Youth Camp 2026

The Bellevue Police Department is preparing to welcome a new group of students to its upcoming Youth Camp — an engaging, hands-on program designed to connect young people with law enforcement in a positive and meaningful way.

Open to middle and high school students, the camp offers a unique opportunity for participants to step into the world of policing through interactive experiences and real-world demonstrations. Over the course of several action-packed days, students will explore a wide range of public safety topics, from crime scene investigation and first aid to traffic safety and responsible decision-making. Activities are designed to be both educational and fun, giving youth a chance to learn by doing while building confidence and teamwork skills.

A hallmark of the program is the direct interaction between students and officers. Rather than simply observing, youth work alongside police personnel who serve as mentors throughout the camp. These connections help break down misconceptions and foster trust, creating a space where young people feel comfortable asking questions and gaining insight into the realities of police work.

Middle school students that participated in the 2025 Youth Camp shared “I absolutely loved the police youth camp! I hope I can come back next year” and “The police were really helpful and it was fun to learn what they did”.

Campers can also expect memorable experiences such as exploring police motorcycles, learning about forensic techniques like fingerprinting, and even seeing specialized resources like the Guardian One helicopter up close. These moments bring excitement to the program while reinforcing the important role public safety plays in the community.

Beyond the activities, the Youth Camp is rooted in a larger goal: building stronger relationships between law enforcement and the next generation. Through team-building exercises and open dialogue, students develop important life skills such as communication, problem-solving, and leadership—tools that extend far beyond the camp experience.

As the program continues to grow, supported in part by the Bellevue Police Foundation, it remains a powerful investment in the future of the community. The Bellevue Police Youth Camp is more than just a summer program—it’s an opportunity to inspire, educate, and connect, helping young people see themselves as active partners in building a safer, stronger community.