This year, I decided to take a different approach to school holidays. Instead of diving headfirst into a whirlwind of DIY craft projects and screen time negotiations, I decided to explore the world of school holiday camps here in Australia. And let me tell you, it's been an eye-opening experience for both me and my kids.
As a parent, I understand the importance of balance between quality family time and a little breather for yourself. So, I did my research, packed my investigator's hat, and set out to find the best kids' school holiday camps across this beautiful land down under. From outdoor adventures that fuel their curiosity to creative workshops that let their imaginations run wild, I've curated a list of some fantastic options that might just be the answer to your holiday dilemmas.
And, for the record: It's okay to take a moment for yourself. Treat your kids to an unforgettable camp experience while you enjoy a well-deserved break. A recharged parent means a happier home.
Here's to discovering exciting opportunities, fostering growth, and maybe even savouring a cup of tea in peace.
PGL Adventure Camps
PGL Adventure Camps offer a fantastic opportunity for kids to have fun, make friends, and learn new skills. Experienced instructors and group leaders ensure your child's safety and enjoyment.
Activities include:
- Archery
- Canoeing
- Raft building
Also, Jacob's Ladder promote teamwork and personal growth. The camps operate year-round, offering summer and winter options, and adhere to Australian Adventure Activity Standards.
Positive reviews from parents and campers underscore the great experiences offered. So, consider PGL Adventure Camps for a memorable and enriching school holiday experience in Australia.
Camp Location: South East Queensland, Foster North Victoria, Tylden Victoria
For Children Aged: 8-14 years old
This Camp Would Suit Kids Who: Crave outdoor adventures and want to make new friends
Australian Sports Camps
As a mum who wants her children to stay active and passionate about sports, I've found Australian Sports Camps to be an excellent choice for school holidays. With camps located in major cities across Australia, ASC offers a diverse range of sports programs catering to various age groups.
ASC provides:
- 18 hours of coaching and care (Led by enthusiastic and qualified coaches)
- Safety and skill development.
Small group sizes ensure individual attention, while guest appearances by sporting idols inspire young athletes. The use of top-quality sporting facilities guarantees an authentic sports experience.
So, if you want your child to enhance their sport skills while having a blast during school holidays, ASC is the answer.
Camp Location: Various cities across Australia
For Children Aged: 5-15 years old
This Camp Would Suit Kids Who: Seek a fun and skill-improvement-focused holiday activity
Cave Hill Creek
Cave Hill Creek offers exceptional summer and winter holiday camps for kids aged 8-14. Located near Ballarat, this camp is perfect for adventure-loving children.
They offer:
- Summer Camp, where kids can enjoy water-based activities like canoeing and raft building
- Sleeping under the stars adds to the charm.
- Winter Camp offers a unique winter adventure, exploring Raglan Falls and enjoying campfire stories with hot chocolate.
Nestled in Mt. Cole State Forest, the camp provides award-winning accommodation and access to beautiful Australian wildlife. With over 30 years of experience, Cave Hill Creek is ATAP accredited and ensures a safe environment.
Camp Location: Near Ballarat, Victoria
For Children Aged: 8-14 years old
This Camp Would Suit Kids Who: Seek outdoor adventures and make new friends during their second school holidays
Outward Bound Australia
Outward Bound provides immersive programs for schools of all sizes. From center-based camps to journey-based expeditions, they empower young minds. They also support Duke of Ed programs.
Their focus on outdoor activities is:
- Kayaking
- High ropes
- Abseiling
- Raft Building
- Overnight Expeditions
These experiences teach responsibility, build confidence, and nurture optimism in students. With locations in ACT, NSW, VIC, and WA, they offer diverse landscapes for learning.
Outward Bounds is one of the most well-known school holiday camps in Australia offering kids adventure, self-discovery, and unforgettable memories. Give your child the gift of potential.
Camp Location: ACT, NSW, VIC, WA
For Children Aged: 4-12 years old
This Camp Would Suit Kids Who: Seek adventure-based learning experiences during school breaks
Green Supercamp
Green Supercamp Australia offers a unique opportunity for teens to enhance their academic skills while fostering self-esteem and character development. Their proven techniques empower students to excel in school and life.
My personal favorite is their Quantum Spelling Strategy (QSS), a remarkable technique that aids in effective learning.
Green Supercamp Australia offers an unforgettable experience that improves academic performance and builds life skills and self-confidence.
This program goes beyond academics, giving them a solid foundation in self-esteem and character development. They use tried-and-true methods that not only help them excel in school but also face life's hurdles with confidence.
It's been a game-changer for many!
Camp Location: Victoria, Australia
For Children Aged: Teenagers
This Camp Would Suit Kids Who: Seek a life-changing camp experience focusing on leadership, academic achievements, and emotional intelligence
Dare Adventures
Dare Adventures is a fantastic outdoor camp nestled in the serene jarrah forests of Dwellingup. It offers a diverse range of activities that cater to various age groups, making it a great choice for kids of all ages.
Dare Adventures emphasis on building:
- Confidence
- Leadership
- Teamwork
Dare Adventures provides a safe and fun environment for kids to explore nature, challenge themselves, and create lasting memories.
Dare Adventures is a gem among kids' holiday camps in Australia. With its breathtaking forest setting, experienced staff, and diverse activities.
It's an ideal choice for your child's next adventure. I can guarantee you!
Camp Location: Dwellingup, Western Australia
For Children Aged: Various age groups
This Camp Would Suit Kids Who: Crave outdoor adventure and learning while building confidence and life skills
Halls Outdoors Education Camps
Halls Outdoor Education is a top-notch provider of outdoor education experiences across three Australian states. They focus on delivering programs that challenge and educate while being incredibly enjoyable for kids.
The one I really enjoy is their School Holiday Programs and Camps, which are perfect for kids during school breaks.
Halls Outdoor Education offers ACA-accredited campsites, ensuring safety and quality. Their programs promote resilience, leadership, and teamwork - valuable skills for life.
This holistic approach ensures kids leave not just with memories of a great time, but with a toolkit of skills that will serve them throughout life's journey!
Camp Location: Victoria, New South Wales & South Australia
For Children Aged: 5-12 years old
This Camp Would Suit Kids Who: Seek thrilling outdoor experiences, a chance to develop leadership and teamwork skills, and make new friends
Ignite Camp
Ignite Camp is a transformative experience for young people, held during the Victorian September and Easter school holidays. It's available in two age groups: junior camp (10-14 years old) and senior camp (14-18 years old).
What stands out is the focus on making each young person feel:
- Acknowledged
- Loved
- Empowered
This creates a safe space for self-expression and personal development.
Ignite Camp is run in partnership with Burn Bright, a program with over 10 years of experience in youth development. It equips young participants with valuable life skills and a strong sense of self.
You wouldn't believe the incredible impact Ignite Camp has had on past participants - their testimonials say it all. It's an opportunity you wouldn't want to pass up.
Consider registering a young person in your life for this truly extraordinary and potentially life-altering camp.
It could be a game-changer for them!
Camp Location: Victoria, Australia
For Children Aged: 10-18 years old
This Camp Would Suit Kids Who: Seek personal growth, connection, and a sense of empowerment
Final words: School holiday camps in Australia
As parents, we know the importance of striking a balance between quality family time and giving ourselves a well-deserved break during school holidays. That's why I decided to explore the world of school holiday camps in Australia, and it's been an eye-opening journey for both me and my kids.
Remember, it's okay to take a moment for yourself. By treating the kids to these unforgettable camp experiences, you can enjoy a well-deserved break, and a recharged parent means a happier home.
Here's to discovering exciting opportunities, fostering growth in our kids, and maybe even savoring a cup of tea in peace. From one mum to another, I hope this guide helps you plan an amazing kids holiday camp in Australia!
Further reading: Yes, there is free entertainment for kids on the Gold Coast.
