Each summer, Ohio 4-H camps bring youth from across the state together for unforgettable experiences that foster learning, adventure, and personal growth. Whether exploring the waters of Lake Erie, building leadership skills alongside fellow military-connected youth, or developing responsibility through shooting sports programs, campers gain valuable life skills in a fun and supportive environment. Ohio 4-H camps provide opportunities for young people to discover new interests, build confidence, form lasting friendships, and create memories that will stay with them for years to come.
Ohio 4-H Sea Camp
Ohio 4-H Sea Camp provides youth ages 14–17 with a unique opportunity to explore Lake Erie through hands-on learning, aquatic recreation, and leadership development. In 2026, 51 campers from across Ohio participated in the week-long program on Kelleys Island, supported by 9 adult counselors.
Throughout the week, campers took part in educational sessions and field experiences led by Ohio Sea Grant, Stone Laboratory, ODNR Division of Watercraft, Ohio State University staff, Spirit of America, and other partners. Activities included aquatic ecology investigations, kayaking, stand-up paddle boarding, sailing, powerboating, jet skiing, snorkeling, charter boat fishing, geological exploration, and water safety education. Campers also participated in team-building activities, leadership workshops, evening recreation, a campfire program, and a boat float regatta that encouraged collaboration and friendship among youth from across the state.
As a result of their participation, campers gained a greater understanding of Lake Erie’s ecosystems, aquatic life, and the importance of protecting Ohio’s natural resources. They developed valuable life skills including leadership, teamwork, communication, responsibility, and independence. Every camper earned their Ohio Boater Education Certification, allowing them to legally operate a motorboat greater than 10 horsepower.
Sea Camp also introduced participants to career opportunities in environmental science, natural resources, marine biology, and related STEM fields through interactions with professionals working in these industries. Thanks to support from the Ohio 4-H Foundation, Nationwide, and an ODNR grant, every camper and counselor received a fishing rod and reel to take home, allowing them to continue building skills and enjoying Ohio’s aquatic resources long after camp ended.
Ohio Military Kids (OMK) Camp Kelleys Island
Ohio Military Kids (OMK) Camp Kelleys Island provides military-connected youth from across Ohio with a unique summer camp experience focused on friendship, personal growth, and resilience. Held on Kelleys Island in Lake Erie, the program brings together military youth in a supportive environment where they can connect with peers who share similar life experiences while enjoying a wide variety of recreational and educational activities.
Supported by more than 70 youth counselors and 40 civilian and military adult staff members, OMK operates two residential camp programs: Teen Camp for youth ages 12-15 and Junior Camp for youth ages 9-11. Through the generosity of donors and dedicated volunteers, campers can participate in activities designed to build confidence, encourage healthy living, and foster a sense of pride in being a military kid.
Teen Camp offers a variety of adventure-based experiences, including wakeboarding, sailing, waterskiing, tubing, kayaking, swimming, bike rides, team challenges, sports, crafts, and campfire activities. These opportunities help participants develop leadership skills, strengthen friendships, and challenge themselves in a safe and supportive setting.
Junior Camp focuses on helping younger campers learn, grow, and build lasting relationships with other military youth. Activities such as swimming, hiking, boating, crafts, dancing, campfire cooking, talent shows, and sports provide opportunities for fun while encouraging teamwork, confidence, and personal development.
Together, both camps create a memorable experience where military youth can build community, develop resilience, and create lifelong memories while enjoying the natural beauty of Lake Erie and Kelleys Island.
Ohio 4-H Shooting Sports Education Camp
Ohio 4-H Shooting Sports Education Camp provides youth with a hands-on opportunity to learn shooting sports in a safe, educational, and supportive camp environment. Held at Canter's Cave 4-H Camp in Jackson, Ohio, the program is designed to teach life skills, responsibility, and outdoor education through shooting sports and traditional camp experiences.
The camp offers appropriate age opportunities for youth in grades 3-12. Junior campers are introduced to basic disciplines including archery, rifle, shotgun, pistol, hunting and wildlife, and living history. Senior campers can participate in both basic and advanced disciplines while expanding their knowledge and skills through more specialized instruction. No prior experience is required for the beginner-level programs.
Under the guidance of certified Ohio 4-H Shooting Sports instructors, campers learn the safe, responsible, and ethical use of firearms and archery equipment. Participants select a primary discipline to focus on during camp while also having opportunities to explore additional disciplines and outdoor education topics. Safety, responsibility, sportsmanship, and personal growth remain central themes throughout the experience.
In addition to shooting sports instruction, campers enjoy traditional camp activities such as hiking, fishing, boating, crafts, and other recreational opportunities. These experiences help youth build confidence, develop leadership and teamwork skills, make new friends, and create lasting memories while enjoying the outdoors.