by SHREEMOYEE GHOSH, 4-H Youth Development Agent
If you’ve ever wondered what 4-H is all about, summer is the perfect time to find out.
While many youth programs slow down this time of year, 4-H comes to life in a different way, through hands-on camps, workshops, and real-world learning experiences. These summer opportunities allow young people to explore interests, build practical skills, and connect with others in a structured, supportive environment.
Whether you are a parent, caregiver, or community member looking for meaningful opportunities for youth, Polk County 4-H and Florida 4-H offer a variety of programs that make it easy to get started. You have local options as well as opportunities to participate in the broader Florida 4-H program and youth do not have to be existing 4-H members to participate.
Polk County 4-H Summer Opportunities
Polk County 4-H provides local, accessible programs that introduce youth to agriculture, science, food systems, and the outdoors through experiential learning.
Game Day Grill Edition, 4-H Tailgating Camp
June 16–18, Ages 11–18, Cost $30
A hands-on food skills experience where participants learn grilling techniques, food safety, and the journey from farm to table, while also preparing for a county-level cooking challenge. Scan the QR code to register.
4-H STEM in Agriculture Workshop
June 19, Ages 8–18, Cost $20
A one-day workshop focused on innovation in agriculture, where participants build hydroponic systems, design vertical farms, and engage in a team-based “Pitch Your Farm” challenge. Scan the QR code to register.
4-H Nature Explorers Camp
June 29–July 2, Ages 9–12, Cost $100
A multi-day outdoor experience centered on environmental exploration, including beekeeping, plant and insect studies, journaling, art, and nature-based learning activities.
Scan the QR code to register.
Registration is completed through 4-H Online, and deadlines vary by program. Scholarships are available for enrolled Polk County 4-H members.
Florida 4-H Summer Camps
Beyond local programs, youth can take part in statewide summer camps at any of the Florida 4-H camps and the closest to Polk County is 4-H Camp Cloverleaf at Lake Placid. Florida 4-H offers both day camps and overnight residential camp experiences, giving youth the chance to explore new interests while developing independence and leadership skills.
These camps are open to youth who are not currently enrolled in 4-H, making them an accessible entry point for families exploring the program.
Scan the QR code to learn more about the Florida 4-H summer camp program.
What Youth Gain Through 4-H
While academic success is important, 4-H focuses on developing the life skills young people need beyond the classroom.
Through hands-on experiences, youth build decision-making, communication, teamwork, and leadership, preparing them to contribute meaningfully to their communities and engage with real-world challenges. Rooted in the values of the 4-H pledge, these experiences shape how young people think, lead, and take initiative, building confidence that carries into future education, careers, and civic life.
Start Your 4-H Journey This Summer
4-H is more than a seasonal activity, it is a starting point for long-term growth and opportunity.
For many families, summer is where that first connection happens. What begins as a camp or workshop can grow into deeper involvement, opening doors to leadership roles, skill development, and experiences at the local, state, and national level.
As youth explore different interest areas, they begin to identify passions, build networks, and gain exposure to potential career pathways. 4-H provides a space where young people are not only learning, but discovering direction, building confidence, and preparing to contribute in meaningful ways.
Getting involved this summer is not just about filling time, it is about taking the first step into a larger journey of growth, connection, and purpose.
Don’t wait to get started, reach out to the Polk County 4-H office and take the first step this summer.
Shreemoyee Ghosh is a 4-H Youth Development Agent. She can be reached at Shreemoyee.ghosh@ufl.eduor 863-519-1073. Amanda Dominguez is a 4-H Educational Program Specialist. She can be reached at Asanchez2@ufl.edu or 863-519-1067.
