Question 1

Does ProjectKids cost anything?

Accepted Answer

No. There are no fees, ads, or paywalls. You can browse camps, build a summer plan, save favorites, and get alerts at no cost.

Question 2

How does the planner work?

Accepted Answer

Tell us your kids' ages and interests, pick the weeks you need care for, and we'll generate a personalized week-by-week plan. You can swap any camp for an alternative and share the plan with your partner or family.

Question 3

Where does the camp data come from?

Accepted Answer

We collect camp information directly from each organization's website using an automated scraper that runs on a schedule. From January through August we re-check camp websites up to three times a week. From September to mid-January we check camps with break and summer programs every week, and the rest about once a month. Session dates, costs, age ranges, and enrollment status are verified against the source. Our system flags data that looks outdated or inconsistent. If you spot an error, please let us know on the contact page.

Question 4

Can I register for camps through ProjectKids?

Accepted Answer

Not directly. We link you to each camp's official registration page so you can sign up with them. We're a planning tool, not a booking platform.

Question 5

What cities are available?

Accepted Answer

We're currently live in Portland, Denver, and Houston, with camps across 6 activity categories. Leave your email on our alerts page to get updates from ProjectKids, including when we add cities.

Question 6

How accurate is the pricing information?

Accepted Answer

We display pricing as reported by each camp's website. Our scraper re-checks camp websites on a regular schedule and updates costs, enrollment status, and session availability. Many camps publish next summer's prices in winter or spring, so until then you may see the most recent published rate or no price at all. Prices vary widely, and some camps are free; each city's cost guide shows current ranges. We always link to the official source so you can verify.

Question 7

Do I need an account to use ProjectKids?

Accepted Answer

You can browse camps and use the planner without an account. Creating an account lets you save favorites, store your summer plan, and see registration updates for camps you ♥ save on your dashboard.

Question 8

How do I report incorrect information?

Accepted Answer

Use our contact page to let us know. Include the camp name and what needs to be corrected, and we'll update it as soon as possible.

Question 9

How often is camp data updated?

Accepted Answer

From January through August we re-check camp websites up to three times a week. From September to mid-January we check camps with break and summer programs every week, and the rest about once a month. A separate check compares a rotating sample of listings against the live camp pages: daily from January through August, weekly from September through December. A change on a camp's own site usually shows up on ProjectKids within a few days from January through August; in the fall, within a week for camps with break and summer programs and within about a month for the rest.

Question 10

What age ranges do summer camps cover?

Accepted Answer

Summer camps on our platform serve children ages 3 through 17. Most camps focus on ages 5-14, but there are dedicated preschool programs (ages 3-5) and teen programs (ages 13-17). You can filter camps by age on the browse page to find programs that match your child.

Question 11

Can I compare camps side by side?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Add up to 3 camps to your compare list by clicking the compare icon on any camp card. The comparison view shows costs, ages, schedules, and enrollment status in a side-by-side table so you can make an informed decision.

Question 12

How are camps ranked in the "Best of" guides?

Accepted Answer

Rankings are based on program breadth, session availability, pricing transparency, and data completeness. We do not accept paid placements or sponsorships. Camps with open registration, detailed descriptions, confirmed pricing, and more sessions score higher.

Question 13

Are there free summer camps?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Many cities have free summer camp programs run by parks departments, libraries, and community organizations. In Portland, look for Portland Parks & Recreation and Multnomah County Library. In Denver, check Denver Parks & Rec and Denver Public Library. In Houston, try Houston Parks & Recreation and YMCA of Greater Houston. These programs fill quickly, so early registration is essential. Browse our affordable camps guide for a full list.

Question 14

What types of summer camps are available?

Accepted Answer

Our platform covers camps across 6 categories: Sports & Athletics, Arts & Creative, STEM & Technology, Outdoor & Nature, Community & Culture, and Multi-Activity & Specialty. Within these, you'll find everything from soccer clinics to robotics bootcamps to wilderness survival programs.

Question 15

Can I share my summer plan with my partner or family?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Once you build a summer plan, you can share it via a unique link that anyone can view. No account is required to view a shared plan. This makes it easy to coordinate with your co-parent or share with grandparents.

Question 16

How do I know if a camp still has spots available?

Accepted Answer

Each camp listing shows its current enrollment status: Open, Waitlist, Coming Soon, or Closed. Our scraper re-checks these regularly (every week for camps with break and summer programs), but availability can change fast for popular programs. We always link to the camp's official registration page so you can check the latest status there.

Question 17

What is the average cost of summer camp?

Accepted Answer

The average full-day summer camp costs about $325 per week, though this varies by city. Prices range from free (community and parks programs) to $600+ per week for specialty camps. Half-day camps typically cost $75-$250 per week. Many camps offer financial aid, scholarships, or sibling discounts.

Question 18

Do summer camps offer extended care?

Accepted Answer

Many camps offer before-care (starting at 7:30-8:00 AM) and after-care (until 5:30-6:00 PM) for an additional fee. This is especially helpful for working parents whose schedules don't align with typical camp hours of 9 AM-3 PM. Look for the "extended care" indicator on camp listings.

Question 19

When should I start planning summer camp?

Accepted Answer

Start planning in January or February for the best selection. Many popular camps open registration in late January, and spots in sought-after programs like outdoor adventure and STEM camps can fill within the first few weeks. Our database tracks thousands of sessions so you can start comparing options early.

Question 20

How far in advance do camps fill up?

Accepted Answer

The most popular camps fill up 2-4 months before summer starts. Programs with limited capacity like overnight camps, specialty STEM camps, and parks department programs tend to fill first. Less specialized multi-activity day camps usually have openings into May or June.

Question 21

Can I sign up for just one week of camp?

Accepted Answer

Yes, most camps offer weekly sessions. The majority of the sessions we track are one-week programs that run Monday through Friday. Some camps also offer multi-week bundles at a discounted rate, but single-week registration is the norm.

Question 22

What happens if a camp session is full?

Accepted Answer

Many camps maintain a waitlist for full sessions. We show waitlist status on camp listings so you can join the queue. Spots do open up as families change plans, especially in April and May. You can also use our planner to find alternative camps during that same week.

Question 23

Can I switch camps mid-summer?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely. Most families piece together their summer from different camps week by week. Our planner is designed for exactly this approach, letting you mix sports one week, arts the next, and outdoor camp the week after. Each camp has its own registration, so you can build a custom schedule across camps throughout our platform.

Question 24

What's the cancellation/refund policy for most camps?

Accepted Answer

Cancellation policies vary widely. Most camps offer a full refund if you cancel 2-4 weeks before the session starts, with partial refunds closer to the start date. Some camps charge a non-refundable deposit of $25-$75. Always check the specific camp's registration page for their policy before signing up.

Question 25

Do I need to pack lunch for summer camp?

Accepted Answer

Most day camps require kids to bring their own lunch, snacks, and a water bottle. A handful of camps include lunch or offer it as an add-on for an extra fee. Check the camp listing details or the camp's website for specific meal policies before the first day.

Question 26

What should my child wear to camp?

Accepted Answer

For most camps, comfortable clothes your child can get dirty are the way to go. Outdoor and sports camps typically require closed-toe shoes and sun protection. Arts camps may suggest old clothes that can get paint on them. Camps will usually send a packing list before the session starts.

Question 27

How do I choose the right summer camp for my child?

Accepted Answer

Start with your child's interests and your schedule. Use our filters to narrow down by age, activity type, dates, and cost. With over a thousand camps across 6 categories, there's something for every kid. Our comparison tool lets you put up to 3 camps side by side to weigh the specifics.

Question 28

Should I pick a specialized or multi-activity camp?

Accepted Answer

It depends on your child. Specialized camps like soccer clinics or robotics programs are great for kids who have a clear passion and want to develop specific skills. Multi-activity camps offer variety and are ideal for kids who want to try new things or haven't found their niche yet. Many families mix both types across the summer.

Question 29

What's the difference between half-day and full-day camp?

Accepted Answer

Half-day camps typically run 3-4 hours (morning or afternoon) and cost $75-$250 per week. Full-day camps run 6-8 hours (usually 9 AM-3 PM) and cost $250-$500+ per week. Half-day camps work well for younger children or if you want to combine two programs in a single day.

Question 30

Are overnight camps available?

Accepted Answer

Yes, though most overnight camps are located outside major metro areas. These residential programs typically run 1-2 weeks and offer immersive outdoor, leadership, or specialty experiences. You can find overnight options in our Outdoor & Nature category.

Question 31

What if my child has never been to camp before?

Accepted Answer

Start with a short program, ideally a half-day camp for one week. Many camps offer introductory or "mini camp" sessions designed for first-timers. Look for smaller group sizes and a lower camper-to-counselor ratio. Multi-activity camps tend to be more welcoming for newcomers since kids get to sample different experiences without pressure.

Question 32

How do I know if a camp is safe and reputable?

Accepted Answer

Look for camps accredited by the American Camp Association (ACA), which requires standards for health, safety, and staff training. Check online reviews, ask other parents, and confirm the camp has clear policies on supervision ratios, emergency procedures, and background checks for staff. Our directory links to each camp's official website so you can research directly.

Question 33

Are there payment plans for summer camps?

Accepted Answer

Many camps offer payment plans that let you spread the cost over 2-4 monthly installments leading up to summer. This is especially common for camps that cost $300+ per week. Check each camp's registration page for payment options, as they vary from camp to camp.

Question 34

Do camps offer sibling discounts?

Accepted Answer

Yes, sibling discounts are common, typically ranging from 5-15% off for the second child and sometimes more for additional siblings. Some camps offer a flat dollar amount off rather than a percentage. Look for discount details on the camp's registration page or contact them directly.

Question 35

Can I use my FSA/dependent care account for camp?

Accepted Answer

In most cases, yes. Day camp expenses generally qualify for Dependent Care Flexible Spending Account (DCFSA) reimbursement if the camp allows your child to be supervised while you work. Overnight camps do not qualify for DCFSA. Check with your benefits administrator for your specific plan rules and keep your camp receipts.

Question 36

Are there scholarships for summer camp?

Accepted Answer

Yes, many organizations offer camp scholarships or financial aid. Parks departments often have scholarship programs for low-income families, and many individual camps set aside scholarship funds. Organizations like the Boys & Girls Clubs and local community schools also provide free or reduced-cost programming. Check your city's parks and recreation department for details.

Question 37

What's the cheapest way to fill a full summer with camps?

Accepted Answer

Mix free community programs (parks departments, library programs) with lower-cost half-day camps to stretch your budget. Our planner helps you see the full 10-12 week summer at a glance so you can balance premium camps with affordable ones. A full summer can range from nearly free using only community programs to $3,000+ per child using full-day specialty camps all summer.

Question 38

Are there camps for kids with special needs?

Accepted Answer

Yes, many cities have camps specifically designed for children with disabilities and special needs. Many mainstream camps also offer inclusive programming with trained support staff. Use our directory to find camps and then contact them directly about accommodations.

Question 39

Do camps accommodate food allergies?

Accepted Answer

Most camps are prepared to accommodate common food allergies like peanut, tree nut, dairy, and gluten allergies. Since most day camps require kids to bring their own lunch, you have full control over your child's meals. For camps that provide snacks or meals, contact them before registration to discuss allergy protocols and confirm they can meet your child's needs.

Question 40

Are there camps for kids with ADHD or autism?

Accepted Answer

Many cities have both specialized and inclusive camp options for children with ADHD or autism. Local autism societies and therapy providers often run targeted summer programs. Additionally, many mainstream camps have experience working with neurodiverse campers and can provide accommodations like smaller group sizes, visual schedules, and dedicated support staff when requested.

Question 41

What accessibility accommodations do camps offer?

Accepted Answer

Accommodations vary by camp but can include wheelchair-accessible facilities, modified activities, one-on-one aides, sensory-friendly spaces, and flexible scheduling. Public parks and recreation programs are required to provide reasonable accommodations under ADA. For private camps, reach out directly to discuss your child's needs before registering to confirm they can provide appropriate support.

Question 42

How do I find camps near my neighborhood?

Accepted Answer

Use the map view on any city's browse page to see camps near your home or work. Camps are spread across each metro area — Portland, Denver, and Houston all have options in nearly every part of the city. You can also filter by location to narrow results to your side of town.

Question 43

Do any camps offer transportation?

Accepted Answer

Some camps provide bus transportation or shuttle service from central pickup points, though this is more common with outdoor and overnight camps that operate outside the city center. A few larger day camp organizations offer park-and-ride pickup locations. Check individual camp details for transportation information, as it varies by camp.

Question 44

What indoor camp options exist for bad weather days?

Accepted Answer

Indoor-focused camps include STEM labs, art studios, theater programs, cooking camps, and indoor sports facilities. Many outdoor camps have contingency plans with indoor backup spaces. Arts & Creative and STEM & Technology camps are your best bet if you want guaranteed indoor programming regardless of weather.

Question 45

Are there camps accessible by public transit?

Accepted Answer

Yes. In each city, many camps are located near major transit lines. In Portland, look for camps near MAX light rail stops. In Denver, check for camps along RTD light rail and bus routes. In Houston, camps near METRO rail lines and park-and-ride locations are available. Use our map view to find camps along your commute.

Question 46

What are the best camp areas in each city?

Accepted Answer

Each city has camps spread across all areas. In Portland, inner SE and NW have the highest concentration. In Denver, look at central Denver, Highlands, and the Tech Center area. In Houston, the Inner Loop, Memorial area, and Sugar Land have strong options. Your best fit depends on your child's interests and your commute — use our map and filters to find what's nearby.

Question 47

What camps work best for working parents?

Accepted Answer

Look for full-day camps with extended care options. The ideal setup is a camp that runs 8 AM-5 PM or later, covering standard work hours. Many camps in our directory offer extended hours for an additional fee. Use our schedule filter to find full-day programs, and check each listing for before-care and after-care availability.

Question 48

Do any camps start before 8 AM?

Accepted Answer

Yes, some camps offer early drop-off starting as early as 7:00 or 7:30 AM, usually for an additional $25-$50 per week. This is most common at larger day camp operations and community center programs. Check the camp's extended care details on their listing page or contact them directly to ask about early drop-off.

Question 49

Which camps offer after-care until 6 PM?

Accepted Answer

Many day camps offer after-care extending to 5:30 or 6:00 PM. Community center programs, YMCAs, and larger multi-activity camps are the most likely to provide late pickup. After-care typically costs an additional $30-$75 per week. Look for the extended care indicator on camp listings in our directory to quickly identify these programs.

Question 50

Can I combine half-day camps to fill a full day?

Accepted Answer

Yes, this is a popular strategy. You can pair a morning camp (typically 9 AM-12 PM) with an afternoon camp (1-4 PM) to create a full day of activities. Our planner makes it easy to see which half-day programs overlap and which can be paired. Just account for travel time between locations and the lunch gap.

Your questions, answered

General

Planning & Registration

Choosing the Right Camp

Financial

Special Needs & Inclusion

City-Specific Tips

Working Parents