AMES, Iowa—The temperatures may be a little below bearable this time of year, but it’s not too early to start planning events for the warm summer months ahead.

The Iowa 4-H Center offers a variety of camps to spend time at during the dog days of summer. This year there are even more adventures for campers to discover.

“We’re really excited about the new camps we’ve planned for this year,” said Traci Haselhuhn, Iowa 4-H Center Program Specialist. “We’re offering even more camps this summer for teenagers ages 13 to 16 who are looking for adventure and excitement.”

For campers who love getting dirty, the Grossology Camp may be just the ticket. The gooey event is filled with hands-on activities using clay, slime, edible play dough and paper mache. Campers will partake in mud volleyball tournaments and creek stomping adventures as well.

Those who have always wanted to become a certified lifeguard can dive in at Lifeguard Camp for swimmers ages 15 to 18. Campers will be trained in CPR, lifeguarding and First Aid by the American Red Cross. 

X-Treme Camp may beckon those looking to experience the great outdoors. Campers will learn essential survival skills including how to build a shelter, identify wildlife, cook outdoors, build fires and mark trails. Only the truly ‘X-Treme’ will be able to survive this camp, Haselhuhn said.

"If you’re looking for a camp that really isn’t a camp at all, maybe the Un-Camp is for you, Haselhuhn said. Campers get a budget for the week and make a schedule of things they want to do. Campers get to stay up late, eat breakfast in bed and have a lot of fun.

Kids of all ages, abilities and interests can find "the perfect summer camp at the Iowa 4-H Center," she said. Camps at the Iowa 4-H Center do not require membership in 4-H. 

Camp registration must be postmarked by April 1, to receive the early bird registration discount. Financial aid forms for the Iowa 4-H Foundation scholarships are due to county extension offices by May 1. Discounts also are offered to multiple siblings and 4-H members.

For more information and registration forms check out the Web site at: /4hcenter/summercamp/index.php or call (515) 795-3338.

In Iowa the 4-H program is administered by Iowa State University Extension 4-H Youth Development and headquartered on the university campus in Ames.

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