Make Unforgettable Memories at Camp O’Malley

Camp O’Malley Summer Camp in Alto, MI

Camp O’Malley Summer Camp is part of the 2025 West Michigan Summer Camps Guide.

Join us for an unforgettable week, or a whole summer, at Camp O’Malley!

Campers ages 6 – 12 (except for teen week) will enjoy a journey of growth, friendship, and unforgettable memories.

Camp runs from 8:30 AM – 4 PM Monday-Thursday. Transportation from Grand Rapids available. Before and after camp care is available as needed (before care runs from 7:30 – 8:30 AM, and after care runs from 4 – 5:30 PM).

We can’t wait to welcome your child to our Camp O’Malley family!

A Closer Look at Camp O’Malley

Camp O’Malley: A Nature-Based Adventure for Every Child. Nestled on the pristine Thornapple River and surrounded by vibrant forest, Camp O’Malley offers a unique, nature-based learning environment where children can explore, learn, and grow.

This exceptional day camp blends adventure, inclusivity, and hands-on learning to create a summer experience unlike any other.

With a commitment to providing every child with an opportunity to thrive, Camp O’Malley not only fosters a love for nature but also empowers campers through creativity, community, and personal development.

A Nature-Based Learning Environment

At Camp O’Malley, the great outdoors isn’t just a backdrop; it’s the classroom. Nature is woven into every aspect of the camp’s program. Allowing children to connect with the environment while engaging in fun, interactive activities.

Whether it’s building forts in the woods, identifying local flora and fauna, or learning sustainable practices, every day at Camp O’Malley is an opportunity to discover the wonders of nature firsthand.

The camp’s grounds feature acres of scenic forests, streams, and open fields, providing a diverse natural landscape perfect for exploration.

Campers participate in a variety of activities that allow them to experience nature up close—from hiking and nature walks to nature crafts, wildlife tracking, and environmental stewardship.

These experiences are designed to foster an appreciation for the environment while teaching campers about ecology, conservation, and the importance of protecting the planet.

Fun and Adventure for All Ages

At Camp O’Malley, fun is always a priority. While nature-based learning is at the core of the camp’s philosophy, there’s no shortage of excitement, adventure, and joy in every camper’s day.

The camp’s diverse program allows children to try their hand at a wide range of activities designed to spark their imaginations and keep them engaged throughout the summer.

Campers enjoy a wide variety of outdoor activities, from traditional camp favorites like canoeing and archery to more unique experiences like rock climbing and obstacle course challenges.

Water activities in the camp’s pool provide hours of fun, while nature scavenger hunts and treasure maps offer thrilling adventures through the forest.

In addition to outdoor adventures, arts and crafts sessions allow campers to create nature-inspired works of art, fostering creativity and self-expression.

But the fun doesn’t end there. Themed weeks at Camp O’Malley add an extra layer of excitement to each camper’s experience.

Every week features a unique theme that transforms the camp into a world of imagination and wonder.

These themed weeks are designed to encourage campers to explore new interests, take on challenges, and discover hidden talents in a supportive and fun environment.

Inclusivity: A Camp for Every Child

One of the things that truly sets Camp O’Malley apart is its unwavering commitment to inclusivity.

The camp prides itself on being a welcoming, supportive environment for children of all backgrounds, abilities, and interests.

No matter where a child comes from or what their unique needs may be, Camp O’Malley is dedicated to ensuring every camper feels valued, respected, and empowered.

The camp’s staff is specially trained to work with children with diverse needs, and they go above and beyond to make sure every child has a positive and fulfilling experience.

Whether a camper requires extra support or simply needs a little guidance navigating social interactions, Camp O’Malley’s inclusive approach ensures that all campers are able to participate and thrive.

The emphasis on inclusivity also extends to the camp’s programming, with activities designed to accommodate a wide range of abilities.

From sensory-friendly outdoor games to tailored learning experiences, every activity at Camp O’Malley is created with the goal of allowing each child to succeed in their own way.

The camp is a place where differences are celebrated, and all campers are encouraged to contribute, collaborate, and support one another.

Themed Weeks: Every Week is an Adventure

One of the highlights of the Camp O’Malley experience is its rotating themed weeks. Each week, campers are introduced to a new, exciting theme that infuses their activities with fresh energy and purpose.

These themed weeks are designed to be both educational and entertaining, offering campers the chance to dive deep into specific topics while having a blast with their friends.

Upcoming themes include “Wilderness Survivalist,” where campers learn outdoor survival skills such as building shelters, starting fires, and navigating the wilderness.

“Creative Creature,” focuses on using natural materials to create beautiful works of art.

“Eco Camp ,” teaches campers about sustainable living, recycling, and environmental activism.

Other themes include “Animal Lovers,” “Xtreme Xplorer,” “BGC Club Week,” “Leadership Camp,” “Splash Adventure,” “Safety Heroes Camp,” and “Sportsman Camp”.

Offering an action-packed summer for campers, focusing on skill development, teamwork, and sportsmanship.

These themed weeks not only add an extra layer of excitement to the camp experience but also offer valuable learning opportunities that allow campers to expand their horizons and explore new interests.

Each theme is thoughtfully crafted to engage children in hands-on, immersive experiences that challenge them to think creatively, collaborate with others, and learn new skills.

Expert Visitors and Special Guests

To make each themed week even more enriching, Camp O’Malley invites expert visitors and special guests to share their knowledge and skills with the campers.

Each visitor is carefully selected for their expertise in a variety of fields, from wildlife biology and conservation to art, music, and outdoor survival.

These professionals not only offer campers a deeper understanding of their themes but also serve as role models, inspiring the next generation of adventurers, scientists, and creators.

For example, during “Wilderness Survivalist Week,” US Airforce SERE Specialists teach campers to master shelter building, wayfinding, fire making, and outdoor survival skills.

Whether your child is an adventurer, an artist, or a budding environmentalist, Camp O’Malley offers the perfect blend of fun and learning to spark their curiosity and help them develop new skills.

With its diverse programming, passionate staff, and unique focus on nature, Camp O’Malley provides an unforgettable summer experience that children will cherish for years to come.

Enroll today, and let your child discover the magic of Camp O’Malley!

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