Day camps: The best summer camps in and near NYC
Want a well-rounded kid? Then treat her to a summer session at one of the best day camps in or near New York City.
Thu Feb 7 2013
-
Photograph: Christina Fotoglou
Day camps: The best summer camps in and near NYC
Art Farm in the City
-
Photograph: Courtesy the Henry Street Settlement
Day camps: The best summer camps in and near NYC
Camp Henry
-
Day camps: The best summer camps in and near NYC
Camp Léman
-
Day camps: The best summer camps in and near NYC
Downtown Day Camp
-
Day camps: The best summer camps in and near NYC
Dwight Summer Day Camp
-
Day camps: The best summer camps in and near NYC
Friends Seminary Creative Day Camp
-
Photograph: Courtesy Summer Clubhouse/The Hewitt School
Day camps: The best summer camps in and near NYC
Hewitt School Summer Clubhouse
-
Photograph: Courtesy Kim's Kids
Day camps: The best summer camps in and near NYC
Kim's Kids
-
Photograph: Courtesy The Kings Bay Y at Windsor Terrace
Day camps: The best summer camps in and near NYC
Kings Bay Y
-
Day camps: The best summer camps in and near NYC
LIU Brooklyn Children's Academy
-
Day camps: The best summer camps in and near NYC
Mill Basin Day Camp
-
Day camps: The best summer camps in and near NYC
New Country Day Camp
-
Day camps: The best summer camps in and near NYC
New York City Explorers
-
Day camps: The best summer camps in and near NYC
NYC Kids Camp
-
Day camps: The best summer camps in and near NYC
Oasis Day Camp
-
Day camps: The best summer camps in and near NYC
Park Explorers
-
Photograph: Courtesy Park Slope Day Camp
Day camps: The best summer camps in and near NYC
Park Slope Day Camp
-
Day camps: The best summer camps in and near NYC
LREI Camp
For kids who want a traditional camp experience (think hours playing sports, making crafts and building friendships), the day camps in and around New York City can't be beat. Similar to the camps many of us went to as kids, these day camps offer a well-rounded program—young campers may participate in team sports in the morning, then learn a dance routine in the afternoon for a camp talent show. Options near New York City (sometimes called commuter camps) offer city kids bus service to their campuses, which are often on acres land. At these summer camps for kids, children can expect lakes for fishing, multiple swimming pools, mini golf courses and more.
RECOMMENDED: Summer camps for kids
- « previous
- next »
- Day camps in NY
- Day camps near New York
Day camps in New York
The Art Farm in the City Camps
- Price band: 3/4
The camp's major draw is its indoor petting zoo, where little ones learn how to take care of live animals including birds, bunnies and reptiles. The program also offers lessons from Super Soccer Stars, swim instruction and classes in an array of arts. Camp runs June 21–Aug 16; days and hours per session vary. One-week session $255-$630. Ages 3 to 7.
- 419 E 91st St, (between First and York Aves), 10128
Blue Dolphin Summer Camp: Trailblazers
- Price band: 2/4
Participants dabble in activities like soccer, basketball, jewelry making and nature walks at the Queens camp. Special events, such as a talent show, and optional field trips to Dorney Park and Six Flags are on the agenda too. Camp runs June 24–Aug 16, Mon–Fri 9am–4pm. $230 a week until June 1, $245 thereafter, with a two-week registration minimum. Round-trip transportation $50. Ages 6 to 11.
- 69-26 Cooper Ave, (at 69th Pl), 11385
Camp Henry
- Price band: 2/4
Tykes start the morning with breakfast before delving into a series of 60- and 90-minute pursuits, including crafts, sports and drama. Each week centers around a theme (All About the City, All About the Planet Earth and All About Adventure) explored through special events, inquiry-based projects and visual and performing arts. Camp runs July 8–Aug 16, Mon–Fri 8:30am–5:30pm. Seven-week session $1,150 through April 22, thereafter $1,300. Sibling discounts and financial aid available. Ages 4 to 13.
- 301 Henry St, (between Grand and Montgomery Sts), 10002
Camp Léman
- Price band: 3/4
Karate, yoga, cooking, swimming and many more pastimes fill the days at this camp. When kids aren't engaged in sports or creative endeavors, they play on the rooftop playground or in nearby parks. Camp runs June 17–Aug 2; Mon–Fri 8:30am–3:30pm (ages 4 to 8), 8:30am–1pm (age 3). Seven-week session $4,600 (full day) or $3,850 (half day); shorter sessions are available. Ages 3 to 8.
- 41 Broad St, (between Beaver St and Exchange Pl), 10004
Downtown Day Camps
- Price band: 3/4
The Downtown Day Camps' impressive facilities include a 75-foot pool, dance studio, gym and theater; campers can look forward to lessons with the Story Pirates, sports instruction and music classes. Another perk: Pier 25's playground and mini-golf course are nearby. Junior Division (ages 5 to 8): P.S. 234, 292 Greenwich St between Warren and Chambers Sts. Senior Division (ages 9 to 14): P.S./I.S. 89, 201 Warren St between Chambers and West Sts. Camp runs June 28–Aug 9, Mon–Fri 9am–5pm. Six-week session $3,695, three-week session (June 28–July 19) $2,445, three-week session (July 22–Aug 9) $1,845, add-on week for Junior Division only (Aug 12–16) $495. Ages 5 to 14.
- Multiple locations
Dwight Summer Day Camp
- Price band: 3/4
The new eight-week program at this international learning institution—led by Mike Bailey, formerly of Asphalt Green—boasts an indoor pool, a karate dojo and an open-air roof deck. In a typical day, kids may juggle in a circus-arts class, then compose songs in a music session. Games of GaGa are also on deck, and campers frequently venture off campus for trips. Camp runs June 27– Aug 16, Mon–Fri 8:30am–4:30pm. $3,700–$5,275 depending on length of session. Ages 4 to 13.
- 291 Central Park West, (between 89th and 90th Sts), 10024
Friends Seminary Creative Day
- Price band: 3/4
Throughout the day, campers explore their individual interests by choosing from a selection of small-group activities, such as arts and crafts, drama and creative movement, sports and games, or swim instruction. They also participate in cooperative play with a larger group and occasionally embark on field trips. Camp runs June 10–Aug 2, Mon–Fri 9am–4:30pm. One-week session $775, one-day session $180. Ages 6 to 11.
- 222 E 16th St, (between Rutherford Pl and Third Ave), 10003
Hewitt School Summer Clubhouse
- Price band: 3/4
The wide range of offerings at this camp gives kids a chance to explore their many interests and discover new hobbies in the process. Kids choose from classes in sports, arts, chess and more and take weekly trips to local attractions like the New York Hall of Science and the Prospect Park Zoo. All campers receive swimming lessons. Camp runs June 24–28, July 29–Aug 2, Aug 5–Aug 9, and Aug 12–Aug16; Mon–Fri 9am–3pm (entering kindergarten), 9am–4pm (entering grades 1 to 5). One-week session $650. Ages 5 to 10.
- 3 E 76th St, (between Fifth and Madison Aves), 10021
Kim's Kids Camps
- Price band: 2/4
Tykes hit up a new kiddie hot spot in and around NYC every day. They'll venture to parks and playgrounds, explore local museums and zoos, hike across the Brooklyn Bridge to check out Chinatown and spend one special day at Sesame Place (requires an additional fee). Camp runs July 1–Aug 16, Mon–Fri 9am–3pm. Six-week session $2,055, three three-day weeks $795; other options are available. Ages 4 to 11.
- 378 3rd St, (at Fifth Ave), 11215
Kings Bay Y at Windsor Terrace Camps
- Price band: 3/4
Kids fill their days with age-appropriate workshops in nature, science, sports and cooking, taking advantage of nearby Prospect Park in the process. Most children swim four times a week, and tweens (ages 10 to 14) attend an overnight trip away at a different location. The oldest campers (ages 14 to 16) participate in weekly leadership training and service projects. At the end of each week all campers come together to demonstrate their newfound interests and talents in a campwide showcase. Camp runs June 27–Aug 16, Mon–Fri 8:30am–4:15pm. Full summer (June 27–Aug 16) $2,650 (ages 4 to 6), $2,695 (ages 7 to 9), $2,700 (ages 10 to 12) $500 (ages 13 to 15); four-week session (June 27–July 19 or July 22–Aug 16) $1,350 (ages 4 to 6), $1,375 (ages 7 to 9), $1,400 (10 to 12); one-week session $400 (ages 4 to 6), $450 (ages 7 to 9), $500 (ages 10 to 12). Ages 4 to 15.
- 1224 Prospect Ave, (at Vanderbilt St), 11218
LIU Brooklyn Children's Academy
- Price band: 2/4
The youngest campers (ages 3 to 6) focus on building their language skills through songs, games, and stories in either English or another language of their choice (Spanish, Mandarin or American Sign Language). Older participants (ages 7 to 12) select from classes in game development, robotics and basic science, as well as comics, music, fashion and other artsy topics (activities are subject to change). Additionally, kids swim and play sports. Camp runs July 8–Aug 16; Mon–Fri 9am–4pm (ages 7 to 12), 9am–noon (ages 3 to 6). Two-week session $990 (full day) or $500 (half day). Ages 3 to 12.
- 1 University Plaza, (between DeKalb and Flatbush Aves), 11205
McBurney Chelsea Camp
- Price band: 1/4
Each session focuses on one of four themes: Dino Days, Back to the Future, Happy Days and Around the World in 10 Days. Trips to the Bronx Zoo, the American Museum of Natural History and other noteworthy destinations within the five boroughs, supplement themed activities. On-site kids receive swimming lessons and participate in sports, arts and crafts, and reading and writing activities. They'll also complete a community-service project. Camp runs July 1–Aug 23, Mon–Fri 9am–5pm. Two-week session $600 (ages 4 to 6), $570 (ages 7 to 9). Ages 4 to 9.
- 125 W 14th St, (between Sixth and Seventh Aves), 10011
Mill Basin Day Camp
- Price band: 2/4
The day goes by quickly here, thanks to a rotating list of activities, including the usual arts and crafts, dance and team sports, plus karate, gymnastics, magic, video games and baking. Mill Basin campers also swim daily in an outdoor pool. The campus features a number of amenities that are sure to leave kids' (and parents') mouths agape: two computer rooms, two karaoke studios, two giant-screen theaters and a TV game-show studio. This year, brand-new 5,000 square foot turf fields give campers even more room to play. Camp runs July 1–Aug 23, Mon–Fri 8:30am–4:30pm: Campers may attend sessions from four to eight weeks long. $1,800–$2,850, depending on camper's age and number of weeks. Bus transportation ($50/week) provided to addresses in Brooklyn, Queens and Long Island. Ages 3 to 14.
- 5945 Strickland Ave , (between 56th Dr and E 57th Pl), 11234
New Country Day Camp
- Price band: 2/4
Little ones won't have to go any farther than Staten Island to take advantage of this camp's scenic 75 acres, which include hiking trails, open fields and swimming pools. Younger kids (ages 4 to 6) sample a little bit of all the program's offerings, while older campers (ages 7 and up) choose one of seven areas—ranging from performing arts and science to team sports and martial arts—to specialize in each week. Camp runs July 1–Aug 23; Mon–Fri 9am–4pm. Eight-week session $4,100, shorter sessions available at prorated prices. Transportation from Manhattan and Brooklyn included in tuition. Ages 5 to 11.
- 1131 Manor Rd, (at Brielle Ave), 10314
Backpacks and Binoculars: City Edition
- Price band: 2/4
During the week, campers visit all five boroughs, stopping by notable institutions such as the Met, the Brooklyn Botanic Garden and the Bronx Zoo, as well as exploring more offbeat destinations like 5 Pointz in Queens. Camp runs June 13–Aug 30, Mon–Fri 8am–4pm. (There is complimentary after-camp 4–6pm.) One-week session $495. Ages 5 to 10.
- Multiple locations
NYC Kids Camp
- Price band: 2/4
Children spend their mornings outdoors and settle in for science and art exploration in the afternoon. Other daily adventures may take youngsters to the American Museum of Natural History, the New York Aquarium or to the Hudson River for fishing. Camp runs June 3–Aug 30, Mon–Fri 9am–3pm, extended day options available. One-week session $625; multiweek, sibling and early-bird discounts available. Ages 2 to 10.
- 155 Bank St , (between Washington and West Sts), 10014
Oasis Summer Day Camp
- Price band: 2/4
This mega camp gives parents four Big Apple locations to choose from, and gives children days filled with swimming lessons, athletics, fine and performing arts, nature exploration and field trips. Campers embark on at least two field trips a summer. (In the past they’ve check out the Bronx Zoo, the New York Hall of Science and the American Museum of Natural History.) Sometimes the “trips” even come to the campers, in the form of visits from the Wolf Conservation Center, comedy duo the Hey-Ya brothers,or the Liberty Science Center. •Downtown: 285 Delancey St at Cannon St (646-698-1800, oasischildren.com). Camp runs July 1–Aug 23, Mon–Fri 9am–5pm (tall day), 9am–3pm (short day). Tall day: Eight-week session $3,175, seven-week session $2,855, six-week session $2,525, five-week session $2,160, four-week session $1,780, three-week session $1,390, two-week session $990. Short day: Eight-week session $2,765, seven-week session $2,470, six-week session $2,160, five-week session $1,845, four-week session $1,520, three-week session $1,185, two-week session $840. Ages 4 to 11. •Bayside: 22-05 56th Ave at Springfield Blvd, Bayside, Queens (646-519-5055). Camp runs July 1–Aug 16, Mon–Fri 9am–5pm. Seven-week session $2,655, six-week session $2,310, five-week session $1,965, four-week session $1,620, three-week session $1,275, two-week session $930. Ages 4 to 14. •Brookyn: 1400 Pennsylvania Ave at Shroders Ave, East New York, Brooklyn (646-519-5063). Camp runs July 1–Aug 9, Mon–Fr
- Various locations,
Park Explorers' Camp Explorers
- Price band: 2/4
Youngsters discover nature by climbing rocks, traversing meadows and checking out local streams and woodlands. First and second grade campers spend most of their time in Prospect Park, engaging in outdoor sports, games, and arts and crafts, but they also venture off-site once a week for activities like swimming, karate and gymnastics. Older campers (third and fourth grade) travel farther from base to such places as Dyker Beach Park and Manhattan Beach. Camp runs June 27–Aug 30, Mon–Fri 8:30am–4pm. Eight-week session $2,795, seven-week session $2,590, six-week session $2,280, five-week session $2,000, four-week session $1,720, three-week session $1,350, two-week session $920, one-week session $475. Ages 6 to 10.
- 611 Eighth Ave, (between 6th and 7th Sts), 11215
Park Explorers' Exploring Beyond Camp
- Price band: 2/4
On-the-go tweens traverse Brooklyn, visiting spots like the Red Hook Pool, the Brooklyn Gymnastics Center and Prospect Park, as well as state parks in New York and New Jersey for tubing, hiking and swimming. Overnight adventures to Club Getaway and Hershey Park are also on the calendar. Camp runs June 27–Aug 30, Mon–Fri 8:30am–4pm. Eight-week session $3,085, seven-week session $2,750, six-week session $2,440, five-week session $2,115, four-week session $1,790, three-week session $1,390, two-week session $1,045, one-week session $535. Ages 10 to 14.
- 611 Eighth Ave, (between 6th and 7th Sts), 11215
Park Slope Day Camp
- Price band: 2/4
All five of this camp's Brooklyn locations offer an impressive lineup of outdoor activities (sailing, horseback riding, rock climbing), arts, sports and day trips. Excursions vary depending on the camper's age, but expect visits to Prospect Park and the beach as well as themed trips. Camp runs July 1–Aug 23, Mon–Fri 8am–4pm. Eight-week session $2,987.75, three-week session $1,470; campers may attend anywhere from three to eight weeks; see website for additional prices. Ages 3.5 to 14.
- Multiple locations,
Summers at LREI Lower Camp
- Price band: 3/4
Three days a week, youngsters choose from creative classes like tumbling and textiles. On Wednesdays, campers celebrate a specific theme—like Deep Blue Sea and Big Green Meadow—with costumes, games and campwide activities. Fridays are reserved for trips to kid-friendly destinations (think the Brooklyn Children's Museum, Green Meadow Farm and the Central Park Zoo). An end-of-camp block party rounds out the season. Camp runs June 24–Aug 2, Mon–Fri 9am–4pm (ages 3.5 to 7), Mon–Thu 9am–1pm, Fri 9am–4pm (ages 3.5 to 5). Two-week session $1,300 (full day), $820 (half day). Ages 3.5 to 7.
- 272 Sixth Ave, (at Bleeker St), 10014
Summers at LREI Upper Camp
- Price band: 2/4
Though kids spend time in classes at this camp, the coursework is anything but run-of-the-mill, boasting electives in music and comedy, moviemaking, African dance, music videos, inventions and more. The fun continues with trips to the Cloisters, The New York Transit Museum and Brooklyn Bridge Park, as well as weekly group activities, such as a game of capture the flag or a campwide disco. This year, kids can opt into specialty camps like Art Studio, Fashion Design, and Young Entrepreneurs. Camp runs June 24–Aug 2, Mon–Fri 9am–4:15pm. Two-week session $1,300. Ages 8 to 13.
- 40 Charlton St, (between Sixth Ave and Varick St), 10014
- « previous
- next »
- Day camps in NY
- Day camps near New York
You might also like
See more in Camps
Events for kids by date
-
"Adventures with...
Preschoolers flock to this exhibit based on the po...
-
"Against the Grain:...
Featuring more than 90 examples of contemporary wo...
-
"American Legends:...
Drawing from the museum's permanent collection, th...
Time Out Kids Newsletter
Sign up to keep tabs on NYC's best family offerings, from fun kid-friendly events to ideas for last-minute weekend plans.
