Youth Programs

WRC Youth Panther Camps

Our youth camps are a great way for your child to experience fun activities on the University of Northern Iowa campus and within the community. Camps are designed to keep kids busy when school is out for teacher development days, spring break and the summer. Activities may include sports, arts & crafts, outdoor hiking, field trips, swimming and climbing. 

Summer 2026 Themes:
Week 0:  Adventure Awaits (June 2-5*)
Week 1:  Jungle Journey (June 8-12)
Week 2:  Rodeo Days (June 15-19)
Week 3:  All- Stars (June 22-26)
Week 4:  Under the Big Top (June 29-July 2**)
Week 5:  Splash Bash (July 6-10)
Week 6:  Out of this World (July 13-17)
Week 7:  Pirates Cove (July 20-24)
Week 8:  Detective Academy (July 27-31)
Week 9:  Color Craze (August 3-7)
Week 10:  Once upon a Camp (August 10-14)
 
*Number of days depends on the school district's snow days, registration delayed until April
**A four day camp as July 3 is a University Holiday

Teacher Development Day Camp

Fridays, 8am to 4pm

Spring Break Camp

Monday-Friday, 8am to 4pm

Summer Camp

Monday-Friday, 8am to 4pm

Summer camps run for 10 weeks. Themed weeks help tie activities together.

Frequently Asked Questions:

What does my child need to bring to camp?

Campers will need closed toed sport shoes, a water bottle, sack lunch and snacks. A granola bar will be provided for snack. For summer camp, also bring a hat/visor and sunscreen, and a swimsuit and towel on the days that they swim.

What are drop-off and pick-up times?

Drop-off is from 7:45-8:00am. Pick-up is between 4:00-4:15pm. If someone other than you is picking up your child (carpool, grandparent, etc.), please notify the camp director at drop-off.

What if my child has special needs?

We welcome everyone regardless of ability. Communicating camper needs at time of registration will allow the camp director and counselors to better understand the needs of your child. 

What if my child has allergies or special medical considerations?

Medications should be discussed and given to the camp director at check-in. Package the medication with instructions in a plastic bag.

Granola bars are the only camp provided food item which may have been produced in a facility where nuts were used. Communicate with the camp director if your child should not receive the provided granola bar and please pack an alternative snack.  

Can someone other than me drop-off and pick-up my child?

Yes; this should be discussed with the camp director at drop-off.  

Will my child be outside?

Yes, during summer camp. We use campus outdoor facilities including the north pond area, west trails and other outdoor spaces. We may also go on field trips to outdoor facilities such as the local pool. Campers should bring sunscreen and a hat/visor (and a swimsuit and towel on pool days).

What if I am having problems registering?

Please review the tutorial.  

Will there be a waitlist if the camp is full?

Yes, a waitlist will automatically be available upon registration if camp is full. If a spot becomes available, camp staff will contact parents based on the order in which they registered.   

If I cancel my registration will I get a refund?

We provide refunds under special circumstances on a case by case basis. If a refund is provided there will be a processing fee. If you need to cancel your registration, please contact Chris Denison at (319) 273-6275 or at denison@uni.edu.

Can I register for a single day?

For spring break and summer camps, single day registrations may be offered if the camp is not sold out. For more information, please contact Chris Denison at (319) 273-6275 or at denison@uni.edu.

How do I register my child for camp?

Create a user account and add all of your children to your account. You do this by logging in and selecting your email on the top right corner, click profile (circle button in the top right corner by your name), scroll to the bottom and click add to family. If you are a UNI Student or Faculty/Staff, log in using your CATID and password. If you are Alumni or a community member, enter your email or username. If you are unsure if you have an account or are having troubles logging in, contact Chris Denison (319) 273-6275 or at dension@uni.edu. Please refrain from creating multiple accounts, as this will delay registration.