As the school doors in Kentucky schools close for another summer, thousands of young people will continue the learning process through 4-H camps.

More than 10,000 youngsters will be attending one of the state's five residential 4-H camps this summer. Another 15,000 will participate in county day camps held in various local sites across Kentucky.

"The 4-H camping experience emphasizes personal development. It is truly a community setting in miniature," said Dwight Crum, Extension 4-H youth development specialist with the University of Kentucky College of Agriculture. "Young people will be able to develop and practice social skills, experience leadership roles and make friendships that sometimes last a lifetime."

If you haven't signed up yet, there may still be some camp openings in your county.

"Sign-up times vary tremendously across the state," added Crum. " Some camp rolls have been filled for weeks and other counties are just beginning the sign-up process, so it is important to check with your local county Extension 4-H agent to find out about available slots and camp activity details."

More than 3,000 volunteers help direct campers. Each camp is also staffed with emergency medical technicians, certified life guards and instructors for nature and recreation.

4-H Camp also provides young people with a chance to learn lifetime hobbies. Some will learn to swim, paddle a canoe or square dance. Crafts, nature study, fishing, archery and shooting sports are also a part of the long list of activities available to keep everyone involved throughout the day.

The camps are located near the communities of Carlisle, Rush, London, Jabez and Dawson Springs. They range in size from 300 to 1,500 acres and all have modern facilities including cabins, dining halls, swimming pools, lakes for canoeing and fishing.

Costs of the five-day residential camps vary from $72 to $100 per person and scholarships are offered in many counties. The costs include transportation to and from the camp, 13 meals and four nights of overnight lodging.

"All of Kentucky's 4-H camps participate in the federally funded Summer Food Service program, operating under guidelines similar to public school lunch programs," said Crum.

Free meal service is based on family size and income. For a family of one, the base yearly income is $14,893. The yearly income base increases $5,180 for each additional family member.

Contact your local county Extension office for additional information on day and residential 4-H experiences offered in your area.