Summer Camps and Activities
Summer is one of the most exciting times of the year for our youth, but it can also create long stretches of unstructured time. Camps, youth programs, and community activities throughout the New River Valley give kids and teens opportunities to stay engaged, build friendships, and discover new interests. Across Montgomery County, Pulaski County, Giles County, Floyd County, and the City of Radford, families can find opportunities (many are low-cost and some have scholarship opportunities) through parks and recreation departments, school programs, libraries, local organizations, and community calendars. Camps such as Alta Mons Summer Camp, 4-H Summer Camps, and Camp Tuck-A-Way create spaces where youth can build friendships, practice independence, and connect with mentors. Families looking for a one-stop resource can also check NRV Macaroni Kid, which regularly highlights local camps, events, and family activities happening around the region.
Local schools and colleges have summer options as well. Pulaski County Public Schools offers Camp Ignite, a free, two-week summer program designed to spark curiosity, creativity, and hands-on learning for students across the division. Opportunities at Virginia Tech in Blacksburg provide youth with meaningful spaces to cultivate enduring skills and social bonds. Radford University offers sports camps and various other camps in the summer. New River Community College also offers numerous camps such as Public Safety, CSI, Engineering, and Criminal Justice.
Connection for youth in the summer is also an important part of substance use prevention. Research consistently shows that youth who feel connected to their school, community, peers, and safe adults are less likely to engage in risky behaviors. Activities that provide structure, purpose, and a sense of belonging can reduce boredom and isolation, which can become risk factors during summer months. Summer programs and camps help create opportunities for healthy social connection and meaningful experiences that help build protective factors around young people. Mental health benefits from summer activities are equally important. They encourage movement, social interaction, creativity, and routine which support emotional well-being.
Whether a child is attending a recreation program in Radford or Blacksburg, participating in a county library event in Floyd, heading to camp in Pulaski County or spending time outdoors with family in Narrows, every experience can help promote confidence and connection. Our communities have an important role in creating environments where our children feel supported, valued, and empowered. Summer camps and activities are much more than keeping kids busy; they help create a foundation for healthier youth and stronger communities!