Summer Camps
Camps at Iowa School for the Deaf
For those entering fourth – twelfth grades
Iowa School for the Deaf summer camps are communication-friendly! Some campers use only American Sign Language; some use only their voices; others use a combination of both. You’ll find a blend of friends- both those who aren’t enrolled at ISD and those who are. Campers cherish fun memories and best friends made at Iowa School for the Deaf camps! Campers should be independent with activities of daily living (eating, toileting, bathing, etc.).
June 21 – 26: Explorers Camp – Campers will become official explorers by the end of this week-long adventure! We’ll be exploring the world and the wonders within: the wild, the mysterious and the unforgettable. From designing personal flags and tie-dye creations to map-making, zoo adventures, nature hikes and bug bingo, campers will discover animals, cultures and countries from around the globe. Future explorers will also train as secret spies with Carmen Sandiego-inspired missions, codebreaking challenges and puzzles, plus enjoy arts & crafts, swimming and all the classic summer camp fun along the way.
July 9 – 12: Weekenders Camp – Campers will spend the long weekend unplugging, exploring and embracing the great outdoors! From hiking trails and nature crafts to water activities, campfire games and gooey s’mores by the bonfire, this adventure is packed with classic camping fun. With tents, teamwork, outdoor challenges and plenty of fresh-air excitement, Weekenders Camp is the perfect mix of adventure, friendship and summer memories.
Other 2026 summer camps for children and teens who are deaf or hard of hearing
- Camp UBU serves students in second through eighth grades throughout the Midwest. Camp UBU is held in Minnesota. Find more information at this link: https://www.campubu.com/
- Iowa Baseball Camp for the Deaf is June 15 – 19 in Johnston, Iowa for children ages seven through fourteen. Visit this link for more details: https://iowadeafbaseball.com/
- Deaf Youth Sports Festival will be held on ISD’s campus July 12 – 18 for ages five through high school. Find the details at this link: https://mdoyouth.org/
- Camp Isola Bella has a youth session and a teen session. Find more information at their website: https://www.asd-1817.org/programs/camp-isola-bella.
- Sign Camp is July 25-26 in Fremont, Nebraska for children who use ASL in kindergarten through twelfth grades. Find more details here. Register here.
- For a comprehensive list of camps, visit this link: https://iaeducationfordeafandblind.org/camps
*This is a list provided courtesy of Iowa School for the Deaf. ISD does not host these camps.
Registration
After completing a registration request, you will receive an automated email response indicating your request was received. If you do not receive an automated email, your request was not received and you should contact the camp registrar (send an email here) or phone: 712.220.2292. You will receive all required registration forms through your email within 2 weeks of your confirmed request.
Camp contact:
Camp registrar
Video Phone: 712.220.0292
What should I bring to camp?
We suggest you pack with your child so you both know what is going to camp. Please do not send valuables with your child. All items, clothes, suitcases and bags should be marked with your camper’s initials or name. We are busy and work hard, so clothes may get dirty. ISD can provide bedding, pillows, towels and washcloths.
- Underwear
- T-shirts
- Shorts
- Socks
- Sneakers
- Flip-flops for shower
- Backpack or bag
- Sunglasses
- Swimsuit
- Hat or ball cap
- Pajamas
- Pillow & case
- Beach towel
- Sleeping bag or bedding
- Sunscreen
- Bug spray
- Shampoo, soap, deodorant
- Tote for Bathroom
- Tooth brush & paste
- Water bottle (Very important!)
- Sandals w/heel strap
- Towels, washcloth
- Mini fan
- Night light
- Stuffed toy for younger children
- Brush, comb, hair ties
What can I expect?
The cost for these overnight camps include all meals, activities and entrance fees to attractions. Members of the ISD student life team provide supervision and instruction during the day and residential counselors bring in Fun, Part II in the late afternoon! We cater to picky palates, and are kid-focused when planning menus. Crafts, movies, water games and more summer-themed action are guaranteed to attract friends, laughter and a host of memories. Expect a tired, but satisfied child to return home to you!
Registration
Cost per camp:
- $75 for Weekenders camp
- $100 for Explorers camp
After your initial online registration request is processed, you will receive a complete registration packet via a link in an email. Your child will be fully registered once all forms and payment are completed. Confirmation letters will be sent closer to camp dates.
Make checks payable to Iowa School for the Deaf and send along with required medical information to:
ISD Camps
Iowa School for the Deaf
3501 Harry Langdon Boulevard
Council Bluffs, IA 51503
NOTE: Submitting this form only temporarily holds a camper’s position. A position is only officially filled once we receive payment* and listing of any medical requirements. Please send in these additional items soon after you submit the registration request to guarantee your spot.
*No child is turned away due to inability to pay.
