The Chicago Park District is the hot spot for kids this summer. For the ultimate summer camp experience, look no further than your local park! With a variety of camp offerings, you are sure to find an option to match your needs.
Camp programs can be found at more than 200 parks throughout the city where children enjoy water fun, field trips, athletic activities and cultural experiences.
Camp dates vary, but the the standard 6-week camps run July 1 - August 9.
Day Camp Video with Israel Idonije
Chicago Bear Israel Idonije encourages Chicagoans to register for day camp. Watch his video below.
Camp FAQ's
What are the summer camp hours?
Hours vary. Traditional camp hours are typically no less than 6 hours per day (such as 9 a.m.-3 p.m. or 10 a.m.-4 p.m.), Monday thru Friday. Many parks offer early morning and extended late day camp sessions as well.
When does the camp session begin? When does it end?
Length of camp programs vary, but most begin the week of July 1 and run for 6-weeks.
How much does camp cost?
Fees vary depending on the program, but are affordable. Most camps cost between $1 and $3 per hour.
What do children do at camp?
At traditional summer day camp programs, children experience a variety of activities including field trips, visits to the local pool or beach, arts and crafts, fun with nature, sports, team games and much more. To learn more about a specific park’s summer camp agenda, contact the park directly.
Payment
Online registration requires credit card payment via Visa, MasterCard, Discover or American Express. In person registration payment options include cash (exact change required), check or money order (not accepted two weeks prior to program start date) and credit card (Visa, MasterCard, Discover or American Express) at many parks.
What is the refund and cancellation policy?
A 15% service charge will be deducted from all refunds and cancellations. This includes duplicate and accidental registrations. Refunds should be requested from the park where the program is being held, at least two weeks before the program’s scheduled start date. No refund requests will be accepted after the two week point. This applies to online and in person registrations.
What if the camp I wanted is sold out online right away, what can I do?
If the program was only available for online registration:
A waiting list will take effect online immediately. Make sure to get added to the waiting list. If spots become available, the park supervisor will contact patrons based on their position on the list.
If the program has both online and in-person registration available:
Try to register in-person at the park. If you don’t get a spot at in-person registration, then ask at the park to add you to the waiting list. If spots become available, the park supervisor will contact patrons based on their position on the list. We also encourage you to be flexible on your location as many parks do not sell out on the first day.
Is financial assistance available?
Yes. Learn more about the financial assistance program.
I have more questions, who can I contact?
If you have additional questions you can email us, or call us at 312.742.PLAY (7529) or 312.747.2001 (TTY).