Camp · STEM · Ages 5–12 · $350/week
Directory · United States · Illinois · Chicago
▌ STEM · Ages 5–12

Camp Invention

Multiple · $350/week

Camp Invention offers K-6th grade STEM day camps across the US, focusing on hands-on activities, problem-solving, and innovation inspired by National Invento...

▌ Editor's read Camp Invention is a nationwide STEM day camp program for K-6th graders, operated by the National Inventors Hall of Fame, a non-profit organization. The website, invent.org/camp-invention, loads successfully and provides extensive information about their programs, curriculum, and locations. While not individually ACA accredited, the program is widely offered through schools and community centers across the US. The website states that all program staff undergo background checks. Google reviews for 'Camp Invention' generally show high satisfaction, with an average rating of 4.8 stars based on over 1,000 reviews, frequently praising the engaging activities and enthusiastic instructors. The program focuses on hands-on, inquiry-based learning, with themes like 'Illuminate' for 2024, encouraging children to invent and innovate. Social media handles are active, with @campinvention on Instagram and 'CampInvention' on Facebook showcasing camp activities and testimonials.
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Nonprofit operator501(c)(3) tax-exempt
Shortlist in planner → Visit website

Who thrives here Ages 5–12

Camp Invention fits middle-elementary campers — old enough for skill-building to land, young enough that friend-group dynamics and counselor warmth still matter more than program rigor. Parents at this age band tend to prioritize a balanced rhythm of structured activity and unstructured play, which is the actual differentiator inside any given stem program.

Facts & Credentials

Program type
Day camp
ACA accredited
Not verified
Established
Not listed
Operator
Nonprofit organization
Staff-to-camper ratio
Not listed

How we verify these →

Details

  • Category: STEM
  • Ages: 5–12
  • Hours: 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM
  • Address: Various Locations, Chicago, IL, USA
  • Cost notes: USD. Discounts for multiple children.

Logistics

  • Lunch provided: No
  • Transportation: No
  • Financial aid: No
  • Setting: mixed

Frequently asked about Camp Invention

What ages does Camp Invention accept?
Camp Invention is open to children ages 5–12. Camps publish their own age cutoffs, and some run mixed-age groups internally; check the registration page for that summer's grouping if your child sits at a boundary.
How much does Camp Invention cost?
Camp Invention publishes $350/week for the standard session. That sits 13% below the $400 median for stem camps in Chicago, which makes it one of the more affordable options in the category. USD. Discounts for multiple children. Final cost depends on session length, sibling discounts, and whether extended care is added on.
What are Camp Invention's hours?
Camp Invention runs 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM. If those hours don't quite cover your work day, check whether extended care or early drop-off is offered separately.
Who runs Camp Invention?
Camp Invention is operated by a nonprofit organization. The operator type matters for tuition policy (refunds, financial aid eligibility) and for what kind of staff training pipeline the camp uses.
Does Camp Invention provide lunch?
Camp Invention does not include lunch — campers bring their own. Most day camps without provided lunch are nut-free or nut-aware, so check the allergy policy before packing. Frozen water bottles double as ice packs and drinks; insulated lunch boxes hold below 40°F for about four hours.
How does Camp Invention compare to other stem camps in Chicago?
Camp Invention is one of 13 stem camps in Chicago that overlap its age range. The differentiation between options usually comes down to four factors: weekly price, day length, indoor/outdoor balance, and group size. Browse same-city alternatives in the directory to compare side by side.

Planning guides

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