OVERNIGHT CAMPS 2026

For campers with typical needs

Staff : Camper Ratio 1:7

check us out at our 2026 open house!

The Spirit of Adventure

At Camp Skyline, overnight camp is where kids discover what they're capable of when they step away from screens and into the woods. Over 4-6 nights, campers build skills that matter — connecting to themselves, to the earth, and to each other in ways that last long after summer ends.

Some kids find their groove singing around the campfire. Others come alive catching frogs at the pond, building in the Makerspace, or simply sitting quietly under the pines. There's no single "right way" to do camp — just your way.

"Back to the roots... my kiddo felt truly seen by others. Skyline helped his positive attributes shine."
— Parent of 4th-year camper

Skyline campers come in all shapes—quiet observers and natural leaders, first-timers and seasoned campers, kids who love adventure and those still figuring out what adventure means to them.
Our campers are:
- Ready for new experiences — Willing to try things even when they're unsure
- Growing in independence — Can manage basic self-care with occasional reminders
- Learning to navigate friendships — Working on sharing space, managing conflicts, and being part of a group
- Flexible when plans change — Can adapt when it rains or activities shift
- Finding their voice — Able to ask for help and speak up when they need something
"My child came home a changed person. She had the best time and has not stopped talking about how happy she was to be there. Camp Skyline is a great opportunity for children to gain confidence."
— Parent of first-year camper
"The fact that everyone knew my son's name and made it a point to engage with him was really special."
— Parent of first-year camper
Most kids who can do the following (or are willing to try!) will thrive at Skyline.:
- Sleep away from home for multiple nights
- Manage personal hygiene independently or with verbal reminders
- Walk moderate distances on uneven terrain
- Participate in group activities
- Follow basic safety rules
- Communicate their needs verbally
- Share a cabin with 5-8 cabin mates and 1-2 counselors
"One thing my daughter really liked about camp was how much choice she had. She was very happy with the activity selections and being able to choose what she wanted to do."
— Parent of returning camper
Each week of overnight camp has its own flavor — a theme that shapes songs, campfires, and some activities while leaving plenty of room for classic camp fun. Themes are invitations, not requirements. Whether your camper dives in fully or prefers to do their own thing, they'll find their place.
Session A: Forest Magic (June 21-26)
Nature immersion, wild edibles, tree spirits, woodland mysteries
Mini Camp B: Time Travelers (June 28-July 1)
3.5 nights—perfect for first-timers!
Past, present, future exploration while leveling up outdoor skills
Session C: Rhythm & Roots (July 5-10)
Finding rhythm in nature through drums, body percussion, and understanding our roots in outdoor living
Session D: Myths & Legends (July 12-17)
Storytelling, campfire tales, creating camp legends
Session E: Creeks, Rivers, & Trails (July 19-24)
Expedition focus—following water, reading the landscape, wilderness navigation
Session F: Pollinators & Partners (July 26-31)
Bees, butterflies, dragonflies as metaphors for purposeful work and community
"After the first year your children will always want to go back."
— Parent of 14-year old camper
"My daughter chose Skyline over team volleyball camp. That says a lot! She said 'I am NOT missing Skyline for volleyball.'"
— Parent of 9th-year camper
"It's an old school summer camp, in that the kids are outside all day exploring and getting dirty, plus they have opportunities to meet counselors from around the world and make new friends."
— Parent of 6th-year camper
No phones. No screens. Just camp.
Kids climb trees, catch fish, build fires, solve problems with their hands, and remember how to play without prompts from adults.
Staff from around the world
"The international counselors add a diverse element that my child loves! Asking the counselors about their countries and learning about their cultures is very exciting to my camper!"
— Parent of 3rd-year camper
Choice built into every day
From Scatters (activity time) to cabin choice to evening All Camp Events, kids make real decisions about how they spend their time.
Small by design
With 40-50 overnight campers per week and a 1:6-8 counselor ratio, kids don't get lost in the crowd.
"The kids come home happy, dirty, and tired."
— Parent of 2nd-year camper
Wondering what overnight camp actually looks like? See a typical day her e.
Mornings start with optional Polar Bear Swim (a quick dip in the pool before breakfast — a badge of honor for the brave!), followed by breakfast, Gathering with the whole camp, and Scatters where kids choose activities. Afternoons bring pool time, Makerspace, Zone activities, and more. Evenings feature All Camp Events (theme-based games and activities), campfire with snacks, and winding down in the cabin before lights out.
"My daughter was incredibly happy when I picked her up. She wasn't happy I was picking her up to take her home, but was in such a happy mood from her experience at camp!"
— Parent of 3rd-year camper

6 day/5 night CAMP for
children Ages 7-15

SESSION A* | June 21 - June 26

SESSION C | July 5 - July 10

SESSION D* | July 12 - July 17

SESSION E | July 19 - July 24

SESSION F | July 26 - July 31

Ages 7-15 | $775 per session

Current availability for all ages

*Session A, B, C, D, E, & F on waitlist due to limited spots for some ages/gender

MINICAMP!

4 day/3 night session for children Ages 6-15

SESSION B | June 28 - July 1

Ages 6-15 | $465 per session

Current availability for all ages

UNIQUE CAMPS *

BaCK BY POPULAR DEMAND: two week adaptation / rustic camp!!!

SESSIONS C & D | July 5 - July 17

Ages 12-15 | $1,700 per session

Current availability for all ages

* Note: campers must have attended Camp Skyline for at least one previous summer session to register for these camps or meet with our Overnight Camp Director before being considered.

Due to popular demand, Skyline's two-week camp returns in 2026 — this time featuring ADAPTATION, a camper favorite from 2020!

Throughout both weeks, campers will tackle large-scale puzzle solving and games. Sasquatch sightings have been reported...

When registering, please select: Rustic and Trip Camp, then Adaptation + Session D (includes weekend stay)

Why camp overnight at Skyline??

It's easy to make friends when you jump into a safe circle of peers supported by counselors and stay awhile. Once you unpack your bags and set up your bed, the teambuilding begins. Our counselors come from Michigan and from different countries around the world to connect with you, learn from you, and care for you.

Find your cabin in the woods – usually about 6-9 campers and 1-2 counselors share each rustic cabin. Our campers discover that unplugging from devices and jumping into camp adventure gives them new opportunities for growth, learning, and fun.

Choices, Choices

Each day brings decisions. Where will your cabin go for Cabin Choice each morning? Which Scatter will you choose? Scatters change daily and you pick individually. Options include: Archery, Goat Walking, Soccer, Tree Climbing, Journaling, Low Ropes Course, Fishing, Boating, Gardening, Farm Visits, Garden Tea Party, Football, Cooking, Shelter Building, Karaoke, Drumming, Fire Building, Yoga, Wetlands Exploration, Pond Dipping, and more.

Choices can be hard, but we believe in the power of compromise and the learning that comes with it.

Afternoons Your Way

Spend a few hours moving between the Pool, Makerspace, and Zone. Cool off swimming, create a project in the Makerspace, or play freely in the trees and sports courts.

Whatever you choose, it’s up to you, so it will be a good afternoon!

The Overnight Difference

Overnight camp brings together campers from cities and towns across Michigan, Illinois, Ohio, Canada, and beyond. We learn a lot laughing, playing, and even snoring with friends we could only meet because camp brought us together.

We all thrive when we spend time in nature. Running down hills, building fires and shelters, climbing trees, catching fish or fireflies, picking flowers, connecting with animals, and watching the sun set every night — these are the experiences our campers have at Skyline.

So pack your bags and join us as we connect to each other, ourselves and the earth this summer.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How long are sessions?
Most sessions run Sunday check-in through Friday check-out (4.5 nights). Mini Camp B is a shorter 3.5-night session—great for first-timers.
What ages attend overnight camp?
Ages 6-15, grouped in cabins by age and developmental stage.
How are cabin assignments made?
We group campers by age, development, and compatibility. You can request friends on your registration form—we do our best to honor requests while balancing cabin dynamics.
Is this a good first overnight camp experience?
Yes! Mini Camp B (June 28-July 1) is specifically designed as a shorter onramp for first-timers. Many families start there before committing to a full week.
What does a typical day look like?
See our Day in the Life page for the full schedule. Days include: Gathering, Scatters (camper-choice activities), meals, pool time, Zone/Makerspace, All Camp Events, campfire, and cabin time.
Where do campers sleep?
Campers sleep in rustic cabins with 8-12 cabin mates and 2 overnight counselors. Cabins have bunk beds, screened windows, and electric lights. Bathhouses with showers and toilets are a short walk away.
What about showers and hygiene?
Campers shower daily in communal bathhouses (separate for boys/girls). Counselors provide reminders and support as needed. Most kids adjust quickly to the routine.
Can I call my camper?
We don't arrange phone calls during sessions — it disrupts the camp flow and often increases homesickness. If there's an urgent family matter, contact us and we'll arrange communication.
What if my camper gets homesick?
Homesickness is normal and usually passes within 24-48 hours. Our staff are trained to support campers through it with distraction, connection, and reassurance. We'll contact you if it becomes severe or persistent.
How do you handle medications?
All medications are managed by our Health & Wellness team. You'll provide detailed instructions at check-in, and staff administer meds on schedule. We can accommodate most dietary and medical needs with advance notice.
What about food allergies and dietary restrictions?
We accommodate vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, dairy-free, and most allergy-based diets. Let us know on your registration form. Our kitchen staff works closely with families to ensure safe, satisfying meals.
"Our girls love everything about Skyline, but one thing they always say you do really well is the food, whether it's interesting snacks, tres leches cake, or mac n cheese."
— Parent of 6th-year returning campers
What activities are offered?
Pond/boating, archery, farm & garden, cooking with campers, Makerspace, climbing trees, campfires, low ropes course, slip-n-slide, nature exploration, crafts, music, games, and more. See full activity descriptions here.

How much choice do campers have?
A lot! During Scatters (mid-morning), campers choose from 4-6 activity options. Cabin Choice time lets groups decide together where to go. All Camp Events offer multiple options for participation.

Can my camper opt out of activities?
We encourage participation, but kids aren't forced. If a camper needs a break, they can sit out with staff supervision. For activities with safety concerns (like swimming), we work with families in advance.
What are All Camp Events (ACE)?
ACE is our evening program — think theme-based activities like capture the flag, predator/prey, dance parties, slip-n-slide, team challenges, and more. These are highlights of each week.

Do the weekly themes really matter?
Themes shape campfire stories, songs, and some activities, but they're not rigid. A camper can fully ignore the theme and still have a fantastic week. Think of themes as invitations, not requirements.
What happens if my camper gets sick or injured?
Our onsite Health & Wellness team assesses and treats minor injuries and illnesses. For anything beyond basic care, we contact you immediately and arrange transportation to urgent care or ER if needed.
What's the staff-to-camper ratio?
1:6-8 for overnight camp. Each cabin usually has 2 counselors for 8-12 campers.
What training do counselors receive?
All counselors complete a week-long intensive training covering: child development, behavior management, activity leadership, safety protocols, emergency procedures, and our camp philosophy. Many return year after year.
How do you ensure safety during activities?
Each activity area has specific safety protocols. Water activities require certified lifeguards. Counselors are trained in risk management and conduct regular safety checks.
Who supervises at night?
Both cabin counselors sleep in the cabin with campers. Program staff are on duty overnight and conduct regular check-ins. Directors are on-call 24/7.
How do I send mail to my camper?

Two ways —
Via email to: camper@campskyline.org

Please include the camper's name in the subject line.
Or sent:
[Camper Name]
Camp Skyline
5650 Sandhill Road
Almont, MI 48003

Letters usually arrive within 2-3 days. Many families send letters before camp starts so they arrive during the session.
Will I get photos?
Yes! We post photos daily to a private online gallery (SmugMug). You'll receive login information at check-in.
Can I visit during the week?
No mid-week visits—they disrupt the camp community and often increase homesickness for all campers. Plan to see your camper at Friday check-out.

What if I need to consider siblings in different age groups?
Siblings are assigned to age-appropriate cabins but can connect during All Camp Events, meals, and some activities. Let us know on your registration form if you have specific concerns or questions.

Can my camper request to be in a cabin with a friend?
Yes! You can request one friend on your registration form. We do our best to honor requests while building cabins that work well together.
We put a lot of thought into cabin assignments — balancing friend requests with age, development, and group dynamics. Our goal is to create an environment where all campers thrive, whether they arrive with a friend or step out in courage to come solo.
Guidelines for friend requests:
- Request only one mutual friend
- Friend must be within one year of your camper's age
- Requests cannot be guaranteed
Questions about cabin assignments? See our full FAQ or contact Kim Lynch, Overnight Camp Director: kim@campskyline.org
"Skyline felt very safe and organized for the kids and parents. Communication was great and I loved the daily picture updates. Our son came home exhausted and asking to go back next summer!"
— Parent of first year camper

What Sets Us Apart

"Skyline has provided a space for both my children to explore interests that they otherwise wouldn't be able to in an urban environment. Incredible thought and effort is put in by the staff to make sure that campers' social, emotional, and physical needs are met. We've attended for three years and the kids keep wanting to come back!"
— Parent of 3rd-year campers from Chicago

"The opportunity the camp offers to young people to gain some independence and make choices for themselves is essential to their growth into thoughtful, strong people."
— Parent of first year camper

Ready to give your camper a summer they'll never forget? Join us!

Come See for Yourself!

Open House: Sunday, May 3, 2026, 2-5pm

Learn more

Tour the camp, meet staff, ask questions, and let your camper explore the grounds.

"Send your kid to Camp Skyline! It's affordable and the rewards are priceless!"
— Parent of 6th-year camper

"I would tell them that Skyline was the best camp I went to and it is a great experience and they should try it out for themselves!!"
— Ayanna, overnight camper

Discounts Available for Overnight Camps:

Sibling discount, $25 per camper.

Multi-week Discount (2 or more weeks), $50 per camper

Since it’s beginning in 1964, Skyline's mission is to serve all. We do our best to work with you to make camp possible for your camper. Skyline provides camperships annually on a sliding scale based on what we can fundraise in a year. Please fill out our online financial aid form to apply for campership funds. After you click submit, you will need to verify it and respond to an email from Adobe Sign.

See also:

Day Camps

F.L.O.S.S. — Future Leaders of Skyline Summers (3 sessions in June & July for ages 13-15)

Resources and Policies

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