Outdoor/Nature Camps in Columbia

One Summer. Endless Returns.

Your search for an overnight camp experience that blends learning with real adventure ends here. YLI Camps offers a full spectrum of camp experiences, with five distinct programs across two breathtaking South Carolina locations, so every camper can find their perfect fit.

From a first overnight camp experience at 4-H Camp to hands-on marine science at Camp Sewee and personalized shooting instruction at Camp Wildlife, the Lowcountry offers a wide range of experiences to match any camper’s interests.

In the Upstate, campers can explore STEM-focused learning at Camp Voyager or take on high-adrenaline mountain excursions at Adventure Camp, designed to challenge and excite thrill seekers of all levels.

YLI Camps provides a clear pathway for every interest and every stage of growth. Campers do more than try new things. They push boundaries, build confidence, and discover what they are capable of in environments intentionally designed to foster independence and personal growth. Each YLI Camp is rooted in intentional fun, immersive learning, and meaningful connection, all within a safe, energizing setting led by experienced, caring staff.

Since 1934, YLI Camps has created unforgettable adventures that build character, spark curiosity, and form lifelong friendships, giving parents peace of mind and campers experiences that last far beyond summer.

Just a short drive from the bustle of Columbia lies a sanctuary in the Blue Ridge Mountains where kids can truly be themselves. Camp Kanuga is an ACA-accredited, co-ed Episcopal residential camp that has been welcoming campers since 1931.

We believe summer is for more than just staying busy—it’s for intentional growth. Our unplugged environment allows campers to trade screens for 1,400 acres of forest, mountain trails, and our private lake. Whether they are soaring on the zip line, working in the blacksmithing shop, or singing songs around a campfire, your child will find a community built on connection, kindness, and belonging.

We offer programs for ages 6–15, ranging from our 6-day “Starter Camp” for first-timers to our traditional 9-day and 13-day sessions.

Is Kanuga the right fit for your family? If you value a community that fosters independence, celebrates the outdoors, and nurtures the soul, we invite you to explore our 2026 sessions.

Find your place in the mountains. Discover Camp Kanuga.

REGISTRATION for FARM CAMP 2026 at Horse Crossing Farm is now OPEN!

Session 1: June 1-4
Session 2: June 8-11
Session 3: June 15-18
Session 4:  June 22-26

Each camp session is 4 days long from 8:00 AM-12:00 PM. The Friday of each week is reserved as a make-up day in case one of the 4 scheduled days gets rained out. Each session includes instruction on complete horse care, horse riding and farm animal care. Animals included are horses, mini horse, mini mule, pony, mini cow, goats, sheep, pig, chickens, ducks, peacocks, turkeys, guinea fowl, emu, rhea, rabbits, guinea pigs, hedgehogs, alpaca, llama, cats and a dog. Water games, yard games, crafts, and photography with animals included each day. (Children ages 6-12, select 5 year olds accepted).

$275 per child per session – Click Here to Register
It’s going to be our best camp year yet!

Full day and half day camps for kids ages 6 to 12 years-old. Kids will learn to be good stewards of nature. Week themes are STEAM, Wilderness Week, and EarthKeepers.

Dates: June – July 
Ages: 6 – 12 years
Price: $325
Full day available

Girls Scouts of South Carolina Mountains to Midlands is offering several summer camps for girls. Girls entering 1st-6th grades are invited to the Day Camp at The Cathy Novinger Girl Scout Leadership Center in Columbia. Overnight options are available for rising 2nd – 6th grade girls.

Dates: June – July
Ages: Girls entering 1st – 8th grade 
Price: $170 – $280 per week 
Full Day available

Falling Creek is an overnight summer camp for boys in 1st-12th grades. Located on 900+ mountaintop acres in North Carolina, featuring outdoor adventure and founded on Christian values. 1-4 week sessions.

Dates: June – August
Ages: Boys grades 1 – 12 
Price: $2,225 – $8,850
Overnight only

The South Carolina Waterfowl Association’s Camp Woodie offers weeklong, overnight summer camps for ages 7-11 and 12-16. Activities include hunter safety training, five-stand sporting clays, incoming and away skeet ranges, archery, and more.

Dates: May – July
Ages: 7 – 16 years old
Price: $1,300 per session
Overnight only

A variety of horseback riding camps focused on horsemanship, riding skills, and farm activities. Camps blend daily riding lessons, horse care, grooming, stable routines, and fun activities in a supportive equestrian environment.

Ages: 3– 12
Half Day, Full Day, and Overnight options available
Dates: June – July 2026
Price: Tiny Tot camp – $395
Summer Day Camp – $495
Overnight Girl Camp – $999

YLI Camps is made up of five unique camps, and provides the ultimate summer experience where intentional fun and focused learning happen.

Dates: June – August 2026 
Ages: 8 – 15
Price: $945 – $1,025
Overnight and day/adventure program options

This overnight Christ centered summer camp on Lake Wateree offers a variety of camps, including Traditional Camp and Family Camp.

Dates: June – July 
Ages: 7 – 17 years 
Price: $346 – $640 
Overnight Camp

Columbia Sailing Club hosts multiple Sailing Summer Camps. The variety of classes accounts for all skill levels, and you don’t have to own a boat or be a club member in order to register.

Dates: June – July
Ages: 4 – 17
Price: $395 – $495 
Full day available

Sawyer Equestrian’s Horse Camps focus on horse education and fun learning. Campers participate in grooming, tacking, riding, daily horse care, team-building games, and horse-themed art projects in a supportive environment.

Ages: 5–15
Half Day & Full Day Options available
Dates: Weekly through June 2026
Price: $450 per week per rider

Farm based summer camps for ages preschool and older. The camps are a week long, and include:

2026 info TBA
Dates: May – July
Ages: 3 years old – 5th grade
Price: $250 – $350
Full and Half day available

Children aged 8 – 16 can enjoy Kayak Camp with the City of Columbia park rangers at Riverfront Park.

2026 info TBA
Dates: June – August 
Ages: 8 – 16
Price: $125
Full day available:

Call 803.315.9275 for additional information

The ultimate outdoor camp for rising K – 10th grade, with experiences for day camp and week long overnight camp.

Dates: June – August 
Ages: Rising K – 10th grade 
Price: $480 – $3,090
Full Day and Overnight available

Camp Chatuga is a traditional overnight summer camp for children ages 6 to 16 years old. Camp lengths vary from 1-4 weeks. Activities include horseback riding, water-skiing, BMX bikes, arts and crafts, archery, animal care, and so much more!

Registration is now open for 2026. This camp will quickly reach capacity. Register now.

Dates: June 7 – July 25, 2026 
Ages: 6 years old – 16 years old 
Price: $1,370 – $2,740 
Full: Overnight — Half-week options within longer sessions available

What: Summer camp designed to give children the opportunity to interact with nature and animals on a meaningful level. Hands-on experiences give campers a sense of responsibility and connection.

Who: Rising kindergartners – 7th grade

When: Half Day and Full Day options available

Cost: $355/week