Culture & Leadership Summer Camps

Historical Detectives: Uncovering the Past, Shaping the Future (Grades 5-8)

July 20-24, 2026

Step into the stories that shape our world and discover how people and communities create change. In this engaging camp, students explore meaningful moments from the past and present, uncover powerful stories, and examine real-life challenges that affect everyday life. Through hands-on activities, collaborative projects, and creative storytelling, participants learn to ask thoughtful questions, consider multiple perspectives, and understand the impact of their choices. A highlight of the week is a field trip to Recreation Unlimited, where campers put their teamwork skills to the test through an Escape Room–style challenge, outdoor field games designed to promote collaboration, and an Amazing Race–inspired adventure as they work together to navigate the campus and achieve a shared goal. The camp culminates in a showcase where students present solutions, stories, or initiatives inspired by real-world civic challenges.

Program Details

Where: Ohio State Marion, Science and Engineering Building  
When: 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. 
Cost: $185 (lunch and lab costs are included in the registration fee)  
Eligibility: Applicant must be enrolled as a rising 5^th-8^th grade student in any United States school. 

Application Procedure 

Use the following link to apply: 2026 Historical Detectives: Uncovering the Past, Shaping the Future

Registration will close May 31st, 2026, or at the earliest date all available spaces are filled. Internet access is required for completing the application form and remitting the camp fee.

If you have questions please email Tiffiny Rye-McCurdy at rye-mccurdy.1@osu.edu.

Ohio State Marion Summer Camp Contributors: Recreation Unlimited

Future World Changers: Leaders of Tomorrow (Grades 9-12)

July 20-24, 2026

High school students will explore leadership, advocacy, and community impact through activities grounded in psychology, social work, education, and environmental stewardship. Campers will develop their voice through persuasion workshops, practice conflict resolution, and examine how educators and civic leaders shape stronger communities. Hands-on sessions include nature journaling with a sustainability focus and envisioning future pathways for personal and societal well-being. The camp also features a field experience at Recreation Unlimited where students participate in an Escape Room team challenge, outdoor field games with a leadership and collaboration focus, and an Amazing Race–style campus challenge that requires strategy, communication, and cooperation to succeed. By the end of the week, participants will leave with the confidence and tools to become thoughtful, effective changemakers.

Program Details

Where: Ohio State Marion, Science and Engineering Building  
When: 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. 
Cost: $185 (lunch and lab costs are included in the registration fee)  
Eligibility: Applicant must be enrolled as a rising 9^th-12^th grade student in any United States school. 

Application Procedure 

Use the following link to apply: 2026 Future World Changers: Leaders of Tomorrow

Registration will close May 31st, 2026, or at the earliest date all available spaces are filled. Internet access is required for completing the application form and remitting the camp fee.

If you have questions please email Tiffiny Rye-McCurdy at rye-mccurdy.1@osu.edu.

Ohio State Marion Summer Camp Contributors: Recreation Unlimited

Stories in Action: Voices that Shape Society (Grades 9-12)

July 20-24, 2026

Step into the stories that shape our world and discover how people and communities create change. In this engaging camp, students explore meaningful moments from the past and present, uncover powerful stories, and examine real-life challenges that affect everyday life. Through hands-on activities, collaborative projects, and creative storytelling, participants learn to ask thoughtful questions, consider multiple perspectives, and understand the impact of their choices. A highlight of the week is a field trip to Recreation Unlimited, where campers put their teamwork skills to the test through an Escape Room–style challenge, outdoor field games designed to promote collaboration, and an Amazing Race–inspired adventure as they work together to navigate the campus and achieve a shared goal. The camp culminates in a showcase where students present solutions, stories, or initiatives inspired by real-world civic challenges.

Program Details

Where: Ohio State Marion, Science and Engineering Building  
When: 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. 
Cost: $185 (lunch and lab costs are included in the registration fee)  
Eligibility: Applicant must be enrolled as a rising 9^th-12^th grade student in any United States school. 

Application Procedure 

Use the following link to apply: 2026 Stories in Action: Voices that Shape Society

Registration will close May 31st, 2026, or at the earliest date all available spaces are filled. Internet access is required for completing the application form and remitting the camp fee.

If you have questions please email Tiffiny Rye-McCurdy at rye-mccurdy.1@osu.edu.

Ohio State Marion Summer Camp Contributors: Recreation Unlimited

Refund Policy

Refunds for camp cancellations may be requested with advance notice and are subject to the following schedule: 

More than 6 weeks prior to the start of camp: A full refund minus a $15 administrative cancellation fee. 

Between 6 weeks and 4 weeks prior to the start of camp: A 75% refund of the camp fee (refund amount: $138.75). 

Less than 4 weeks prior to the start of camp: Refunds are not guaranteed and may be granted at the discretion of the Youth and Community Learning Director, based on circumstances and program capacity. 

Nonattendance without an advance refund request does not constitute grounds for a refund under any circumstances.