STEAM Summer Camps for South Dakota Kids
Hands-on science, engineering, art, and math -- in communities across South Dakota, built for K-5 kids who love to build, explore, and create.
What Happens at a Dakota STEAM Learning Camp
Dakota STEAM Learning summer camps are not crafts and free play. They are week-long STEAM adventures built around real engineering challenges, science experiments, and creative art projects — designed to stretch K-5 kids beyond what they thought they could do.
Every camp day, kids tackle hands-on STEAM projects in a fast-paced, collaborative environment. One day they are designing and testing a bridge that can hold weight. Another day they are creating art installations inspired by real-world science. By the end of the week, they have built things, solved problems, failed and tried again, and walked away with the confidence that comes from doing hard things.
No step-by-step kits. No one right answer. Real challenges with multiple solutions; because that is how STEAM thinking actually works, and that is what South Dakota kids need to thrive
What Kids Experience at Camp
Each day at camp, students rotate through hands-on STEAM challenges that cover the full spectrum of Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Mathematics. Activities are designed for K-5 learners and adapted by age group so that younger campers and older campers are both appropriately challenged.
Science
Real experiments with real results. Kids explore cause and effect, observe and predict, and learn to think like scientists by doing science — not reading about it.
Technology
Hands-on technology exploration through tools, systems, and problem-solving applications. We connect tech to the real world so kids understand not just how to use it, but what it does and why it matters.
Engineering
Design. Build. Test. Redesign. Engineering at camp is an iterative process — campers tackle structural and mechanical challenges, then figure out what did not work and try again.
Art
STEAM without the A is just STEM. Art and design are central to our camp program because creative thinking is a STEAM skill. Kids produce real art projects inspired by science and engineering concepts.
Mathematics
Math shows up in our camps in context — measurement, geometry, data, and patterns woven into projects rather than isolated as drills. When math means something, kids engage with it differently.
What to Know Before You Register
Who it is for
Our summer camps are designed for students in grades K through 5. We adapt activities by grade level so that kindergartners and fifth graders are both appropriately challenged in the same camp environment.
How long is each camp day?
Camp sessions run 1.5 hours per group, and we serve up to three grade-level groups per day. Most camp days run from approximately 8:30 a.m. to 2:15 p.m., with sessions structured as:
- 8:30 to 10:00 a.m. — First grade group
- 10:15 to 11:45 a.m. — Second grade group
- 12:45 to 2:15 p.m. — Third grade group
Specific daily schedules vary by location and are confirmed with families after registration.
What should my child bring?
All STEAM materials and supplies are provided by Dakota STEAM Learning. Campers should bring a water bottle, a snack, and comfortable clothes they do not mind getting creative in. We work with paint, materials, and projects — some days get messy in the best possible way.
What if we have questions before registering?
We are happy to answer any questions about camp locations, schedules, or what to expect. Reach out through our contact page and we will get back to you within one business day.
What South Dakota Schools Are Saying
Philip Elementary had an amazing experience partnering with Dakota STEAM! The hands-on activities were engaging, well-organized, and perfectly designed for our elementary students. Our classrooms were filled with excitement, curiosity, and collaboration as students explored real-world problem solving through STEAM.
The Dakota STEAM team made the entire process seamless — from planning to presentation — and their passion for student learning truly shines. Opportunities like this are invaluable for our rural school, and our students are still talking about the experience!
We are so grateful for this partnership and can’t wait to work with Dakota STEAM again.
Mrs. Skye Holsether
Why Dakota STEAM Learning Camps Are Different
Dakota STEAM Learning was founded by Deanna and Jamie; two former South Dakota public school teachers who spent their careers in K-5 classrooms before starting this program. Together, they bring nearly three decades of teaching experience to every camp session.
That teaching background matters in ways that go beyond the STEAM content itself. Deanna and Jamie are trained in trauma-aware teaching practices, PBIS (Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports), and conscious discipline. That means every camper — including kids who struggle in traditional classroom environments — has a safe, structured, and genuinely fun experience.
And unlike most national STEAM camp providers, Dakota STEAM Learning goes to South Dakota communities that others skip. We run camps in Murdo, Kadoka, Philip, Martin, and Fort Pierre — places where quality STEAM enrichment has not historically been available to kids. Rapid City families have options; rural western South Dakota families deserve the same quality.
Our approach: We do not hand kids step-by-step instructions and call it innovation. We give them real challenges with no single right answer and let them think, collaborate, and create. That is what STEAM thinking actually is — and that is what we teach at every camp session across South Dakota.
Frequently Asked Questions
What grades are your summer camps for?
Our summer camps are designed for students in grades K through 5. We adapt our activities by grade level so that kindergartners and 5th graders are both working at the right challenge level. If you have a child who is about to enter kindergarten or has just finished 5th grade, contact us and we can let you know whether the camp will be a good fit.
Where are your summer camps located in South Dakota?
We run camps in communities across South Dakota each year. Current locations include Rapid City, Fort Pierre, Philip, Martin, Murdo, and Kadoka. We add locations each season — if your community is not on the list, reach out and ask. We are always looking to expand our South Dakota reach.
How do I register for a Dakota STEAM Learning summer camp?
Registration is handled through our online registration system. Click the ‘Register’ link next to your location in the dates table above to sign up for your preferred session. If you have questions before registering, contact us and we will walk you through the process.
What will my child actually do at camp?
Each day at camp, kids tackle hands-on STEAM challenges across science, technology, engineering, art, and mathematics. Activities change daily and are designed to challenge students to think independently, collaborate, and create. We do not use step-by-step instructions; we give kids real challenges with multiple possible solutions and let them figure it out. Most kids tell their parents about specific projects for days afterward.
What should my child bring to camp?
All STEAM materials and supplies are provided; you do not need to bring anything for the projects. Pack a water bottle, a snack for the day, and comfortable clothes that can get paint or craft materials on them. We recommend closed-toe shoes.
Are the camps indoors or outdoors?
Most camp activities take place indoors, though some sessions include outdoor exploration or activities depending on the project and location. We will communicate the specific setup for each camp location ahead of time so families know what to expect.
How much does a Dakota STEAM Learning summer camp cost?
Camp registration fees vary by location and session. See the registration link for your location above for current pricing, or contact us directly for a fee breakdown.
Is Dakota STEAM Learning a safe environment for kids?
Yes. Our founders Deanna and Jamie are former public school educators with training in trauma-aware teaching practices, PBIS, and conscious discipline. Every camp session is run by experienced educators who know how to create a safe, structured, and genuinely fun environment for K-5 students. If your child has specific needs, reach out before registering and we will discuss how we can support them.
Do you offer camps in rural South Dakota communities?
Yes, and this is one of the things we are most proud of. We specifically serve rural South Dakota communities that most camp programs skip over, including Murdo, Kadoka, Philip, Martin, and Fort Pierre. Quality STEAM education should not require a long drive to a city. We come to you.
