The Best Summer Camps in Knoxville for Kids
If you're new to Knoxville and looking for the best summer camps for your kids, you're in luck! Knoxville offers a variety of fantastic camps that cater to different interests, from adventure and sports to science and sailing. Whether your child loves the outdoors, sports, or creative arts, there's something for everyone. Here are my top recommendations for summer camps in Knoxville:
1. Camp Webb
Location: 114 acres in the Cedar Bluff area of West Knoxville
Schedule: Early care (starting at 7:30 a.m.), Aftercare (until 6:00 p.m.), Free daily hot lunch!
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Adventure Camp (9 a.m. - 4 p.m.) – A classic summer camp experience for kids entering kindergarten through seventh grade, featuring outdoor activities, pool time, and exciting adventures led by a well-trained staff.
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Specialty Camps (9 a.m. - 2 p.m.) – Focused on specific interests like cooking, theater, science, robotics, chess, and art, many led by Webb School teachers.
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Sports Camps (9 a.m. - 2 p.m.) – Train with Webb School’s renowned coaching staff in state-of-the-art athletic facilities.
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Camp Wonderoo (9 a.m. - 2:30 p.m.) – A preschool camp for 4 and 5-year-olds led by Webb Lower School faculty.
📅 Online Registration Opens: February 26, 2025, at noon
2. Tate’s Day Camp
Location: 54-acre campus on N. Cedar Bluff Road in West Knoxville
Schedule: 8:30 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. (Early care from 7:30 a.m. and extended care until 6:00 p.m. included)
Tate’s Day Camp offers weekly themed sessions for kids ages 3-15, with activities like swimming, archery, zip-lining, arts & crafts, and more. Weekly themes include "Carnival," "Halloween in July," and "Aliens Among Us."
🏕️ Counselor-in-Training Program – High school students (rising 9th-10th graders) can develop leadership skills while earning up to 30 hours of community service.
3. Ijams Nature Center Camp
Location: Ijams Nature Center, Knoxville
Schedule: 8 a.m. - 3 p.m. (Extended care available until 5 p.m.)
Ijams Nature Center offers a summer full of outdoor exploration where kids learn about plants, animals, and the natural world. With hiking, hands-on learning, and fun nature activities, it's a great camp for young explorers.
4. Concord Sailing Camp
Location: Fort Loudoun Lake, Knoxville
Schedule: Mon-Fri, 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. (June 2-27, 2025)
Cost: $400 per week (Discounts available for returning sailors and parent volunteers)
For kids ages 8-16, this camp offers the perfect way to spend summer on the water! Whether your child is a first-time sailor or an advanced racer, certified instructors tailor the classes to different skill levels. No prior experience is necessary—just a love for the water and the ability to swim 50 yards unaided.
5. Cedar Bluff Racquet Club Tennis Camp
Location: Cedar Bluff Racquet Club, Knoxville
Schedule: Mon-Thurs, 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 noon
Cost: $250 per session
Dates: June 2-5, June 9-12, July 7-10, July 21-24, July 28-31
A great choice for kids in grades 1st-8th who want to improve their tennis skills! With USPTA-certified coaches, kids will receive expert instruction on major strokes, movement, and fitness while having fun in a positive environment.
6. Zoo Knoxville Camp
Location: Zoo Knoxville
Ages: 4-17
For young animal lovers, Zoo Knoxville's summer camps provide an up-close look at wildlife, hands-on experiments, and behind-the-scenes access to the zoo. Sponsored by Wilderness at the Smokies and Soaky Mountain Waterpark, this camp guarantees an exciting and educational summer adventure.
Knoxville has so many incredible summer camp options to keep your kids engaged, active, and learning all summer long. Whether they love the outdoors, sports, science, or animals, there’s a camp perfect for them. Ready to sign up? Many camps fill up quickly, so be sure to check their websites and register early!
Have questions about Knoxville or need more recommendations? Feel free to reach out—I’d love to help make your family’s transition to Knoxville as smooth as possible!
