With summer vacation on the horizon, many families will be making plans for summer activities. Stillwater has a plethora of recreational opportunities, day camps, and programs to choose from. Here’s a list to help get you started making those plans. Do not wait to look into these programs, because space is limited for some of these programs and registration dates will be closing on many soon.

New information will continue to be released by organizations offering programs throughout the summer.  Bookmark this post and check back often for updates as they become available!

While we attempted to confirm the following information with each organization to the best of our ability, our readers are advised that they should always double check dates, times, fees, and other details with each organization as information could have been changed or there may have been other miscommunication despite the best of intentions.

Free Meals for Kids! Summer Food Service Program.

All kids eat free May 30 through July 28 on Mondays through Fridays (closed July 4).

• Will Rogers Elementary School 1211 North Washington
  • Breakfast 7:30-8:30am
  • Lunch 11am-12:30pm
• Southern Woods Park at the corner of 12th and Hester Street
  • Lunch 11-11:30am
• Boomer Lake Park Pavilions near the Splash Pad
  • Lunch 12-12:3opm

Summer at your Library!

The Children’s reading program encourages kids to read all summer long with a chance to win prizes and an award ceremony at the end of the summer. There are also live performances on Tuesday of each week and family-friendly movies on Thursdays. The library also has a program for teens with weekly programs offered on Wednesdays in June and July. Visit http://library.stillwater.org/ for more information and don’t forget to stop by the Library to register for these great programs. They are FREE and one of our favorite things about Summer in Stillwater each year!

Summer on the Plaza 2017

Summer on the Plaza at the OSU Student Union is a family event featuring live music and movie showings and much more. This event is held weekly on the last Thursday in May and every Thursday in June. All the outdoor fun, including live performing artists, water slides, food, and shopping begin at 6 p.m. with movies in the Student Union Theater at 8pm. Visit http://alliedarts.okstate.edu/summer-plaza for details!

Kids Bowl Free

If you don’t know about the Kids Bowl Free program you are missing out. Every summer you can register your kids to receive 2 free games of bowling every day all summer long for a value of $500 per child! Frontier Lanes is a participant in this program. Bowling shoes are required so if you don’t have your own, you would need to rent your shoes from the Bowling Alley.  You can also sign up for the family package to add up to four adults for a flat fee all summer long. If you go bowling 3 or 4 times all summer it pays for itself.

Municipal Swimming Pool

The municipal pool opens for the season on Saturday, May 27 and features half-price admission. Lap swim is every day from 12:15 to 12:45 p.m. and open swim is every day from 1 to 5 p.m., and Thursday and Friday from 7:30 to 10 p.m. Concessions are available every day from 1 to 5 p.m.

Learn more about the municipal pool at http://stillwater.org/page/home/government/departments-divisions/events-recreation/municipal-pool.

Learn to Swim Program

The Learn to Swim program offers classes for youth, adults, and parents and tots at the City of Stillwater Municipal Pool at 801 E.12 Ave. Classes are outlined and designed by the American Red Cross and certified lifeguards will supervise.

Youth sessions are offered for children ages 3 and 4 through Level 6 advanced swimmers. Cost is $50 per session and each session lasts 45 minutes. Youth sessions last two weeks and are held Monday throughThursday, with Friday reserved for makeup days.

Parent and tot sessions are for parents and children ages 6 months to 2 years. Each session lasts 30 minutes and costs $50 per session. Classes are offered Monday through Thursday, with Fridays reserved for makeup days.

Junior lifeguard sessions are offered Monday through Thursday for 45 minutes and last four weeks. The cost is $80 per session and the recommended age is 10 to 15.

Adult private lessons are offered for $80 per session. To schedule adult lessons, contact the Municipal Pool at 405-747-8090.

Learn more about the Learn to Swim program at http://stillwater.org/page/home/government/departments-divisions/events-recreation/learn-to-swim-program.

Tennis Lesson Program

Tennis lessons are also available for beginners and advanced beginners. Participants will need to provide their own rackets. Each class will last 45 minutes and cost is $50 per person per session.

Lessons are at the Couch Park tennis courts at 823 E. 12th Ave.

Learn more about the tennis lesson program at http://stillwater.org/page/home/government/departments-divisions/events-recreation/tennis-lessons.

Splash Pads

Last summer the City of Stillwater opened two splash pads at Boomer Lake Park and Southern Woods Park thanks to donations from the Stillwater Medical Center, Stillwater Community Foundation, and the Stillwater Masonic Lodge. They are open free!

The Boomer Lake and Southern Woods splash pads will open for the season on Monday, May 22. Both splash pads are open daily from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., but hours may vary depending on the weather. The splash pads are free and open to the public.

Learn more about the splash pads at http://stillwater.org/page/home/government/departments-divisions/events-recreation/splash-pads.

Colvin Center Child Group Swim Lessons

Group lessons and private lessons are great for kids of all ages. Children 6 months and older are welcome.

• Session 1 June 5-15               Class 1 8-8:45am
• Session 2 June 19-29            Class 2 9-9:45am
• Session 3 July 10-20             Class 3 10-10:45am
• Session 4 July 24-Aug 3       Class 4 6:45-7:30pm

Registration fees:

• $100 members; $120 for non-members

Private lessons:

• 3 lessons  $60 for members; $70 non-members
• 5 lessons  $90 for members; $110 non-members
• 10 lessons $150 for members; $180 non-members

Register at Colvin or Seretean Wellness Center. For questions call 405-744-5510. See flier here.

Oklahoma State University Camps

OSU offers camps throughout the summer that challenge younger students intellectually and physically. OSU’s camps are geared towards a wide variety of age groups and interests. Many specifically target high school students as they explore future career options. From academics and arts to agriculture and athletics, visit https://academicaffairs.okstate.edu/content/summer-camps to find the right camp for your student.

• Mike Gundy Cowboy Football Camp
• Jim Littell Basketball Camps
• Cowgirl Softball Camps
• John Smith Wrestling Camp
• Oklahoma State Soccer Camps
• OSU Tennis Camp
• Cowboy Golf Camp (Any golfer between the ages of 11 and 19. Under NCAA rules, senior graduates may attend camp.)
• OSU Equestrian College Prep Camp
• Josh Holliday Baseball School (Summer Youth Camps)
• OSU Livestock Judging Camp
• Equine Education Extravaganza (See the “Upcoming Events” column for this camp and click through for details and secure checkout)
• Future Agricultural Education Teachers Academy
• Camp TURF (Tomorrow’s Undergraduates Realizing the Future)
• Grandparent University
• 96th State 4-H Roundup
• OSU Summer Art Academy for teens
• Around the World in 10 Days–Summer Arts Camp for ages 9-12
• Polymers of Everyday Life Summer Academy
• Energy Communications Camp
• Sports Media Camp
• Oklahoma Bass Bash at OSU
• OSU Summer Music Camp
• ISyTE- Information Systems Technology Exploration
• National Summer Transporation Institute
• Operation High Flight Aviation
• OSU Writing Project–Songwriting Camp: Friday, June 9th, Willard Living Room, Shelbie Witte, Ph.D. 405-744-9505, shelbie.witte@okstate.edu
• Design, Housing, and Merchandising
• Family and Consumer Sciences Education Academy

TBG Kids

The Botanic Garden at OSU is pleased to provide a variety of fun and educational children’s programs throughout the summer. The programs are held in the garden and are aimed at ages 6-12. Fee per session: $5. Dates include: May 6, 20, June 3, and 17 with programs beginning at 10 a.m. Class size is limited so advanced enrollment is recommended. Contact laura.payne@okstate.edu to reserve a spot for your child.

Meridian Technology Center Day Camps

From building to baking, explore your interests with the Meridian Technology Center June 6-8. 7th – 9th grades.  Visit https://meridiantech.edu/event/summer-camp/ for more information.

Stillwater Public Schools Summer Camps

Stillwater Public Schools are offered summer camps again. See the flier and enrollment form for a full description of the classes, dates, times, locations, and costs.

Stillwater Summer School

There are also summer school classes offered through the Stillwater Public Schools such as Elementary Summer Reading Academy, ELL Summer School, SMS Math & Reading, JH Math & Reading, High School Credit Recovery, and Driver’s Education. Visit the Summer School website for enrollment information.

Cubbie Island Day Camp

Stillwater Cub Camp will be May 30 – June 2. It’s a great way to let boys see what scouting is all about. Contact Kris Swank at 405-334-1851 or stwcubdaycamp2017@gmail.com for more information. Flier can be found here.

Sylvia Stapley Day Camp (Girl Scouts)

Set sail for Day Camp 2017 sets sail June 12-16. Whether you are a newcomer or a lifelong camper, Day Camp is for you. Learn essential skills: building fires, preparing a campsite, setting up a tent, and learning to work as a team. See the flier with details here!

Dog Days of Summer Art and Music Camp

This week-long art and music camp is for elementary school aged children. Contact local Art Teacher Denise Ferrell at cavemansuperstarmom@gmail.com or call her at 405-747-1966 for more information about the camp and how to enroll.

Young Musician’s Summer Camp

Sponsored by the Stillwater Honor Choir and OSU Music Dept., this summer camp is for students entering grades 4-7 and will be offered June 19-23. Early bird discount (June 1) $60 per singer. After June 1 $70/singer. Multiple family members by June 1 $50 per singer. After June 1 $60 per singer. Register via email stillwaterhonorchoir@gmail.com.

Town and Gown Theatre Presents Young Actors Camp

CANCELLED

For students entering 4th through 8th grades. A week packed with everything theatre such as games, improv, stagecraft, rehearsal, and a final performance! Camp fee $100. Monday, July 10 through Friday July 15. Final performance 7pm Friday. Audition for all part at Town and Gown Theatre 7pm on June 18th and 19th. Call 747-5374 to enroll! Flier here.

Missoula Children’s Theatre

MCT has been a much-anticipated yearly tradition for Stillwater kids over the last sixteen years. There is a fundraising campaign currently underway to bring Missoula Children’s Theatre back to the Stillwater Community Center for the week of August 7-12.  Click here for additional details about MCT.

Stillwater Children’s Theatre

Now enrolling for summer theater camps!  For students of all skill levels, grades 2 – 8 our 9 am – 4 pm day camps will cover everything musical theatre including acting, singing, dancing, and behind the scenes magic! Campers will enjoy training in warm-ups, stage movement, characterization, scene work, improvisation, costuming and make-up design, auditioning techniques, and more. Camps culminate with a free, informal performance for family and friends at 4 pm on Friday. Bring your own lunch. Snacks, t-shirt and materials are provided. Tuition: $225 per week. Location: 113 South Perkins Road

Multi Arts Center Art Camps

Deep Space Summer Art Camp is offered to ages 3-13, in sessions scheduled by age groups. Visit multiartscenter.org/how-to-enroll or call 405-747-8084 to explore the possibilities!

Oklahoma WONDERtorium

STEM WONDER Summer Camps are for ages 9-12. Throughout the program campers will experience working as a team, learning problems can have many solutions, discovering the process is as valuable as the product and having fun! Camp fees: $50 for members, $60 for non-members. Lego Challenge will be offered twice: July 11-13 10 a.m.-3 p.m. and July 18-20 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Scholarship information is available by contacting debbie.williams@okwondertorium.org.

Tinkers Tinkering will be on Tuesdays in June. Pre-registration required; $5 per class. Ages 4-6 meet 10:30-11:30 a.m. and ages 7 and up meet 2-3 p.m. Classes will include Steampunk Metal Sculptures, Make an Art Bot!, Sewing 101, and Building Pinewood Derby Cars.

Summer Wonder Workshop is also back. This is the summer to experience the process of planning, designing, and building while using real tools!

Visit okwondertorium.org event or call 405-533-3333 to learn about all of the learn and play opportunities available.

Don’t forget the 2017 Summer Pass! Unlimited Admission for four all summer long. For a limited time purchase your 2017 Summer pass to Oklahoma WONDERtorium for $75 (a 3 month level one membership valid May 15-August 15, 2017)

Insect Adventure

Visit the Oklahoma Cooperative Extension’s live bug petting zoo–the only one of its kind in the state! Open hours are held on the first and 3rd Saturday of the month from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Fee: $3 per person. Visit insectadventure.okstate.edu for more information.

Junior Chocolatier Workshop Series

Calling all Junior Chocolatiers ages 6-12! Chocolate Camp registration will begin Monday April 24. Here are a few details: Monday-Thursday sessions May 29-June 29 & July 10-20. All sessions 9:30-11:30am. $160 per 4 day session. Your young Chocolatiers will make and take home fudge, fudge pops, gourmet caramel apples, many chocolate dipped items, barks, and so much more! Visit Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory on Facebook for more information.

Lost Creek Safari

This USDA certified exotic animal park has been open for three seasons now. Located south of Stillwater, Lost Creek Safari is open the first two weekends of each month from 11 a.m.-5 p.m. and all other days by reservation. Admission is $5 and an additional $5 to feed the animals. Visit lostcreeksafari.com or call 405-707-0403 for more info.

Rent a Kayak!

Did you know you can rent kayaks from Rock Creek Paddle Company at Boomer Lake? How fun! Call 405-762-0698 for details! Lake McMurtry also offers kayaking opportunities with single and double kayaks, as well as paddle boards at both the east and west recreation areas. Call ahead to check availability at 405-747-8085.

Art and Dance Camp at Stilly Arts

Unleash your imagination, create art, and dance at camp this summer with Stilly Arts. Beginners to advanced artists and performers ages 3 to 12 are welcome to arts camp to explore various style and forms of Fine Arts and Performing Arts. Visit stillyarts.com for details.

Stillwater Pioneer Athletic Camps

Athletic camps for a variety of sports including softball, football, and basketball are available (Chick Davis’s Pioneer Basketball Camp, Lady Pioneer All-Star Basketball Camp, Lady Pioneer Girls Fast Pitch Softball Camp). stillwaterschools.com/Departments/Athletics for more information.

Soccer Camps

You can find information about area soccer camps at stillwatersoccerclub.com.

Stillwater Martial Arts Summer Camp

This day camp offers martial arts, outdoors sports, and fields trips for ages 5-12 and is open daily. You can enroll for the whole summer or take it a week at a time. Enrollment fills up fast, so call 405-372-5425 to sign up soon.

Youth Fitness Zone Summer Camps

YFZ offers highly active days all throughout the summer, with each week dedicated to a fun-filled theme. Visit Youth Fitness Zone online at  www.youthfitnesszone.com for more information. Call 405-533-4033 with questions.

Stillwater YMCA Day Camp

Day camp returns to our local branch of the YMCA this summer from Monday-Friday, May 30-Aug. 11. This camp is for ages 5-12. Call 405-372-5833 or visit the Stillwater YMCA at 204 S. Duck for enrollment details.

Stay Active Summer Program from Gameday Sports Complex, LLC.

Offered May 24-August 16 6:30am-6:30pm for ages 6 to 12. Kids can be dropped off between 6:30am and 6:30pm for a daily rate of $23. This doesn’t include lunch. Lunch can be added for a total of $29 per day. Activities include games, agility, kickball, wiffleball, volleyball, dodgeball, crafts, movies, and more. Billed daily, so if your child can’t attend one day you do not pay. Call 405-385-3007 for more information.

Attend Vacation Bible School

If you are looking for vacation bible school information, many area churches have offered VBS through the years. Different churches offer VBS at different times throughout the summer. These programs rely on volunteers so we advise doing your research and contacting your preferred church directly to determine whether or not there will be a VBS this summer.  

Some possibilities to consider are:

Bible Baptist Church June 12-16 9:30am-11:30am Building by the Blueprints ages 3 through 12th grade

Countryside Baptist Church VBS Galactic Starveyors June 12-15 9am-12pm prek-3rd grade

Crosspointe Church Cave Quest  June 14th – 16th 6 pm – 8 pm and from on June 17th 11 am – 2 pm

First United Methodist Church Camp Out Getting S’more of Jesus July 16-20 6pm-8:15pm ages 3 years through 5th grade (entering 6th) Register by July 2 and receive a free t-shirt per registration. After July 2, tshirts will be $10.

Grace Church Stillwater: Grace Kids VBS at the Park July 18-20 10am-noon

Lost Creek United Methodist Church June 26-28 6-8pm

St. Francis Xavier Church Cave Quest June 26-29 9am-noon

Solid Rock Church Bible Boot Camp Putting on the Armor of God June 22-24 6-8pm register by email at vbssignupsrc@gmail.com ages 7-12

Stillwater Bible Church Camp Out VBS June 19-22 9am-12pm Prek-5th grade

University Heights Baptist Church Maker Fun Factory June 12-16