The Ultimate Chicago 2026 Summer Camp Guide for Kids (Ages 4 and Up)
- Lucie Duffy
- Jan 2
- 11 min read
Planning summer camp in Chicago can feel overwhelming, especially when registration opens early and the best programs fill fast. From outdoor nature camps and creative arts programs to STEM focused enrichment, daycare based camps for younger kids, and full day options for working parents, Chicago offers an incredible range of summer camps for kids ages 4 and up.
This guide brings everything together in one place, organizing the best Chicago summer camps by category and neighborhood, with clear ages, registration timing, cost ranges, and honest pros and cons so parents can confidently build a summer plan that actually works for their family.
Find this helpful? Share it with a mom friend who’s planning summer too.
Best for Outdoor Nature Kids
Neighborhood: Multiple Chicago, IL locations
Ages: Elementary focused, some programs start at 4–10 Registration: Opens spring (TBD on registration) Cost: Varies by provider
Pros Nature based learning with hands on projects Balanced mix of structure and outdoor play
Cons Hours may be shorter than full day camps Location varies by week
Lincoln Park Zoo Camps Neighborhood: Lincoln Park Ages: 4+ Registration: Opens February Cost: Varies by program and membership
Pros Unique animal experiences in an iconic Chicago setting Strong outdoor and environmental focus
Cons Highly competitive registration Strict cancellation policies
TimberNook (Chicago southland) Neighborhood: Varies by provider (often suburban or forest preserve adjacent) Ages: Often 4+ (varies by session/provider) Registration: Varies by provider Cost: Varies by provider
Pros Fun, imaginative outdoor play that feels like childhood should feel Great fit for kids who struggle with sit still environments
Cons Not one consistent Chicago location, you have to track your local provider Weather and outdoor comfort matter for sensitive kids
Best for Kids Who Love Movement and Sports
Neighborhood: Belmont Harbor and Monroe Harbor
Ages: 5+
Registration: Registration now open
Cost: Varies by session and membership status
Pros
Unique on the water sailing experience in the city
Great confidence builder and teamwork focused
Perfect for kids who love being active outdoors
Cons
Weather dependent
Longer days on the water may be tiring for younger kids
Children will need their own supplies (life jacket, sunscreen, lunch, etc.)
Neighborhood: Monroe Harbor
Ages: 5+
Registration: Registration now open
Cost: Varies by session
Pros
Strong beginner friendly sailing instruction
Hands on learning in a real world setting
Great alternative to traditional sports camps
Cons
Less ideal for kids who dislike water activities
Scheduling depends on lake conditions
Neighborhood: Multiple locations
Ages: Typically 5+
Registration: Opens spring
Cost: Varies by session length
Pros
Outdoor tennis with beautiful lakefront setting
Skill building with lots of movement
Good for kids who enjoy individual sports
Cons
Weather dependent
Less variety if your child prefers mixed activities
Neighborhood: Multiple Chicago locations
Ages: 5+
Registration: Registration now open
Cost: Varies by location and session
Pros
Skill focused instruction for beginner and intermediate golfers
Good structure for kids who like repetition and progression
Cons
Best fit for kids already interested in golf
Less appealing for kids who prefer free play
Pedalheads Bike Camp Neighborhood: Multiple Chicago locations
Ages: Typically 4-12
Registration: Opens Feb. 24th, 2026
Cost: Approximately $355–$620
Pros Confidence building for new and developing riders High energy, outdoor focused program
Cons Bike skill grouping can feel emotional for some kids Logistics vary by site, you must have a bike and a helmet on day 1
Neighborhood: Logan Square and Old Town
Ages: Typically 4–10
Registration: Opens winter with rolling enrollment
Cost: Varies by location and session length
Pros
Excellent option for high energy kids who need to move
Well structured day with a mix of movement, games, and creative play
Great transition camp for kids aging out of preschool
Cons
Not ideal for kids who prefer quiet, arts focused days
Less emphasis on academics or STEM enrichment
Brush Park Gym Neighborhood: Lincoln Square
Ages: Preschool (must be 5 years old) through elementary Registration: Registration is now open Cost: Approximately $99 per day, summer rates vary
Pros Ideal for high energy kids Strong neighborhood community feel
Cons May feel overstimulating for quieter kids Confirm summer hours before enrolling
Neighborhood: Chicago (location specific, varies by facility)
Ages: Typically 5+
Registration: Opens winter with rolling enrollment
Cost: Varies by session length and location
Pros
Excellent outlet for high energy kids who love climbing, jumping, and obstacle courses
Builds strength, coordination, and confidence in a fun, non-competitive way
Cons
Not ideal for kids who prefer creative or quiet activities
May feel physically intense for younger or more cautious kids
Life Time Kids Camp Neighborhood: River North and select clubs
Ages: Varies by club
Registration: January–February by membership tier
Cost: Varies by club
Pros Reliable coverage Convenient option for Life Time members
Cons Membership is required Busy, high stimulation environment
Neighborhood: Multiple Chicago locations and surrounding suburbs
Ages: 4–14 (varies by program)
Registration: Registration is now open
Cost: Varies by location and session length
Pros
Girl centered sports environment that focuses on confidence, teamwork, and fun
Wide variety of sports and movement based activities
Good option for both beginners and experienced athletes
Cons
Location and programming vary by session
May not be ideal for kids who prefer quiet or arts based camps
Best for STEM Kids and Curious Builders
Neighborhood: The Loop
Ages: Typically 6+
Registration: Registration now open
Cost: Varies by program
Pros
Incredible exposure to art and creativity
Hands on projects inspired by museum collections
Unique experience you cannot replicate elsewhere
Cons
More structured and less physical
Limited availability, fills quickly
Neighborhood: Hyde Park
Ages: 5+
Registration: Registration now open
Cost: Varies by camp type
Pros
Excellent for curious, STEM minded kids
Wide range of age specific themes
Cons
Can feel academic for kids who prefer free play
Popular weeks sell out early
Kids Science Labs Neighborhood: South Loop and Roscoe Village
Ages: 4–12
Registration: Registration now open
Cost: Approximately $440–$495 per week
Pros
Real hands on science experiments
Great for curious, analytical kids
Cons
Structured format may feel long for some kids
Popular weeks fill quickly
Galileo Camp Neighborhood: Multiple Chicago neighborhoods
Ages: Rising Pre-K through middle school
Registration: Registration now open
Cost: Varies by location and materials fees
Pros
Strong STEAM curriculum with creative projects
Good balance of learning and outdoor play
Cons Additional materials fees may apply High demand locations sell out early
Junior Chefs Kitchen Summer Camps Neighborhood: Lincoln Park
Ages: 4+
Registration: Opens Feb. 1st
Cost: Varies by camp length and age group
Pros
Hands on cooking experience that builds confidence and life skills Great fit for kids who love helping in the kitchen or creative, sensory play Unique camp option that feels different from sports or traditional day camps
Cons Limited availability, popular weeks fill quickly
Brains and Motion Discovery Camp Neighborhood: Hosted at multiple Chicago schools Ages: K–2 Registration: Already sold out Cost: Approximately $385–$485 per week
Pros Combines physical movement with cognitive learning Good variety for younger elementary kids
Cons Location varies by week Schedule differs by site
Best for Language Immersion and Global Vibes
Lycée Français de Chicago World Camp
Neighborhood: Near Lincoln Park
Ages: 3–18
Registration: Opens winter
Cost: Varies by language and session
Pros Play based language immersion
Lunch and snacks are provided
Strong cultural exposure and field trips
Cons Pricing varies widely Less flexible scheduling
Best “No Stress” Option for Working Parents
Steve and Kate’s Camp
Neighborhood: West Loop, Lakeview, and additional Chicago sites
Ages: 4–12
Registration: Open enrollment with flexible pass system
Cost: $124 per day or approximately $3,100 for a summer pass (2025 rates)
Pros
Unmatched flexibility for working parents
Full day hours with meals and snacks included
Cons Premium price point Large scale environment may feel overwhelming
Classic Chicago Favorites and Local Legend Camps
Fred’s Camp Neighborhood: Multiple Chicago locations Ages: Generally 4+
Registration: Priority enrollment in fall Cost: Varies by program
Pros
Longstanding, trusted Chicago camp
Extended care options available
Cons Best weeks sell out early Costs add up with add ons
Apachi Day Camps Neighborhood: Old Town, North Side, nearby suburbs Ages: Kindergarten through 5th grade Registration: Registration now open Cost: Varies by program
Pros Consistent, full summer structure Multiple location options with some having busing schedules
Cons Large upfront commitment
Less flexible scheduling
Latin School of Chicago Summer Camps Neighborhood: Gold Coast
Ages: 4+
Registration: Opens January
Cost: Approximately $2,010– $3,090 per session
Pros High quality enrichment programming School based environment
Cons Higher cost Session based structure
Neighborhood: Lincoln Park
Ages: 5+
Registration: Registration now open, contact for details
Cost: Varies by session
Pros
High quality enrichment similar to Latin School camps
Strong balance of academics, arts, and play
Cons
Higher price point
Spots can be limited for non Parker families
Neighborhood: Lake Forest (with city bus pickup and drop off)
Ages: 5 +
Registration: Registration now open
Cost: Varies by session
Pros
Very popular traditional summer camp experience
Bus transportation available throughout the city
Great for kids who want a full summer camp feel but be home every evening
Cons
Commute may be tiring for some kids
Higher price point
Neighborhood: Lake Forest (with city bus transportation available)
Ages: Typically 4–15 (varies by program)
Registration: Registration is now open
Cost: Varies by session length and program (weekly and full-summer options available)
Pros
Traditional summer day camp experience with a strong community feel
Wide range of activities including sports, arts, swimming, and outdoor play
Transportation available from multiple Chicago neighborhoods
Good option for families looking for a consistent, full-summer structure
Cons
Commute may feel long for some younger kids despite bus options
Less flexible if you only need one or two weeks
Large camp environment may not be ideal for kids who prefer smaller settings
Early Childhood and First Camp Options
Bubbles Academy Neighborhood: Gold Coast and West Town
Ages: 2–6
Registration: Summer not posted yet
Cost: Varies by program
Pros
Gentle introduction to summer camp
Nurturing, age appropriate environment
Cons
Can have limited availability
Neighborhood: Varies by provider
Ages: 5-11
Registration: Open now
Cost: $615 per week / $3,999 for summer
Pros
Good balance of outdoor time, creative activities, and free play
Great option for younger kids transitioning from daycare to camp
Cons
Availability depends heavily on location and week, some sites fill quickly
Daycare Summer Camps in Chicago (Ages 2–6)
Neighborhood: Multiple locations including Lincoln Park, Lakeview, West Loop, River North
Ages: 2–6
Registration: Rolling, priority for enrolled families
Cost: Varies by location
Pros
Full day care for working parents
Licensed early childhood educators
Cons
Limited availability for non enrolled families
Neighborhood: River North, West Loop, North Side locations
Ages: 3–6
Registration: Rolling
Cost: Varies by school
Pros
Small group sizes
Play based learning with enrichment
Cons
Limited availability for non students
Neighborhood: Lincoln Park, West Loop, Bucktown, South Loop
Ages: 3–6
Registration: Opens winter
Cost: Varies by location
Pros
Calm Montessori based approach
Great for kids who thrive with independence
Cons
Not ideal for high energy kids
Priority given to enrolled families
Best for Creative and Performing Arts Kids
Neighborhood: Ravenswood
Ages: 3+
Registration: Rolling
Cost: Varies by session
Pros
Excellent for creative kids
Wide range of art mediums
Cons
Not always full day coverage
Neighborhood: Bucktown and Ravenswood
Ages: 5+
Registration: Summer not available yet
Cost: Varies
Pros
Flexible art focused programming
Great for creative expression
Cons
Non refundable policies
Limited outdoor time
Neighborhood: Southport Corridor (Lakeview)
Ages: Typically 3+
Registration: Opens winter with rolling enrollment
Cost: Varies by session
Pros
Smaller group sizes feel personal and nurturing
Nice option for younger kids who may be overwhelmed by larger camps
Cons
More art focused with limited physical activity
Not always a full day option depending on age and session
Neighborhood: Multiple Chicago locations
Ages: Typically 3–10 (varies by camp theme)
Registration: Opens winter with rolling enrollment
Cost: Varies by location and camp length
Pros
Great balance of creativity and light structure
Age specific camps make it approachable for younger kids
Cons
Art focused, not ideal if your child prefers sports or outdoor heavy days
Projects can get messy, not always ideal for kids sensitive to textures
Neighborhood: Old Town
Ages: Typically 3+
Registration: Opens winter
Cost: Varies by program
Pros
Great for kids who love movement and performance
Fun, expressive environment
Cons
Best fit for kids interested in dance
Less variety if your child wants mixed activities
Neighborhood: Johnny’s IceHouse East
Ages: Typically 5+
Registration: Opens spring, check website for details
Cost: Varies, two week session in August
Pros
Focused skating skill development
Great for kids already skating or interested in learning
Cons
Niche interest
Cold rink environment may not suit all kids
Neighborhood: West Loop
Ages: Typically 4–12 (varies by camp and program)
Registration: Registration now open
Cost: Varies by program and camp length
Pros
Excellent option for kids who love storytelling, acting, and performance
Led by professional teaching artists in a real theatre setting
Cons
May feel intimidating for very shy kids at first
Popular sessions fill quickly, especially for younger age groups
Neighborhood: Multiple Chicago locations
Ages: Typically 3+
Registration: Opens winter
Cost: Varies by week
Pros
Weekly enrollment makes scheduling easy
Great confidence builder
Fun introduction to acting and performance
Cons
Not ideal for very shy kids initially
Limited physical activity
Chicago Public Schools Summer Programs
Chicago Public Schools (CPS) offers a mix of school based summer camps, academic enrichment, and district wide summer programs.
Availability varies by school, and some programs are open only to enrolled students, while others are open to the broader community.
Neighborhood: Lakeview
Ages: Typically 4–12 (varies by program year)
Registration: Announced by Blaine Elementary, typically spring
Cost: Varies by year and program
Pros
School based environment familiar to many neighborhood families
Structured day with a balance of learning, play, and enrichment
Cons
Availability and programming vary year to year
Limited spots, fills quickly
Chicago Park District Day Camp
Neighborhood: Parks across all Chicago neighborhoods
Ages: Varies by park
Registration: Announced each spring
Cost: One of the most affordable options in Chicago
Pros
Budget friendly
Convenient neighborhood locations
Cons
Competitive registration
Quality varies by park
Neighborhood: Multiple Chicago neighborhoods and suburban locations
Ages: Typically 3–15 (varies by camp and location)
Registration: Opens winter with rolling enrollment
Cost: Varies by location, session length, and membership (financial assistance available)
Pros
Wide range of neighborhood locations makes it accessible for many families
Traditional day camp experience with games, sports, swimming, and enrichment
Full day options available, good fit for working parents
Financial assistance and member discounts help with affordability
Cons
Camp experience and facilities vary by location
Less specialized than niche camps like STEM, art, or sailing
Adaptive & Inclusive Camp Options
These camps are designed for children with physical disabilities, sensory needs, or medical differences, with a focus on inclusion, confidence, and supportive environments.
Parents should note that some adaptive programs are located outside the city, and transportation policies vary. Be sure to check whether transportation is provided or if families are responsible for drop-off and pick-up when registering.
Camps to Explore:
Neighborhood: Lake County (outside Chicago)
Ages: Typically 4+ (varies by session)
Registration: Opens in spring with limited spots
Cost: Varies by session length (financial assistance may be available)
Pros
Adaptive sports focus for kids with physical or visual disabilities
Supportive, inclusive environment with trained staff and volunteers
Great option for families seeking specialized recreational programming
Cons
Located outside the city, requiring a longer commute
Transportation is typically not provided
Neighborhood: Streeterville, Chicago, IL
Ages: Varies by program and medical need
Registration: Rolling enrollment depending on program
Cost: Varies by program and insurance coverage
Pros
Highly specialized medical and therapeutic support
Trusted Chicago institution with expert clinicians
Programs designed for children with physical and neurological needs
Cons
Program availability depends on medical eligibility
Less social and recreational compared to standard day camps
How to Choose the Right Chicago Summer Camp (Without Overthinking It)
For kids ages 2–5, daycare based summer camps offer consistency, longer hours, and familiar caregivers. For kids 4–6 who are ready for something new, start with one week of a specialty camp before committing to a full summer. High energy kids often thrive in movement or outdoor programs, while creative kids may prefer art or music camps. When in doubt, proximity and schedule flexibility matter just as much as the theme.
Did we miss your favorite camp?
Chicago has so many incredible summer camps, and this guide is always evolving. If there’s a camp you love or one we should add, we’d love to hear from you. Send us a note or share your recommendation so we can keep this resource helpful and up to date for our community.
Disclaimer:
Camp details, including ages, locations, registration timelines, pricing, and programming, are based on information available at the time of publishing and may change at any time. Families should always confirm the most up to date details directly with each camp before registering.
Interested in partnering with us or being featured? Reach out to learn more.