2026 Summer Camps for Kids
COA – Elizabeth City Camps
Electrical Camp: Solar Power Robots
June 15, 2026 – June 16, 2026, 9 a.m.-12 p.m., Ages 8-12, $30.00
The Electrical Program is hosting a two-day kids camp for ages 8–12, where campers will learn about electricity and use solar panels to power robots through hands-on activities.
Special Requirements: Closed-toe shoes are required.
Camp SCRUBS
June 15, 2026 – June 18, 2026, 7:45 a.m.-1 p.m., Grades 9-12, $30.00
The Health Sciences and Wellness Programs are hosting a one-week camp to give high school students a chance to learn more about careers in the medical field. Camp Scrubs is a hands-on learning experience for prospective health science students that gives them the opportunity to explore the different Health Science programs available at COA.
Students must complete the Camp Scrubs Application Form in order to be accepted into Camp Scrubs. 30 high school students from the surrounding areas will be accepted to attend the Boot Camp.
To qualify, students must have:
- Interest in working in healthcare
- Good attendance in all high school classes
- Completed application form signed by a high school instructor or guidance counselor
- Their own transportation
- $30 fee
Application must be returned to Mary Blackburn by May 15, 2026. Acceptance letters will go out by June 1, 2026.
GenAI Discovery Camp
June 15, 2026 – June 16, 2026, 9 a.m.-12 p.m., Ages 11-14, $30.00
Secure your future with this hands-on two-day summer camp focused on Generative AI. Participants will learn the basics of generative artificial intelligence through engaging activities and guided instruction. They will explore how AI tools create text, images, and solutions, and gain confidence using these emerging technologies in creative and practical ways. All necessary supplies will be provided.
Future Finance Explorers
June 15, 2026 – June 16, 2026, 9 a.m.-12 p.m., Ages 8-11, $30.00
Get students ready for a lifetime of financial confidence. In this upbeat, activity-filled two-day camp, participants will discover how money works by exploring how to earn, spend, save, and invest wisely. Through hands-on games and real-world scenarios, they’ll build smart money habits that set them up for future success. All supplies will be provided.
Ceramics Camp
June 15, 2026 – June 22, 2026, 2:30 p.m.-4:30 p.m., Ages 7-12, $60.00
Learn the art of ceramics through hand-building of your own designs and creations. Items will be glazed/fired and picked up the week after camp ends.
Special Requirements: Closed-toe shoes, clothes that can get messy.
Ceramics Camp
June 17, 2026 – June 24, 2026, 2:30 p.m.-4:30 p.m., Ages 12-15, $60.00
Learn the art of ceramics through hand-building of your own designs and creations. Items will be glazed/fired and picked up the week after camp ends.
Special Requirements: Closed-toe shoes, clothes that can get messy.
Future Finance Explorers
June 17, 2026 – June 18, 2026, 9 a.m.-12 p.m., Ages 11-14, $30.00
Get students ready for a lifetime of financial confidence. In this upbeat, activity-filled two-day camp, participants will discover how money works by exploring how to earn, spend, save, and invest wisely. Through hands-on games and real-world scenarios, they’ll build smart money habits that set them up for future success. All supplies will be provided.
Tech Explorers Adventure Camp
June 17, 2026 – June 18, 2026, 9 a.m.-12 p.m., Ages 8-11, $30.00
This two-day camp introduces young learners to essential Information Technology concepts in a fun, engaging way. Through interactive, hands-on activities, students will examine the parts of a computer, experiment with programming basics, and explore the creative possibilities of Generative AI as they watch tools produce text and images. The camp is designed to inspire curiosity, boost confidence, and show students that technology is both exciting and accessible. All materials will be provided.
Communicating Better
June 22, 2026 – June 25, 2026, 1:30 p.m.-3:30 p.m., Ages 12-16, $50.00
Following the Toastmasters Interpersonal Communication curriculum, the instructor will work to help teens improve communication across a variety of contexts. Lessons will include verbal and nonverbal communication, perception, listening, and much more.
Pair and Share Puppet Camp
June 22, 2026 – June 25, 2026, 9 a.m.-12 p.m., Ages 7-12, $50.00
Double the puppets, double the fun! This imaginative, hands-on camp invites children ages 7–12 to step into the world of puppetry through design, construction, and performance. Campers will build two fully functioning Snoof-style puppets — one to keep and one to gift to a community member — learning that creativity can also be an act of kindness. All materials are included!
Tech Explorers Adventure Camp
June 22, 2026 – June 24, 2026, , 9 a.m.-12 p.m., Ages 11-14, $45.00
This four-day camp gives students an exciting introduction to the core concepts of Information Technology. Through hands-on activities, they will explore the parts of a computer, build networking cables, create simple circuits, and try out beginner-friendly ethical hacking challenges. Participants will also dive into programming basics and discover the creative power of Generative AI as they watch AI tools produce text and images. The camp is designed to spark curiosity, build confidence, and show students how fun and approachable technology can be. All supplies will be provided.
All Things Math
June 23, 2026, 9 a.m.-12 p.m., Ages 11-14, $10.00
This four-day camp gives students an exciting introduction to the core concepts of Information Technology. Through hands-on activities, they will explore the parts of a computer, build networking cables, create simple circuits, and try out beginner-friendly ethical hacking challenges. Participants will also dive into programming basics and discover the creative power of Generative AI as they watch AI tools produce text and images. The camp is designed to spark curiosity, build confidence, and show students how fun and approachable technology can be. All supplies will be provided.
Ag Discovery
June 24, 2026, 9 a.m.-12 p.m., Ages 9-12, $10.00
Get ready to dig in and explore the science of agriculture! This hands-on summer camp introduces students to the world beneath their feet through interactive activities like soil sampling, planting, and discovering the role of microbes in growing healthy crops. Perfect for young explorers who love to learn by doing!
Backyard Biology
June 24, 2026 – June 25, 2026, 9 a.m.-12 p.m., Ages 6-10, $10.00
Flora and Fauna of the Albemarle – Explore the diversity of life around us! Join us as we identify and collect samples to learn about the variety of living things in our own backyards.
Nail Art
July 1, 2026, 1 p.m.-4 p.m., Ages 9-12, $25.00
Bucket Brigade Drumming Camp
July 6, 2026 – July 9, 2026, 9 a.m.-12 p.m., Ages 7-12, $50.00
Pump up the volume: Bucket Brigade Drumming Camp is back and bigger than ever! Orange and Blue Bucket Teams will face off in an epic battle of rhythm as we rock out to classic rock tunes. Body percussion, Boomwhackers, Buckets, and more await you this summer at the PAC. No previous experience is required; just come ready to move, groove, and make some noise. All materials are included!
Crochet Camp: Calm and Crafty
July 8, 2026 – July 9, 2026, 1 p.m.-3 p.m., Ages 8-12, $30.00
Camp Calm & Crafty is a relaxing, confidence-building experience for kids and teens who want to learn the art of crochet in a supportive, low-pressure environment. Campers will be introduced to foundational skills such as holding a hook, creating a slip knot, chaining, and working basic stitches as they complete a handmade washcloth and possibly a face scrubby– practical projects they can proudly use or gift. Each student will receive a crochet hook and a skein of scrubby yarn to use during camp and take home so they can continue practicing long after the session ends. Whether brand new to crochet or just beginning their stitching journey, campers will leave feeling calm, accomplished, and inspired to keep creating.
Sparkey’s Welding
July 13, 2026 – July 14, 2026, 9 a.m.-1 p.m., Ages 13-17, $15.00
Learn more about what it takes to be a welder! Special Requirements: Long Pants, Closed-Toe Shoes
Ceramics Camp
July 13, 2026 – July 20, 2026, 2:30 p.m.-4:30 p.m., Ages 12-15, $60.00
Learn the art of ceramics through hand-building of your own designs and creations. Items will be glazed/fired and picked up the week after camp ends.
Special Requirements: Closed-toe shoes, clothes that can get messy.
Ceramics Camp
July 15, 2026 – July 22, 2026, 2:30 p.m.-4:30 p.m., Ages 12-15, $60.00
Learn the art of ceramics through hand-building of your own designs and creations. Items will be glazed/fired and picked up the week after camp ends.
Special Requirements: Closed-toe shoes, clothes that can get messy.
Sparkey’s Welding
July 20, 2026 – July 21, 2026, 9 a.m.-1 p.m., Ages 13-17, $15.00
Learn more about what it takes to be a welder! Special Requirements: Long Pants, Closed-Toe Shoes
COA – Dare Camps
Clay Creations: Wheels on Fire!
June 15, 2026 – July 27, 2026, 9 a.m.-3 p.m., Ages 10-17, $55.00
Get ready to spin, shape, and create! In this four-day pottery camp, students will learn how to throw clay on the wheel, make bowls and other fun projects, trim their pieces, add colorful glazes, and see their work transformed in the kiln. Campers will take home multiple finished ceramic pieces they can be proud of, and enjoy a pottery party on the last day of class. All supplies are included.
Special Requirements: Closed-toe shoes, and clothes that can get muddy, a bag lunch.
Bucket Brigade Drumming Camp
June 15, 2026 – June 18, 2026, 9 a.m.-12 p.m., Ages 7-12, $50.00
Let’s make some noise at COA! Come ready to move, groove, and make some noise in our Bucket Brigade Drumming Camp! Young musicians will rock out to classic tunes as they learn bucket drumming, body percussion, music notation, rhythm games, and more. We’ll cap it all of with a showstopping demonstration of our musical skills. All you need is a willing spirit; all other materials are included!
Pottery Adventures: Slab & Wheel Camp
June 16, 2026 – July 28, 2026, 9 a.m.-3 p.m., 8th-12th grade, $55.00
Dive into the wonderful world of clay this summer! In this fun, hands-on pottery camp, young artists will explore two exciting ways to create with clay: hand-building with slabs and throwing on the potter’s wheel. You will learn to make functional pottery, gift boxes & keepsakes, planters, pet bowls, and birdhouses. No prior experience needed—just a love for getting a little messy and a lot of creativity!
Clay Creations: Slab to Sculpture!
June 18, 2026 – July 30, 2026, 1 p.m.-4 p.m., Ages 5-10, $55.00
Let little hands turn flat slabs of clay into amazing 3D creations! In this four-day pottery camp, kids will learn fun hand-building techniques to cut, shape, and assemble clay into sculptures, animals, boxes, and other creative projects. Campers will decorate their work with textures and colorful glazes, then watch their pieces transform in the kiln. Each child will take home several finished ceramic creations to show off and cherish.
Special Requirements: Closed-toe shoes and clothes that can get muddy. Bring a bag lunch.
Painting Camp: Watercolor & Mixed Media
July 13, 2026 – July 15, 2026, 9 a.m.-12:30 p.m., Ages 13-17, $55.00
Designed for teen artists ready to grow their skills, this three-day studio camp explores watercolor techniques and creative mixed media processes in a focused, supportive environment. Students will develop stronger brush control, color mixing confidence, and composition skills while experimenting with layering, collage, texture-building materials, and surface design. Emphasis is placed on creative problem-solving, craftsmanship, and developing a personal artistic voice. Students will complete multiple works and one larger final mixed media piece suitable for display. All supplies are provided.
Special Requirements: Wear clothes that can get messy.
Jewelry Camp: Metal Magic
July 20, 2026 – July 22, 2026, 10 a.m.-2 p.m., Ages 10-17, $75.00
Discover the art of jewelry making in this hands-on metalsmithing camp! Students will learn the basics of working with metal, including sawing, filing, shaping, texturing, and assembling wearable jewelry. Campers will design and create their own unique pieces while learning safe tool use and fundamental studio techniques. Students will leave with finished projects and a strong foundation in jewelry design and craftsmanship. No prior experience required. All tools and materials are provided.
Special Requirements: closed-toe shoes, bag lunch
Future Finance Explorers
July 23, 2026, 9 a.m.-12 p.m., Ages 8-11, $15.00
Get students ready for a lifetime of financial confidence. In this upbeat, activity-filled one-day camp, participants will discover how money works by exploring how to earn, spend, save, and invest wisely. Through hands-on games and real-world scenarios, they’ll build smart money habits that set them up for future success. All supplies will be provided.
Jewelry Camp: Metal Magic II
July 27, 2026 – July 29, 2026, 10 a.m.-2 p.m., Ages 10-17, $75.00
Ready to level up your jewelry skills? This next-step camp is perfect for students who have completed the first camp or already know the basics. Campers will take on more advanced projects, learn new ways to shape and join metal, experiment with textures and finishes, and create more detailed, personalized jewelry. With more creative freedom and hands-on practice, students will build confidence, sharpen their skills, and leave with a collection of one-of-a-kind pieces. All materials provided. Campers should have completed the basic jewelry camp to enroll, or with special permission.
HVAC is Cool Camp
July 29, 2026 – July 30, 2026, 9 a.m.-12 p.m., Ages 14-17, $15.00
HVAC will learn a basic introduction to how AC systems work by completing hands-on mechanical and electrical projects
Special Requirements: Long Pants, Closed-Toe Shoes
COA – Currituck Camps
Communicating Better
June 15, 2026 – July 18, 2026, 1:30 p.m.-3:30 p.m., Ages 13-17, $50.00
Following the Toastmasters Interpersonal Communication curriculum, the instructor will work to help teens improve communication across a variety of contexts. Lessons will include verbal and nonverbal communication, perception, listening and much more.
Aviation Summer Camp
June 22, 2026 – June 23, 2026, Ages 13-18, $15.00
Take-Off in the Field of Aviation! Students will learn basic aerodynamics, design and fabricate an airfoil to test in a wind tunnel and a taxi aircraft. Participants need to bring a lunch.
Special Requirements: Closed-toe shoes.
Manufacturing Camp
July 15, 2026 – July 16, 2026, 9 a.m.-2 p.m., Ages 13-17, $15.00
From idea to reality! This course will teach students how ideas go from paper to digital design to manufacturing the part and holding it in their hands. Students will be exposed to Computer-Aided Design (CAD), Computer-Integrated Machining (CIM), and Additive Manufacturing (3D Printing).
Special Requirements: Long Pants, Closed-Toe Shoes. Participants need to bring a lunch.
COA – Edenton-Chowan Camps
HVAC is Cool Camp
July 27, 2026 – July 28, 2026, 9 a.m.-12 p.m., Ages 14-17, $15.00
HVAC will learn a basic introduction to how AC systems work by completing hands-on mechanical and electrical projects
Special Requirements: Long Pants, Closed-Toe Shoes