Programming & Philosophy
Every epic adventure and themed activity is designed to deliver endless summer fun, spark curiosity, build friendships, and keep our camp community smiling.
What to Expect in a Typical Week of Camp
2 Epic Field Trips to Exciting Off-Site Destinations
3 Unforgettable Theme Days
Dozens of Daily Activities
Our Partners
The Secret Behind Our Epic Summers
Every activity, adventure, and theme day at SCA is thoughtfully designed to bring our values to life—creating a summer full of curiosity, connection, and unforgettable fun.
Homegrown & Heartfelt
At SCA, the heart of the camp comes from being deeply rooted in the community. Camp founder Josh’s passion for the families and kids he serves shapes every program and interaction. By bringing together local staff who know and care about the campers, every activity—from small-group workshops to field trips—is designed to make kids feel seen, supported, and part of a connected, welcoming community.
Ever Curious
Everyday sparks curiosity. Through field trips, hands-on experiments, art projects, and animal shows, campers are encouraged to explore, ask questions, and discover new interests. The programming turns curiosity into fun, meaningful learning experiences that keep every child engaged and excited.
Service with a Smile
Kindness, teamwork, and thoughtfulness are woven into camp life. Friendly staff, clear communication, and collaborative activities create a culture where campers learn to help and support each other. Service projects that give back to the community are built into the programming, showing kids that making a positive impact can be fun, meaningful, and rewarding.
Fast Friends & Lasting Connections
Epic days lead to easy friendships. From team challenges and creative projects to shared adventures on field trips and theme days, campers build bonds that last well beyond summer, creating memories and connections that stay with them year after year.
Meet Josh
Josh Sutter, M.Ed., is an educator, father, and entrepreneur with more than 20 years of experience inspiring kids to explore, create, and grow. He earned his Bachelor’s degree from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign and his Master’s in Elementary Education from DePaul University, later completing advanced training at Columbia University’s Teachers College Reading and Writing Project.
Before founding Summer City Adventures in 2014 and Adventure Children’s Academy in 2020, Josh spent over a decade teaching and developing innovative curriculum at Catherine Cook School in Chicago. His work has been recognized nationally — including as a PBS Innovative Educator Award Finalist — for its creativity and focus on joyful, hands-on learning.
Josh has called the western suburbs home for more than ten years, where he and his wife, Amanda, are raising their two daughters. When he’s not leading summer adventures, you’ll find him golfing, playing softball, or traveling with his family.
