Camps @ Cranbrook
Day Camps
STEM Camps
STEM Camps
Each week campers explore a different STEM theme with hands-on activities guided by highly qualified STEM and Education professionals, enthusiasts, and students. Each module is a week in length and covers subjects such as engineering, ecology, physics, chemistry, and biology.
About the Camps
(coed, entering grades 3-7 in Fall 2025)
General Information
Welcome to STEM Camp, where each week introduces a different and exciting theme in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics! Campers will engage in hands-on activities, fascinating experiments, and fun challenges tailored to each unique theme, sparking curiosity, and fostering a love for STEM. With a variety of dynamic weekly themes, there's something to captivate every young scientist. Our passionate instructors and counselors ensure a supportive and engaging learning environment. Get ready for a summer full of discovery, creativity, and unforgettable STEM experiences.
Summer 2025 will see a content refresh with 3 brand new modules and 4 re-imagined favorites! The crowd favorite Rocketry module is back by popular demand!
Note: Campers must have a general interest in the offered STEM topics, though prior knowledge and experience is not required!
A Day in the Life
At STEM, each day begins with exciting outdoor games and icebreakers, setting the stage for the adventures ahead. After drop-off, campers split into groups and head to their home-base, where instructors and counselors guide them in hands-on, creative STEM activities. Snacks and lunch breaks bring everyone back together to enjoy meals, make friends, and share their discoveries. The day wraps up with an outdoor share-circle and fun camp games until dismissal. Every Friday, we celebrate with a camp-wide ceremony where campers earn unique pins for completing the week's module, and a special camper from each group is recognized as the Spectacular Scientist of the week!
Basic Daily Schedule
Why Cranbrook Schools Summer Camps?
Founded by Detroit philanthropists George and Ellen Booth in 1904, Cranbrook’s 319-acre campus features the work of world-renowned architects such as Eliel Saarinen, Albert Kahn, Steven Holl, Tod Williams and Billie Tsien, Rafael Moneo, Peter Rose and sculptors Carl Milles, Marshall Fredericks and others. Critics have called Cranbrook "the most enchanted and enchanting setting in America" and in 1989, it was designated a National Historic Landmark.
Cranbrook Schools Summer Camps operate under Cranbrook Schools in a dedicated department named Special and Summer Programs. This year-round department focuses solely on summer camps, after-school programs, school rentals, and the school store. The dedicated full-time staff in the department spend the entire year preparing for camp. During the summer, over 1,800 campers from 20 states and nine countries come to Cranbrook for their summer experience. The campus, its facilities, the highly skilled and committed service departments such as Cranbrook's 24/7 security department, and all of Cranbrook's employees, residential faculty, and guests create a wonderful environment for children to learn and have fun.
Each camp includes a dedicated Director, Assistant Director, Office Administrator, Instructors, and Counselors. Each age-aligned group has one or two counselors who remain with their campers throughout the day and take them to each of the instructional areas. The camps are accredited by the American Camp Association and licensed through the State of Michigan Department of Lifelong Education, Advancement, and Potential.
Questions? Contact Special and Summer Programs at summer@cranbrook.edu, (248) 645-3674, or use our Contact Us form.
General Information
Welcome to STEM Camp, where each week introduces a different and exciting theme in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics! Campers will engage in hands-on activities, fascinating experiments, and fun challenges tailored to each unique theme, sparking curiosity, and fostering a love for STEM. With a variety of dynamic weekly themes, there's something to captivate every young scientist. Our passionate instructors and counselors ensure a supportive and engaging learning environment. Get ready for a summer full of discovery, creativity, and unforgettable STEM experiences.
Summer 2025 will see a content refresh with 3 brand new modules and 4 re-imagined favorites! The crowd favorite Rocketry module is back by popular demand!
Note: Campers must have a general interest in the offered STEM topics, though prior knowledge and experience is not required!
A Day in the Life
At STEM, each day begins with exciting outdoor games and icebreakers, setting the stage for the adventures ahead. After drop-off, campers split into groups and head to their home-base, where instructors and counselors guide them in hands-on, creative STEM activities. Snacks and lunch breaks bring everyone back together to enjoy meals, make friends, and share their discoveries. The day wraps up with an outdoor share-circle and fun camp games until dismissal. Every Friday, we celebrate with a camp-wide ceremony where campers earn unique pins for completing the week's module, and a special camper from each group is recognized as the Spectacular Scientist of the week!
Basic Daily Schedule
- Drop-Off
- Games and team building outside as a camp community.
- Mornings include:
- STEM activities in groups
- Snack break and outside time at our playground and soccer field.
- Lunch
- Afternoons include:
- Swim (Fridays)
- STEM activities in groups
- Snack break and outside time at our playground and soccer field.
- Pick-Up
Week 1: Velocity Raptors (New for Summer 2025)
Theme: Physics
Description: Kick off the summer with exhilarating exploration into the fundamental forces and phenomena shaping our universe. From electrifying experiments with gravity and motion to mind-bending studies of light and sound, campers embark on a journey of discovery. Campers unravel the mysteries behind everyday marvels and engage in hands-on activities that ignite curiosity and deepen their understanding of the laws governing our world. This new week combines elements of former modules “Energy and Motion” (formerly week 1) and “Lights, Sounds, Science” (formerly week 7), along with new physics content!
Theme: Physics
Description: Kick off the summer with exhilarating exploration into the fundamental forces and phenomena shaping our universe. From electrifying experiments with gravity and motion to mind-bending studies of light and sound, campers embark on a journey of discovery. Campers unravel the mysteries behind everyday marvels and engage in hands-on activities that ignite curiosity and deepen their understanding of the laws governing our world. This new week combines elements of former modules “Energy and Motion” (formerly week 1) and “Lights, Sounds, Science” (formerly week 7), along with new physics content!
Week 2: Wild Wonders (New for Summer 2025)
Theme: Ecology, Earth Science
Description: Campers will be immersed in a captivating exploration of Earth science and ecology. Throughout the week, campers delve into the intricate systems of our planet, studying ecosystems, biodiversity, and natural resources. This week was formerly “EcoDetectives”; Some elements of EcoDetectives will still be part of this week.
Theme: Ecology, Earth Science
Description: Campers will be immersed in a captivating exploration of Earth science and ecology. Throughout the week, campers delve into the intricate systems of our planet, studying ecosystems, biodiversity, and natural resources. This week was formerly “EcoDetectives”; Some elements of EcoDetectives will still be part of this week.
Week 3: Blast Off!
Theme: Physics, Engineering; (Space and Rocketry)
Description: “It’s definitely rocket science!” Campers leap into orbit this week by exploring rocket-powered flight, building and launching rockets, exploring our galaxy, and engaging in a series of engineering challenges to tackle the conundrum of sustaining life in space!
Note: This week was formerly two separate weeks, Rocketry and Space Exploration. This space-themed week is jam packed full of our favorite hands-on space and rocketry activities!
Theme: Physics, Engineering; (Space and Rocketry)
Description: “It’s definitely rocket science!” Campers leap into orbit this week by exploring rocket-powered flight, building and launching rockets, exploring our galaxy, and engaging in a series of engineering challenges to tackle the conundrum of sustaining life in space!
Note: This week was formerly two separate weeks, Rocketry and Space Exploration. This space-themed week is jam packed full of our favorite hands-on space and rocketry activities!
Week 4: Get Techy! (Re-imagined for Summer 2025)
Theme: Computer Science, 3D Printing, Technology, Mathematics
Description: Campers explore the world of technology through 3D printing, basic coding, computational logic, and tech-filled fun. Campers will learn CAD software to design, print, and create their own chocolate mold. This week was previously “The Third Dimension." Aspects of 3D printing are still present in this module, but it has been expanded to include more computer science and technology content.
Theme: Computer Science, 3D Printing, Technology, Mathematics
Description: Campers explore the world of technology through 3D printing, basic coding, computational logic, and tech-filled fun. Campers will learn CAD software to design, print, and create their own chocolate mold. This week was previously “The Third Dimension." Aspects of 3D printing are still present in this module, but it has been expanded to include more computer science and technology content.
Week 5: Dig It! (New for Summer 2025)
Theme: Archeology, Paleontology, Geology
Description: Campers will journey through time and unearth the mysteries of our planet! This week, campers will delve into archaeology, paleontology, and geology, uncovering ancient artifacts, dinosaur fossils, and the secrets of Earth's layers. Hands-on activities and exciting discoveries will ignite their curiosity about the past and the natural world. Join us for a thrilling adventure in science and history!
Theme: Archeology, Paleontology, Geology
Description: Campers will journey through time and unearth the mysteries of our planet! This week, campers will delve into archaeology, paleontology, and geology, uncovering ancient artifacts, dinosaur fossils, and the secrets of Earth's layers. Hands-on activities and exciting discoveries will ignite their curiosity about the past and the natural world. Join us for a thrilling adventure in science and history!
Week 6: In Our Element (Re-imagined for Summer 2025)
Theme: Chemistry
Description: Young chemists will dive into the fascinating world of chemistry! Throughout the week, campers will conduct exciting experiments, learn about the periodic table, and discover the reactions that make up our everyday lives. Hands-on activities will spark their curiosity and inspire a love for science. Get ready for a week of explosive fun and chemical discoveries!
Theme: Chemistry
Description: Young chemists will dive into the fascinating world of chemistry! Throughout the week, campers will conduct exciting experiments, learn about the periodic table, and discover the reactions that make up our everyday lives. Hands-on activities will spark their curiosity and inspire a love for science. Get ready for a week of explosive fun and chemical discoveries!
Week 7: Powerhouse of the Cell (Re-imagined for Summer 2025)
Theme: Biology, Health Sciences
Description: Campers will explore the captivating realms of biology and health sciences! This week, young scientists will delve into the wonders of the human body, the intricacies of ecosystems, and the marvels of cellular life. Through hands-on experiments and engaging activities, they'll uncover the secrets of living organisms and learn how to keep our bodies healthy. Join us for an exciting journey into the science of life! This week was formerly “BioBuzz” and has been re-imagined for summer 2025 to include brand new bio and health sciences content!
Theme: Biology, Health Sciences
Description: Campers will explore the captivating realms of biology and health sciences! This week, young scientists will delve into the wonders of the human body, the intricacies of ecosystems, and the marvels of cellular life. Through hands-on experiments and engaging activities, they'll uncover the secrets of living organisms and learn how to keep our bodies healthy. Join us for an exciting journey into the science of life! This week was formerly “BioBuzz” and has been re-imagined for summer 2025 to include brand new bio and health sciences content!
Week 8: Deep Dive! (Re-Imagined for Summer 2025)
Theme: Oceanography, Marine Biology
Description: Campers will dive into the fascinating world of oceanography and marine biology! This week, young adventurers will explore the mysteries of the deep sea, learn about diverse marine ecosystems, and discover the incredible adaptations of ocean creatures. Through hands-on activities and exciting experiments, they'll uncover the secrets of the underwater world and gain a deeper appreciation for our oceans. Join us for a week of aquatic adventures and marine discoveries!
Theme: Oceanography, Marine Biology
Description: Campers will dive into the fascinating world of oceanography and marine biology! This week, young adventurers will explore the mysteries of the deep sea, learn about diverse marine ecosystems, and discover the incredible adaptations of ocean creatures. Through hands-on activities and exciting experiments, they'll uncover the secrets of the underwater world and gain a deeper appreciation for our oceans. Join us for a week of aquatic adventures and marine discoveries!
Lunch, Snacks, and Allergies
Lunches and snacks are included in tuition and are provided by Chartwells Dining Services. They are a nut-free organization that caters to Cranbrook Schools during the academic year. Special arrangements can be made for campers with food allergies. Lunches are served in the Cranbrook Kingswood Middle School for Boys Dining Hall.
Open Swim
Campers swim at Cranbrook's Williams Natatorium. Swim tests are conducted on the first day. Campers who fail or prefer not to take the test are supplied with life jackets and remain in the shallow end of the pool. Campers are allowed to retake the test at any time. The Natatorium staff includes a full-time and certified pool manager, certified lifeguards, and our trained camp staff who serve as lookouts.Available Options
The following options can be combined to meet your needs. For example, you can choose morning Transportation Service and afternoon Extended Care. Logistical information for these additional options are provided in the Parent Welcome Packet emailed to registrants closer to the start of camp.
The following options can be combined to meet your needs. For example, you can choose morning Transportation Service and afternoon Extended Care. Logistical information for these additional options are provided in the Parent Welcome Packet emailed to registrants closer to the start of camp.
Extended Care
Extended Care is available beginning at 7 AM and ending at 6 PM. Afternoon care includes a snack. Campers enjoy activities, games, and open time outside and in the gym. Extended Care is located at Cranbrook Lower School Brookside. Campers are bused to/from camp each day. Extended Care is also a nice option for families with multiple children attending more than one of our camps to reduce the number of pick up points; parents/guardians simply pick up and drop off all children attending Extended Care at Brookside.
Transportation Service
Transportation Service is available to shuttle campers to and from specific stops in Birmingham, Rochester Hills, Royal Oak, and Troy. Times and locations are subject to change. Campers who are not picked up in time will be transported to Extended Care.
After Camp Activities
After Camp Activities include Chess and Coding. Space is limited. These activities are located at Cranbrook Lower School Brookside. Campers are bused from camp each day. Pick-up is at Brookside.
Extended Care is available beginning at 7 AM and ending at 6 PM. Afternoon care includes a snack. Campers enjoy activities, games, and open time outside and in the gym. Extended Care is located at Cranbrook Lower School Brookside. Campers are bused to/from camp each day. Extended Care is also a nice option for families with multiple children attending more than one of our camps to reduce the number of pick up points; parents/guardians simply pick up and drop off all children attending Extended Care at Brookside.
Transportation Service
Transportation Service is available to shuttle campers to and from specific stops in Birmingham, Rochester Hills, Royal Oak, and Troy. Times and locations are subject to change. Campers who are not picked up in time will be transported to Extended Care.
After Camp Activities
After Camp Activities include Chess and Coding. Space is limited. These activities are located at Cranbrook Lower School Brookside. Campers are bused from camp each day. Pick-up is at Brookside.
Communication & Photos
Parents/guardians are emailed a newsletter each week that includes a recap from the prior week, highlights for the following week, and updated group lists. Daily camp photos are posted on a secure website for you to see each day. Enhanced options include saving favorite photos, facial recognition with push notifications when a photo of your child is uploaded, posting to social media, emailing a photo to family, customizing photo gifts, and ordering high-resolution digital downloads or prints.
Parents/guardians are emailed a newsletter each week that includes a recap from the prior week, highlights for the following week, and updated group lists. Daily camp photos are posted on a secure website for you to see each day. Enhanced options include saving favorite photos, facial recognition with push notifications when a photo of your child is uploaded, posting to social media, emailing a photo to family, customizing photo gifts, and ordering high-resolution digital downloads or prints.
Why Cranbrook Schools Summer Camps?
Cranbrook Educational Community, a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization, is one of the world’s leading centers of education, science, and art. Comprising a graduate Academy of Art, contemporary Art Museum, House and Gardens, Institute of Science, and PreK-12 independent college preparatory Schools, Cranbrook welcomes thousands of visitors, students, and campers to its campus each year.
Founded by Detroit philanthropists George and Ellen Booth in 1904, Cranbrook’s 319-acre campus features the work of world-renowned architects such as Eliel Saarinen, Albert Kahn, Steven Holl, Tod Williams and Billie Tsien, Rafael Moneo, Peter Rose and sculptors Carl Milles, Marshall Fredericks and others. Critics have called Cranbrook "the most enchanted and enchanting setting in America" and in 1989, it was designated a National Historic Landmark.
Cranbrook Schools Summer Camps operate under Cranbrook Schools in a dedicated department named Special and Summer Programs. This year-round department focuses solely on summer camps, after-school programs, school rentals, and the school store. The dedicated full-time staff in the department spend the entire year preparing for camp. During the summer, over 1,800 campers from 20 states and nine countries come to Cranbrook for their summer experience. The campus, its facilities, the highly skilled and committed service departments such as Cranbrook's 24/7 security department, and all of Cranbrook's employees, residential faculty, and guests create a wonderful environment for children to learn and have fun.
Each camp includes a dedicated Director, Assistant Director, Office Administrator, Instructors, and Counselors. Each age-aligned group has one or two counselors who remain with their campers throughout the day and take them to each of the instructional areas. The camps are accredited by the American Camp Association and licensed through the State of Michigan Department of Lifelong Education, Advancement, and Potential.
Dates, Times & Locations
*REGISTRATION WILL OPEN MONDAY, DECEMBER 2ND AT 10 AM EST*
Full Session
Half Sessions
Partial Sessions
Full Session
Half Sessions
Partial Sessions
- June 16 - June 20, 2025
- June 23 - June 27, 2025
- June 30 - July 3, 2025
- M-Th Only, No camp on Friday, 7/4
- July 7 - July 11, 2025
- July 14 - July 18, 2025
- July 21 - July 25, 2025
- July 28 - August 1, 2025
- August 4 - August 8, 2025
- 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Contact Us
PO Box 801
Bloomfield Hills, MI 48303
(248) 645-3000
Bloomfield Hills, MI 48303
(248) 645-3000
