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Columbus OH

Low-Cost Summer Camps 2026 (CAP4Kids.org/Columbus/Camps)

This list is being updated in real time with free or low-cost spring and summer camp opportunities – check back often! Please note, availability may change quickly. Contact organizations directly to verify availability and registration details. Click Here to view our full resource directory for after-school and summer programs.
Do you have a program we should add? Let us know at CAP4KidsColumbus@nationwidechildrens.org.
** All CAP4Kids material is for general information purposes. While we endorse careful review of the information on our site, we cannot endorse any particular program.** 

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Summer Day Camps

2nd & 7 Football Camp
A non-contact football camp for ages 7-14. Campers enjoy three days of skill-building drills, inspiring guest speakers, food, and fun. Coaches from local high schools and current Ohio State football players staff the camp.
Cost: $250 per camper. Free scholarships are available on a first come, first served basis. Contact the organization for scholarship details.
Program Dates: June 22-24, 8AM-12PM
Registration: Open now, visit the website to register. Registration will close once slots are filled.
Hilliard Weaver Middle School: 4600 Avery Road, Hilliard, Ohio 43026
(614) 396-8161
secondandseven.com/footballcamp

Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Ohio
The summer program offers hands-on activities and enrichment for ages 5-18 at their Clubhouse locations. Camp includes weekly themed programming, field trips, and character development. Breakfast and lunch are included.
Cost: $125 per youth for the entire summer
Program Dates: June 8- August 7, Monday-Friday, 8:30AM-5:30PM
Registration: Limited capacity remaining, visit the website to join the waitlist.
bgccentralohio.org/summer-2026

Camp Dawes at The Dawes Arboretum
Offers 3-day camp experiences for ages 5-14 to explore the outdoors. Camp themes include STEAM, Garden Art, Wilderness Survival, School of Wizardry, and more.
Cost: $160 per child for members, $198 per child for non-members. $100 income-based scholarships are available on a rolling basis.
Program Dates: Dates vary by camp between June 8 – July 22, Monday-Wednesday, 9AM-3PM
Registration: Open now, visit the website to register.
7770 Jacksontown Road, Newark, Ohio 43056
(740) 323-2355
dawesarb.org/blog/camp-dawes-2026

Columbus Recreation and Parks
Offers themed, week-long camps for youth ages 6-12 at Columbus Community Centers. Activities include arts, sports, science, outdoor recreation and more. Therapeutic Recreation Camps offer camp experiences for those with disabilities. Register for one session or for the entire summer.
Cost: $120 for Columbus residents, $144 for non-residents per week. Families may apply for income-based PLAY Scholarships to help offset the cost of camp, visit the website for required documents.
Program Dates: Varies by camp, June 8 – July 31
Registration: Open now, visit the website to register.
columbusrecparks.com/community/summer-camps

Community Youth Camp with Greater Columbus Sports Foundation
A 4-day sports sampling camp for kids entering grades 1-5. Campers will learn and play more than a dozen sports with coaches who make the fundamentals fun. Camp helps kids build confidence and learn life skills.
Cost: $250 per child. Scholarships applications are now closed.
Program Dates: June 8 – 11, Monday-Thursday, 8:30AM-4PM
Registration: Visit the website to join the waitlist.
Location: KIPP Columbus, 2900 Inspire Drive, Columbus, OH 43224
community.columbussports.org/camp/about/community-camp

FACCES
Offers enriching summer camp experiences for grades K-11. Students will engage in academics, leadership, and fun in a supportive and community-centered environment.
Cost: Free
Program Dates: June 9 – August 20
Registration: Pre-registration is open now, visit the website to register.
2515 Lockbourne Road, Columbus, Ohio 43207
(614) 491-1914 or (614) 491-9800
thefacces.org/2026-facces-pre-registration-form

Festa Summer Lunch Camp
Provides age-appropriate programming and nutritious meals for children who receive free or reduced lunch at school. The program includes arts and crafts, summer reading support, fun activities, and a healthy breakfast and lunch. Camp is open to students’ grades K-12. Children must have completed Kindergarten to attend. They also offer ESL classes for adults ages 18+ at summer camp locations.
Cost: Free
Program Dates: June 10-July 31
Registration: Open now, visit the website to register.
Horizon Elementary: 6000 Renner Road, Columbus, Ohio 43228
Connection Christian Church: 4300 Avery Road, Hilliard, Ohio 43026
Crossing Elementary: 3340 Hilliard-Rome Road, Hilliard, Ohio 43026 (Registration Full)
wearefesta.org/festasummerlunchcamp

Highland Youth Garden Summer Camp
A week-long summer camp open to children ages 6-13 living or going to school in the Hilltop and Franklinton areas. Includes outdoor play, learning with nature, arts, and a healthy lunch.
Cost: $25 per child, refunded if child attends 4 days of camp. Discounts are available for multiple children living in the same household.
Program Dates: Register for one week June 8 – July 3
Registration: Open now, visit the website to register.
85 South Highland Avenue, Columbus, Ohio 43223
highlandyouthgarden.org/summer-camp

King Arts Complex
Offers experiences in science, and arts for ages 5-13. Campers will explore music, dance, theater, coding, photography, and more. Campers will also celebrate the rich culture and history of the community. Register for one week or multiple weeks.
Cost: $25 per camper. Scholarships may be available.
Program Dates: June 8- July 31
Registration: Open now, visit the website to register.
(614) 645-0627
kingartscomplex.com/programs/youth-arts-education

Kingdom Kidz Summer Camp with Kingdom Image Arts
Provides STEAM academics, life-skills, and creative and artistic exploration for youth ages 5-13. Campers will experience cultural field trips and hands-on experiences with professional artistic instructors. Breakfast, lunch, and snacks are provided.
Cost: $60 per student. Field trip cost is not included.
Program Dates: June 8 – August 14, 9AM-5PM
Registration: Open now, visit the website to register.
app.enrollsy.com/browse/kingdom-image-arts?lId=cm7j55ty3iirl0884m5ctopc9&pyId=cm7j57iksijra088986r4ei7i&poiIds=cm7urq6qodip90803j5r0zcms

MARVEL*US Summer Adventures with Columbus Literacy Council
Superhero-themed day camp for ages 5-13 to experience STEAM projects, artistic expression, character building, cultural awareness, and leadership development.
Cost: Free for TANF-eligible families residing in Franklin County. Private/Self-pay is accepted for those who do not qualify. Additional financial assistance may be available on a case-by-case basis.
Program Dates: June 8- July 31, Monday – Friday, 9AM-3PM
Registration: Open now, visit the website to register.
5777 Chantry Drive, Columbus, Ohio 43232
(614) 321-2576
clcworks.org/marvel-us

M.P Empowerment Academy with What Would Marcus Do
Youth and young adults living in the Hilltop neighborhood are invited to participate. The program focuses on financial literacy, career development, leadership, and life skills. Dinner and snacks are included.
Cost: Free
Program Dates: May 7 – September 10
Registration: Open now, click here to register.
Hilltop Library: 511 South Hague Avenue, Columbus, Ohio 43204
Program Flyer: cap4kids.org/columbus/files/2026/05/WWMD-Camp.png
wwmd614.org

Noor Islamic Cultural Center Summer Camp
Campers will enjoy fun and creative outdoor activities and sports in addition to Islamic faith and culture.
Cost: $350 for each 4-week session
Program Dates: Session 1: June 8 – July 2, Session 2: July 6 – July 30, 10AM-2:15PM
Registration: Open now, click here to register.
Flyer: cap4kids.org/columbus/files/2026/05/Noor-Summer-Camp.jpg
cap4kids.org/columbus/noor-islamic-cultural-center

The Outlet Youth Summer Camp with People Like Me
A summer experience for campers ages 5-13 with Medicaid to build confidence, strengthen academic skills, and create positive memories. Activities include arts and crafts, life and leadership skills, math and literacy enrichment, and field trips. Transportation is provided.
Cost: Free with Medicaid
Program Dates: June 8 – August 14
Registration: Open now. Complete the online form to get started – Click Here. An Intake Coordinator will reach out to schedule an appointment to complete a paper packet to finish registration.
1111 East Long Street, Columbus, Ohio 43206
(614) 344-5018
Program Flyer: cap4kids.org/columbus/files/2026/04/IMG_8653.png
peoplelikemeinc.org/the-outlet

Patternz Summer Camp at The Lincoln Theatre
Provides a variety of arts-themed summer camps for kids ages 6-13. Camps are 5 days long. Camp includes affirmations, workshops in dance, theatre, music, and visual arts, and a family program at the end of the week.
Cost: $150 per child per 5-day camp. Payment plans are available.
Program Dates: June 15 – August 6
Registration: Open now. Click Here to Register.
769 East Long Street, Columbus, Ohio 43203
(614) 500-3252
lincolntheatrecolumbus.com/programs/patternz

SOAR Academy Summer Camp with Flyt Foundation
A 9-week summer camp for ages 5-13. Provides academic enrichment, physical fitness, social-emotional learning activities, crafts, field trips, and guest speakers. Campers are provided breakfast, lunch, and a snack each day.
Cost: $60 per week, $540 for all nine weeks. Families pay in installments. Accepts Medicaid and OhioRISE.
Program Dates: June 8 – August 7, 8AM-5PM
Registration: Open now, visit the website to register. Registration will remain open until capacity is reached.
39 South Yearling Road, Whitehall, Ohio 43213
(614) 732-0071
theflytfoundationinc.org/soar-academy-summer-camp-2026-1

STEAM Camp at St. Stephen’s/Greater Columbus Community House
8-week day camp for students entering grades 1-8 to experience academic enrichment and fun. The program is divided into two-week units on science, technology, engineering, and math. The program is open to income-eligible families in Franklin County.
Cost: Free
Program Dates: TBA
Registration: Must be completed in-person. Ask for the STEAM Camp at the front desk. Registration is accepted on a rolling basis until slots are full.
1500 East 17th Avenue, Columbus, Ohio 43219
(614) 294-6347
saintstephensch.org/youth-services

Summer Youth Adventure Camp with Rickenbacker Woods Foundation
An engaging and educational experience for Columbus youth entering grades 3-5. Camp activities are based on STEAM and Social-Emotional Learning enrichment.
Cost: Free
Program Dates: June 8 -August 7, Monday-Friday, 9AM-4PM
Application: Open now, visit the website to complete the application form. Limited spots available.
1330 East Livingston Avenue, Columbus, Ohio 43205
(614) 427-3201
rickenbackerwoods.org/summer-camp.html

Tech Explorer Techie Camp with TECHCORPS
A week-long summer tech camp for grades 3-5. Students set off on an underwater tech expedition with guidance from their crew. Young explorers learn to code, test sensors, and design creative tools to support their missions. Camp concludes with students presenting their final projects to parents and peers on Friday afternoon.
Cost: A $50 refundable deposit is collected at registration to secure a child’s spot in the program. If you child completes the program, your deposit will be fully refunded. Scholarships are available to waive the deposit for eligible students. Click here for Scholarship application.
Program Dates: July 27-31
Registration: Open now, visit the website to register. Students are enrolled on a first come, first-served basis until all spots are filled.
6600 Busch Boulevard, Suite 210, Columbus, Ohio 43229
(614) 583-9211
sites.google.com/techcorps.org/2026techiecamptechexplorer/home

Tech Quest Techie Camp with TECHCORPS
A week-long summer tech camp for grades 6-8. Students embark on a global technology adventure, traveling to virtual vaults around the world to unlock challenges. Camp concludes with students presenting their final projects to parents and peers.
Cost: A $50 refundable deposit is collected at registration to secure a child’s spot in the program. If you child completes the program, your deposit will be fully refunded. Scholarships are available to waive the deposit for eligible students. Click here for Scholarship application.
Program Dates: July 6-10 or July 20-24
Registration: Open now, visit the website to register. Students are enrolled on a first come, first-served basis until all spots are filled.
6600 Busch Boulevard, Suite 210, Columbus, Ohio 43229
(614) 583-9211
sites.google.com/techcorps.org/2026-techie-camp-tech-explorer/home

We Amplify Voices (WAV) Summer Camp
Students in grades 2-8 will engage in arts-based social-emotional learning with local artists to become more resilient, confident, and emotionally aware. Activities include songwriting, visual arts, dance and movement, bucket-drumming, performance, and field trips. Breakfast and lunch are provided.
Cost: Free
Program Dates: June 8 – August 7, Monday-Friday, 9AM-3PM
Registration: Open now, complete the RSVP Form on the website to get started.
1327 Sullivant Avenue, Columbus, Ohio 43223
(614) 525-0369
weamplifyvoices.org/event-details/wav-summer-camp

YMCA Camps
Provides summer day camps and enrichment camps for youth entering grades K-6. Camps include outdoor enrichment, STEM activities, and social skills. Enrichment camps are organized by different themes each week. Campers can register by week or for the entire summer. Visit the website for a full list of participating YMCA locations and registration details.
Cost: Price varies by camp and for YMCA members versus non-members. Scholarships are available, apply by April 15. Click here for details.
Program Dates: June – August, Day camp: 8AM-4PM, Enrichment camp: 7AM-6PM
Registration: Open now. Visit the website or in-person to register.
ymcacolumbus.org/school-age/summer-camp/day-camp-enrichment-camp/locations

Residential/Overnight Summer Camps

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Ohio – Camp Oty’Okwa
Offers a variety of overnight camp experiences at their Camp Oty’Okwa location in Hocking Hills. Camps include Little Explorers for ages 6-9, Adventure Camp for ages 8-12, and Teen Empowerment Camp for ages 13-16.
Cost: Free, includes transportation to camp.
Program Dates: Varies by camp, visit the website to learn more.
Registration: Open now, visit the website to register. Families with children already in BBBS programs receive priority registration.
24799 Purcell Road, South Bloomingville, Ohio 43152
(740) 385-5279
bbbscentralohio.org/youth-programs

Opportunities for Teens

ACE Academy with Organization of Black Aerospace Professionals
A week-long, hands-on experience for youth ages 12-18 to explore aviation. Students learn about aviation history, aerodynamics, and careers in aerospace. Students must complete an application, which includes cumulative GPA and essay.
Cost: $175 per camper. Financial aid is available for TANF-eligible families.
Program Dates: July 7-11
Application: Open now, visit the website to apply. Applications are due June 23.
obap.org/ace/columbus

Camp Public Health
A week-long career exploration day camp for ages 13-18. Campers discover how doctors, nurses, social workers, and environmental health specialists protect health and advocate for better health outcomes. Participants learn from professionals at Columbus Public Health and The Ohio State University College of Public Health.
Cost: $100 for Columbus residents, $120 for non-residents. Financial assistance may be available, contact the program for details.
Program Dates: July 27-31
Registration: Open now, register through the Columbus Recreation and Parks website. Registration will close when all slots are full.
263 Carpenter Street, Columbus, OH 43205
(614) 645-2694
columbusrecparks.com/summer-camps/camp-public-health

Philosophy and Critical Thinking (PACT) Summer Camp at The Ohio State University
Provides a fun introduction to philosophy for students in grades 9-12. Campers explore philosophical concepts through guest lectures, interactive discussions, debates, media, and games.
Cost: $500 per camper. Need-based scholarships are available. Inability to pay should not prohibit students from attending camp.
Program Dates: July 13-17 and July 27-31, 9AM-4PM
Application: Open now, visit the website to apply. Applications will remain open until camp is full.
230 North Oval Mall, University Hall 350, Columbus, Ohio 43210
(614) 292-7914
philosophy.osu.edu/pact

The PATH Project with Straight Path Coaching
Offers 4-day training workshops for teens ages 14-17 to learn skills such as building resumes and interview preparation. Workshops will be held two separate weeks at two separate locations.
Cost: Free for participants with Medicaid.
Program Dates: June 8-13 in Gahanna, July 15-27 in New Albany
Registration: Open now, click here to complete the registration form. Registration is due June 15.
140 North High Street, Gahanna, Ohio 43230
177 North High Street, New Albany, Ohio 43054
(614) 962-7284
Flyer: cap4kids.org/columbus/files/2026/05/The-PATH-Project-MEDICAID.png
Website: straightpathcoaching.com/about/events

Summer Scientist Series at Nationwide Children’s Hospital
A free program for high school and undergraduate students to explore careers in medicine and biomedical research. Students attend a weekly class to discuss scientific methods, ethics, and careers in medical research.
Cost: Free
Program Dates: June 11-July 16, Thursday evenings
Registration: Open now, visit the website to register.
575 South Eighteenth Street, Columbus, Ohio 43215
(614) 355-0589
nationwidechildrens.org/family-resources-education/courses-for-parents-and-kids/2026/06/summer-scientist-series-2026

Paid Work Experience:

Think Make Live Youth
The Summer Workforce & Social Justice program provides an 8-week paid experience for ages 13-18 to gain workforce skills, financial literacy, and social justice awareness.
Cost: Free
Program Dates: Dates TBA, runs from end of June until early August.
Registration: Open now, contact the organization directly for details.
1455 East Main Street, Columbus, Ohio 43205
(614) 259-7226
tmlyouth.org

Specialty Summer Camps 

The Bonner Academy at The Buckeye Ranch
Students in grades 3-12 can have a fun summer camp experience while learning mindfulness, regulation skills, conflict resolution skills, and distress tolerance. Camp includes field trips, mental health treatment groups, and adventure therapy groups. Students also have the opportunity to participate in individual and family therapy if needed. Breakfast and lunch are provided. Transportation may be available. Youth and family must participate in a screening and assessment process to ensure fit for programming.
Cost: Services are covered by Medicaid. Families may reach out to the organization if additional financial assistance is needed.
Program Dates: All summer long, Monday-Thursday, 9AM-2PM
Registration: Email bonneracademy@buckeyeranch.org for details.
(614) 875-2371
buckeyeranch.org/our-services/education/the-bonner-academy

Camp Corral
A free, week-long summer camp for military children ages 8-15.  Priority enrollment is given to children of wounded, injured, ill and/or fallen military members. The camp is held at various locations across the US.
Cost: Camp is free, not including transportation to camp. Scholarships for transportation may be available on a case-by-case basis.
Program Dates: Varies by location.
Registration: Open now, visit the website to apply.
campcorral.org/camps

Camp Flame Catcher
An outdoor summer camp for children ages 8+ with epilepsy. Campers partake in fishing, horseback riding, crafts, and more while gaining education about coping with epilepsy. Campers can sign up for a week or a weekend. The camp takes place in Cincinnati on the Camp Kern grounds.
Cost: $200 for weekend, $400 for week. Financial assistance is available.
Program Dates: July 12-16
Registration: Visit the website to print the enrollment forms. Completed forms can be sent to their main office.
Main Office: 895 Central Avenue, Suite 550, Cincinnati, Ohio 45202
1-877-804-2241
epilepsy-ohio.org/programs-services/camp-flame-catcher/camp-flame-catcher

Camp Hamwi
An outdoor summer camp experience for youth ages 7-17 with diabetes.
Cost: Varies by camp. Tiered pricing and scholarships are available for families based on income.
Program Dates: Varies by camp. 
Registration: Open now, visit the website to apply. 
lifecarealliance.org/programs/coda/camp-hamwi/about/#camp-programs 

Camp Kesem
A free, overnight summer camp experience for children ages 6-18 who have a parent with a cancer diagnosis. They offer camps across the United States, with several chapters in Ohio.
Cost: Free
Program Dates: Varies by camp. Click Here for 2026 dates.
Registration: Open now, visit the website to register.
kesem.org/chapters/ohio

Learning 4 Life Farm
Provides year-round programs for autistic or neurodivergent youth in a supportive farm setting. Summer Farm Lab offers workplace experience, social skill development, and empowerment for ages 14-21. 
Cost: $300 per week. Scholarships may be available, email the organization for details. 
Program Dates: July 13-16 & July 20-23, 10AM-3PM. 
Registration: Open now, visit the website to apply. Applications are accepted on a rolling, first-come first-served basis.
3062 Johnstown-Utica Road, Johnstown, OH 43031
(740) 759-7138
learning4lifefarm.org/home/l4l-farm-lab

OhioHealth Loss and Healing Services Summer Youth Grief Series
Offers summer day camps, support groups, individual counseling, and family workshops for youth ages 6-18 dealing with grief and loss. Sessions are led by licensed grief professionals. Camps include discussions and hands-on activities.
Cost: Free
Program Dates: Camps are offered at various locations and dates throughout Central Ohio. Click here to see the program catalog for details.
Registration: Register by phone or email: (614) 566-1728 or email youthgrief@ohiohealth.com
ohiohealth.com/patients-and-visitors/support/loss-and-healing-services

Ohio Military Kids
Offers summer day camps and weekend getaways for youth ages 9-17 in a military-connected family. 
Cost: Varies by camp.
Program Dates: August 2-6 for ages 12-15, August 9-13 for ages 9-11
Registration: TBA
2201 Fred Taylor Drive, Columbus, OH 43210
(614) 247-8876
ohio4h.org/statewide-programs/operation-military-kids/upcoming-events 

St. Vincent Family Services’ Summer Program
A day treatment program for children ages 3-12 needing behavioral and social-emotional health support. Children learn tools to manage their needs and behaviors while having fun. Camp includes behavioral health care in small groups as well as outdoor games, crafts, and more. Breakfast, lunch, and transportation are provided. Daily attendance is required.
Cost: Services are covered by Medicaid and a variety of insurances. Families may contact the organization for questions about financial assistance.
Program Dates: June 1 – August 14, Monday-Friday, 9AM-3PM
Registration: Complete the Make an Appointment form to inquire.
(614) 824-5437
svfsohio.org/make-an-appointment

Summer Camp Tips for Families