4-H camp creates life-changing experiences for youth, helping them develop leadership, citizenship, and life skills while providing them with hands-on outdoor education opportunities that fuel adventure and inspire curiosity.
Whether youth are challenging themselves on a high ropes course, braiding a friendship bracelet, swimming in a lake, learning a line dance, or becoming lifelong friends with their cabinmates, 4-H camp encourages them to step outside of their comfort zones and grow as young leaders.
Counties across the state offer both overnight residential and day camps for Cloverbud and 
project-age 4-H members, with more than 14,000 youth participating as campers in 2024.
As 4-H members get older, they have the opportunity to take on new leadership roles by volunteering as counselors. They serve as role models for younger campers: guiding them through activities like canoeing and hiking, teaching crafts, leading songs, putting on skits, and keeping an eye on campers to ensure they are staying safe and having fun.
When asked what they will remember most about camp, 4-H’ers responded:
- “My great friends who encouraged me to come out of my shell.”
- “The counselors being so supportive and awesome.”
- “Feeling like people look up to me!”
- “Camp has changed me and made me a better person.”
In addition to county camps, Ohio 4-H offers a variety statewide camps:
- Adaptive Adventures Camp: Designed for youth who have needs that cannot be accommodated at a traditional 4-H camp.
- Forestry Wildlife Conservation Camp: Youth get to know the outdoors through natural resource exploration and education.
- Sea Camp: Teens “get their feet wet” and learn about one of Ohio’s most important resources—Lake Erie.
- Shooting Sports Camp: Youth learn about the safe, responsible, and ethical use of firearms and archery equipment.
- State Leadership Camp: The premiere leadership development opportunity available to Ohio 4-H members.
- STEM Camp: Youth experience the outdoors and learn about the science of the world around them.
- Space Adventure Camp: 4-H’ers explore the world of flight and science.
Are you interested in supporting your local 4-H camp? Visit our camp facilities to find ways to give. With your help, the joy of 4-H camp can continue for generations to come!