Camp Carter County offers free summer fun and learning for K–8 students, and Carter County Schools has offered up an open invitation to our local students. To help make the most of their summer break this free day camp program will be running from June 16 through June 27.
Open to students currently in kindergarten through 8th grade, the camp offers a full day of activities from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., including free breakfast and lunch, enrichment sessions, tutoring, and hands-on experiences that make learning fun even when school is out.
The first week of camp, June 16–20, will take place at Prichard Elementary, while the second week, June 23–27, will be hosted at Olive Hill Elementary.
Registration is now open, and parents can sign up using the QR code provided on the school’s flyer or by contacting Nellie Wright at (606) 474-6696 ext. 20-210 with any questions.
Whether your child needs a little academic boost, a safe place to make friends, or just wants to have fun while learning something new, Camp Carter County is a great opportunity to keep them engaged and active this summer—all at no cost to families.
==================
That’s not the only summer camp geared towards Carter County’s students, though. As the East Carter Youth Service Center is bringing Camp KIDS to life which is set to offer exciting adventures and life lessons for our middle school age students. Camp KIDS will be a dynamic summer experience for incoming 6th through 8th graders that promises to be both fun and meaningful.
Running from June 9 through June 13, the camp will operate daily from 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., offering students a wide variety of activities that go far beyond the classroom. From cave tours and swimming trips to visits to Camp Landing, campers will also participate in sessions focused on life skills, mental health, and community engagement.
Students will meet each morning at East Carter Middle School by 8:00 a.m., where they will then be transported to that day’s activity destination. The program is designed to provide a safe, enriching environment that encourages growth, friendship, and self-confidence—all while having a great time.
Parents or guardians interested in enrolling their child or learning more can contact Katie Coburn at katie.coburn@carter.kyschools.us or call 606-474-6696 ext. 31040.
Camp KIDS is a great way to keep middle schoolers active, connected, and building valuable skills that will serve them well in and out of school.
==================
Get ready to make a splash in one of the most unique summer events around! Carter Caves State Resort Park is opening up Cave Branch Cave for an unforgettable Underground Pool Party on June 25th, 2025, from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.
Bring your favorite floatie, slip into a provided lifejacket, and get set to drift through the cool, dark waters of the cave. This special one-day event offers up to 45 minutes of floating time in the cave, where water levels can reach up to 8 feet deep.
Closed-toe shoes are a must, and all participants must check in at the Welcome Center before the adventure begins. This event is weather-dependent, so keep an eye out for updates.
Tickets are just $10 per person, and participants must be 8 years or older. Guests under 18 must have a guardian present, and all attendees must sign a waiver before entering.
Don’t miss this chance to experience the cave like never before—grab your floatie and take the plunge! For more information or to secure your spot, visit parks.ky.gov or call (606) 286-7009.