Summer Camps in Indianapolis at Butler University
Camps at Butler

Summer Day Camps in Indianapolis at Butler University

Looking for summer camps in Indianapolis? Camps at Butler offers a wide variety of engaging summer programs for kids and teens on Butler University’s campus. For over 20 years, families throughout Indianapolis and the surrounding area have trusted Butler to provide safe, enriching camp experiences that inspire curiosity, creativity, and connection.

From arts and athletics to academics and specialty programs, our Indianapolis summer camps and day camps give young people the chance to explore new interests, build lasting friendships, and grow in a supportive environment. Whether you’re searching for a week-long day camp, a focused skills program, or an immersive summer experience, Camps at Butler has options for every age and interest.

Our camps are led by experienced staff and instructors who are passionate about creating a fun, welcoming atmosphere where every camper feels like they belong. Discover why Camps at Butler is a top choice for summer camps in Indianapolis.

Who We Serve
What to Expect

Who Our Indianapolis Camps Serve

Camps at Butler offers summer camps and day camps for a wide range of ages—from kindergarteners attending their first camp experience to adults looking to learn something new. Our programs are designed to meet campers where they are, whether they’re beginners exploring a new interest or experienced students ready to take their skills to the next level.

For younger campers in grades K–6, our Discovery Camps and adventure-style programs offer hands-on learning, creativity, and fun in a safe, supportive environment. Middle and high school students in grades 7–12 can choose from music camps, performing arts programs, esports, creative writing, and pre-college experiences that challenge and inspire. We even offer camps for adults, including Adult Strings Camp for musicians looking to learn or reconnect with their instrument. No matter the age or experience level, families throughout Indianapolis and the surrounding area trust Camps at Butler to provide meaningful summer experiences.

What to Expect at a Butler Summer Camp

When your child attends summer camp at Butler, they’ll experience a well-organized program designed to be both fun and enriching. Our camps are led by experienced instructors and staff who are passionate about what they teach and dedicated to creating a welcoming environment for every camper. Whether it’s a music camp led by Jordan College of the Arts faculty and students, a Discovery Camp guided by enthusiastic educators, or a Pre-College Program led by Butler faculty, your child will be in good hands. Safety, supervision, and a supportive atmosphere are priorities across all of our programs.

Campers can expect to make new friends, try new things, and build confidence in a community-focused setting. Many of our summer camps and day camps in Indianapolis include collaborative projects, performances, showcases, or final presentations that let participants share what they’ve learned. It’s an experience that goes beyond just keeping kids busy—Camps at Butler helps young people grow, connect, and create memories that last.

Types of Summer Camps at Butler

Camps at Butler offers a diverse range of summer camps and day camps designed to spark curiosity and nurture new skills. No matter what your child is passionate about—or what they're eager to try for the first time—you'll find Indianapolis summer camps that fit their interests.

Discovery Camps

Our Discovery Camps are perfect for younger campers in grades 1–6 who love to explore, create, and learn through hands-on experiences. With themes ranging from Science Explorers and Our Universe to Amazing Artists, Creative Construction, Farm to Table, Art in Nature, and Game Makers, these Indianapolis summer day camps offer something new to discover every summer. Each camp blends fun with learning in a supportive, engaging environment.

Music Camps

For young musicians, we offer a variety of summer music camps spanning multiple instruments and styles. Options include Percussion Camp, Bass Camp, Brass Camp, Jazz Camp, Chamber Music Camp, Strings Scholars Camp, Strings Adventure Camp, Strings Bootcamp, Rock Band Adventure Camp, and Piano Adventure Camp. Whether your child is a beginner or an experienced player, our music camps in Indianapolis provide expert instruction and the chance to grow alongside fellow musicians.

Dance and Theatre Camps

Campers who love to move and perform can explore their passions through Dance Adventure Camp, Hip Hop Camp, Theatre Camp, and the Butler Ballet Summer Intensive. From introductory dance experiences to rigorous pre-professional ballet training for ages 13+, our performing arts camps in Indianapolis help young artists build confidence, technique, and stage presence.

Esports Camps

For gamers looking to level up their skills, our Esports camps offer focused training in popular titles like Fortnite (grades 5–8) and Valorant (grades 9–12). These summer day camps in Indianapolis combine competition, teamwork, and strategy in a fun, supervised environment.

Pre-College Programs

High school students in grades 10–12 can get a head start on their future with our Pre-College Programs in Exploratory, Business, and Healthcare tracks. These Indianapolis summer programs give teens the chance to experience college life on Butler's campus while exploring potential career paths.

Creative Writing Camp

For campers who love storytelling, Creative Writing Camp (grades 3–12) offers a space to develop their voice, explore new genres, and connect with fellow young writers. This day camp in Indianapolis nurtures creativity and self-expression through guided writing exercises and collaborative projects.

Location & Schedule

Camps at Butler are held on Butler University's campus in Indianapolis, offering easy access for families throughout Indianapolis and the surrounding area. Our central location provides a safe, welcoming environment with excellent facilities for campers of all ages.

Most camps run during the summer months, with sessions ranging from single-week day camps to multi-week intensive programs. We also offer Spring Break Camps for families looking for enriching options during the school year. Check our camps page for specific dates, session lengths, and availability.

FAQs About Summer Camps in Indianapolis

What ages can attend Camps at Butler?

We offer summer camps for a wide range of ages—from kindergarteners (grades K–5 for Spring Break Camps) to high school students (grades 7–12 for many programs) and even adults (Adult Strings Camp). Check individual camp listings for specific age and grade requirements.

What types of camps do you offer?

Camps at Butler offers Discovery Camps, music camps, dance and theatre camps, esports camps, creative writing camp, and pre-college programs. Whether your child loves science, art, music, gaming, or performing, there’s a summer camp at Butler for them.

Where are the camps located?

All camps are held on Butler University’s campus, providing a safe, central location with excellent facilities for families throughout Indianapolis and the surrounding area.

How long are the camp sessions?

Session lengths vary by program. Most summer camps run for one week, while some programs like the Butler Ballet Summer Intensive span multiple weeks. Check our camps page for specific dates and session details.

Do you offer camps during school breaks?

Yes! In addition to summer camps, we offer Spring Break Camps for grades K–5—a great option for families looking for enriching activities during the school year.

Are there camps for teens and high schoolers?

Absolutely. We offer a variety of camps for grades 7–12, including music camps (Jazz Camp, Chamber Music Camp, Percussion Camp, and more), Theatre Camp, Hip Hop Camp, Esports camps, Creative Writing Camp, and Pre-College Programs for students exploring future career paths.

Do you offer any camps for adults?

Yes! Adult Strings Camp is designed for adult musicians looking to learn or reconnect with their instrument in a supportive, community-focused environment.

How do I register for a camp?

You can browse all available camps on our website and register through the online Camp Portal. If you have questions, contact us at 317-940-4176 or camps@butler.edu.

Are camps only offered during the summer?

Camps at Butler also offers Spring Break Camps for grades K–5, giving families a fun, enriching option during the school break. These day camps in Indianapolis provide hands-on activities, creative projects, and opportunities for social connection in a safe, supervised environment.