Youth ages 5 to 18 will have the opportunity to develop new skills while having fun at the North Dakota 4-H Camp this summer.

Located on 80 scenic acres along the Missouri River near Washburn, North Dakota, the camp features air-conditioned cabins and state-of-the-art facilities. The camp was updated in 2013, and an outdoor education building was added in 2018. This year, two additional buildings will expand the educational space.

“For more than 50 years, the North Dakota 4-H Camp has provided a safe environment where youth build friendships, master new skills and gain independence and confidence,” says Karla Meikle, state 4-H activities coordinator. 4-H is an NDSU Extension program.

The camp is staffed by NDSU Extension agents, state specialists and dedicated volunteers — all experts in their fields. The staff designs engaging programs that provide a foundation of knowledge and hands-on learning. Camp counselors mentor campers, oversee daily activities and lead recreational programs.

Various camps are offered each summer, including special-topic camps such as Livestock Camp and Beginner Outdoor Skills Camp. Livestock Camp helps youth enhance their animal care, handling and showmanship skills, and Beginner Outdoor Skills Camp introduces youth to the world of outdoor recreation.

Adventure Camp offers diverse activities, including canoeing, kayaking, archery, STEM projects and crafts. Other 4-H camp experiences may include fishing, drone flying, scavenger hunts, soil science and woodworking.

“These camps give youth the perfect opportunity to explore new interests,” says Meikle. “We encourage campers to unplug from electronics and embrace outdoor adventures.”

Two camps are new this year: 1) Energy Exploration Camp, where participants will explore energy science, learn about career opportunities and tour energy sites across western North Dakota and 2) Careers and Tech Ed Camp, where youth will engage with professionals in skilled trade careers while gaining hands-on experience in electricity, welding and carpentry.

Beyond educational sessions, campers can enjoy a range of recreational activities, including hiking, archery, Dutch oven cooking, evening campfires, waterslides, dances and ga-ga ball.

“We strive to make each camper’s experience safe, fun, educational and memorable,” adds Meikle. “Many campers return year after year, often attending multiple camps in one season.”

Camps also feature the Healthy Camp Challenge, where campers earn points for making nutritious choices, practicing healthy habits and staying active. The Golden Plunger Award is given to the cabin that maintains the cleanest living space.

“Our campers gain confidence, learn problem-solving skills and develop lifelong abilities — all while having fun,” says Meikle.

Registration is now open for the 2025 camps. Visit ndsu.ag/nd4-hcamp for camp schedules and descriptions. Contact your county Extension office for more information, and follow the camp on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/ND4HCAMP to see highlights from past seasons.

NDSU Agriculture Communication – April 3, 2025

Source: Karla Meikle, 701-877-2584, karla.meikle@ndsu.edu

Editor: Dominic Erickson, 701-231-5546, dominic.erickson@ndsu.edu