Living History Farms is a 500-acre open-air history museum in Urbandale that runs outdoor summer day camps for children entering kindergarten through 8th grade. Campers spend the day in hands-on historical activities, crafts, games and visits to the museum's historic farm sites across the prairie grounds, with early drop-off and late pick-up available for most weeks.
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 Living History Farms directly before you register or pay. Last checked August 2026.
Camps nearby
Accreditations & licensing
As stated by the camp or listed in the accrediting organization's directory — confirm current status with the accreditor.
Google Reviews
Powered by Google
★★★★★Michelle NoackI am not a history girl, or originally from Iowa. Let me tell you I had the best day with my daughter who is in 7th grade and the rest of her class! I learned so much. The staff was so knowledgeable and made it fun. I want to bring my whole family back, and we are from Northwest Iowa but certain the rest of my family would love it as well, it will be worth the drive and day off. Bravo
★★★★★CT LynnFrom the Ioway Indian Farm to the animals at the Pioneer Farm and the many buildings throughout the Historic Town, this is truly an incredible historical experience. The guides and historic interpreters are very knowledgeable and bring the history to life. We came for the afternoon but easily could have spent the entire day here.
★★★★Cassandra RenaIt was a fun day out with kids from school. I've been here many times over the years. They should do a few things to make it a more lively. Throw a banjo player or just something to keep spirits a little more up there.
★★★★★Benjamin BrownWe've only ever come for the drive through Christmas lights, so when we got an opportunity to come in the summer and see what it was actually about we were interested. And it was great! A tractor takes you to the back of the farm and back in time to early farming methods in Iowa, and as you work through the farm you go through time. There's cows and corn, and folks demonstrating clothes washing, cooking, taking care of chickens and more. All the kids from teen to toddlers enjoyed the visit
★★★★★Tim TWell informed and very educative. Farm is huge and well laid out. Tractor ride and pick up is nice and time efficient. Houses and artifacts are well represented. Interpreters are knowledgeable and welcoming. A bit pricey or worth what you paid for. Be prepared for a lot of walking. Welcome to bring your own food and have a picnic. Kids friendly. Seen a lot of school kids taking tours in groups. Highly recommended!