science is a premier educational institution in Charlotte. Our camps are developed by professional educators to align with state science standards while prioritizing fun.

Q: Do you offer scholarships?
A: We believe every child deserves access to science. Please check our “Welcome” program page for information on financial assistance and scholarships.