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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

Be WISE Day Camp
STEAM camp for girls to develop problem-solving skills and self-confidence through hands-on experiences. Camp is open to girls entering grades 5-6 in Muskingum County.
Cost: $170 per camper. Scholarships are available, please include proof of income and two teacher evaluations to apply. Scholarship deadlines are February 17 and May 1.
Program Dates: July 15-17, 8:30AM-3:30PM
Registration: Open now, visit the website to apply. Applications are accepted on a first come, first served basis.
Philo Junior High School: 225 Market Street, Philo, Ohio 43771
bewisecamp.org/be-wise-home-page

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: Open now. Visit the website to register and view all Columbus Clubhouse locations.
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
Information & Registration: dawesarb.org/blog/camp-dawes-2026
Scholarship Application: dawesarb.org/sites/default/files/docs/Edited_Scholarship%20Application_Camp%20Dawes%202026%20Fillable%20(1).pdf

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

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.
Cost: Free
Program Dates: June 10-July 31
Registration: Open now, visit the website to register.
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.
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) 645-5464
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. Click Here to register.
kiarts.live

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
Program Dates: June 8- July 31
Registration: Open now, visit the website to register.
(614) 321-2576
clcworks.org/marvel-us

OSU LiFEsports Summer Camp
A 4-week athletic camp for ages 9-14 to learn social skills and sports skills. Meals and transportation are provided. Youth participate in baseball, basketball, dance, football, lacrosse, soccer, swimming, and volleyball. The camp ends in a LiFEsports Games Olympic-style event. The camp is offered at The Ohio State University and at Albert Chapman Elementary School in Dublin.
Cost: Free
Program Dates: June 8 – July 2
Registration: Open now, visit the website to register.
(614) 514-5942
lifesports.osu.edu/what-we-do/outreach/elementary-middle-school-programs/lifesports-summer-camp

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) 384-5639
lincolntheatrecolumbus.com/programs/patternz

SOAR Academy Summer Camp with Flyt Foundation
Provides academic enrichment, physical fitness, social-emotional learning activities, crafts, field trips, and guest speakers for campers ages 5-14. Register for one week or for the summer. Campers are provided breakfast, lunch, and a snack each day.
Cost: $60 per week. Accepts OhioRISE.
Program Dates: June 2 – August 15, 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

UMADAOP of Franklin County
Offers life skills, field trips, recreation, social and emotional learning, and more for ages 6-12. Priority is given to Rosewind residents.
Cost: Free
Program Dates: June 8 – July 24, Monday-Friday, 9AM-4:30PM
Registration: Online registration open now. Registration deadline is May 15.
1400 Brooks Avenue, Columbus, Ohio, 43211
(614) 227-9694
Register: surveymonkey.com/r/C9QR8C5
More information on UMADAOP: umadaopfc.com/youth

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: Vary by camp, visit the website to learn more.
Registration: Families with children already in BBBS programs receive priority registration. General public registration opens in May. Visit the website to register.
24799 Purcell Road, South Bloomingville, Ohio 43152
(740) 385-5279
cap4kids.org/columbus/big-brothers-big-sisters

Be WISE Residential Camp
An overnight STEAM camp for girls to develop problem-solving skills and self-confidence through hands-on experiences. Camp is open to girls entering grades 7-8 in Muskingum County.
Cost: $170 per camper. Scholarships are available, please include proof of income and two teacher evaluations to apply. Scholarship deadlines are February 17 and May 1.
Program Dates: June 14-19
Registration: Open now, visit the website to apply. Applications are accepted on a first come, first served basis.
Muskingum University: 260 Stadium Drive, New Concord, Ohio 43762
bewisecamp.org/be-wise-residential-camp

B-WISER Science Camp 
A residential camp at the College of Wooster for girls interested in STEM. The middle school program serves girls grades 7-8 and the high school program serves girls grades 9-10. Students participate in a full daily curriculum of advanced science and meet mentors in science fields. High schoolers also attend college readiness seminars.
Cost: $660-1100 per camper. Merit and need-based scholarships are available; most families receive 75% off the cost.
Program Dates: June 15-20
Registration: Open now, visit the website to register. Registration is due April 30.
(330) 263-2105
308 East University Street, Wooster, Ohio 44691
bwiser.spaces.wooster.edu

Femergy Chica Summer Experience
A week-long overnight camp for middle and high school girls in Columbus. Participants engage in wellness workshops addressing nutrition, stress management, confidence, teamwork, and decision-making. Youth also have access to drop-in hours at the Femergy Center throughout the summer for access to mentorship, meals, hygiene products, and more.
Cost: Free
Program Dates: June 1-5 for overnight camp
Registration: Open now, visit the website to register. Registration is accepted on a rolling basis until all slots are full.
49 South Grant Avenue, Columbus, Ohio 43215
(614) 653-8454
femergy.org/femergy-chica-summer-experience

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

Beyond the Classroom at The Ohio State University Department of Mathematics
Students grades 6-9 with a love of math will experience recreational mathematics, movies, puzzles, and problem-solving with OSU students and faculty.
Cost: Free, donation suggested.
Program Dates: June 22- June 26, 8:30AM-4PM
Application: Open now, visit the website to apply. Applications will close when capacity is reached.
231 West Eighteenth Avenue, Columbus, Ohio 43210
u.osu.edu/mathoutreach/btc/btc2026

Buckeye Boys State
A week-long summer program for entering high school seniors who want to develop leadership skills, learn how government works, and the responsibilities of good citizenship. Participants are divided into “political parties” for hands-on experience and participate in activities including debates, journalism, campaigning, music, and field trips. Participants reside on the Miami University campus for the duration of the program. Students must apply, complete an interview, and show above average academic standing to be considered.
Cost: Free
Program Dates: June 14-21
Registration: Visit the website to register.
(740) 362-7478
ohiobuckeyeboysstate.com/applicant-info

Buckeye Girls State
A week-long summer program for entering high school seniors who want to develop leadership skills, learn how government works, and the responsibilities of good citizenship. Participants are divided into “political parties” for hands-on experience and participate in activities including debates, journalism, campaigning, music, and field trips. Participants reside on the Bowling Green State University campus for the duration of the program. Students must apply, complete an interview, and show above average academic standing to be considered.
Cost: Free
Program Dates: June 7-13
Registration: Contact the organization for details.
(740) 452-8245
alaohio.org/buckeye-girls-state

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

Discover Social Work with The Ohio State University College of Social Work
A two-day experience for students entering grades 9-12 to explore what social workers do through interactive workshops, hands-on activities, and campus experiences.
Cost: Free
Program Dates: June 15 &16, 8:30AM-4:30PM
Application: Open now, visit the website to apply. Applications are due May 1.
hopkins.800@osu.edu
Stillman Hall, 1947 College Road, Columbus, Ohio 43210
osu.az1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_5iMGtdoFiidoMRM

Medical Academy at Ohio University Dublin Campus
A free, 4-day summer camp for high school juniors and seniors in Central Ohio to explore careers in healthcare at Ohio University Heritage College of Osteopathic Medicine in Dublin, Ohio. Selected students engage in experiential learning activities, learn about careers in health care, and work directly with health professionals. Students who will be the first in their family to attend college are highly encouraged to apply. Visit the website for application details.
Cost: Free
Program Dates: June 9-12
Application: Students must apply with a letter of recommendation, essay, and short video. Applications are due April 20.
6785 Bobcat Way, Dublin, Ohio 43016
(614) 793-5556
ohio.edu/medicine/about/campuses/dublin/reach

Pathways with Girls Who Code
A 6-week, self-paced learning experience for students who want to learn coding. Girls and non-binary students grades 9-12 of all experience levels are welcome. They offer curriculum tracks in game design, data science, AI, cybersecurity, and web development. Students also get access to a virtual community of learners and career support.
Cost: Free
Program Dates: June 29 – August 14
Registration: Participants must complete the online application. Priority deadline is February 25. General deadline is April 10.
Apply here: girlswhocode.my.salesforce-sites.com/GWCEnrollment/apex/ERx_Forms__PageMaker?pageId=Welcome
More information: girlswhocode.com/programs/pathways

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

Summer Scholars at Miami University
A selective, week-long experience for academically talented rising high school juniors and seniors at Miami University. Students participate in challenging academics and attend workshops on the college admission process. Topics include STEM fields, law and politics, fashion, design, business, and more.  Summer Scholars alum receive priority consideration for admission to Miami University’s undergraduate programs.
Cost: $1,080 per student. Need-based financial scholarships are available for students who receive free or reduced school lunch. Fees and scholarships do not include transportation to the Miami University campus.
Program Dates: July 5 – July 17
Application: Open now, visit the website to apply. Students must apply with a letter of recommendation and college aptitude test scores to be considered. Applications are due May 1.
301 South Campus Avenue, Oxford, Ohio 45056
(513) 529-2531
miamioh.edu/admission/high-school/summer-scholars

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: 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

Teen Queens Rise with Queens Village Columbus
A 10-week empowerment series for Black girls ages 13-19, including pregnant and parenting teens. This supportive, culturally affirming space helps girls build confident, strengthen mental wellness, and gain real-life skills. Snacks and lunch are provided. Transportation support is available. Participants receive a $300 stipend upon successful program completion. The program takes place at Columbus Metropolitan Library.
Cost: Free
Program Dates: April 25- June 27, Saturdays, 10AM-1PM
Application: Open now. Click Here to Apply.
Flyer: cap4kids.org/columbus/files/2026/03/Teen-Queen-1-Pager-5.pdf
Website: blackwomenforthewin.com/chapters/columbus

Paid Work Experience:

Festa Summer Lunch Camp Site Leader Paid Internship
Offers a paid internship for ages 18+ to help lead a multicultural, socioeconomically diverse summer camp.
Cost: $16-18 per hour based on experience
Program Dates: TBA
Application: Visit the website to apply.
(614) 586-7939
wearefesta.org/careers

Project GENESIS with Trades of Faith
Youth ages 14-18 years old can earn weekly stipends by participating in this 4-week program. Youth will engage in hands-on experience, job shadowing, field trips, community service, individual guidance, and group coaching.
Cost: Free, participants may earn up to $1,632
Program Dates: July 6 – July 31
Application: Open now, visit the website to apply. Applications are due April 22. All new, incoming students must complete an interview.
Columbus, Ohio 43231
(614) 623-0561
tradesoffaith.org/projectgenesis

Teen Corps at Franklin Park Conservatory
Provides 8 weeks of paid work training in gardening, plant care, cooking, customer service, and more at Franklin Park Conservatory. Participants must be ages 15-18 and have a Columbus address or attend a Columbus City School.
Cost: Free
Program Dates: June 15 – August 7
Registration: Participants are selected after completing an application and interview. Visit the website to apply. Applications are due April 17.
1777 Broad Street, Columbus, Ohio 43203
fpconservatory.org/education-programs/outreach-programs/teen-corps

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: $200 per camper. Day camps are available for ages 3-12 for $100/camper. Scholarships are available for families based on income.
Program Dates: TBA
Registration: TBA, visit the website to register. 
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

Camp Lionheart
A free, week-long summer camp for youth ages 8-17 who have experienced the death of a parent, sibling, or primary caregiver. Campers enjoy outdoor camp activities including swimming, hiking, games, and crafts. Campers also receive structured group grief counseling sessions with trained, licensed professionals. Campers grieve, learn ways to cope with their loss, make friends, and have fun. The camp takes place at Camp Oty’okwa in Hocking Hills. They also have opportunities for clinical volunteers, non-clinical volunteer, and donations.
Cost: Free
Program Dates: July 13-17
Registration: Open now, visit the website to register. Application must be completed by legal custodial guardians and camper.
(614) 506-7959

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: Applications are open, 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

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