If you’ve ever typed “summer camp” into Google, you’re not alone. A 2025 digital‑marketing study reports that this phrase receives about 90 000 national monthly searches, while broader queries like “kids activities near me” and “family fun near me” reach hundreds of thousands of monthly searches. At the same time, “VBS near me” and “vacation bible school near me” rack up tens of thousands of searches. Clearly, families are actively looking for ways to fill their children’s summer schedules—but many aren’t sure whether a Vacation Bible School is just another camp.
As a parent and ministry leader, you might wonder: Is Vacation Bible School the same as summer camp? What do kids actually do at VBS? How much does it cost? This guide answers those basic questions by comparing VBS with traditional summer programs, citing recent research and offering biblical insight.
What Is Vacation Bible School?
Vacation Bible School (VBS) is a weeklong program offered by churches to teach children about God in a fun, interactive environment. Unlike a typical day‑camp, VBS intentionally weaves the Bible into every activity. During a VBS session, kids gather for morning rallies, break into small groups for games, crafts, singing and mission projects, and listen to Bible stories tailored to their age group. According to a report on VBS programs in Southwest Florida, churches host weeklong VBS programs where children learn about the Bible while playing games, crafting, singing songs and doing mission projects. These programs provide a fun way to learn about God, offer safe and wholesome activities, and serve as outreach tools to the community.
How Is VBS Different from a Traditional Summer Camp?
1. Purpose: Traditional day camps often focus on recreation, sports or arts without a spiritual component. In contrast, VBS is “nothing like a traditional camp.” Its primary aim is to engage children in an expedition of faith, weaving biblical lessons into every activity.
2. Content: While both camps and VBS offer crafts and games, VBS integrates worship rallies, Bible teachings and mission projects. Children not only craft and play but also raise money for mission causes and learn to help people who might be struggling.
3. Cost: Many secular camps charge hundreds of dollars per week. VBS is usually an outreach ministry funded by the church. The cost is nominal compared with a traditional summer camp, and some VBS programs are even free. This makes VBS accessible to families of all income levels.
4. Inclusivity: Traditional camps may require membership or affiliation. VBS, however, welcomes any child in the community, not just those who attend the host church. It’s a chance for kids to make new friends and for families to visit a church in a non‑threatening environment.
5. Spiritual Goals: Secular camps might teach values, but VBS intentionally disciples children. Jesus commands us to “go and make disciples of all the nations” and to teach them to obey God’s commands. VBS plays a unique role in fulfilling that Great Commission by introducing children to God’s Word and helping them grow in faith.
What Do Kids Do at VBS?
Activities vary by theme, but most programs follow a similar rhythm. Here’s a snapshot based on real VBS experiences:
- Opening worship rally: Kids gather to sing lively songs, watch skits and learn the day’s Bible verse. In some programs, the production is professional and “magical,” with giant props and stunt shows.
- Bible lessons and small groups: Children dive into Bible stories through drama, interactive storytelling and small‑group discussions. They often collect Bible Memory Buddies—character cards that help them remember key verses.
- Games and crafts: Teams compete in games that reinforce the day’s lesson. Craft stations allow children to express creativity while exploring spiritual truths.
- Mission projects: Many VBS programs include service components. For example, one church raises money for an orphanage and motivates kids through friendly competitions. Another collects backpacks and school supplies for local ministries. These projects teach children to put faith into action.
Why Do People Search for “Summer Camp” When They Mean VBS?
The massive search volume for “summer camp” (90 K) and broader phrases like “kids activities near me” (201 K) reveals that parents are exploring a wide range of options. Many may not be familiar with the term “Vacation Bible School,” especially if they don’t attend church. By searching for summer camps, they hope to find affordable and meaningful experiences. Because VBS often functions like a day camp—with drop‑off and pick‑up, crafts, snacks and games—it naturally appears in these search results.
However, the spiritual focus and community outreach of VBS set it apart. Churches can use these search trends to reach families who might not otherwise discover VBS. For example, include “summer camp” or “kids activities” in your page titles and meta descriptions, but clearly explain that VBS offers Bible‑centered fun and deeper purpose. And when promoting Group’s Rainforest Falls VBS 2026, highlight that kids “step through the mist into Rainforest Falls” to explore God’s nature and learn five foundational truths: God is Creator, God is All‑Knowing, God is Our Refuge, God is Love, and God is Forever.
Choosing Between VBS and Other Summer Programs
Parents often weigh several factors when deciding how to fill the summer calendar. Here are key considerations and how VBS stacks up:
- Cost: As noted, VBS is low‑cost or free, making it accessible for many families. Traditional camps can be hundreds of dollars per week.
- Schedule: VBS typically runs for half‑days over one week, while day camps can last multiple weeks. If you’re looking for extended childcare, some churches offer after‑care for a small fee.
- Safety and environment: Churches prioritise child safety, screening volunteers and staff. Ask about security protocols, training and ratios.
- Spiritual benefit: If you desire your child to grow in faith, VBS is unparalleled. Beyond teaching Bible stories, it encourages worship, prayer and service—shaping character in a way many secular camps do not.
- Friendship and inclusion: VBS is open to all children in the community. Kids make friends from different backgrounds, promoting inclusivity and community.
How to Make the Most of VBS (and Support Ministry)
- Register early. Spots fill quickly, especially in popular themes like Rainforest Falls. Include VBS dates and your city in your online searches and registration forms.
- Prepare your child. Talk about the theme and daily Bible points. Pray together using verses like Proverbs 22:6(“Direct your children onto the right path, and when they are older, they will not leave it”, NLT) and Matthew 28:20 (“And be sure of this: I am with you always, even to the end of the age”, NLT). These scriptures encourage kids to trust God during new experiences.
- Volunteer or contribute. Many VBS programs rely on volunteers. Serving alongside your child deepens your connection and supports the ministry. If you can’t volunteer, consider donating craft supplies, snacks or funds.
- Extend the experience at home. Use digital resources—like AI‑generated colouring pages, printable memory‑verse cards and music playlists—to reinforce what your child learns. Our website offers Rainforest‑themed art backgrounds, clip‑art packs and games to bring VBS imagination into your living room.
Conclusion: VBS Is More Than a Camp—It’s a Spiritual Adventure
Vacation Bible School is not just another summer camp. It’s a mission‑driven, Bible‑saturated adventure that invites children to encounter God, build friendships and serve others—all at little to no cost. While search engines may lump VBS with camps, churches can use SEO strategies to reach families searching for “summer camp” or “kids activities near me” and gently introduce them to the transforming power of God’s Word.
Ultimately, VBS fulfils Jesus’ command to go and make disciples. As you decide how to use your family’s summer, consider the eternal impact of a week spent exploring faith. “Your word is a lamp to guide my feet and a light for my path” (Psalm 119:105, NLT)—and Vacation Bible School is a beautiful way to light the path for our children.