You remember how it was — the months stretch out in a hot, heavy haze and by mid July the cartoons and free time are getting a little old.

These days it may be just a few track-out weeks instead of straight stretches of months, but area kids still need a place to direct their summer energy.

Summer camps to the rescue!

A host of church, municipal and private organizations are hosting summer camps in the area.

Last week I hit the road to check out one at Hunt Community Center in Holly Springs, which is offering week-long camps throughout the summer.

Starting at $60, the camps are open to the public and include themes such as Science Week, Career Week and Sports Week.

Last week was Art Week and a crowd of about 100 kids ranging in age from 5 to 11 were at the center.

“It keeps them from getting in trouble,” said Matt Lorion, recreation program specialist with the Hunt Center.

The camps run until mid August and Lorion said they have just a few spots left.

Though each week has themed activities, campers also have free time to play basketball, swim and so on.

Camper Emily Carlin, 10, also enjoys the daily field trips campers take, such as the trip to Bass Lake earlier in the day.

“You get to go on different field trips,” said the rising Fuquay-Varina Middle School sixth-grader.

For information about the camps call the Hunt Community Center at 557-9600.