Camp Pontiac isn’t just about lakes, fields, and sunshine—it’s also where creativity takes center stage.
Our arts and cooking programs give campers the chance to express themselves, try new things, and develop talents they never knew they had. With state-of-the-art facilities, skilled instructors, and a packed creative curriculum, Camp Pontiac has become a destination for families looking for more than just play.
From painting and pottery to baking and videography, we offer hands-on, high-quality experiences that let every camper shine.
A Space to Dream, Design, and Discover
Our campus includes some of the most comprehensive creative arts and culinary spaces you’ll find at any sleepaway summer camp:
Two Arts & Crafts Buildings
Designed for both guided projects and free expression. Kids explore drawing, painting, glass-making, ceramics, and more.
Woodshop / Models / Lego Center
Campers dive into design thinking with model kits, wood projects, and building stations.
State-of-the-Art Cooking Studio
Complete with ovens, stovetops, prep stations, and all the tools needed for hands-on culinary fun.
Theater & Performance Space
Home to skits, talent shows, musicals, and drama workshops that build confidence on and off stage.
Photography & Videography Studio
Campers learn to use real cameras, edit videos, and document the magic of camp through a creative lens.
Whether your child loves performing, baking, or creating with their hands, our facilities are designed to support all types of artistic expression.
What Campers Create at Camp Pontiac
Here’s a look at the arts and cooking activities campers can choose from each week:
– Baking & Cuisine Cooking Classes
Campers learn kitchen basics, world flavors, and cooking safety through fun, age-appropriate recipes in our state-of-the-art culinary center. Led by our head chef and team of assistants, kids of all ages whip up everything from cupcakes and monkey bread to full international meals. Older campers enjoy extended sessions and group dinners on the deck, while advanced cooks take on exciting challenges like our end-of-summer Chopped competition. With hands-on instruction and plenty of delicious fun, this program is always a camper favorite.
Campers explore their creativity through hands-on activities like pottery, ceramics, painting, sculpture, tie-dye, and seasonal crafts. With two spacious, air-conditioned studios and expert instructors guiding each project, kids can try everything from glasswork and mosaics to sewing and screen printing. It’s the perfect way to build skills, express themselves, and take home meaningful souvenirs they’ll cherish for years.
Learn how to spin, mix, and hype up a crowd with guidance from DJ Surge, our in-house deejay and emcee. Campers get hands-on experience behind the booth, mastering the basics of beat-matching and mixing while bringing the energy to camp events, dances, and parties.
Campers create personalized wooden crafts like clocks, picture frames, tabletop games, and more in our fully equipped, newly renovated woodshop. With hands-on guidance and a strong focus on safety, they learn to use basic tools and bring their ideas to life through building, painting, and decorating. Whether following a template or designing their own project, every creation becomes a special keepsake to take home.
Campers learn the basics of photography, from shooting and storytelling to editing and development. With access to a professional studio, digital and traditional equipment, and plenty of creative freedom, they explore both sides of the lens—snapping portraits, capturing nature scenes, and even staging costume shoots for fun. It’s a hands-on experience that sparks creativity and brings every photo to life.
Campers step into the spotlight or take on behind-the-scenes roles in our vibrant theater program. From group productions and improv games to camp-wide talent shows and musicals, there’s something for everyone. With a state-of-the-art stage, professional sound system, and dedicated set design space, our air-conditioned Playhouse creates the perfect setting for campers to explore their creativity. Whether they’re acting, singing, building sets, or helping with choreography, kids build confidence, learn teamwork, and make unforgettable memories.
Every child rotates through these programs and can choose to spend more time in the areas that speak to them most. Whether they’re trying something new or diving deeper into a known passion, every session is built to be safe, hands-on, and incredibly fun.
Built for Expression, Guided by Experts
Our instructors are not only experienced but also passionate educators who know how to bring out the best in each camper. From culinary teachers with professional backgrounds to art specialists and theater directors, our team is here to support growth, spark joy, and celebrate every masterpiece—whether it’s a pie or a play.
We’ve designed this program to foster independence, boost creativity, and help kids gain confidence through artistic and practical skills they’ll take home long after summer ends.
Where Passion and Play Come Together
At Camp Pontiac, creativity is an integral part of the camper experience. With exceptional facilities, supportive instructors, and a program designed to inspire, our arts and cooking centers give every camper the chance to create something meaningful.
If you’re looking for a summer camp that balances outdoor fun with real skill-building in art, performance, and the kitchen, Camp Pontiac has it all.
Not the camp activity you’re looking for? Check out other programs we offer:
– Adventure Camp Program – allows campers to appreciate and explore the outdoors in a safe and comfortable environment. This includes exciting activities such as ninja warrior course, archery sites, horseback riding, and team building activities.
– Athletics Program – energizes campers through a wide range of sports and fitness activities in a supportive environment. Options include baseball, basketball, volleyball, soccer, and tennis. Campers participate in daily intramural leagues and tournaments, plus have the opportunity for optional private lessons for those looking for a more focused training.
– STEM Program – sparks curiosity and problem-solving via hands-on science and technology activities. Campers can enjoy robotics, drones, chess, and models & Legos. These programs provide structured, guided learning in small groups, perfect for thinkers and tinkerers.
– Special Events – delivers memorable, high-energy group experiences throughout the summer. Highlights include Carnival, Halloween in July, Roller Skating Disco, Glow Disco/Prom Disco, Birthday Ball, Color Run and more!
– Camp Trips – expands the experience beyond the camp property, through adventures suited to different age groups:
– Day Trips: exploring nearby natural and recreational sites;
– Overnight Trips: immersive camps away from site;
– Teen Trips: more independent, adventurous excursions for older campers
– Waterfront Program – encourages aquatic confidence and fun with a range of water sports and shoreline play. All campers swim and enjoy lakefront fun including trampolines, slides, and inflatables. Selective instruction begins in upper grades in boating, sailing, fishing, and other water sports.
Ready to take a tour or ask about enrollment? Contact us today to learn more about our programs and facilities.
FAQs: Arts & Cooking at Camp Pontiac
What ages can participate in arts and cooking programs?
All age groups are welcome. Activities are adjusted to be developmentally appropriate for each camper’s age and skill level.
Do kids need experience in art or cooking to participate?
Not at all! Everything is beginner-friendly, with guidance available for more advanced campers who want to dive deeper.
Are the cooking classes hands-on?
Yes. Every camper gets to participate in prepping, cooking, baking, and tasting their own creations—safely and under staff supervision.
Can campers choose which creative programs to focus on?
Yes. After trying a variety of options, campers can choose to revisit their favorite activities during selectives.
Are projects brought home?
Most art and woodworking projects are sent home with the campers. Cooking is enjoyed fresh (or shared during visiting day, if it lasts!).
