The best sports camp programs for kids in NYC

Your busy bee will buzz all day long during these five fun activity blocks: sports, outdoor games, arts-and-crafts, STEM sessions and movement (think Zumba and yoga). Plus, campers in first grade or higher get one day a week of open swim time if they pass a swim test. The program includes field trips and themed weeks. Ages 3.5–13.

Your ball of energy can choose between a swim, sports or arts camp with expert instructors. Swimmers can tucker themselves out with endless pool time, young athletes will be in their element as they play baseball, tennis and other team sports and creatives can express themselves in many media, including the circus arts and film. Each program includes exciting weekly field trips that’ll appeal to all, such as a Mets game or rock climbing at the Cliffs in Queens. Ages 4.5–13. 

The mecca of Manhattan sports provides a stellar experience for kiddies looking to stay active during the summer months. Chelsea Piers' Sports Academy allows kids to tackle a wide variety of sports during its adventurous daily offerings, including baseball, flag football, soccer and more. When it comes time to cool down after the face-offs, kids can enjoy their lunch as well as ice cream and snacks. Plus, Chelsea Piers also offers specified camp experiences for more than 15 sports. Learn about the 2019 offerings here. Ages 5–12.

Even the youngest tykes in your brood are in need of a summer activity. Why not let them run wild at Kids in Sports Summer Camp? The program not only exposes little ones to the fundamentals of a new game, but it helps them practice a healthy lifestyle, feel confident and feel passionate about different sports. Each offering is divided by age group and held throughout different locations in NYC—Temple Israel, Randalls Island and KIS-74th St. Indoor Camp (ages 2.5–6) is a combination of games such as floor hockey, soccer and basketball, to name a few, as is Outdoor Camp (ages 4–8) which offers volleyball, baseball and soccer. Pre-school Camp (ages 2–3.5) is an introduction to sports for tiny tots and also combines other activities such as story time and craft projects. Learn more about each offering here. Ages 2.5–8.

It might only be 20 minutes outside of NYC, but this Pearl River campsite will make little ones feel as though they're in a different world. The lineup at the 50-acre grounds includes something for everyone—swimming, sports, fine art, music and more. Ages 5-12. 

Energetic kids bone up on the rules and fundamentals of sports such as baseball, basketball, soccer and volleyball, then practice what they’ve learned in mini games. Youngsters are split into age-appropriate groups to ensure they get the more out of instruction from trained coaches and staff. A little friendly competition is the perfect cure for those who claim "I'm bored" on summer vacation. Ages 5–12.

Tiger Strong NYC lets kids get in tune with their mind, body and spirit thanks to its summer camp offerings that combine both karate and yoga. Kiddies do get some down time as well. They'll be able to enjoy snack time, listen to a story and jam to music while working on a DIY project. Ages 3–6. 

For those youngsters who can’t resist an American Ninja Warrior marathon, this offering is a kid- friendly version of the reality show, complete with fun obstacles in a safe environment. Campers will take breathers during the day to enjoy lunch and recreational activities before embarking on an athletic challenge. Ages 7–13. 

Step right up and get ready to star in your own amazing three-ring circus. Young acrobats will swing on the trapeze, flip the day away on the trampoline and balance on a tightrope. They'll learn the techniques of real-life action hero (and Macarthur Grant winner) Elizabeth Streb, whose motion lexicon Pop Action combines stage and street performance art. Ages 6–13.

All skill levels are invited to spend their summer on the water, making friends with team members and learning the fundamentals of rowing. For those who take their water adventures seriously and have victory on their brains, there is a competitive camp (June 24–Aug 9) that will satisfy the urge to race. Time to grab the paddles and get moving, kids! Grades 7–12. 

Over six three-hour sessions, taught by American Canoe Association certified instructors,
young water lovers learn the rowing,
balancing and steering techniques
necessary to get them from beginner-
to intermediate-level kayaking and
paddleboarding. The course starts on
the water around the Hudson River’s
Pier 84 Boathouse, but at the end of
the session kids embark on guided
journeys down the river, where
they’ll see Manhattan’s skyline from
a brand-new perspective. Ages 10–16. 

DREAM, formerly known as Harlem RBI, preps all players for success on and off the field. Participants up according to grades so that they start perfecting their skills and tackle new challenges with their teammates. Rookies (kindergarten and first grade) play tee ball throughout the summer months and learn the fundamentals of the game, while Dreamworks (grades 9–12) helps older kids master their moves on the field while providing academic assistance and work opportunities. Though DREAM will keep kids entertained with coaching and scrimmages, the program is about more than baseball—it's about showing kids how to reach their goals and care for others along the way. Ages 5–18.

What budding baseball player wouldn't want to learn tips from the masters? Former MLB star John Rodriquez and the knowledgable staff at the Yorkville Youth Athletic Association guides kids through the necessary skills needed on the field, such as pitching and hitting. All skill levels are welcome to hone their moves as they work toward superstardom. Travel teams are also available for those looking to take their fun on the move. Learn more about each offering here. Ages 8–12.

Why should big kids have all the fun? Toddlers in the Summer Slugger program can take a break from the heat at the Baseball Center's 15,000-square-foot indoor facility, one of the city's best. Little ones learn the basics of the game as well as hand-eye coordination, flexibility, focus and—if all goes well— they'll develop an early love for baseball. Can't make the summer-long commitment? The center offers everything from private lessons to bating cage rentals and even birthday parties. A full-day camp is offered for those 6–12 and those from 4–12 can opt for a half-day program as well. Ages 2–3.

The Bulldog Ball Club caters to baseball players of all skill levels at its two locations: North Meadow Fields in Central Park (ages 6–12) and East Hampton High School (ages 6–14). Players are grouped according to experience and spend a portion of the day addressing skills that need work, followed by scrimmaging. Kids are in the hands of experts, so you know they'll walk away with confidence after the summer program wraps up. Learn more about the two sessions here. Ages 6–14.

Sharpen those skills on the field thanks to Chelsea Piers' Elite Soccer Camp. The go-to sports facility provides kids a place to spend the dog days of summer while uncovering ways to make their games stronger, from strength training and core stabilization, to focus on dribbling and shooting. Campers will even sit in on lectures with the pros. Then, pint-sized athletes have to put their skills to the test small games and full-field scrimmages. Ages 9–14. 

Kids can practice in the home of the Columbia Lions while sharpening their soccer skills, learning about the game on a professional level and bonding with teammates along the way. The West Side Soccer League and New York Red Bull's camp is a great way to advance on the field. Ages 7–14.

Kids can practice in the home of the Columbia Lions while sharpening their soccer skills, learning about the game on a professional level and bonding with teammates along the way. The West Side Soccer League and New York Red Bull's camp is a great way to advance on the field. Ages 7–14.

Kids of all skill levels get their kicks in these specialized soccer camps that aim to improve motor skills and facilitate teamwork on the field. Little ones learn to dribble in a noncompetitive atmosphere and embrace their creative sides in Mini Camps that combine soccer and Private Picassos! art classes (ages 2½–5). Fun in the Sun camps (ages 3–5) get youngsters acquainted with the sport through outdoor drills and scrimmages, while Junior Kick It sessions (ages 3–5) lets campers build their skills inside. Older kids will want to get in on the Kick It camps (ages 6–10), where they practice with professional coaches and go for the goal during daily, 55-minute World Cup games. Ages 2½–10.

Players big and small will be exposed to technical training, competitive game situations and will be trained by college, ODP, club and high school coaches (even former Columbia soccer players) with this cool program. Ages 6–18.

Join in with Superkickers for a wide range of summer fun the kids will love. Littles will try sports like soccer, basketball and jiujitsu, perfect their downward dog at yoga, burn off energy at a bouncy house/on a trampoline and get artsy with LEGO workshops, ceramics, drawing, jewelry-making and painting. Ages 4–12.

This summer basketball camp lets kids free throw their way to fame. Campers will sharpen their skills through a structured learning experience that focuses on teamwork and personal development. Young b-ballers will learn how to master offense, defense, shooting and game fundamentals while working with current and former Knicks players and coaches. Ages 6–16.   

Children learn basketball basics with a heavier focus on teamwork and sportsmanship than becoming the next LeBron James. In the process, kids will learn (and refine) skills like ball-handling, shooting, passing, running, jumping and sliding! Various locations. Ages 3–14.

Youngsters with hoop dreams brush up on their moves with full-court games and skill-building sessions. Along the way, kids also participate in traditional camp pastimes such as arts and crafts, field trips and swims at the nearby YMCA. Ages 7–12.

Future pros will practice their moves in a state-of-the-art courts. Current and former professional basketball players, as well as high school and college coaches, take campers under their wing and help them improve their skills. Upon arrival each day, attendees warm up with drills, play full-court league games and compete in friendly contests. Ages 7–17.

Regardless of your childrens' interests, LREI is a wonderful place for them to grow and explore what they love. There is no shortage of options, and the program offers a wide range of activities such as sports, tech, theater and crafts, among others. A second location at 40 Charlton St also hosts various programs. Ages 4–13. 

Set on the shores of Lake Bantam in Connecticut, this family-run camp for boys ditches electronics and phones in favor of fun outdoor pursuits. The daily schedule features three morning activities and two afternoon electives; campers can pursue aquatics, sports, the arts, science, boating and more, although Awosting throws in “extreme” options, like motocross and mountain-boarding. The boys sometimes join the girls from nearby sister camp Chinqueka for joint activities, dances and off-camp trips. Ages 6–16.

The active participants at Camp Awosting’s all-girls sister camp are sure to give the boys a run for their money when it comes time to compete. With everything from swimming to sailing, a water trampoline, on-land sports, dance, drama and gymnastics on the agendas, the campers rarely stand still, and they are encouraged to do it all! Mornings and afternoons are packed with exciting happenings, and when the sun goes down, there are coed dances (complete with DJs), movie nights and more to keep everyone entertained. Adventurous campers will love the chance to venture out for a weekly overnight camping trip to Litchfield Hills for campfires complete with ghost stories, plus visits to their brother camp just five miles away. Ages 6–16.

Tucked away on a New England mountainside, this charming upstate camp invites boys and girls from around the world for an unforgettable summer. Adirondack Camp offers two-week sessions for seven, eight and nine-year-old first-timers, making it a great option for new campers (and, of course, there are full-summer session lengths for kids who just can't get enough). Families can also help their kids pick their daily itineraries, which means that each camper can either focus largely on their favorite activities (like arts and crafts) or try something new (like wakeboarding or archery) for their time at Adirondack. Ages 7–17. 

Camp Echo encompasses 200 acres of fields and trails and plenty for kids to enjoy, complete with art class, boating, horseback riding and traditional camp activities like roasting marshmallows and flag-raising/lowering! We especially love that every cabin comes up with a "Code of Living"—a set of rules created by bunkmates that everyone can agree to follow during their summer together. Did we mention there are also milk and cookies before bed? Ages 6–17.

Set on an idyllic mountainside with a spring-fed lake, the 25-acre camp pays particular attention to each camper’s stage of development. In addition to its main programming of sports, fine arts, performing arts, outdoor adventure, swimming and special events, Deer Mountain adds more classes and trips as participants advance. Kids can choose from electives such as wire art, Claymation, hip-hop dance and handball, to name a few. Ages 3–15. 

Though this camp is just under two hours from NYC, the majestic Catskill Mountains couldn’t feel farther away from the bustle of Manhattan. Two hundred scenic acres are filled to the brim with activities! The options are endless: Soccer, lacrosse, basketball, softball, GaGa and tennis are just a few of the sports on offer, and kids will also get their fill of water sports such as sailing, swim team, banana boats and waterskiing. Lakota also caters to equestrians, gymnasts, artists and skateboard fanatics (the campground just got a new skateboard park!) Ages 6–16. 

Formerly Cubs Camp, Columbia's Little Lions Camp will keep kids active in its state-of-the-art athletic facilities, regardless of the activity. There's a lot on the roster, including PE games, backyard games, craft projects and much more. Expect cool suprises, too, such as field trips. Learn more about the program here. Ages 6–12.

Young athletes have the option to spend their summer perfecting their games at Columbia University's Youth Sports Camp, which offers many different areas of interest: baseball, basketball, soccer, rowing, field hockey, golf, lacrosse and so much more. Learn more about the offerings here. Ages 6–18. 

This Bayside camp is all about sports and friendly competition! Kids do fun drills to improve basic techniques, then compe in intramural games among their peers. All participants get a taste of basketball, baseball, soccer, kickball and football. The program also includes swimming and field trips to destinations such as Madame Tussauds and Yankee Stadium. Ages 4–15. 

Energetic tykes and teens can run wild at Brooklyn’s wide-open Floyd Bennett Field, where counselors supervise a daily rotation of five activities that meet Department of Education standards—not to mention a weekly field trip (three- to five-year- olds excluded). After swimming, dancing, STEM courses, theater, relay races and music, your young’un is sure to be mentally stimulated and physically exhausted. Ages 3–14.