Camp Clayton Builds Confidence, Connection, & Creativity All Summer Long
At Camp Clayton, friendships form fast. A shy first grader might walk in on Monday not knowing anyone and walk out on Friday with a favorite counselor, a new best friend, and a long list of games to play again next week. That is the magic of summer camp. It gives kids room to grow, a reason to smile, and a place where they feel safe, included, and excited to return each day.
Each July, the Town of Clayton joins the national celebration of Park and Recreation Month by recognizing the programs and people that help build strong, active communities. For local families, Camp Clayton is one of the most trusted and beloved summer programs the Town offers.
Sean Quigley, Parks and Recreation Program Coordinator, helps lead the camp. While he has worked for the Town for several years, he measures his time in camp seasons.
“This is my fourth summer camp,” he said. “That is how I keep track.”
Camp Clayton runs for 10 weeks, starting after school ends and wrapping up just before the next school year begins. Campers ages six to 11 stay from 7:30 a.m. – 6 p.m. each weekday. Quigley says days are filled with movement, laughter, and teamwork. Kids rotate through different activities, indoors and outdoors, with time for snacks, games, crafts, and group play.
“Camp gives kids a safe space to have fun, burn energy, and bond with others,” said Quigley. “It also helps parents who need a full-day option during the summer.”
The program serves about 80 campers each season and is made possible by a team of youth counselors, many of whom return year after year. Most counselors are local high school or college students who lead games, guide activities, and support the kids throughout the day.
“It takes a special person to work with children all summer,” emphasized Quigley. “But our counselors step up, and it shows. They grow a lot during the season and really make a difference.”
Over the past few years, Camp Clayton has seen a 90 percent return rate from its counselors. Quigley adds that experience helps strengthen the connection between staff and campers.
“I hope the kids leave camp feeling like they found a hero,” said Quigley. “And I hope the counselors leave proud of the work they have done.”
Quigley says Camp Clayton also builds lasting bonds. Some campers who started in first or second grade are now finishing up their time at camp as fifth graders. Younger siblings are now joining the fun, too.
Along with daily games and creative play, Camp Clayton often invites special guests or partners for extra activities. One popular event this year was a visit from a mobile gem-mining truck where kids sifted through flowing water to find their own rocks, gems, and shells to take home.
Community partners play an important role in making Camp Clayton a success, according to Quigley. Those interested in working with the camp are encouraged to contact Clayton Parks and Recreation at 919-553-1550.
“Camp Clayton is a fun place where kids get to be kids,” he said. “I am just grateful we get to offer it every year.”
In addition to Camp Clayton, the Town of Clayton provides several smaller summer camps focused on art, pottery, and sports. These programs are tailored for young enthusiasts and provide hands-on experiences that let kids dive deeper into their interests while staying active and building friendships along the way.
Learn more about these and other Parks and Recreation programs in Clayton by visiting claytonparks.org.
