Nike Cross Country Camp at Elmhurst University
- Extended
- Overnight
- All
- Summer
Camp Dates & Prices
Save Your spot with a deposit! Flexible cancellation options available.
Jul. 10 - Jul. 13, 2025
2025 DATES & PRICES NOW AVAILABLE!
**Last year this camp SOLD OUT - Sign up today!**
The Nike Cross Country Camp at Elmhurst University offers middle & high school XC runners the opportunity to learn and develop as a more competitive XC runner.
A combination of distance and speed training, along with drills that work on improving running mechanics and efficiency, are utilized to help each runner prepare for his or her upcoming XC season.
Highlights Include
- TOP HIGH SCHOOL COACHING BY CHARLIE KERN
- TWO TRAINING SESSIONS PER DAY
- DAY TRIP TO CHICAGO TO RUN ALONG LAKE MICHIGAN AND EXPLORE THE BEAUTY OF THE CITY
- INFORMATIVE AND INSPIRATIONAL GUEST SPEAKERS
- MOVIE NIGHT
- NIKE RUNNING CAMP T-SHIRT
- View More Details ⟩
Camp Coaches
-
Camp Director Charlie Kern
Charlie Kern has been coaching since 1991. Coach Kern is currently the head boys track and cross country coach at York High School in Elmhurst, IL. He has coached conference, sectional, state and national championship teams. Charlie has coached at the club, middle school, high school, and junior college levels.
View Charlie's Bio & Cross Country Tips ⟩ -
Coach Eric Dettman
Coach Dettman has worked with the Lincoln running programs for the past six years and has taken over as the head coach of the track and field and cross country programs over the past 2 years. During his time at Lincoln, he has coached three State trophy cross country teams, 13 All-State athletes, and one State champion.
View Eric Dettman's Bio ⟩ -
Coach Matt Paisley
Matt Paisley is the head cross country coach at Thunder Ridge High School in Highlands Ranch, CO. Coach Paisley has been coaching XC since 1993.
View Matt Paisley's Bio ⟩
Camp Details
SECURE YOUR SPOT!
Please Note: Last year, camp sessions SOLD OUT at this location. You can expect a high demand on these first-come-first-serve camper spots, so please be sure to register early.
Mini clinics are taught by staff and guest speakers to help campers learn applicable training theory, drills, and functional core strength.
2025 OVERVIEW
- Dates: July 10-13, 2025 (Thursday-Sunday)
- Age Group: 12-17
- Gender: Co-ed
- Camp Type: Overnight, Extended Day
- Meals: All meals are provided at the on-campus dining facility. Extended Day campers do NOT receive breakfast
CAMP SCHEDULE
- Check-in: Thursday 11:00am-1:00pm for all campers
- Check-out: Sunday 11:00am for all campers
- Extended Day Camper Schedule: Thursday 1:00pm-9:00pm, Friday-Saturday 9:00am-9:00pm, Sunday 9:00am-11:00am
- Location: Cureton Hall - Elmhurst University
- View the campus map here
All Campers should arrive at camp, prepared to run on Sunday, the 1st day of camp.
PREPARE FOR CAMP: COMPLETE YOUR PRE-CAMP CHECKLIST
To view your customer account, complete your mandatory forms, pay balance dues, and review important camp information, visit Pre-Camp Checklist.
All necessary camp information is on this page. If there are any imperative changes prior to camp start, registered campers will be notified via email and this webpage will be updated!
HOUSING
- Dorm: Assigned at check in
- Campers Per Room: 2
- Roommates: Guaranteed if requested 14 days prior to camp
- Bathrooms: Shared on floor
- Linens: Not provided
- Air Conditioning: Yes
- Key Deposit: $80 - check payable to US Sports Camps
- Medical Facility: An athletic trainer is on-site and a hospital is two miles from campus
Staff members reside in campers’ quarters and participate in all activities.
WHAT'S INCLUDED IN THE FEES:
- Overnight Campers: Features several instructional sessions per day, three hot meals, and lodging in University residence halls. An evening recreation program is also included.
- Extended Day Campers: This option offers the same features as the resident camp minus lodging & breakfast (Extended Day Campers should eat breakfast before daily check-in).
SIBLING DISCOUNT:
We’re excited to offer a discount for families with multiple children attending! If you’re registering two or more siblings for this camp, please reach out to us at [email protected] for a discount code to use during registration.
We offer the following sibling discounts for our running camps:
- $15 off for weekend clinics
- $20 off for day camp sessions
- $25 off for overnight sessions
INSTRUCTION, EQUIPMENT & FACILITY
- Ratio: 1:10
- Grouped by: age, ability, current mileage, and XC experience
- Equipment needed: Campers should bring at least two pairs of broken in running shoes. Racing flats/spikes are optional. Please be sure to properly mark your equipment, so that it can be easily identified.
- Facility: Elmhurst University, local roads and trails
TRANSPORTATION
Transportation is not provided. Campers are responsible for getting to and from camp on their own. There is no supervision before or after camp hours so please make arrangements to pick up your child on time.
- Nearest Airport: Chicago O’Hare or Chicago Midway
CHECKLIST OF THINGS TO BRING:
Below is a suggested list of clothes, equipment and personal items. US Sports Camps is NOT responsible for lost or stolen articles or money.
ALL CAMPERS:
- Extra Athletic clothing
- 1-2 pairs of broken in running shoes/ event spikes
- Non-running shoes
- Water bottle
- Sunblock
- Small gym bag/backpack
- Extra spending money (suggested $40)
OVERNIGHT CAMPERS ONLY:
- Athletic clothing mentioned above
- Comfortable non-running clothing
- Underwear and socks
- Pajamas/sleepwear
- Toiletries
- Personal items & medications
- Washcloth and bath towel
- Alarm clock
- Swimsuit and towel
- Flip-flops
- Pen and paper for notes during guest speakers
- Cell phone (if you have one)
- Fan (optional)
- Pillow, pillowcase, bed sheets, comforter or sleeping bag (linens are NOT provided)
- Laundry detergent
GEAR UP FOR CAMP
All Nike Cross Country Campers receive a Nike camp t-shirt as part of their tuition. Additional Nike Camp gear is available for purchase at check-out or can be purchased at any time on our storefront.
MEDICAL PROTOCOL
Most camps have an athletic trainer on-site to help with illness or injury. In case of an emergency, campers will be transported to the nearest hospital.
CAMP TUITION PAYMENTS
Full payment of camp fees must be completed by the first day of the month before camp. For example:
- June Camps: final payment is due on May 1
- July Camps: final payment is due on June 1
- August Camps: final payment is due on July 1
Any camper with an unpaid balance 10 days before the start of their camp will forfeit all camp fees paid to date and be removed from the camp.
Your confirmation email shows your balance due and balance due date. Final payments can be made through the US Sports Camps Customer Portal or by phone at 1-800-645-3226.
COMPANY POLICIES
For information regarding our cancellation policy and all other company policies, please visit USSC Policies.
NIKE CROSS COUNTRY CAMP FAQ
For general questions about our Cross Country camps please see our FAQ page.
Sample Daily Schedule
- 7:00 am Wake up
- 7:30 am Morning run & core development
- 8:30 am Breakfast & free time
- 10:00 am Mini clinics
- 12:00 pm Lunch
- 2:00 pm Mini clinic
- 3:00 pm Afternoon workout/run
- 5:30 pm Dinner
- 7:00 pm Evening activities
- 10:30 pm Lights out
Conveniently located just 17 miles outside Chicago, Elmhurst University is an ideal location for summer training. Crushed limestone paths and grass running surfaces are within a short distance from campus. Campers have access to running on the Elmhurst University track and artificial turf soccer field.
Camp Questions & Answers
Can I come to camp alone or do I have to be a member of a team?
We welcome individual campers and teams. If you come to camp by yourself, we place you in a dorm room with another single camper, similar in age. It's a great place to meet new friends who share your enthusiasm for the sport and to have FUN!
Are the campers supervised throughout the camp?
Yes, campers are supervised by the coaches and staff. Staff members reside in the same dorms as the campers and provide supervision during instruction, dining times, evening activities, and in the dorm.
All staff members complete criminal and sex offender background checks before working the camp.
How many campers are placed in a dorm and do you accommodate roommate requests?
When you register for the camp, you have an option to submit a roommate request. If you would like to add a roommate request after registering for a camp, please feel free to give us a call or send us an email. We accommodate all roommate requests, made before 2 weeks before the start of camp. Campers who do not submit a roommate request will be placed in a dorm with other runners, similar age and same gender.
Does the Health & Release Form need to be signed by a doctor?
Our Health & Release Form does not require a doctor’s signature. This online form is required to be filled out accurately, signed by the parent (guardian), and completed before your first day of camp.
Camp Dates & Prices
Save Your spot with a deposit! Flexible cancellation options available.
Jul. 10 - Jul. 13, 2025
JOIN THE PRIORITY LIST
By joining the Priority List, you'll be the first to receive up-to-the-minute notifications on open registrations, waitlist status and camp news.
By continuing, you agree to accept our Privacy Policy & Terms of Service.
Media
Reviews & Testimonials
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Phenomenal experience!
This camp was awesome! All of the coaches were outstanding. Nike did a great job with gathering the staff. Everyone was friendly and fun, but they also challenged me to give my best effort. I feel as if I learned more in just a few days than I had in all my previous years of running combined. What a phenomenal experience!
-
Jack had a lot of fun at this camp
June 11, 2018: His favorite activity was the Lakefront Run, and he found the Long runs fun as well. Jack had a lot of fun at this camp and learned a lot as well.
-
2022: The highlights were running with, playing games with, and getting advice from camp counselors, who were amazing people and coaches.
-
Loved the field trip to Chicago
2022: The train trip to Chicago and getting to run on the lakefront was amazing!
-
Motivational
I would definitely recommend this camp to any runner who needs help with form or needs some motivation, or even just to run and have a good time. I learned a lot about training and how to improve my running.
-
I loved the mini clinics
June 11, 2018: The best parts of camp for me were dancing to country songs, the nice people, the games, runs, mini clinics, and the food. The trip into the city was fun too.
-
City trip was a highlight
June 20, 2018: A huge highlight was being able to run with Coach Kern along the lakefront as well as to receive a few minutes of individual coaching from him. He was encouraged that he was able to have a few minutes with Coach Kern to go over his foot fall. Connor loved seeing the play at York- a fun addition. The city trip was a highlight, as well, so thank you for fitting that in despite the weather. The classroom time was very good, as well. As we consider sending both of our kids next summer as varsity high school runners, the individual attention from a member of the coaching staff would be hoped for. It’s wonderful that the numbers are growing- but along with that it would be great to have some individual attention so that they are leaving camp with personalized learning— appropriate for the price point of the camp. Charlie and Laura Kern were wonderful— as were their kids. An honor to be with them!
-
Loved it
This was my daughter’s first running camp and she loved it. She learned so much from both coaching and staff. She also made great friends that she has stayed in touch with. She can't wait until next summer.
-
Exposed me to new techniques
This camp really helped me with things my high school coaches didn't expose me to. I've noticed myself become a much better runner and competitor after working with Coach Kern at the Nike Running Camp
-
Trip to Chicago
October 18, 2019: Really enjoyed the trip to Chicago as well as one on one conversations with coaches and counselors.
-
Great balance
October 19, 2019: Great balance of work and play. Exposing them to new experiences like running on the city lakefront was a highlight! Also liked the increased intensity on the 3 mile run. Loved the facilities...said it was clean and food was good.
-
Friendly environment
Lots of fun, pushes you no matter what level you run at, learn more than anywhere else, friendly environment with all you can eat food
-
Prepared for the upcoming season
I had a wonderful experience at camp. The days were filled with many fun activities that kept you going and learning. Going to the city was also a great experience with the group. I made new friends and feel much more prepared for the upcoming season.
-
2022: Our son was inspired and motivated. He made friends and had fun!
-
2023: The coaching staff was super! We would have enjoyed a longer camp stay.
-
2023: My son loved the motivational talks and the other activities. The running was important and expected, but the other aspects exceeded his expectations.
-
One of the best camps I've ever attended
This is one of the best camps I've ever attended. Working hard and becoming a better runner is mixed with becoming a better person, meeting friends and having so much fun.
-
So much fun
This was 2nd year. I love it. Look forward to it all winter. Great running, great coaching, and so much fun. It's also good hard running!
-
She really liked the experience of being with other runners from the area
June 11, 2018: She really liked the experience of being with other runners from the area. She would have liked more team building stuff but understand it's hard when not everyone is coming to camp with their team. The city trip and all the friends she made were her favorite parts I think.
-
Entirely new attitude and outlook
My daughter is anticipating the upcoming cross country season with an entirely new attitude and outlook. It was a great camp!!
-
Could use more personalized advice
Could give us more personalized advice on technique and core development like stretching, lifting, things we can do when camp is over.
-
Keeps coming back
October 18, 2019: This is his 3rd year and he always wants to go back. He has fun making new friends and all the activities throughout the 4 days. TJ always has a fun time and it prepares him to get ready for the XC summer training.
-
Lots of content that he could incorporate directly into his training
June 11, 2018: The Running was great, but the extra activities really added a fun component. Jason said there was a lot of content that he could incorporate directly into his training. Also, that he really enjoyed coach Kern’s running stories while out on a run. Thanks!
-
Valuable running experience!
Nike running camp is an excellent way to run over the summer. Whether it be to get back into shape or to retain your fitness, all ability levels are covered at camp. Campers learn extremely valuable tips and skills to become a better runner, and have much fun while doing it. All runs are fun and interesting, and enable you to bond with both other campers and staff. Overall it is just a great camp.
-
Phenomenal experience!
This camp was awesome! All of the coaches were outstanding. Nike did a great job with gathering the staff. Everyone was friendly and fun, but they also challenged me to give my best effort. I feel as if I learned more in just a few days than I had in all my previous years of running combined. What a phenomenal experience!
-
Jack had a lot of fun at this camp
June 11, 2018: His favorite activity was the Lakefront Run, and he found the Long runs fun as well. Jack had a lot of fun at this camp and learned a lot as well.
-
2022: The highlights were running with, playing games with, and getting advice from camp counselors, who were amazing people and coaches.
-
Loved the field trip to Chicago
2022: The train trip to Chicago and getting to run on the lakefront was amazing!
-
Motivational
I would definitely recommend this camp to any runner who needs help with form or needs some motivation, or even just to run and have a good time. I learned a lot about training and how to improve my running.
-
I loved the mini clinics
June 11, 2018: The best parts of camp for me were dancing to country songs, the nice people, the games, runs, mini clinics, and the food. The trip into the city was fun too.
-
City trip was a highlight
June 20, 2018: A huge highlight was being able to run with Coach Kern along the lakefront as well as to receive a few minutes of individual coaching from him. He was encouraged that he was able to have a few minutes with Coach Kern to go over his foot fall. Connor loved seeing the play at York- a fun addition. The city trip was a highlight, as well, so thank you for fitting that in despite the weather. The classroom time was very good, as well. As we consider sending both of our kids next summer as varsity high school runners, the individual attention from a member of the coaching staff would be hoped for. It’s wonderful that the numbers are growing- but along with that it would be great to have some individual attention so that they are leaving camp with personalized learning— appropriate for the price point of the camp. Charlie and Laura Kern were wonderful— as were their kids. An honor to be with them!
-
Loved it
This was my daughter’s first running camp and she loved it. She learned so much from both coaching and staff. She also made great friends that she has stayed in touch with. She can't wait until next summer.
-
Exposed me to new techniques
This camp really helped me with things my high school coaches didn't expose me to. I've noticed myself become a much better runner and competitor after working with Coach Kern at the Nike Running Camp
-
Trip to Chicago
October 18, 2019: Really enjoyed the trip to Chicago as well as one on one conversations with coaches and counselors.
-
Great balance
October 19, 2019: Great balance of work and play. Exposing them to new experiences like running on the city lakefront was a highlight! Also liked the increased intensity on the 3 mile run. Loved the facilities...said it was clean and food was good.
-
Friendly environment
Lots of fun, pushes you no matter what level you run at, learn more than anywhere else, friendly environment with all you can eat food
-
Prepared for the upcoming season
I had a wonderful experience at camp. The days were filled with many fun activities that kept you going and learning. Going to the city was also a great experience with the group. I made new friends and feel much more prepared for the upcoming season.
-
2022: Our son was inspired and motivated. He made friends and had fun!
-
2023: The coaching staff was super! We would have enjoyed a longer camp stay.
-
2023: My son loved the motivational talks and the other activities. The running was important and expected, but the other aspects exceeded his expectations.
-
One of the best camps I've ever attended
This is one of the best camps I've ever attended. Working hard and becoming a better runner is mixed with becoming a better person, meeting friends and having so much fun.
-
So much fun
This was 2nd year. I love it. Look forward to it all winter. Great running, great coaching, and so much fun. It's also good hard running!
-
She really liked the experience of being with other runners from the area
June 11, 2018: She really liked the experience of being with other runners from the area. She would have liked more team building stuff but understand it's hard when not everyone is coming to camp with their team. The city trip and all the friends she made were her favorite parts I think.
-
Entirely new attitude and outlook
My daughter is anticipating the upcoming cross country season with an entirely new attitude and outlook. It was a great camp!!
-
Could use more personalized advice
Could give us more personalized advice on technique and core development like stretching, lifting, things we can do when camp is over.
-
Keeps coming back
October 18, 2019: This is his 3rd year and he always wants to go back. He has fun making new friends and all the activities throughout the 4 days. TJ always has a fun time and it prepares him to get ready for the XC summer training.
-
Lots of content that he could incorporate directly into his training
June 11, 2018: The Running was great, but the extra activities really added a fun component. Jason said there was a lot of content that he could incorporate directly into his training. Also, that he really enjoyed coach Kern’s running stories while out on a run. Thanks!
-
Valuable running experience!
Nike running camp is an excellent way to run over the summer. Whether it be to get back into shape or to retain your fitness, all ability levels are covered at camp. Campers learn extremely valuable tips and skills to become a better runner, and have much fun while doing it. All runs are fun and interesting, and enable you to bond with both other campers and staff. Overall it is just a great camp.
-
July 18, 2023: Places In which they were able to run. What a fun experience
-
July 20, 2022: Our son was inspired and motivated. He made friends and had fun.
-
July 20, 2023: The runs. Making new connections and trying out different workouts.
-
July 18, 2023: stressing the importance of a positive mindset for running and competing
-
July 18, 2023: The one on one time with the older runners, the fun night activities, the chance to challenge myself.
-
July 19, 2023: The staff, the Chicago run, group bonding activities, excellent facilities and meals, and fun activity.
-
July 25, 2022: [The highlights were] running with, playing games with, and getting advice from camp counselors, who were amazing people and coaches.
-
July 19, 2023: The friendly staff, that it was overnight, the team bonding, the fun extra evening activities, excellent facilities and food.
-
July 18, 2023: My son loved the motivational talks and the other activities. The running was important and expected, but the other aspects exceeded his expectations.
-
A wonderful week for him
Coach Zion's ability to connect with each camper 9n different levels. The respect and positive attitude and most of all discipline towards each activity was emphasized. This was my camper's first sleep away camp and the6 made friends, improved running form and realized their running talent. Running on the VCT(Virginia Creeper Trail) for the tempo runs was new as my camper had not done tempo runs and they loved it! It was educational, bonding, hard work that we are doing it again next year and bringing along new runners with us.
