Find a Program
By Program Name:
Fiber Arts
Program Type: Specialty Camps
Session(s):
Picture your child in the care of energetic and imaginative counselors exploring the world of fiber arts. At Handwork Day Camp, you’ll find campers sharing stories and laughs while working on a wide array of unique fiber arts-based projects. Our goal is to teach useful skills such as hand-sewing, embroidery, knitting, weaving, needle-felting and much […]
Virtual Reality – Session 8
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.
Ultimate Drone Obstacle Course @ SHES Session 8
Program Type: Specialty Camps
Age/Grade:
Session(s):
This program is specifically designed for both the novice and experienced drone enthusiasts. This is week is filled with pure action as students enjoy one of the world’s fastest growing sports, Drone Obstacle Racing. Campers will first learn about the basic safety of drone flying and the history behind drone racing as a sport. From […]
Zippy’s Prequel
Program Type: Day Camp, Specialty Camps
Session(s):
For the last few years Zippy’s Encore has been one of our most talked about programs and we are excited to add Zippy’s Prequel to our lineup this year. This exciting mix of traditional day camp favorites, special assemblies and field trips is an awesome way to kick off the summer season!
Woodworking
Program Type: Specialty Camps
Session(s):
Can you build it? Of course, you can! Learn classic woodworking skills in a hands-on environment. Handwork Studio instructors will guide campers patiently and safely to create a variety of projects while learning to accurately design, measure, saw, drill and finish their projects properly. Additionally, campers build on their confidence and love for working with […]
Ultimate Drone Obstacle Course @ SHES Session 7
Program Type: Specialty Camps
Age/Grade:
Session(s):
This program is specifically designed for both the novice and experienced drone enthusiasts. This is week is filled with pure action as students enjoy one of the world’s fastest growing sports, Drone Obstacle Racing. Campers will first learn about the basic safety of drone flying and the history behind drone racing as a sport. From […]
Tiny Tech Titans
Program Type: Great Adventures, Great Adventures Specialty Camps
Age/Grade:
Session(s):
Tired of the same, boring screen time? Try out the newest educational apps and resource programs used at Congressional to launch our students and campers into the future of technology. Through a variety of hardware, campers will have fun learning while exercising their tech savvy skills.
Street Soccer
Program Type: Specialty Camps
Session(s):
From Pele to Messi, soccer athletes hone their skills at a young age just playing with friends. This new offering will utilize our SportCourt and focus on foot skills, 1-on-1 play and small space tactics. With a mix of activities, games and contests this is sure to be a popular choice for your camper.
Street Hockey
Program Type: Specialty Camps
Session(s):
Hockey hits the street! Hone your skills on our blacktop from passing and shooting to stick handling and the rules of fair play. Campers will need tennis shoes and soccer style shin guards if available. All other equipment will be provided.
Storytellers/Bookworms
Program Type: Great Adventures, Great Adventures Specialty Camps
Age/Grade:
Session(s):
From Dr. Seuss to Roald Dahl, campers explore the world of storytelling and reading. Campers participate in various activities revolving around lessons learned from these wonderful stories.
Stealth & Camo
Program Type: Specialty Camps
Session(s):
This immersive one week camp will expose campers to a variety of techniques and skills in stealth. Join us for a hands-on adventure as we learn how to best hide in plain sight on our 40 acre campus.
Science Explorers
Program Type: Great Adventures Specialty Camps
Age/Grade:
Session(s):
In this camp, our Great Adventures campers will explore the basics of science with fun, age-appropriate experiments! From density to magnets, campers will have a blast in this camp!
Sleepy Hollow Pizza
Program Type: Specialty Camps
Session(s):
Think pizza is just dough, cheese, and sauce? Sure, it can be, but it can also be so much more. After trying their hands at traditional pizza from scratch, campers will get to explore a broader range of pizza styles and techniques. Breakfast pizza and dessert pizza are just the tip of the iceberg in […]
Outer Banks Week
Program Type: Travel Camps, Spring Break Camps
Session(s):
Congo Camp takes on the Outer Banks! Campers will spend the week in a rented beach house, enjoying the sun and sand during spring break. Join Dan, Gene and the Congo Camp Staff on this new offering for 2019. We will have a variety of activities at the house as well as in town activities like go karts and mini golf.
Rockets & Catapults
Program Type: Specialty Camps
Session(s):
Learn about the physics behind these two machines and put your engineering skills to the test and design your own rockets and catapults!
Puppetry @ SHES
Program Type: Specialty Camps
Session(s):
In this unique camp, learn what it takes to be Geppetto and create your own Pinocchio! Create your own puppet and learn what it takes to perform an original show with your fellow campers.
Roller Coaster Engineers
Program Type: Specialty Camps
Session(s):
Have you ever been to Hershey Park or Six Flags and thought to yourself, “How in the world does this work?” Do you ever dream of creating a roller-coaster for the world-famous Cedar Point? This camp is for you! Learn the physics of how roller coasters work and design your own!
Rapunzel’s Tangled Dance
Program Type: Great Adventures, Great Adventures Specialty Camps
Age/Grade:
Session(s):
Join Rapunzel as she prepares to become the Princess of Corona in this dance adventure camp! The adventure continues along with Flyn, Maximus and Pascal! The adventure is filled with magical songs and dancing from the hit movie and TV series, activities, crafts, costumes and props! We will discover all the magic and adventures in […]
Nerf Battle @ SHES
Program Type: Specialty Camps
Session(s):
Does your child love NERF blasters? This fast paced camp will give campers the opportunity to use a variety of nerf blasters and styles in a series of games and contests. Highlights will include capture the flag, king of the hill, relay races, target practice, bounty hunter and many more. Nerf on!
Lego Ninjago @ SHES
Program Type: Specialty Camps
Session(s):
Spend the week in the ninja-based world of Lego Ninjago! Campers will dive deep into this world of ninja’s, dragons, and Samurai!
Lego Harry Potter @ SHES
Program Type: Specialty Camps
Session(s):
“It’s Levi-o-sa, not Levio-sar!” From Hermione to Ron, learn all about the Harry Potter world while exploring different Harry Potter Lego sets.
Natural Adventures
Program Type: Great Adventures, Great Adventures Specialty Camps
Age/Grade:
Session(s):
Join us in the great outdoors! This forest-based camp will explore and learn about the plants and animals that call our 40-acre campus home. Children will need an extra change of clothes as we fully submerge ourselves getting down in the dirt with worms, splashing at the creek, and mixing up mud pies.
Mini Med School
Program Type: Great Adventures, Great Adventures Specialty Camps
Age/Grade:
Session(s):
Is there a doctor in camp? Join us this summer as we bring Mini Med School to camp! Our little doctors will use stuffed animal patients to take blood pressure readings, give “stitches,” put on a cast and make their own first aid kit, all while learning lots about what doctors, dentists, EMTs and other […]
Jam Sesh
Program Type: Specialty Camps
Session(s):
This unique camp will allow kids to experience what it is like to be in their own band. Students will learn to play various pieces of music of their choosing, and will have the option to play songs on different instruments such as the guitar (electric and acoustic), keyboard, Orff barred instruments (xylophones), the electric […]
Junior Drone Pilots @ SHES
Program Type: Specialty Camps
Age/Grade:
Session(s):
Designed for campers with little to no experience flying drones. We use the safest and most reliable drone products on the market, including the Parrot™ drones for enhanced safety and most of all, fun. Campers will learn the basics of drone technology and safety before taking to the air. Campers work all week long to […]
Great Wolf Lodge
Program Type: Travel Camps
Session(s):
During this abbreviated week, campers will travel to Great Wolf Lodge for 3 days and 2 nights with our Congressional travel camp staff. With water slides, lagoons, wave pools and more this unique offering is a great way to kick off July. All meals, hotel, activity and travel costs are included in this program.
Instant Pot Cooking
Program Type: Specialty Camps
Session(s):
Are you ready to learn how to use this versatile, all in one machine to make delicious recipes? From slow cooking to cake baking, have your camper return home with ideas for tasty meals ready to impress, and the ability to teach you how to use that new gadget!
iPad Sphero & Coding @ SHES
Program Type: Specialty Camps
Session(s):
Learn the basics of coding by using Sphero! This educational program combines robotics and coding with STEAM activities to challenge students in new and exciting ways each day.
Game Show Gala @ SHES
Program Type: Specialty Camps
Session(s):
Get your buzzer hand ready for an exciting week of Game Shows. Campers will participate in modified versions of popular game shows like Family Feud, Price is Right, Jeopardy and more. Campers will finish the week with hosting their very own game show creations for their fellow campers.
Desserts Cooking
Program Type: Great Adventures, Great Adventures Specialty Camps
Age/Grade:
Session(s):
Do you have a sweet tooth? If so, then this camp is perfect for you! Campers will begin to be introduced to the basic techniques of measuring and mixing, while learning all about some tasty desserts!
E-Sports League Session 2
Program Type: Specialty Camps
Session(s):
E-Sports is one of the fastest growing industries out there. Did you know that nearly $10 million dollars in college scholarships are currently being offered for E-Sports players? This new offering will work with our campers to help develop their decision making, self-confidence, focus and cognitive skills as we tackle a variety of games and […]
Creative Writing @ SHES
Program Type: Specialty Camps
Session(s):
Explore your inner writer with a camp designed to allow students to write about anything and everything that interests them. After reading some examples, students will try their hand at writing poetry, streams of consciousness, personal narratives, short stories, creative non-fiction, movie/theater scripts, and so much m
Dino Swamp Romp
Program Type: Great Adventures, Great Adventures Specialty Camps
Age/Grade:
Session(s):
Take a blast to the past in this one week exploration of some of our favorite prehistoric lizards. Campers will learn about different types of dinosaurs, and when and where they lived. We will also explore how paleontologists uncover fossils and make some of our own. Whether you love the large sauropods or the ferocious […]
E-Sports League Session 5
Program Type: Specialty Camps
Session(s):
E-Sports is one of the fastest growing industries out there. Did you know that nearly $10 million dollars in college scholarships are currently being offered for E-Sports players? This new offering will work with our campers to help develop their decision making, self-confidence, focus and cognitive skills as we tackle a variety of games and […]
Devers Delta Squad
Program Type: Specialty Camps
Session(s):
This brand new offering for 2019 pays homage to our founding family, The Devers, who saw the importance of outdoor and nature based programming all the way back in 1940, during our first summer camp year. Our Delta squad camp will immerse themselves in our 40-acre campus with activities and lessons focused on outdoor survival […]
Digital Fashion Design
Program Type: Specialty Camps
Session(s):
Do you love fashion? Are you interested in being a fashion designer? Then this is the camp for you! In this camp, you will learn how to create clothing flats, design prints and patterns, draw model croquis, design mood and color boards, and present your ideas professionally in a digital portfolio – all of which […]
Fiber Arts
Program Type: Great Adventures, Great Adventures Specialty Camps
Age/Grade:
Session(s):
Picture your child in the care of energetic and imaginative counselors exploring the world of fiber arts. At Handwork Day Camp, you’ll find campers sharing stories and laughs while working on a wide array of unique fiber arts-based projects. Our goal is to teach useful skills such as hand-sewing, embroidery, knitting, weaving, needle-felting and much […]
Cozmo Robotics
Program Type: Specialty Camps
Session(s):
Join us to meet this fun little robot! Learn the basics of coding as Cozmo learns faces and names while adapting to new environments.
Congressional Cafe
Program Type: Specialty Camps
Session(s):
Join our Congressional team to create the ultimate cafe! We will design our own menu and test our recipes. Campers will end the week by opening their very own pop-up cafe. Learn how to budget and create fun recipes to become the best cafe Congressional has ever seen!
Clay and Sculpture @ SHES
Program Type: Specialty Camps
Session(s):
Learn all about the history of clay and sculpture work while putting your skills to the test!
Arts and Crafts
Program Type: Great Adventures, Great Adventures Specialty Camps
Age/Grade:
Session(s):
During this week, our young campers will begin to explore the world of arts and crafts. They will be introduced to various mediums throughout the week, from painting to sculptures!
Bug World
Program Type: Specialty Camps
Age/Grade:
Session(s):
Are you a fan of creepy-crawly things? Bug World is perfect for you! Learn it all, from insects to arachnids while exploring our campus to find and learn all about the world of bugs!
Animal Tracking
Program Type: Specialty Camps
Session(s):
With the variety of wildlife on our 40-acre campus, campers will spend the week learning how to spot and identify a variety of animal tracks. We will search for animal trails and utilize trail cameras to see what comes by when we are not around.
Board Game Bonanza
Program Type: Specialty Camps
Session(s):
From the classics of Monopoly and Clue to more unique games such as Ticket to Ride and Otrio, learn them all! Campers will also create their own game to take home to friends and family!
Bagged Lunch Creators
Program Type: Specialty Camps
Session(s):
Create the ultimate bagged lunch! This creative new offering will inspire your camper to develop a variety of easy to make-at-home options for lunch at school. If you are lucky maybe they will even make one for mom or dad.
Aladdin Kids
Program Type: Specialty Camps
Session(s):
Join Aladdin, Princess Jasmine, and the Genie for this fun week in the world of Aladdin. Discover your three wishes and explore various art and music activities revolving around this hit Disney movie. Campers will put on their own mini performance of the hit show to close the week.
Adrenaline Rush
Program Type: Travel Camps
Session(s):
Join this high-octane travel camp for a week of thrills! From roller coasters to go karts to ziplining and more, this camp will be great for adrenaline junkies! Campers will eat lunch and some snacks at variety of metro area restaurants and locations while off campus. We recommend campers with special dietary needs to provide […]
Elite ID Soccer
Program Type: Specialty Camps
Session(s):
We are excited to welcome Elite ID’s talented coaches back for the fourth year in a row. This one week camp is designed to improve the individual skills of each player thru fun activities, small sided games and camp wide contests.
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 […]
Congo Survivor
Program Type: Specialty Camps
Session(s):
You find yourself stuck on a deserted island or lost in the middle of the wilderness. Would you know what to do? Would you know where to find food and water? Could you build a shelter? Could you start a fire with one match? With no matches? Could you track wild animals? This intensive outdoor […]
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 […]
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 […]
Teen Travel – West Virginia
Program Type: Travel Camps
Age/Grade:
Session(s):
No adventure too great, no destination too far! This exclusive program offers our older campers an exciting choice of off-site activities. A sample of Teen Travel activities includes bowling, rafting, skating, Annapolis, IMAX films, Medieval Times and water parks. Each session is unique, so campers can sign up for multiple sessions and experience different destinations. This session will have a 2 day, 1 night overnight trip. The team will be headed to Harper’s Ferry for an outdoor adventure that may include everything from canopy tours to river rafting. We’ll stay in the campground and cook meals over an open fire! Admission tickets, snacks and accommodations for overnights are included at no extra charge.
Teen Travel – Lake House
Program Type: Travel Camps
Age/Grade:
Session(s):
No adventure too great, no destination too far! This exclusive program offers our older campers an exciting choice of off-site activities. A sample of Teen Travel activities includes bowling, rafting, skating, Annapolis, IMAX films, Medieval Times and water parks. Each session is unique, so campers can sign up for multiple sessions and experience different destinations. This session will have a 3 day, 2 night overnight trip. The team will be headed to a nearby Lake House for relaxing fun in the sun, drifting on the lake, and living and cooking together! Admission tickets, snacks and accommodations for overnights are included at no extra charge.
Teen Travel – Busch Gardens
Program Type: Travel Camps
Age/Grade:
Session(s):
No adventure too great, no destination too far! This exclusive program offers our older campers an exciting choice of off-site activities. A sample of Teen Travel activities includes bowling, rafting, skating, Annapolis, IMAX films, Medieval Times and water parks. Each session is unique, so campers can sign up for multiple sessions and experience different destinations. This session will have a 3 day, 2 night overnight trip. For this session, the team will be headed to Busch Gardens for a day of rollercoasters and amusements and stay spend the night in Williamsburg in a hotel! Admission tickets, snacks and accommodations for overnights are included at no extra charge.
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.
Fashion & Machine Sewing
Program Type: Specialty Camps
Session(s):
Do you love Project Runway? Do you have an eye for color, shape, and patterns? Are you creative person with your own personal style? Then you are in the right place! Spend the week exploring fabrics, designing clothes, and learning how to make your own fashion. This hands-on camp will teach you the basics of making clothing from start to finish, as well as the ins and outs of using sewing machines.
Teen Travel – Hershey Park
Program Type: Travel Camps
Age/Grade:
Session(s):
No adventure too great, no destination too far! This exclusive program offers our older campers an exciting choice of off-site activities. A sample of Teen Travel activities includes bowling, rafting, skating, Annapolis, IMAX films, Medieval Times and water parks. Each session is unique, so campers can sign up for multiple sessions and experience different destinations. This session will have a 3 day, 2 night overnight trip. For this session, the team will be headed to Hershey Park for roller coasters and amusement fun and stay at a hotel nearby! Admission tickets, snacks and accommodations for overnights are included at no extra charge.
Jedi Academy @ 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.
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.
Breakfast Club @ SHES
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)
Volleyball
Program Type: Specialty Camps
Session(s):
Set, spike, block. Build your skills in one of the most popular sports in the world. Over 900 million fans agree, you’ll love this camp! Practice the basics of serving, passing, setting, blocking, attacking, and individual defense. Grow personal confidence while making friends and building teamwork skills.
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.
Cake Decorating
Program Type: Specialty Camps
Session(s):
Have your cake and eat it, too! Join the chef team and bake your way through summer camp. Bake a variety of recipes and then try your hand at fanciful and creative edible designs. Practice cake-making like a professional. It’s the sweetest way to to spend the summer.
Pony Adventure Jr.
Program Type: Great Adventures, Great Adventures Specialty Camps
Age/Grade:
Session(s):
Our most popular specialty camp is now being offered for our Rising Kindergartners! Introducing Pony Adventures Jr! 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. See more at: http://www.congocamp.org/program/pony-adventure/#sthash.cYU4gHzg.dpuf
Go Baby Go
Program Type: Specialty Camps
Session(s):
Calling all pit crews! Engineers needed! Join us for an exciting collaboration: Congressional Camp is teaming up with Go Baby Go to custom modify powered ride-on cars for little kids that experience limited mobility. Each pit crew will meet a family and learn about the unique needs of their little driver. Then the team will custom modify a toy Mercedes, Lightning McQueen, or Ferrari for the driver. You rewire the car’s electrical system, create a one-of-a-kind driver’s harness, and hack the accelerator and ignition. By the end of the week, the drivers will drive off in their very own car, donated free of charge to the family, and designed specifically for the needs of their child. Watch their faces as they zoom around and play in ways that weren’t possible before. Grow a connection with your pit crew, as well as your little driver. This camp will teach practical and cool engineering skills, as well as contributing in a real way to our community.
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.
Artist Books & Paper Engineering
Program Type: Specialty Camps
Session(s):
Explore a myriad of processes available to create unique hand-made books. Campers will learn various bookbinding methods, how to create pop-ups, and how to turn previously unwanted books into works of art. Learn precise cutting and folding techniques to improve paper craft skills. Art Show on the last day of the session.
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.
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 Adventures
Program Type: Specialty Camps
Session(s):
In Pony Adventures, you will be immersed in the world of ponies! You will learn how to care, feed, groom, and take care of all of the needs of the ponies on campus. 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.
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 @ SHES
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.
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!
Learn to Ride a Bike
Program Type: Specialty Camps
Age/Grade:
Session(s):
Say Good-Bye to the Training Wheels! This camp is for kids who want to transition off training wheels. Participants learn to ride without training wheels during camp. Learn how to get on the bike, find balance, stop, start, paddle, pedal, coast, basic riding skills, braking and steering. Daily activities include group and private instruction, the safety course & biking games. Participants receive a camp T-shirt and sticker. Required equipment: Bike without training wheels, helmet and water bottle.
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.
Graffiti Art @ SHES
Program Type: Specialty Camps
Session(s):
This new camp will expose campers to the exciting world of graffiti artwork. From the Roman Empire to Banksy, artists have used graffiti throughout human history to express their creativity and comment on society. In Graffiti Art, campers will learn how graffiti techniques and styles have developed over time, practice with different paints, inks, and […]
Mythbusters @ SHES
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.
Printmaking @ SHES
Program Type: Specialty Camps
Session(s):
Ever wanted to create your own design and print it on anything you wanted? At Printmaking camp, you can turn anything you can imagine in to a unique work of art. Find materials outside or in the classroom and use your creativity to print them onto a new canvas. Try out your printmaking skills and […]
Virtual Reality – Session 3
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.
Fires, Forts, and Shelters
Program Type: Specialty Camps
Session(s):
Fires, Forts, and Shelters is the ideal camp for any outdoor enthusiast. Taking advantage of our beautiful 40 acre campus, our instructors will guide your campers as they explore the great outdoors. Over the course of the week, campers will learn different techniques for building and maintaining safe fires, navigate by compass, learn about knots, […]
Bowls Cooking @ SHES
Program Type: Specialty Camps
Session(s):
If it fits in a bowl, you can create it in this new cooking camp. Food bowls, from Chipotle to Poké, combine delicious ingredients with convenience and portability. Campers will learn how to make popular classics like breakfast and burrito bowls, experiment with different foods and ingredients to see which combinations result in the most delicious bowls, and express their creativity in the kitchen by creating recipes of their own. Campers with serious food allergies, please contact the Camp Office prior to registering.
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
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!
RC World
Program Type: Specialty Camps
Session(s):
Trains, planes, and automobiles propel us forward in this thrilling, program that will introduce campers to all types of remote control vehicles and the physics that goes with them. Campers will spend time building and designing their own RC car tracks and races. We will learn the initial concepts of flight and fly our own […]
Lego Superheros @ SHES
Program Type: Specialty Camps
Session(s):
Do you have a favorite superhero? Ever wanted to create their superhero hideout using Legos? We have the supplies, all we are missing is you! Come join us and create new and exciting Lego creations using your favorite superheros and their friends.
FitKids Sports Blast
Program Type: Great Adventures Specialty Camps
Age/Grade:
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!
Food Trucks
Program Type: Specialty Camps
Session(s):
Do you like getting food from food trucks? Have you ever thought about what goes on behind the scenes to serve all of that delicious food out of the back of a truck? In this fast and furious camp, we will taste test some food from the variety of food truck options we have here in the greater DC-Metro area. As a final challenge, campers will work in groups to create and execute their own food truck concepts – including devising a menu, selecting ingredients, cooking the food, and serving it to camp staffers.
Animal Safari @ SHES
Program Type: Specialty Camps
Session(s):
Animal Safari is a great opportunity for campers who are curious and eager to investigate the world around them! Campers will set out on mini-expeditions around our campus to observe the different animals and species that call Congressional their home. Campers will transform into young naturalists as they study the animal world through fun, games, and hands-on exploration. Campers will also travel to the National Zoo to spend time with their favorite animals, while also learning about their habitats, behavior, and the efforts we make for their conservation.
Science Seekers
Program Type: Travel Camps
Session(s):
Are you a future rocket scientist? Do you find science fascinating and want to learn more? Join us on our science travel camp where we will travel around the Northern Virginia/ Washington D.C. area visiting science museums and other action packed science destinations. This travel camp has a science focus and encourages all those future […]
Zippy’s Swim School
Program Type: Specialty Camps
Age/Grade:
Session(s):
Jump in the pool and learn to swim in Zippy’s Swim School! Our experienced lifeguards will work with your camper to develop the confidence and skills needed to have fun in the water. Campers will learn about safety in and out of the pool, basic swimming techniques and strokes, and how to dive in to the pool, tread water, and float. Our lifeguards will evaluate the campers and provide consistent feedback and encouragement throughout the session.
Fused Glass & Jewelry
Program Type: Specialty Camps
Session(s):
Students in this camp will explore the basics of kiln formed glass and jewelry making. The first two days of camp, students will create using frit and many colors of clear and opaque glass. They will explore multiple techniques such as layering, slumping, and kiln carving and learn to safely cut glass. Then students will use a variety of beads and techniques to create jewelry, including metal stamping. Art Show on the last day of the session.
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
Session(s):
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.
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 @ SHES
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.
Vacation Club
Program Type: Great Adventures, Spring Break Camps
Age/Grade:
Session(s):
Children will love hanging out with friends and exploring what our campus has to offer, including our playgrounds, computer labs, and creek walks.
Spring Explorers
Program Type: Travel Camps, Spring Break Camps
Age/Grade:
Session(s):
Come experience this spring edition of our popular Summer Adventures program!
3D Printing & Glowforge
Program Type: Specialty Camps
Session(s):
Explore the possibilities of this incredible new technology!
Water Adventures
Program Type: Travel Camps
Session(s):
An fun travel program exploring local water sites!
Teen Travel
Program Type: Travel Camps
Age/Grade:
Session(s):
A special travel program for rising seventh and eighth grade campers!
Day Trippers
Program Type: Travel Camps
Age/Grade:
Session(s):
An exciting daily travel camp designed for rising fifth and sixth grade campers!
Congo Explorers
Program Type: Travel Camps
Age/Grade:
Session(s):
An exciting daily travel program for rising first through fourth grade campers.
Summer Adventures
Program Type: Travel Camps
Age/Grade:
Session(s):
An exciting daily travel program for rising first and second 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 Digital Music @ SHES
Program Type: Specialty Camps
Session(s):
Use today’s technology to craft music and blend new sounds!
Star Lab
Program Type: Specialty Camps
Age/Grade:
Session(s):
This camp is a universe of fun as we explore beyond our solar system!
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.
Junior Sports Stars
Program Type: Great Adventures, Great Adventures Specialty Camps
Age/Grade:
Session(s):
This active adventure is for campers 4 years old through rising K.
Games and Sports by Fitkids
Program Type: Great Adventures, Great Adventures Specialty Camps
Age/Grade:
Session(s):
An active adventure for rising kindergarteners
Tiny Tourists
Program Type: Great Adventures, Great Adventures Specialty Camps
Age/Grade:
Session(s):
Take a trip off campus in this full-day travel program!
Great Adventures
Program Type: Great Adventures
Age/Grade:
Session(s):
Welcome to Great Adventures, a fun and exciting program for campers 4 years old and extending to campers 5 years old, entering Kindergarten in the fall.
Basketball
Program Type: Specialty Camps
Age/Grade:
Session(s):
The principal goal of basketball camp is to provide hands-on instruction in the fundamentals of basketball.
Ropes Adventure
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.