Kids History Camp

 Why Attend
Kids History Camp gives children the opportunity to build self-confidence while learning practical life skills—without modern technology. While many activities today revolve around screens and indoor time, our camp is intentionally technology-free and encourages kids to unplug. Most activities take place outdoors, rain or shine, where campers learn by doing through hands-on, immersive experiences that make history come alive. 

How Kids Learn & Grow

Children rotated through hands-on learning stations designed to develop confidence, cooperation, and real-world skills. Activities such as archery, sewing, animal care, candle making, woodworking, gardening, fishing, and square dancing encouraged focus, patience, communication, and creativity. Technology-free environments allowed campers to fully engage, build friendships, and experience learning through movement and teamwork.

 Central Minnesota kids don’t always get the chance to learn and play alongside children of different ages and backgrounds. This camp creates a fun, welcoming space where kids of all ages learn together and connect with caring volunteers ranging from teens to grandparents. Children from public school, homeschool, and those with special needs come together to explore history, make new friends, and enjoy hands-on activities in an inclusive, supportive environment. 

 In the past, children grew up in multi-generational families within close-knit communities. Kids History Camp brings that spirit back by serving as a melting pot for today’s communities. Through hands-on activities, the camp strives to provide historically and culturally accurate experiences that reflect the time period being explored, helping children learn, connect, and better understand life in the past. 

 "Wow, so impressed by this camp and the organization and planning that went into it. A real life Little House on the Prairie day. My daughter had a great day and I love that she was able to experience history coming alive! THANK YOU to all the volunteers who made this happen. This is very impressive for our little town!" 

Camp Location:

Paynesville Historical Society & Museum

251 Ampe Drive

Paynesville MN 56362

Times:

Drop Off: 8:45-9:00AM

Camp Day 9AM -4PM

Pick Up: 4-4:15PM

Camper Ages:

6 - 15 Years Old

 Kids History Camp helps children grow in confidence, independence, and essential life skills through technology-free, hands-on learning. By actively doing history—not just hearing about it—campers build problem-solving skills, teamwork, creativity, and resilience while developing a deeper connection to their community and heritage. 

 Children rotated through hands-on learning stations designed to develop confidence, cooperation, and real-world skills. Activities such as archery, sewing, animal care, candle making, woodworking, gardening, fishing, and square dancing encouraged focus, patience, communication, and creativity. Technology-free environments allowed campers to fully engage, build friendships, and experience learning through movement and teamwork. 

Volunteers are essential to making camp happen. If you would like to volunteer please reach out to us at paynesvillehistorysociety@gmail.com.

Please be sure your children are aware that they are guests and should treat the museum, the grounds and off site locations respectfully. 

Please label everything your child brings to camp. Children will need to bring:

1. Brown Bag lunch (no cold storage is available for lunches)
2. Closed toe shoes (socks are highly recommended)
3. Water Bottle
4. Towel for group water play
5. Sun screen and tick spray
6. Weather related clothing as needed

Changes or cancellations must be made in writing to receive a full refund at least two weeks in advance of the camp start date. This must be sent to the Paynesville Historical Society via email.  Cancellations made less than two weeks in advance will not receive a refund. In the event of low registration numbers, Paynesville Historical Society reserves the right to cancel any camp session two weeks prior to the start date. In this case, participants will receive a full refund.