Find a Program
By Program Name:
iPad Blogging @ SHES
Program Type: Specialty Camps
Session(s):
Hear ye, hear ye! Read all about it! Today’s news is all online. Join this Congo Camp to turn your reporter instincts into today’s digital skills. We’ll practice interviewing and writing stories, taking photos, and putting it all together online for everyone in to see on our own Congo Blog. Record the pulse of camp […]
Cheerleading @ SHES
Program Type: Specialty Camps
Session(s):
Cheerleading camp will be an exciting week for your child to learn the basics of cheer through cheers, chants, tumbling and even a little stunting! Your child will also learn the importance and value of teamwork through collaborative games. The goal is to put together a mini routine for them to perform at the end […]
Drone Camps Superhero Challenge @ SHES
Program Type: Specialty Camps
Age/Grade:
Session(s):
Superhero Missions is specifically designed for both the novice and experienced drone enthusiasts. Our instructors will open the creative minds of participants as campers attack and defend against Superheroes and Villains. Students will begin the week learning basic maneuvers before using their “Spidey-Sense” to conquer missions such as: Batman’s Drone-Mobile Escape, The Breakout of Iron […]
Lego Architecture and Trains @ SHES
Program Type: Specialty Camps
Session(s):
How can skyscrapers be so high? How do you make a functional space like a house become a work of art? We’ll explore the fundamentals of design, engineering, and art through Lego architecture. Build recreations of famous buildings. Create your own inspired building designs. We’ll work together to create a Lego city filled with amazing […]
Tennis @ One Life Fitness
Program Type: Specialty Camps
Session(s):
We are excited to partner with One Life Fitness at Skyline to offer this exciting Tennis Camp option. Campers will arrive at Congressional daily and be shuttled to One Life Fitness with access to multiple indoor climate controlled courts and One Life’s experienced camp staff. The Skyline Onelife Fitness invites you to enjoy an unforgettable tennis experience—no […]
Congo Coding
Program Type: Specialty Camps
Session(s):
Are you ready to get digital? Join the Congo programming team and learn how to write code! We’ll work with Swift and advance to programming Sphero robots. Tackle team challenges with critical thinking, problem-solving, and a lot of creativity. We need hands-on tinkerers ready to jump in and make it work. Are you ready?
Cyber Security
Program Type: Specialty Camps
Session(s):
Join us as we explore the growing field of cyber security in this innovative new camp. We’ll learn about life in cyber security, how to be secure and aware when we are online, and practice some critical digital skills. Explore network fundamentals, program robots, and play with high-tech tools like drones. We’ll even take a […]
iPad Digital Art @ SHES
Program Type: Specialty Camps
Session(s):
Unleash your inner artist! Explore great masterpieces of past and present for inspiration for your own works of art. Learn about tools and resources to bring your vision to life in the digital platform of an iPad. We’ll finish our camp with an art show for other campers, and share some of our creations with […]
Zippy’s Tacos
Program Type: Specialty Camps
Session(s):
Everybody loves tacos. With 1001 variations, any chef has can create a unique masterpiece of culinary perfection. Try your own hand at making different styles and practice cooking techniques.
Congo Escape Room @ SHES
Program Type: Specialty Camps
Session(s):
Do you love to solve puzzle? Create tricks and traps? Think through complicated challenges? Do you like building? Then join us for the first ever Congo Escape Room! Work as a team to design, figure out, and bring to life your very own themed escape room. Will you be escaping from an airlock in space? Perhaps you want to break into a museum to liberate some fancy artwork. Put those thinking skills to the extreme test while you challenge yourselves and others in your own escape room challenge.
Animal Rangers
Program Type: Specialty Camps
Session(s):
Calling all animal lovers! Do you prefer fuzzy, four-legged friends? How about slithery, scaly snakes? Do you think creepy crawlies are cool? Spend the week learning about all types of amazing critters. Go searching for animals on our 40 acre property. Act like an animal. Make animal crafts. And see your favorites up close at the National Zoo.
Flag Football
Program Type: Specialty Camps
Session(s):
Join the newest of Congo Camp’s sport camps: flag football. You’ll learn the all of the basis of good offense, good defense, passing, receiving, and deflagging. This is the sport for future NFL All-Stars! Make great friends, and have a blast scrimmaging on a team.
Handwork Day Camp
Program Type: Great Adventures, Great Adventures Specialty Camps, Specialty Camps
Session(s):
Picture your child in the care of energetic and imaginative counselors exploring the world of needle-arts. At Handwork Day Camp, you’ll find campers sharing stories and laughs while working on a wide array of unique projects. Our goal is to teach useful skills such as, hand-sewing, embroidery, knitting, weaving, needle-felting and much more! Campers are always free to express themselves and are enveloped in creativity and fun. Whether refining skills or learning brand new ones, our camp is sure to delight. Join the fun with Summer 2018’s fresh new curriculum with different projects every week!
Jedi Academy Session 8 @ SHES
Program Type: Specialty Camps
Session(s):
Set off on your path to join the Jedi Order in this brand new camp perfect for any Star Wars fan. Master the Force, construct your own lightsaber, and have fun with your friends as you explore the rich lore of the Star Wars universe.
Robotics
Program Type: Specialty Camps
Session(s):
Careers of the future start with STEM today. And there’s no better way to ignite a love of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics than through robots. Practice programming, building circuits, designing, problem-solving, and teamwork through a series of increasingly more difficult challenges.
Tech Toy World Testers
Program Type: Specialty Camps
Session(s):
Does your camper love destroying things to see how they work? Do they dissect electronics and dismember plastic parts? If your camper gets more joy from disassembling items than from playing with them, this is the camp for you! Figure out how things work. Push toys beyond the breaking point, and have a blast in the process.
Microscopic World @ SHES
Program Type: Specialty Camps
Session(s):
An entire universe exists in spaces too small to see: predators hunt prey with viscous fangs. Creepy plants bloom out of crazy substances. Unbelievable colors and shapes look more like a alien landscape than things found on earth. Explore this tiny universe with microscopes and magnifying glasses. Learn how the super tiny make life possible for creatures like us. It’s a crazy world out there, and you’ll get a chance to see it all!
Art Studio Watercolors @ SHES
Program Type: Specialty Camps
Session(s):
Calling all artists! Try your hand at the ancient art of watercolor painting. Learn new techniques. Practice your own personal style. Create your own masterpieces in this week-long creative camp.
Eco Adventures
Program Type: Travel Camps
Session(s):
Seeking all adventurers! This themed travel camp will get you outside. Visit some of the best natural spaces in the DC area, along with your favorite venues for travel camp. Along with our usual hang-outs, we’ll also search for the lost ruins of the capitol building in Rock Creek Park and take a float trip in kayaks!
Breakfast Club
Program Type: Specialty Camps
Session(s):
In the simplest terms, this camp is everything you like best about breakfast. We have found that each one of us has a little love of eggs, breakfast meats, farm fresh vegetables, and in season ingredients inside of us. Put it all together under the careful guidance of the expertise of Congo Camp counselors, and you’ll have a great reason to get up early. Don’t forget about this camp as you plan for a tasty summer! (don’t, don’t, don’t, don’t, don’t you)
Zippy’s Speed Circuit
Program Type: Travel Camps
Session(s):
You’ve got to feed the need for speed! This themed travel camp will be a week of fast-paced fun culminating in a visit to Six Flags of America.
Pony Adventure Session 3
Program Type: Specialty Camps
Session(s):
Have you ever wanted to own a pony? Here is your chance to have a real pony experience without having to build a stable in your backyard. You and a partner will “adopt” a Congressional horse for the week. You will learn how to care, feed, groom, and take care of all of the needs of your pony. Campers will have a 45-minute personalized lesson each day. In addition to riding, you will learn about teamwork and the importance of safety when being around ponies. All equestrian activities are weather-dependent. In the case of inclement weather, certain activities may need to be postponed or cancelled without refund. Campers are required to bring long pants and close-toed shoes, and encouraged to bring riding boots with a low heel and a professionally fit helmet.
Pony Adventure Session 4
Program Type: Specialty Camps
Session(s):
Have you ever wanted to own a pony? Here is your chance to have a real pony experience without having to build a stable in your backyard. You and a partner will “adopt” a Congressional horse for the week. You will learn how to care, feed, groom, and take care of all of the needs of your pony. Campers will have a 45-minute personalized lesson each day. In addition to riding, you will learn about teamwork and the importance of safety when being around ponies. All equestrian activities are weather-dependent. In the case of inclement weather, certain activities may need to be postponed or cancelled without refund. Campers are required to bring long pants and close-toed shoes, and encouraged to bring riding boots with a low heel and a professionally fit helmet.
Pony Adventure Session 5
Program Type: Specialty Camps
Session(s):
Have you ever wanted to own a pony? Here is your chance to have a real pony experience without having to build a stable in your backyard. You and a partner will “adopt” a Congressional horse for the week. You will learn how to care, feed, groom, and take care of all of the needs of your pony. Campers will have a 45-minute personalized lesson each day. In addition to riding, you will learn about teamwork and the importance of safety when being around ponies. All equestrian activities are weather-dependent. In the case of inclement weather, certain activities may need to be postponed or cancelled without refund. Campers are required to bring long pants and close-toed shoes, and encouraged to bring riding boots with a low heel and a professionally fit helmet.
Pony Adventure Session 6
Program Type: Specialty Camps
Session(s):
Have you ever wanted to own a pony? Here is your chance to have a real pony experience without having to build a stable in your backyard. You and a partner will “adopt” a Congressional horse for the week. You will learn how to care, feed, groom, and take care of all of the needs of your pony. Campers will have a 45-minute personalized lesson each day. In addition to riding, you will learn about teamwork and the importance of safety when being around ponies. All equestrian activities are weather-dependent. In the case of inclement weather, certain activities may need to be postponed or cancelled without refund. Campers are required to bring long pants and close-toed shoes, and encouraged to bring riding boots with a low heel and a professionally fit helmet.
Mini-Golf
Program Type: Specialty Camps
Session(s):
Team-building and precision sports at it’s finest. Build your very own mini-golf course with traps, tricks, and golf tees. Draw up plans, construct holes, and play mini golf to your heart’s content.
Spanish Immersion
Program Type: Specialty Camps
Session(s):
Do you want the best of summer camp with a language twist? Practice your Spanish in this unique session. You’ll do everything that day camp does, but in Spanish. Meet new friends, practice sports, play games, swim, make crafts, all while being surrounded by Spanish speakers.
Water Warriors
Program Type: Specialty Camps
Session(s):
Prepare to get wet! We’ll make Tripps Run Creek our playground as we we explore, splash, and discover all that this unique ecosystem has to offer. Catch critters, build a rope bridge, wade downstream to Lake Barcroft, float on the currents as we learn about our watershed.
Sports on the Go
Program Type: Travel Camps
Session(s):
Team sports is the name of the game for this themed travel camp. From behind the scenes tours of professional stadiums to batting cages and color wars in the laser tag arena, perfect your teamwork skills and get your game on! Like other travel camps, Each day will bring unique destinations, great games, and lots of fun!
Water Robotics
Program Type: Specialty Camps
Session(s):
Teams of campers will work together to design, test, build, and program their very own robots. Start on land and transition those robots to water as you complete more an more complicated tasks. This is the perfect camp for problem-solvers, creative-thinkers, and engineers.
British Baking
Program Type: Specialty Camps
Session(s):
Are you as obsessed as we are with the baking show from “the other side of the pond” that has become a staple of American public television? If so, put on your apron, roll up your sleeves, and join us in the Congo kitchen to create a variety of traditional British baked goods. Campers will explore the sweet and the savory, trying their hand at treats both familiar and unexpected using recipes straight from the popular television show. Campers with serious food allergies, please contact the Camp Office prior to registering.
Fairy Woods & Firelight
Program Type: Specialty Camps
Session(s):
The Congo Camp’s woods are full of magic things to discover! Build gnome homes, sip woodland tea, make nature crafts, and eat food cooked over a fairy fire. This camp is a great way for a young adventurer to fall in love with the outdoors.
Survival Junior
Program Type: Specialty Camps
Session(s):
What would you do if you found yourself stranded on a deserted island? Would you know how to find safe water, build a shelter, and find your way to help? We’ll dive into the woods at Congressional and practice basic survival skills like building shelters, navigating off-trail, preparing water to drink, and managing a safe fire. Campers must willing to be outside and get a little dirty and wet, but do not need any prior outdoor skills or knowledge.
Geology & Gems @ SHES
Program Type: Specialty Camps
Session(s):
This hands-on science program will explore fundamental concepts of Earth Science. Students will learn the principal categories of rock classification: sedimentary, igneous, and metamorphic. We will also participate in a simulated fossil dig, model volcanoes, geocaching and other interactive projects.
Spy Camp @ SHES
Program Type: Specialty Camps
Session(s):
Discover a world of secrecy and intrigue in this camp perfect for any aspiring man or woman of mystery. Campers will learn about the history of espionage, real and fictional spies, secret codes and how to break them, hidden gadgets, and more. Spy Camp will also include a visit to the Spy Museum in Washington, D.C., where campers can immerse themselves in the world of espionage and experience the role that spies, real and fictional, have played throughout history and in popular culture.
Tripps Run Trail Crew
Program Type: Specialty Camps
Session(s):
Calling all burly outdoorsy campers! We need your help to build a cross-camp trail. Bushwack through camp’s 40 acres. Plan and mark a new trail system. Learn how to use tools like saws, loppers, drills, and more to cut trees, move boulders, and build bridges and water bars. This hands-on camp will teach real-life building and outdoors skills with a keen eye towards safety. Contribute to creating something that improves camp for decades to come! No prior experiences outside or with tools are necessary.
Treasure Island
Program Type: Specialty Camps
Session(s):
Find yourself shipwrecked with a crew of friends in the woods of Congo Camp. You must build a mini-civilization to survive. You and your team will explore, discover, and create your own world in the woods full of imagination and play.
Adventure Movie Making
Program Type: Specialty Camps
Session(s):
Lights! Camera! Action! Cue the stunts! In Adventure Movie Making, campers will use iPads to learn how to shoot and edit video footage, create their own stories, and explore our campus for the best locations to shoot their films. Once they’ve finished recording, campers will use a variety of special effects apps to enhance their films with dramatic sequences or little touches of creativity. This camp will put Hollywood in the palm of your hands!
SimCity & Urban Planning
Program Type: Specialty Camps
Session(s):
Become a demigod and design a kingdom to your own specifications. You’ve played the computer games, now learn how it works in real life. Use real life examples and models to understand how to improve your online game, and to learn how our own world works.
Pony Adventure Session 7
Program Type: Specialty Camps
Session(s):
Have you ever wanted to own a pony? Here is your chance to have a real pony experience without having to build a stable in your backyard. You and a partner will “adopt” a Congressional horse for the week. You will learn how to care, feed, groom, and take care of all of the needs of your pony. Campers will have a 45-minute personalized lesson each day. In addition to riding, you will learn about teamwork and the importance of safety when being around ponies. All equestrian activities are weather-dependent. In the case of inclement weather, certain activities may need to be postponed or cancelled without refund. Campers are required to bring long pants and close-toed shoes, and encouraged to bring riding boots with a low heel and a professionally fit helmet.
Pony Adventure Session 8
Program Type: Specialty Camps
Session(s):
Have you ever wanted to own a pony? Here is your chance to have a real pony experience without having to build a stable in your backyard. You and a partner will “adopt” a Congressional horse for the week. You will learn how to care, feed, groom, and take care of all of the needs of your pony. Campers will have a 45-minute personalized lesson each day. In addition to riding, you will learn about teamwork and the importance of safety when being around ponies. All equestrian activities are weather-dependent. In the case of inclement weather, certain activities may need to be postponed or cancelled without refund. Campers are required to bring long pants and close-toed shoes, and encouraged to bring riding boots with a low heel and a professionally fit helmet.
Pony Adventure Session 9
Program Type: Specialty Camps
Session(s):
Have you ever wanted to own a pony? Here is your chance to have a real pony experience without having to build a stable in your backyard. You and a partner will “adopt” a Congressional horse for the week. You will learn how to care, feed, groom, and take care of all of the needs of your pony. Campers will have a 45-minute personalized lesson each day. In addition to riding, you will learn about teamwork and the importance of safety when being around ponies. All equestrian activities are weather-dependent. In the case of inclement weather, certain activities may need to be postponed or cancelled without refund. Campers are required to bring long pants and close-toed shoes, and encouraged to bring riding boots with a low heel and a professionally fit helmet.
Pony Adventure Session 10
Program Type: Specialty Camps
Session(s):
Have you ever wanted to own a pony? Here is your chance to have a real pony experience without having to build a stable in your backyard. You and a partner will “adopt” a Congressional horse for the week. You will learn how to care, feed, groom, and take care of all of the needs of your pony. Campers will have a 45-minute personalized lesson each day. In addition to riding, you will learn about teamwork and the importance of safety when being around ponies. All equestrian activities are weather-dependent. In the case of inclement weather, certain activities may need to be postponed or cancelled without refund. Campers are required to bring long pants and close-toed shoes, and encouraged to bring riding boots with a low heel and a professionally fit helmet.
Learn to Ride: Skateboarding
Program Type: Specialty Camps
Session(s):
Radical Dude. Extreme Fun. This fun-filled skateboard camp is packed with safe, thrilling activities for beginner to intermediate riders. Camp is held outdoors in a “skate park on wheels,” a mobile skate park with equipment designed for beginner to intermediate riders. The skate park has mini-quarter-pipes, grind box, fun box, launch ramps, wedge ramps, grind rails and more. Separate groups, determined by age and ability are formed. Under the supervision of American Inline instructors and coaches, skateboard campers receive instruction to safely ride, tack turn, olly, grind, stall, drop in, and get air in a safe environment. Each day includes instruction, skating games and jam time. Participants receive camp t-shirt and stickers. Campers are required to bring: a skateboard, helmet, knee and elbow pads, and wrist guards.
Space Expedition
Program Type: Specialty Camps
Session(s):
Unleash your inner astronaut! Join us as we explore all things outer space. We’ll play with rockets, learn about planets, design our own space stations, and so much more. We’ll even hop on buses and head to the Air and Space Museum for an up close look at real artifacts from the space program. Campers will develop team-building and critical thinking skills while having a blast with hands-on and project-based science activities.
Ropes Adventure Session 2
Program Type: Specialty Camps
Session(s):
With low elements and a high ropes course, this program provides campers with a unique opportunity for team building and gaining self-confidence. Our elaborate course includes a zip line and a 40-foot, three-sided climbing wall with 6 different approaches. You will go through a progression of initiatives ranging from simple to complex as you challenge each obstacle. All activities are supervised by our well-trained staff who will participate through demonstrations and individualized instruction.
Ropes Adventure Session 4
Program Type: Specialty Camps
Session(s):
With low elements and a high ropes course, this program provides campers with a unique opportunity for team building and gaining self-confidence. Our elaborate course includes a zip line and a 40-foot, three-sided climbing wall with 6 different approaches. You will go through a progression of initiatives ranging from simple to complex as you challenge each obstacle. All activities are supervised by our well-trained staff who will participate through demonstrations and individualized instruction.
Ropes Adventure Session 5
Program Type: Specialty Camps
Session(s):
With low elements and a high ropes course, this program provides campers with a unique opportunity for team building and gaining self-confidence. Our elaborate course includes a zip line and a 40-foot, three-sided climbing wall with 6 different approaches. You will go through a progression of initiatives ranging from simple to complex as you challenge each obstacle. All activities are supervised by our well-trained staff who will participate through demonstrations and individualized instruction.
Ropes Adventure Session 6
Program Type: Specialty Camps
Session(s):
With low elements and a high ropes course, this program provides campers with a unique opportunity for team building and gaining self-confidence. Our elaborate course includes a zip line and a 40-foot, three-sided climbing wall with 6 different approaches. You will go through a progression of initiatives ranging from simple to complex as you challenge each obstacle. All activities are supervised by our well-trained staff who will participate through demonstrations and individualized instruction.
Ropes Adventure Session 8
Program Type: Specialty Camps
Session(s):
With low elements and a high ropes course, this program provides campers with a unique opportunity for team building and gaining self-confidence. Our elaborate course includes a zip line and a 40-foot, three-sided climbing wall with 6 different approaches. You will go through a progression of initiatives ranging from simple to complex as you challenge each obstacle. All activities are supervised by our well-trained staff who will participate through demonstrations and individualized instruction.
Congo BBQ
Program Type: Specialty Camps
Session(s):
Light the fire and grab your spatulas; the grill is getting hot! Unleash your inner chef. We’ll learn fire and grill safety before delving into the smoky world of cooking by fire. We’ll cook on open fires in fire pits, on grills, and even on a slow smoker. We’ll learn about camping food, BBQ meats, and creative vegetarian dishes over open flame.
Pony Adventure Session 1
Program Type: Specialty Camps
Session(s):
Have you ever wanted to own a pony? Here is your chance to have a real pony experience without having to build a stable in your backyard. You and a partner will “adopt” a Congressional horse for the week. You will learn how to care, feed, groom, and take care of all of the needs […]
Pony Adventure Session 2
Program Type: Specialty Camps
Session(s):
Have you ever wanted to own a pony? Here is your chance to have a real pony experience without having to build a stable in your backyard. You and a partner will “adopt” a Congressional horse for the week. You will learn how to care, feed, groom, and take care of all of the needs […]
Weather Watchers
Program Type: Specialty Camps
Session(s):
How you ever wondered what causes tornadoes, how thunderstorms and electricity seems to bounce around the sky, or what tools meteorologists use to predict tomorrow’s forecast? Find out the answers to these questions and more in Weather Watchers!
Congo Detectives @ SHES
Program Type: Specialty Camps
Session(s):
The world’s most famous detective might have lived at 221B Baker Street, but amateur sleuths will feel right at home as they unravel mysteries and solve complex cases at Congressional. Look for clues, question suspects, interpret evidence, and solve the case, all while learning about real and fictional detectives and their roles in history and popular culture.
Hawaiian Cooking
Program Type: Specialty Camps
Session(s):
Bring the flavors of The Aloha State back home in Hawaiian Cooking Camp! Hawaiian cooking introduces campers to the exotic food and drinks enjoyed in the Hawaiian Islands. Every day, campers will try exciting Hawaiian recipes, working together to cook and sample new foods, snacks, and drinks. Campers are sure to come home with some delicious recipes at the end of the week!
Chess Wizards
Program Type: Specialty Camps
Session(s):
Learn the game of chess in a friendly, hands-on environment. Our counselors will teach your camper everything they need to master the game, from rules and piece movements to opening and end game strategies. Campers will have the opportunity to play games against one another and their instructors to further hone their skills.
Fun with Fossils
Program Type: Specialty Camps
Session(s):
Unearth your inner paleontologist and discover a whole new world hidden right underneath our feet! Figure out how fossils were formed, why different fossils are found where they are found around the world, and set up an excavation site to dig up the history of the footprints, plants, gems, and animal species preserved throughout time, and take home your own real fossilized dinosaur bones. We’ll even take a field trip to Calvert Cliffs where we’ll dig and sift for real fossilized sharks teeth. This field trip will be a little late back to camp. Bus campers will be back in time to ride the bus home, and other campers can choose to stay in EHP for free on the day of the field trip.
Lake Anna
Program Type: Travel Camps
Session(s):
Come spend your last week of summer relaxing with Congo Camp on the beautiful shores of Lake Anna! This new trip is being led by our Camp Directors Dan and Gene. Campers will spend the week in a rented lake house, where they will enjoy home cooked meals, go swimming in the lake, special events, evening programming, games, and take advantage of everything that Lake Anna has to offer. Campers will depart for Lake Anna on Monday morning, and return to Congressional on Friday afternoon.
Tennis
Program Type: Specialty Camps
Session(s):
Take advantage of our Sport Court and join us to learn all about the sport of Tennis. Our Tennis counselors will work with campers of all abilities to expand their game and teach them new techniques. Beginner players will be introduced to the rules of the sports and practice their basic backhand and forehand shots, and learn how to keep score, while more advanced campers will refine their court movement and shot placement, learn why different shots are appropriate for different situations throughout a match, and perfect their serves. Racquets and balls will be provided, but campers are free to bring their own if they prefer.
Art Studio Paint @ SHES
Program Type: Specialty Camps
Session(s):
Grab your brushes and get ready to create a masterpiece! Campers will learn from a variety of painters and styles, from classical artists like Rembrandt and da Vinci to more modern auteurs like Jackson Pollack and Salvador Dali, before expressing their own creativity by manipulating a variety of brushes, canvases, paints, and techniques. By the end of the session, campers will have assembled an impressive portfolio of work to display at home!
Jr. Architects @ SHES
Program Type: Specialty Camps
Session(s):
Design, experiment, and build anything you can imagine in this hands-on camp focused on architectural design. Our young architects will study architectural theory and classic design, using a combination of computer software and physical models to blueprint and construct their own buildings, bridges, stadiums, and modern marvels!
The Wizarding World @ SHES
Program Type: Specialty Camps
Session(s):
Board the train at Platform 9 ¾ and enter the World of Wizardry! Harry Potter fans will love learning about fantastic beasts and searching for where to find them, constructing their own wands, playing Quidditch, and concocting powerful potions and spells in this brand new camp.
Mythbusters
Program Type: Specialty Camps
Session(s):
Can lightning strike the same place twice? Will a hot sidewalk actually fry an egg? What really happens if you swallow your chewing gum? It’s time to find out if myths like these make sense, or just go bust. Campers will separate fact from fiction by picking some of life’s strangest mysteries to put to the test. Just like on the popular TV show, our campers will work together to safely plan and conduct experiments to prove or disprove these urban legends.
Japanese Cooking @ SHES
Program Type: Specialty Camps
Session(s):
Konnichiwa, and welcome to Japanese Cooking at Congo Camp! Have you ever wanted to try your hand at making sushi? Explore the wide variety of Japanese cooking techniques and food preparation? Spend this week learning all about the culinary delicacies of the Japanese culture? Japanese Cooking is your opportunity! Over the course of the week, campers will learn about Japanese history and culture, create and sample various Japanese dishes, and compile cookbooks full of their own unique recipes.
Jedi Academy Session 4 @ SHES
Program Type: Specialty Camps
Session(s):
Set off on your path to join the Jedi Order in this brand new camp perfect for any Star Wars fan. Master the Force, construct your own lightsaber, and have fun with your friends as you explore the rich lore of the Star Wars universe.
Time Travelers @ SHES
Program Type: Specialty Camps
Session(s):
Step into the Congo time machine for a world-traveling extravaganza. Each day we’ll hop around the globe to a new place in time to learn about daily life. Will we build a pyramid with Egyptians? Play a Mesoamerican game of Pitz? Eat a feast from ancient Greece? Each day will hold surprises from around the […]
Congo Garden Science
Program Type: Specialty Camps
Session(s):
Get your hands dirty and dig in to learn the science behind gardening! Learn how different plants, animals interact with one another to create healthy, thriving gardens, immerse yourself in fun science experiments, expand your creativity working on fun arts and crafts projects, and take home some seeds to help get started on a garden of your own!
Virtual Reality
Program Type: Specialty Camps
Session(s):
Play with the technology of the future today – Virtual Reality. Campers will get hands on with VR technology, learning about its development and enjoying its potential with various games, activities, and group projects.
Go Kart Building
Program Type: Specialty Camps
Session(s):
Get behind the wheel and put the pedal to the metal in Congo Karting! Campers will compete in individual and team races around campus, play creative games using our pedal karts, and learn how to follow the quickest racing line, efficiently brake and accelerate, and when to overtake other drivers. Throughout the session, campers will hone their driving skills as they challenge their friends and race to set the fastest lap times on campus.
Hula Camp
Program Type: Specialty Camps
Session(s):
Immerse yourself in the beauty and mystique of Hula Dancing, Hawaii’s traditional form of dance. In between practicing their dance move and playing traditional Hawaiian instruments, campers will learn how and why Hula Dancing originated in Hawaii, the significance of traditional Hula costumes, and how to interpret the meanings behind different forms of the dance.
Go West Tennis @ Sleepy Hollow Bath and Raquet
Program Type: Specialty Camps
Session(s):
Throughout the session campers will work on developing stroke production, accuracy and athleticism in a supportive and focused environment. Each day will start with a dynamic warm up followed by a progression of drills to improve stroke production. Stroke production drills are designed to ensure that each student is learning the proper grip, footwork and form associated with each stroke (Forehands, Backhands, Volleys, Overheads and Serves). In addition, to stroke production, campers will participate in a variety of games designed to introduce them to point play in a fun environment. Match play will be organized and encouraged for campers who are able to rally and serve consistently. This unique program takes place on the pristine courts at Sleepy Hollow Bath & Raquet (SHBR) which is just 1.2 miles from our campus. Campers will also have the opportunity to swim daily at SHBR. Boxed lunches will be provided. We do ask that campers be dropped off and picked up at Congressional and we will shuttle campers to SHBR.
Zippy’s Encore
Program Type: Day Camp, Specialty Camps
Age/Grade:
Session(s):
Returning for its third summer, Zippy’s Encore is the result of Congo’s most creative staff designing their dream week of camp. Campers joining us for this fun filled encore to our Day Camp program will have the chance to participate in a variety of traditional Congressional activities including sports, arts, and swimming, but also some exciting new activities and special events. Each day will end with a special assembly and performance and we will cap the week with an all camp field trips on Thursday and Friday to a local water park, movie and Dave and Busters. This is the week you don’t want to miss!
Rocketry
Program Type: Specialty Camps
Age/Grade:
Session(s):
Blast off into the atmosphere in this fun and science-filled camp. Be an engineer and build devices that launch, fly, and zoom to learn all about propulsion, lift, and drag. Build your own rockets to launch hundreds of feet into the air. Explore aerodynamics and the physics of flight to build the rocket that goes the furthest, flies the straightest, or is the best trick-flyer. Take a trip to the Air and Space Museum to see real rockets up close.
Farm to Table Cooking
Program Type: Specialty Camps
Session(s):
Interested in natural and organic cooking? Want to use fresh ingredients straight from the farm? This camp is for you. At Farm to Table Cooking, campers will learn about organic farming and will be creating dishes and meals focused on fresh, seasonal ingredients. Trips to the grocery store, farmers market, and a farm will help campers understand the various options for finding and buying the foods we cook with.
FitKids Sports Blast @ SHES
Program Type: Specialty Camps
Session(s):
Get ready to get active! Campers will spend the week learning individual skills and teamwork in a variety of sports and games. Our quality instructors from the FitKids organization are ready to teach and play!
Minecraft
Program Type: Specialty Camps
Session(s):
Design and build a world of your own in this new camp that offers an introduction to the exciting universe of Minecraft. Intro to Minecraft offers campers a structured environment to experiment and explore while they create characters, buildings, and worlds. Campers will also develop an understanding of the underlying ideas and mechanics that power the game, as well as an appreciation for architecture and design.
Pokemon @ SHES
Program Type: Specialty Camps
The Congressional Pokémon Camp is designed to train young campers in their quest to become world class Pokémon Masters. Our Pokémon Trainers will learn the hugely popular and widely enjoyed Pokémon Trading Card Game played around the world, learning the league standards and official rules that are used in local and even global tournaments. For our trainers who are more interested in creating a collection of cards, the camp will cover where to get the best deals on Pokémon cards, how to properly care for their cards, the rarity of each card and what will make them more valuable in the future. The camp will also facilitate fair play and fair card trading.
Fencing by NOVA Fencing Club
Program Type: Specialty Camps
Age/Grade:
Session(s):
En Guarde! Participants will learn modern Olympic Fencing, including footwork, blade work, and bouting. You even get to compete in a real tournament! All fencing equipment is provided. Fencing takes place in a real fencing club with raised floors, regulation length strips, and electrical scoring equipment. Each week we end with Glow-in-the-Dark Fencing Fridays. The day is fencing- focused, but includes traditional camp activities like swimming. Campers will spend half the day at The Fencers Club studio in Baileys Crossroads and half the day at Congressional. All pick up and drop offs take place at Congressional and campers will be transported via Congressional Bus to and from the fencing studio.
Financial Literacy @ SHES
Program Type: Specialty Camps
Session(s):
Learn how to manage money and invest for the future! Financial Literacy provides campers with the basic foundations they will need to understand and manage money throughout their lives. Topics covered include credit and debt, interest, investing, and more. Give your camper a head start on their financial future!
Lego Advanced @ SHES
Program Type: Specialty Camps
Session(s):
Experience some of the more challenging Lego sets like the Space Shuttle and the Tower Bridge!
Young Engineers @ SHES
Program Type: Specialty Camps
Session(s):
Erector Sets to building blocks, calling all future engineers!
Congo Chemists
Program Type: Specialty Camps
Session(s):
Campers, don your lab jackets and goggles and join us for a week of crazy Chemistry fun!
Lego Star Wars @ SHES
Program Type: Specialty Camps
Session(s):
May the force be with you as you build some of the most popular sets in this series!
Just Desserts @ SHES
Program Type: Specialty Camps
Session(s):
Explore the full range of cooking and food preparation from basic snacks to outrageous desserts, from familiar fare to international cuisine.
Lego City @ SHES
Program Type: Specialty Camps
Session(s):
Get ready to design your world-one Lego at a time.
Spring Explorers
Program Type: Travel Camps, Spring Break Camps
Age/Grade:
Session(s):
Come experience this spring edition of our popular Summer Adventures program!
Art with Nature @ SHES
Program Type: Specialty Camps
Session(s):
There is no better way to learn about nature than to experience it through art. So, pack your camping gear and join us for this exciting art camp where we take a virtual trip through the forest. Kids will create art that is from nature and inspired by nature. Nature is a place of beauty. Let’s capture that beauty through your child’s original art!
3D Design & Printing
Program Type: Specialty Camps
Session(s):
Explore the possibilities of this incredible new technology!
Best Eats
Program Type: Travel Camps
Session(s):
Hungry for a new taste of adventure? Come join us as we explore the region’s top restaurants and take a behind-the-scenes look at the journey from the fridge to the table. We will visit a new eatery each day and discover all that Northern Virginia and Washington, D.C have to offer the culinary world. Campers with serious food allergies, please contact the Camp Office prior to registering.
Water Adventures
Program Type: Travel Camps
Session(s):
An fun travel program exploring local water sites!
Congo Explorers
Program Type: Travel Camps
Session(s):
An exciting daily travel program for rising first through fourth grade campers.
iPad Movie Making @ SHES
Program Type: Specialty Camps
Session(s):
Give your camper the chance to make his or her directorial debut!
iPad Stop Motion @ SHES
Program Type: Specialty Camps
Session(s):
Campers use today’s technology to create clips in this classic genre.
iPad Digital Music @ SHES
Program Type: Specialty Camps
Session(s):
Use today’s technology to craft music and blend new sounds!
Computer Building
Program Type: Specialty Camps
Session(s):
Learn the inner workings of the machines as we build our own!
Lego Friends @ SHES
Program Type: Specialty Camps
Session(s):
Experience the fun this LEGO session with your favorite girls from Lego Friends! Join Andrea, Mia, Olivia, Stephanie, and Emma on this Lego adventure. Build and construct their favorite shops and hang outs in Heartlake City. The fun times are endless when it comes to creating a hands on experience with Lego Friends.
Bike Riding
Program Type: Specialty Camps
Session(s):
This camp provides a hands-on, educational way for children to master the art of bicycle riding, even beginners. Increase skills and confidence by improving steering, braking and stopping. Learn about gears, shifting, pedal cadence, rules of the road and how to stay safe when riding. Daily activities include group and private instruction, riding safety courses, confidence course and mini tours around campus when ready. In addition to improving skills, this bike camps gives children a chance to socialize and interact with their peers getting away from the TV an into the great outdoors this summer. Participants receive camp t-shirt and stickers. Required equipment include: Bike without training wheels, helmet and bike gloves.
Day Camp
Program Type: Day Camp
Age/Grade:
Session(s):
Our most popular program for rising 1st through 9th grade campers!
Basketball
Program Type: Specialty Camps
Session(s):
The principal goal of basketball camp is to provide hands-on instruction in the fundamentals of basketball.