Willowbrook Arts Camp

Emma Small

This camp wasn't what I expected. My daughter is 5. Based on the website I thought that she would have more structured, instructor-led time with all of the activities listed (music, ceramics, dance, weaving, etc). The projects she brought home were pretty basic (folded construction paper, a beaded bracelet, a folded paper plate, and a shaker). She enjoyed the group games but I don't feel like she was exposed to the arts in a meaningful way. Willowbrook's unstructured environment might be a better fit for older kids. I will say that everyone was very nice.

Jenny Haynes

I was disappointed in my son’s experience at this camp. He begged me to let him stay home after two days because of the “mean” camp counselors. Unfortunately I was not surprised, as I found them unfriendly and apathetic at pick up and drop off. You would think they would select empathetic and warm counselors for the littlest group of kids (3-4 year olds). The cost of 4 days at camp was quite steep and the arts and crafts they did were rudimentary (construction paper and paper plates). I got the impression it was a glorified daycare. Willowbrook touts a link to photos from “camp today” so parents can see what the children did that day. There were never any posts, so I have no idea what they did for 3.5 hours besides eat a snack and hang out in a fenced in area with a large blanket down on the dirt. I had read great things about this camp, but I guess they’ve gone downhill. Waste of money.

Misty & Garfield Cat

My girl loved the camp from last year and wanted to join again. however things changed . The pickup line always need 40 mins wait time no matter how early i arrive. Example. my girl was assigned to be picked up at 2:45pm and I arrived at 3:35pm and picked her up after 3:15pm. Last year it was 20 mins or so I could tolerate . The activities are less compared to last year .The positive things are some activities are still fun to join

Allison Olfelt

I’m a Willowbrook alumna who now travels across the country to send my kids here each summer. This camp and the culture it creates is truly magical. The child-led experience (kids, especially in the older ages, truly choose their own day’s schedule and activities) is so rare in camps and education. This model both lets children explore their interests and allows kids with passion to focus on certain arts if they want to. The camp attracts and fosters artistic talents while also being a place where everyone is welcome and celebrated. I know professional singers, actors, writers, playwrights, and comedians who I grew up with at camp. My own children getting to experience this place is a highlight of motherhood for me. They love it so much and are glad to be back this year.