Programs & Camps

Summer@LSMSA

Interactive Experience for Rising Middle School Students

“Summer @LSMSA” gives students entering grades 7, 8 and 9 the opportunity to spend one week immersed in life at LSMSA. Campers can explore campus life in a fun and comfortable environment.
Summer@LSMSA Camp runs for 3 weeks every June.
2027 dates TBD.
How it works:

All campers take three courses and spend six hours a day learning in a fun, hands-on atmosphere; there are no grades or tests in any courses - just the experiences! 

In the evenings, overnight campers will have a variety of activities to choose from that are organized and monitored by camp staff. Overnight campers stay in the residence halls.

Registration is limited to one week (Session 1, 2, or 3) per camper.

For more information email the Office of Enrollment Services: Summer@LSMSA.edu
    • Campers enjoy different classes at Summer @LSMSA

Camp Info:

List of 6 items.

  • Check In & Check Out

    Overnight campers can check in and move in to the residence hall on Sunday afternoon. Move out is Friday afternoon.

    Day campers check in for their session each morning at 8:30 AM and may be checked out each day at 3:00 PM after classes or 5:00 PM if attending afternoon activities. Final check out is on Friday afternoon. 
  • Typical Summer Day Schedule

    All times are approximate

    Overnight Camp
    7:30 AM - Wake up and go to breakfast
    8:45 - 10:30 - Period 1
    10:45 - 12:30 - Period 2
    12:30 - 1:20 - Lunch is served in the LSMSA Cafeteria.
    1:30 - 3:15 - Period 3
    3:30 - 5:30 PM - Choice of activities around campus and throughout Natchitoches.
    5:30 - 6:30 PM - Dinner
    6:30 - 8:00 PM - Choice activities for campers on campus and throughout Natchitoches.
    9:00 PM - Curfew
    10:00 PM - Lights out. 

    Day Campers
    8:30 - Arrive on campus
    8:45 - 10:30 - Period 1
    10:45 - 12:30 - Period 2
    12:30 - 1:20 - Lunch is served in the LSMSA Cafeteria.
    1:30 - 3:15 - Period 3
    3:30 - 5:00 PM - Can choose to depart or participate in activities around campus 
  • Course Offerings

    Campers take 3 classes daily for a week.  Note that some classes have limited availability.  See "Camp Classes" page for more info.
  • Meals

    The dining hall will be open each day during the week for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.  Overnight campers will also receive dinner on Sunday evening.
    Day campers receive lunch only.

    The LSMSA dining hall offers a variety of options including vegetarian and vegan meals. Please list any additional dietary restrictions on the registration form.
  • Roommates

    Students have the opportunity to request specific roommates and suitemates. If they do not wish to do so, our residential life staff will pair them with other summer campers. 
  • Costs

    This year's fees are:
    $450 for overnight campers and includes all meals and activities

    $350 for day campers and includes lunch and optional (post-class) afternoon activities
JOIN OUR SUMMER TEAM!

Every spring, we are looking for energetic young adults who enjoy working with inquiring young minds.  Our Camp Counselors lead fun activities, supervise mealtimes and bedtimes, and help keep our campers safe and happy.

We have finished hiring for 2026. In spring 2027, more information about the job will be posted on our Employment page. 

If you have questions, please email summer@LSMSA.edu.
FAQ:

List of 13 frequently asked questions.

  • Q. How do I select my courses?

    You will first need to log-in to the Parent Dashboard and enter the camper and families information. When you are ready to enroll, click the "Enrollment" option on the left and choose the session you would prefer. The course selections will then be available.
  • Q. Where are the courses held?

    Our summer camp utilizes all of the resources of our beautiful campus including robust science labs, extensive performance spaces and intimate classrooms. Optional evening activities are held both on campus and within Natchitoches. 
  • Q. Can I go to the same course all day?

    No. Courses are only one period long, and there are three periods per day. You will attend the same three courses each day for the week.
  • Q. How much does the camp cost?

    The cost is $450 for overnight campers and $350 for day campers.
  • Q. How do I pay?

    Payments can be made in full online at the time of registration. In addition, a payment plan option is available and can be chosen at the time of registration. Visit the Parents Dashboard to begin the registration process.
  • Q. Can I make a change to an existing registration?

    Yes! Email our office, and we will make the change for you as long as space is available. There's no need to resubmit the registration form.
  • Q. Can I request a roommate?

    Yes! On the registration form, please enter the name of your preferred roommate.
  • Q. I have allergies or take medication. What do I do?

    Because LSMSA students live on campus, staff are well versed in student care in a residential setting. Professional staff are trained in administering medication and recognizing medical emergencies. The school's registered nurse is on campus each day and on call each night.
  • Q. I am from out of state. Is this ok?

    Campers from out of state can attend Summer @LSMSA, but it is the family's responsibility to get to and from campus at the appropriate times for check-in and check-out. Additionally, those living outside of the state will need to designate a local (within reasonable driving distance) guardian/contact who can make necessary decisions in emergency situations.
  • Q. Where is LSMSA?

    LSMSA is located in historic Natchitoches which is positioned between Shreveport and Alexandria. Driving directions to our Living Learning Commons will be sent to all registered camp families a week prior to the start of their week at camp.
  • Q. What do I bring?

    Campers should bring comfortable clothing and bedding for a residence hall. Campers should bring a pair of closed-toe shoes (like tennis shoes) to wear during gym time, field trips and classes that will be held outdoors. A detailed list of items to bring to camp will be available through the parent dashboard.
  • Q. Is it safe?

    Yes, absolutely! LSMSA is a safe campus and utilizes Northwestern State University's Police Department to monitor and patrol during the day and nighttime hours. Summer @LSMSA participants are not permitted to leave campus during camp, unless accompanied by a parent or staff member.  Campers will be under constant and consistent supervision for the duration of camp.
  • Q. Something came up and now I can't go. Can I get a refund?

    Refunds are awarded based on the date of request according to the following schedule:
    Before May 1: A full refund will be issued. 
    May 2 - Start of camp: A $100 cancellation fee will be assessed to support financial obligations and costs incurred for staffing, meal, supplies, and other plans for the cancelled camper. 
    After the start of camp: No refunds will be issued. 

Louisiana School for Math, Science and the Arts

Louisiana School for Math, Science, and the Arts (LSMSA) is the preeminent state-supported residential high school with competitive admissions for Louisiana's high-achieving, highly-motivated sophomores, juniors, and seniors. As a public school, there is no tuition to attend, and assistance from the LSMSA Foundation ensures the program is available to all qualifying students regardless of family financial need.