The President James K. Polk Home offers plenty of opportunities for kids to learn outside of school. Our educational camps give kids hands-on history lessons through historic crafts, games, and activities.
Polk Academy Summer Camps
$175 members | $200 non-members
Since 1998, Polk Academy has invited campers graduating the 3rd, 4th, and 5th grade to learn about life in the 19th century through crafts, activities, and living history presentations. From wood graining to candle making to water balloon war reenactments, the Polk Home’s seminal summer camp has something for everyone.
Join us in the summer of 2023 for new, themed camps, including Tennessee Time Traveler Camp and Gold Rush Camp for elementary aged campers, and Curator Camp for middle school campers.
To register, complete the form at the bottom of the page. Space is limited. Your child’s registration fee must be paid in order to hold their spot.
Camp runs from 9 AM to 2 PM daily.
Tuition includes all necessary supplies and a daily snack.
Students should pack their own lunch.
Enrollment is limited, so register early!
Tennessee Time Traveler Camp
June 19th – 23rd | Rising 3rd-5th graders
Students entering 3rd, 4th and 5th grades are invited to join us to travel through time, using the Polk Home grounds and the landscape of our historic town, to learn about different periods in Tennessee history. This camp will feature many Polk Academy favorites along with new, exciting activities to explore James K. Polk’s era and more!
To register, complete the form at the bottom of the page. Space is limited. Your child’s registration fee must be paid in order to hold their spot.
Gold Rush Camp
July 17th – 21st | Rising 3rd-5th graders
James K. Polk’s final address to Congress in December of 1848 confirmed the discovery of gold in California and set off a rush of Americans from places like Middle Tennessee searching for riches. Through a week of hands-on activities, we’ll learn about life during the California Gold Rush! Gold Rush Camp will feature many Polk Academy favorites like fireplace cooking and candle dipping. And yes, we’ll be panning for gold!
To register, complete the form at the bottom of the page. Space is limited. Your child’s registration fee must be paid in order to hold their spot.
Curator Camp
July 24th – 28th | Rising 5th-7th graders
Curator Camp invites campers entering 5th, 6th and 7th grades behind the scenes to participate in museum work first-hand. Campers will get hands-on experience with museum objects as they work together to create a new exhibit in the Polk Home’s detached kitchen building.
Curator Camp is perfect for history lovers, graduates of Polk Academy who want to learn more, or any child interested in a behind-the-scenes peek at the world of museums.
To register, complete the form at the bottom of the page. Space is limited. Your child’s registration fee must be paid in order to hold their spot.