History Summer Camps

For over fifteen years, the Cumberland County Historical Society has offered students the opportunity to immerse themselves in hands-on experiences through the Adventures in History Summer Camps. 

Two camps are held each summer. Our Elementary camp Adventures in History is for students who are entering 4th, 5th, or 6th grades.  The Advanced camp Advanced Adventures in History is for students entering 7th, 8th, or 9th grades.

Camps are on a three-year rotation, so no camper will ever have the same camp twice. Camp themes follow a chronology.  

Summer Camp
Kids during CCHS Summer Camp held at the TMH

Adventures in History Camp

Native Americans of the Eastern Woodlands (Full)

Eligibility: Children entering 4th, 5th, or 6th grade in the fall of 2023 may attend.

Dates: June 12th through 16th or June 19th through June 23rd

Time: 9 a.m. to 12 p.m.

Place: Two Mile House, 1189 Walnut Bottom RD, Carlisle

Price: CCHS member/$105 per camper; non-member/$165 per camper

Featuring the culture and events surrounding Native Americans of the Eastern Woodlands. Through hands-on interaction with historic crafts, games, food, music, and clothing we will explore the lifeways of Central Pennsylvania’s earliest inhabitants. Campers will have the opportunity to:

  • wear deer hide clothing
  • participate in archery
  • do face and body painting
  • learn hunting techniques
  • make and play native games
  • create Woodland handicrafts
  • cook using corn recipes
  • and make fire with a bow drill

Advanced Adventures in History

World War II and the 1940s in Cumberland County (Full)

Eligibility: Children entering 7th, 8th, or 9th grade in the fall of 2023 may attend.

Dates: July 10th through July 14th

Time: 9 a.m. to 12 p.m.

Place: Two Mile House, 1189 Walnut Bottom RD, Carlisle

Price: CCHS member/$105 per camper; non-member/$165 per camper

Have you ever wondered what life was like during War War II? Using historic crafts, games, food, music, dance, and clothing we will explore civilian and military aspects of the war. beginning with the attack on Pearl Harbor, campers will:

  • go through “boot camp” with military personnel
  • dress in period military and civilian clothing
  • paint on nylon stockings
  • learn how weapons of the period worked
  • work in a war factory
  • experience the difficulties of rationing and civil defense

From bombing runs and military dodge ball to baking cakes without sugar and scrap drives, this camp has something for everyone.

For more information, contact Matthew March, Education Director, at 717-249-7610.

Interested in becoming a member to save on Summer Camps? Become a member here!