Patch Picks: Summer Camps

While the cold March weather makes summer seem far away, registration for many summer camps already is under way. So, we asked readers for suggestions on fun summer camps for kids.

Here is the list we gathered:

1. Clawson: Thewill offer eight weeks of summer camp beginning June 20. Parents can up sign their kids for one-week sessions beginning April 1 and daily sessions beginning May 2. The camp runs from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Monday through Friday and costs $80 a week or $20 a day. It  also offers before- and after-care beginning at 7:30 a.m. and ending at 5:30 p.m. Day camp kids go on one field trip a week to destinations such at the Detroit Science Center and the Detroit Zoo and participate in games, sports and arts and crafts activities each day. There is a $5 nonresident fee for this camp. For more information call 248-589-0334.  

2. Royal Oak: The 2011 Royal Oak Summer Day Camp kicks off June 20 at Royal Oak High School, 1500 Lexington Blvd. The camp is open to children who have completed kindergarten-fifth grade. The camp is offered through the city's Department of Recreation and features days filled with fun activities. For more information, call 248 246-3180.

3. Ferndale: Ferndale Patch reader Bradford Parks said he takes his son toFerdale Recreation summer camp at the . "They have tons of activities and field trips, swimming, and cool weekly themes," he said. "Plus he gets to see all his friends from school. And most importantly he comes home exhausted. Highly recommended!" For more information call Ferndale Recreation at 248-544-6767.

4. Berkley: Berkley-Huntington Woods Youth Assistance, an organization that works to help at-risk youths make good decisions, offers a summer camp program for  students who may not be able to afford a camp experience. "Our camp committee gives special care to matching kids with camp experiences that best meet their needs," the organization's website says. "Through camp, kids broaden skills, develop independence and resourcefulness, and enhance positive social interactions in fun, guided settings that promote awareness, self worth and acceptance." Berkley-Huntington Woods Youth Assistance is based at 2325 Catalpa Dr., Berkley. To volunteer call 248-837-8102. Click here for more camp information.

5. Huntington Woods: The Fruit Camps for kids in preschool through fifth grade are so popular that registration is conducted via lottery in January. Each day camp is named after a fruit – Honeydew, Watermelon, etc. – and is designed with a specific age group in mind. Campers will get to do arts and crafts, athletic activities and more. Parents have the option of paying an extra fee for an inclusion counselor to help autistic children participate. Residents who missed the January lottery deadline may sign up for remaining openings starting at 6 p.m. March 30 for another mini-lottery. Nonresidents may sign up for remaining openings starting at 8:30 a.m. April 18 at an additional 10 percent charge. For more information, contact the , 26325 Scotia Rd., at 248-541-3030.