Austin Tinkering School on Wilshire Blvd gives children real tools and real materials to design and build their own projects across a week of camp. Campers learn shop safety and tool training, then construct both small and large-scale builds, with the school framing tinkering as practice in creative problem-solving, flexible thinking and a failure-positive mindset. Summer camps are grouped by age - roughly 4-5, 6-8 and 9-12 - with a separate older camp for ages 10-15, and school-break camps run for ages 5-11.
The practical details
We list only what the camp itself publishes, and programs change — dates, prices, ages and availability can all move after we check. Confirm the details on the camp’s own website and contact Austin Tinkering School directly before you register or pay. Last checked August 2026.
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★★★★★Eleanor HamiltonAfter the first day of camp when we asked our son how it went, he replied that it had been a very, very, VERY good day. When his ride arrived the next morning to take him to camp he RAN out the door with barely a goodbye. Every morning since then he's asked if today is a Tinkering School day. That about sums it up!
★★★★★Zoe CummingsThis camp is truly awesome! We have done it for a couple of years now and my kids always look forward to it! Kami and her team are amazing! The kids come home exhausted, dirty and with a huge smile on their face! Highly recommend this awesome Austin organization! Looking forward to next year!!
★★★★★Leah CoxThis camp can't be beat! My son and daughter both love going. The camp themes are fun and make each week a different experience for them, but what stays the same is this: the kids learn how to use tools, imagine new creations and get adult support with how to build them, and create parts of the camp that remain there long after they leave (like kid-created playground equipment, forts, etc.). The leaders do a fantastic job leading and fostering a productive, joyful environment. We have many friends who have sent their kids there over the years and love it, too.
★★★★★Jessica BuonoMy 10 year old son absolutely loves this camp! He has gone for 3 years and it’s always his favorite (and he goes to quite a few other camps in town). He came home proud, having made a marble maze with wood and a wooden yo-yo. He also loves the chance to be creative and messy with a bunch of different supplies and materials. The camp counselors are so kind and encouraging. Thank you for making such a cool Maker’s space for kids!
★★★★★Caroline HaleyLove this place! I would sign my children up for any program run by the Tinkering School. The classes are challenging, free range yet with plenty of structure, and the work product always blows me away. Our daughter has come home with everything from a chess board she made herself using power tools to a handheld tetris game she soldered parts together to create. Highly recommend. An Austin treasure.