Registration for Summer 2026 opens on November 10th!
Overview
Nestled within 50 wooded acres bordering Bass Lake in Traverse City, Michigan, Camp Carvela offers boundless space for campers to explore, create, play, and dream. Our unique approach to programming puts campers in charge of designing our daily activities, which means no two days are ever the same. With a focus on creativity and community-building, Camp Carvela is the perfect place for kids to connect with nature and each other. Come find magic with us this summer!
Read More Show LessInclusion program for campers with: Asthma, ADHD, Autism, Food Allergies
Unique Features
- Unplugged and screen-free; we emphasize being present in our surroundings and connecting intentionally with one another.
- Camper-led programming; our campers have the freedom to choose and design their own activities, fostering creativity, independence, and leadership.
- Gender-inclusive and welcoming to all; we emphasize inclusion, kindness, and respect in all that we do.
- Small-group sessions; we intentionally limit our session registrations to foster a deeper sense of community and connection. Nobody gets
Activities
Dates & Rates
2026 Season:
- Camp Season June 14 - August 14
- Session Lengths 1, 2 weeks
- Cost $390 - $3,900 /week
Financial Offers:
- Tiered/sliding scale tutition: No
- Financial assistance: Yes
- Special discounts: No
Accommodations
Bunks
- Type: Cabins
- Open air
- No electricity/lights
- No air conditioning
- Separate bathhouse
- Showers not attached
- Toilets not attached
Health
- Staff certified in First Aid / CPR
- No doctor onsite
- Nurse onsite
- 24/7 medical staff
- Health Center
Dietary Needs
- Food Allergies
- Gluten Free
- Kosher
- Peanut-free
- Tree nut-free
- Vegan friendly
- Vegetarian friendly
International Campers
- Enrolls non-US campers
- 17 countries have attended
Welcome Message
Lisa Schlumbohm, Camp Director
Hi! I'm Lisa, Director of Camp Carvela. I'm so excited you're considering Carvela for your camper. As a mom of two, I know how overwhelming it can feel to pick the "right" camp for your child, especially when there are so many amazing options. To me, the magic of Carvela lies in our commitment to creativity and community. Every day at Carvela is different, reflecting our campers' unique interests, talents, and ideas. It's an incredible place to be a kid and we can't wait to share it with you!