The Best Two Weeks of Summer

Sponsored by YMCA Camp Leif Ericson

This article was originally printed in the March 2026 issue of ‘hood Magazine. To see this article in print, and to read the rest of the issue, check out our digital issue.

For generations of Sioux Falls families, summer is not complete without Camp Leif Ericson. Often described by campers as “the best two weeks of summer,” this beloved camp has provided safe, meaningful, and joy-filled experiences for more than 100 years.

Located along the banks of the Big Sioux River, Camp Leif Ericson feels like a peaceful retreat while remaining close to home. Campers unplug from screens, explore the outdoors, and build friendships through creative play, group challenges, and hands-on learning.

Where Every Child Belongs

At its core, Camp Leif Ericson is a place of belonging. Children of all backgrounds and abilities are welcomed, supported, and encouraged to be themselves. Campers gain confidence by trying new things, forming friendships, and discovering strengths they did not know they had, all within a safe and inclusive environment.

Counselors Who Make the Difference

The true heart of camp is its people. Dedicated counselors serve as mentors, role models, and trusted adults who help guide campers through each experience. Through encouragement and care, counselors help children build life skills such as teamwork, empathy, independence, and resilience.

A Legacy That Lasts

Camp Leif Ericson’s impact reaches far beyond summer. Many parents once attended camp themselves and now send their children, while former campers often return as teen leaders and counselors. This cycle of mentorship creates a lasting legacy that strengthens families and builds community.

When campers head home, they carry more than memories. They return with confidence, connection, and a sense of belonging that lasts long after summer ends. That is what makes Camp Leif Ericson truly the best two weeks of summer.

What Type of Camps Does Leif Ericson Offer?

Little Vikes (Ages 4–5)

• A half-day camp in 2-week sessions, that offers a gentle first camp experience with lots of play!

Camp Leif Ericson (Ages 6–9)

• Offered in 2-week sessions, this day camp is a classic camp experience! Includes archery, low ropes, nature exploration, arts and crafts, group games, and character development.

Camp Tepeetonka (Ages 10–13)

• A leadership-focused camp building independence and teamwork. This day camp is offered in 2-week sessions with two overnights. 

TLC: Tepeetonka Leadership Camp (Ages 14–15)

• Bridge the gap between camper and counselor through hands-on leadership, mentoring, service projects, and skill-building. This camp is offered in 2-week sessions with two overnights.

Venture Vikes (Ages 6–13)

• This high-energy themed adventure day camp packs fun into 1-week sessions! 

.Give Kids the Woods Camp (Ages 6–18)

• A free, inclusive day camp experience for children with disabilities, made possible through generous donor support.

*All programs offer tiered pricing options, and financial assistance is available to ensure camp is accessible to all families.

Daily bus transportation to and from camp is available, along with before and after-camp childcare. 

The reviews are in! See what former campers and parents have said about Camp Leif Erickson:

My son feels like he connects with the camp counselors. He meets new friends every year. He gets to experience all these fun, engaging activities. They offer so much for the kids to do, and I just feel like it’s somewhere for a kid to develop independently.

-Camp Parent

I still remember those stories, and I remember just that sense of wonder and fun, and every day was a new adventure.

-Former Camper, Counselor, and Camp Parent

(A place for) Kids being kids- where they’ve got a place where they can just be kids.

-Camp Parent

This is the best summer of my entire life!

-Camper