Game Camp Nation runs a video-game development overnight camp in Herndon, structured as 6-day, 7-night summer weeks with Sunday check-in and check-out. Campers work through design, art and programming in hands-on studio sessions, try different roles before choosing a focus, and compete in daily tournaments, with a gaming arena of high-performance computers for 24 participants and a continuous 6:1 camper-to-counselor ratio. Days run from a 7am wake-up to 10:30pm lights out and mix studio blocks with console casuals, a pool session with a lifeguard, free time and meals; campers and counselors stay in apartment-style suites at an extended-stay resort, with bedrooms divided by gender and complimentary laundry. Sessions are $1,450 with $150 off each additional session, families handle their own drop-off and pick-up, and a counselor-in-training leadership track is offered.
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 Game Camp Nation directly before you register or pay. Last checked August 2026.
Camps nearby
Google Reviews
Powered by Google
★★★★★Gretchen PeacockMy two sons attended for several years as teenagers. They had an amazing time, developed independence, and learned skills that are helping them now as they enter college to study computer science and digital art. They loved every counselor they had in the program. And this camp started their ongoing love of Magic the Gathering and Dungeons & Dragons! Could not have asked for a better summer camp experience for my kids.
★★★★★RJ RJFlexible camp for kids of differing behaviors and interests
★★★★★Carroll ReviewsOur son has done a lot of online camps this summer, and GCN comes out on top in terms of quality, engagement, and value. The small class size, expert counselors, and passionate staff all work in tandem to create a stellar virtual camp experience that truly inspired my child. In fact, we're more excited than ever to have our son go to the sleep away camp having interacted with both the staff and their programming. Until then, we'll be taking advantage of their flexible after-school virtual classes this fall. Job well done, Game Camp Nation!
★★★★★Kristy LoSapioThis summer was my son's third year. He absolutely LOVES it (he went for three weeks this summer) and looks forward to it all year long. He's sad when I pick him up at the end of every day! It's a very well-run camp, the staff is fantastic, and my son learns a ton. I was blown away by the 3D modeling he was able to do this year. Even better was that he got to print his design on the 3D printer. I highly recommend it!
★★★★★Tim PresleyReview by Tim Presley: I had searched for a couple of years to find a game design camp for my son that was affordable, yet substantial and a good value for the cost. Many of the camps I was researching and looking at were very expensive and the closest one was a three hour drive. I kept searching and found Game Camp Nation with a location 20 minutes from my home. After speaking with the camp directors and leaders on many occasions and having my questions answered I felt that this was a good value and with a team that cared. After two summers of sending my son to Game Camp Nation I would recommend it to everyone. They run a great program, it is safe and the students get a lot out of it. My son has been inspired and as a result he has been accepted to George Mason University in the game design program. Thank You Game Camp Nation for inspiring my son. Tim Presley