Get ready for endless fun!
The City of Alexandria offers a wide variety of action-packed, exciting camp programs for kids of all ages. From sports to arts, there’s something for every interest—don’t miss out on the adventure, no matter the season!
Summer Camp Offerings
This summer, the fun never stops! The Department of Recreation, Parks, and Cultural Activities is offering an exciting lineup of camps for kids of all ages. Whether they're into sports, arts, or something in between, there’s an adventure waiting—sign up today for a summer full of excitement!
New Camps 2025
Alex CIT Program
Ages 13-15. The Counselor in Training (CIT) program is offered for campers to begin to understand the responsibility of being a counselor. CITs will be spend time learning about child development, group management, and basic lesson planning. They will also spend time in camps learning from the staff and receiving hands-on experience. CITS will not be placed in camps with the same age campers and must commit to a two-week session.
M-F, 9 a.m.-1 p.m., 6/16-8/1, $ Varies, Oswald Durant Recreation Center
Baroody Sports & PE Games
Ages 7-11. In this camp, we will play some of the best sports and PE games ever invented. We will choose from knockout, extreme kickball, handball, capture the flag, modified dodgeball, ultimate frisbee, floor hockey, soccer, and more. We will also take suggestions from children to make sure the fun never ends!
M-F (Varies), 9 a.m.-12 p.m., 6/16-8/8, $ Varies, Chinquapin Park
Bounce-Boom Pickleball Camp
Ages 7-13. Bounce-Boom (formerly FirstServe) Racquet Sports programs use innovative teaching techniques and games to create a fun learning environment. The low student-to-instructor ratio helps students learn the fundamentals quickly and develop a lifelong love of the game. Pickleball paddles are required. Visit bounceboom.com for more information. Ratio 7:1.
M-F, 9 a.m.-12 p.m., 6/23-7/18, $375, Chinquapin Park
Friendzone Flag Football Camp
Ages 7-14. Don’t regret your child missing this fun camp. Participants will have a blast learning the fundamentals of flag football based upon the official NFL Flag Football curriculum. They will participate in scrimmages and earn cool prizes during skill competitions. Spaces are limited so enroll now!
M-F, 9 a.m.-4 p.m., 6/23-8/8, $295, Armistead Boothe Park
Swim Team Prep Camp
Ages 8-14. Campers will receive two daily structured practices with a certified American Red Cross swim instructor designed to improve the efficiency and legality of their strokes. Campers will also enjoy games, arts and crafts, and free swimming throughout the week. Camp information forms are required to confirm registration. Campers must bring their own bag, lunch, snacks, water bottle, swimsuit, and towel.
M-F, 9 a.m.-4 p.m., 6/16-6/27, $225, Minnie Howard Aquatics Facility
Local Motion Dance Sampler Camp
Ages 7-11. Explore a variety of styles of dance this summer which will include contemporary, jazz, ballet, and more. We will not only get to do the movements but also learn about how they started and how they have changed. You will be able to take what you learned to make dances using your own ideas and creativity!
M-F (Varies), 9 a.m.-4 p.m., 6/16-8/1, $ Varies, Chinquapin Recreation Center
Local Motion Production Camp
Ages 11-14. Create, produce, and promote your own dance show! Work collaboratively to make original dances, staging decisions, and marketing choices. You’ll be involved in everything from choreography to designing the program to creating videos and more. All levels of experience are welcome!
M-F, 9 a.m.-4 p.m., 7/21-7/25, $445, Lee Center
Art Box LEGO® Mania Camp
Ages 5-10. Join us for an exciting Lego Camp where creativity meets construction! This action-packed week is designed for young builders eager to unleash their imaginations and bring their ideas to life with Lego bricks and other building materials. Each day, campers will dive into themed challenges, collaborate on group projects, and participate in hands-on activities that encourage problem-solving and teamwork. Whether constructing towering skyscrapers, designing unique vehicles, or crafting detailed landscapes, kids will explore the endless possibilities of Lego building.
M-F (Varies), 9 a.m.-4 p.m., 6/16-7/25 (Varies), $ Varies, Lee Center
Creative & Performing Arts Camps
Local Motion Dance Sampler Camp
Ages 7-11. Explore a variety of styles of dance this summer which will include contemporary, jazz, ballet, and more. We will not only get to do the movements but also learn about how they started and how they have changed. You will be able to take what you learned to make dances using your own ideas and creativity!
M-F (Varies), 9 a.m.-4 p.m., 6/16-8/1, $ Varies, Chinquapin Recreation Center
Abrakadoodle Art Camps
Wild About Animals
Ages 5.5-12. Let’s get wild! Discover animals and their different habitats from around the world. Design toucans, stingrays, monkeys, camels, llamas, ostriches, lions, and more. Create animals in all shapes, sizes, and colors. Each lesson will introduce fun art techniques while we explore STEAM concepts.
M-W,F, 9 a.m.-4 p.m., 6/16-6/20, $315, Charles Houston Recreation Center
Kids on Canvas
Ages 5.5-12. This unique art program teaches children about painting on a variety of canvas surfaces in different ways. Children will explore artists such as Romero Britto, Carlo Marini, and Keith Haring while experimenting with color mixing, printing, collage, patterns, perspective, and more.
M-F, 9 a.m.-4 p.m., 7/7-7/11, $315, Oswald Durant Recreation Center
Broadway Extravaganza
Ages 5.5-12. Join the crew of the Broadway Extravaganza Art Camp, where creativity takes center stage! Set your imagination free as we sketch costumes, craft a mini revolving stage with props, design a promotional poster, make masks, puppets, and much more.
M-F, 9 a.m.-4 p.m., 7/14-7/18, $315, Charles Houston Recreation Center
Myths & Legends
Ages 5.5-12. Tell me a story! World myths and legends inspire sculptures, drawings, paintings and more. Create unforgettable art from the rich tales of Africa, India, Europe, the Middle East, Australia, China and the Americas!
M-F, 9 a.m.-4 p.m., 7/21-7/25, $315, Oswald Durant Recreation Center
Circus Art
Ages 5.5-12. Ladies and gentlemen, boys and girls…the circus is coming to town in Abrakadoodle style! Stretch your creative muscles, while you tame animal sculptures, create a 3D clown puppet, and more. Be the ringmaster of your own imagination!
M-F, 9 a.m.-4 p.m., 7/28-8/1, $315, Charles Houston Recreation Center
3D Mania
Ages 5.5-12. Use your fingers to pat, push, and pull clay materials into 3D masterpieces. Be inspired by ancient and modern artists to create your own expressions of clay art. Lessons using Chinese artifacts, mythology, and modern decorative design allow the young artist to make 3D objects that encourage mastery of clay techniques.
M-F, 9 a.m.-4 p.m., 8/4-8/8, $315, Charles Houston Recreation Center
Art Box Camps
Art Box Science Art Mania
Ages 5-10. At Science Art Mania, campers explore the exciting connections between science and art through hands-on projects like painting with chemical reactions, building volcanoes, making snow, and creating lava lamps. Perfect for curious minds and budding artists, this camp sparks creativity and brings science to life!
M-F, 9 a.m.-4 p.m., 6/23-8/1 (Varies), $335, Lee Center
Art Box Visual Arts Adventure
Ages 5-10. Get ready to unleash your inner artist! In Visual Arts Adventure Camp, kids will explore a variety of art forms, including painting, drawing, sculpture, and mixed media. Through fun, hands-on projects, campers will learn new techniques, express their creativity, and create one-of-a-kind masterpieces to take home. This camp is perfect for young artists eager to explore, imagine, and create in a supportive, colorful environment!
M-F (Varies), 9 a.m.-4 p.m., 6/30-8/15 (Varies), $ Varies, Lee Center
Art Box Musical Theater
Ages 5-10. Dive into a world where creativity meets discovery! At Science Art Mania, campers will explore the fascinating connections between science and art through hands-on projects and experiments. From painting with chemical reactions to building volcanoes, make snow, and build lava lamps, etc. Kids will have fun creating masterpieces while learning scientific principles. Perfect for curious minds and budding artists, this camp will inspire creativity, ignite curiosity, and make science come alive through the magic of art!
M-F, 9 a.m.-4 p.m., 7/7-7/18, $335, Lee Center
Young Rembrandts Art
World Famous Paintings
Ages 6-12. In Young Rembrandts’ Pastel Art workshop, students will create original pastel drawings inspired by five famous artists. Each day focuses on mastering the pastel medium, with a masterpiece to frame by the end. No experience is needed; please wear an old shirt or smock.
M-F, 9 a.m.-3 p.m., 7/14-7/18, $475, Chinquapin Recreation Center
Colorful Critters Pastel Workshop
Ages 6-12. Animal lovers, get ready for an exciting new pastel workshop! Students will learn pastel techniques to create whimsical animals like bees, frogs, owls, and more. A perfect creative challenge for kids, this workshop is sure to become a favorite summer tradition.
M-F, 9 a.m.-3 p.m., 7/28-8/1, $475, Chinquapin Recreation Center
Ocean Life Pastel Workshop
Ages 8-12. Five, fun-filled days await our students as we explore ocean life as they learn to draw and color with pastels. We will create detailed, pastel compositions on each day, focusing on a different ocean-themed subject. We will draw eye-catching sea stars along the shoreline and a pair of vibrant clownfish. We will illustrate a sea turtle with bold patterns, a blue crab and a wondrous scene of jellyfish. Our instruction will bring remarkable results, and you will want to head to the frame shop with your child’s finished pastel pieces. These pastel drawings will reward students with a great sense of pride and accomplishment.
M-F, 9 a.m.-12 p.m., 8/11-8/15, $275, Oswald Durant Recreation Center
Ultimate Music Experience Camp
Ages 5-12. Join us for a week of musical theater adventure where creativity takes center stage! This camp is perfect for young performers who have an interest in singing, dancing, and acting for a performance finale. The camp also offers a Counselors-in-Training (CIT) for older campers ages 10 through 12 years. The CIT Program offers a hands-on leadership experience where campers can develop skills in stage management, coaching, and directing while mentoring younger campers. Campers and CITs alike can enjoy creating stage sets, costumes, and props while working together to bring a short musical to life! The camp culminates into a performance for family and friends, with CITs showcasing their contributions in a behind-the-scenes presentation.
M-F (Varies), Time Varies, 6/23-8/15 (Varies), $249, Location Varies
Nature & Excursion Camps
Tadpole Camp
Ages 4-5. Let’s take a trip around the world together! Campers will visit a different country every day and learn about the plants and animals we find there. This camp will feature arts and crafts, animal meet and greets, and more! This is a drop-off camp.
M-F, 9-11 a.m., 6/23-7/11 (Varies), $104, Jerome "Buddie" Ford Nature Center
Habitats of the World
Grades 1-2. Oceans, forests, and deserts are just a few ecosystems that make up our world. Join us as we dive deeper and explore the diverse habitats and animals that lie within. Campers will take part in hands-on investigations and meet the ambassador animals that reside at the Nature Center.
M-F, 9 a.m.-3 p.m., 7/14-7/18, $390, Jerome "Buddie" Ford Nature Center
Science Explorers
Grades 1-5. Explore the many branches of science including zoology, chemistry, and geology! You will discover your inner scientist through exciting experiments and investigations, with each day featuring a different field of science.
M-F, 9 a.m.-3 p.m., 7/21-8/1 (Varies), $390, Jerome "Buddie" Ford Nature Center
BAroody: Young Adventurers Camp
Ages 7-9. Young Adventures Camp is a dynamic week-long outdoor experience tailored for kids with a passion for exploring nature and the wild. Each day offers a different adventure including fishing, orienteering, hiking, creek exploration, and climbing. Campers will be transported to various scenic spots, equipped with all necessary gear, and embark on a journey of self-discovery and skill development.
M-F, 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m., 6/23-8/8 (Varies), $595, Oswald Durant Recreation Center
BAroody: Adventure Fishing Camp
Ages 9-14. Adventure Fishing Camp is an immersive week-long day camp that offers young anglers a comprehensive fishing experience. From mastering the intricacies of fishing equipment to understanding fish behavior and responsible angling practices, campers will gain the knowledge and skills necessary to become self-reliant anglers. Throughout the week, campers will have the opportunity to fish in a variety of scenic locations, including freshwater ponds, rivers, lakes, and even Chesapeake Bay.
M-F, 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m., 7/14-7/18, $595, Oswald Durant Recreation Center
BAroody: Outdoor Adventure Camp
Ages 10-14. Step into the wild and join us at the Outdoor Adventure Camp, where kids with a passion for the outdoors will explore nature’s wonders throughout an exciting week. Each day presents new opportunities, from orienteering to kayaking, white water rafting, tubing, and even hiking adventures!
M-F (Varies), 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m., 6/16-8/15 (Varies), $ Varies, Oswald Durant Recreation Center
Sports Camps
Baroody Sports & PE Games
Ages 7-11. In this camp, we will play some of the best sports and PE games ever invented. We will choose from knockout, extreme kickball, handball, capture the flag, modified dodgeball, ultimate frisbee, floor hockey, soccer, and more. We will also take suggestions from children to make sure the fun never ends!
M-F (Varies), 9 a.m.-12 p.m., 6/16-8/8, $ Varies, Chinquapin Park
Bounce-Boom Pickleball Camp
Ages 7-13. Bounce-Boom (formerly FirstServe) Racquet Sports programs use innovative teaching techniques and games to create a fun learning environment. The low student-to-instructor ratio helps students learn the fundamentals quickly and develop a lifelong love of the game. Pickleball paddles are required. Visit bounceboom.com for more information. Ratio 7:1.
M-F, 9 a.m.-12 p.m., 6/23-7/18, $375, Chinquapin Park
Friendzone Flag Football Camp
Ages 7-14. Don’t regret your child missing this fun camp. Participants will have a blast learning the fundamentals of flag football based upon the official NFL Flag Football curriculum. They will participate in scrimmages and earn cool prizes during skill competitions. Spaces are limited so enroll now!
M-F, 9 a.m.-4 p.m., 6/23-8/8, $295, Armistead Boothe Park
Swim Team Prep Camp
Ages 8-14. Campers will receive two daily structured practices with a certified American Red Cross swim instructor designed to improve the efficiency and legality of their strokes. Campers will also enjoy games, arts and crafts, and free swimming throughout the week. Camp information forms are required to confirm registration. Campers must bring their own bag, lunch, snacks, water bottle, swimsuit, and towel.
M-F, 9 a.m.-4 p.m., 6/16-6/27, $225, Minnie Howard Aquatics Facility
Alexandria Aces Baseball Camp
Ages 8-16. Come enjoy a day at the ballpark with your favorite Alexandria Aces! Learn the fundamentals and play alongside the players you see play at night at Frank Mann Field. From hitting to pitching to fielding, your day will be filled with loads of baseball and fun. Games and competitions will be added to the conclusion of the day, and each camper will receive an official Aces autographed championship yearbook. We look forward to seeing you all there!
M-F (Varies), 9:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m., 6/16-7/18, $ Varies, Four Mile Run Park
STEM Camps
Science Seed Camps
May the Force Be With You
Ages 5-8. Kids will explore how things move! They’ll build their own boats and airplanes to learn about sinking, floating, flight, and balance. They experiment with gravity, magnets, friction, and more! The day includes outdoor recess, story time tied to the day’s science, free reading, exploration, and a daily journal entry.
M-W,F, 9 a.m.-4 p.m., 6/16-6/20, $309, Oswald Durant Recreation Center
Chemistry in the Kitchen
What’s the difference between using baking soda or baking powder when making cookies? What is the role of yeast in pizza dough? Campers will explore these mysteries and more! The day includes outdoor recess, story time tied to the day’s science, free reading, exploration, and a daily journal entry.
M-F, 9 a.m.-4 p.m., 6/30-8/1 (Varies), $ Varies, Oswald Durant Recreation Center
Art Safari (by Little Scholars)
Ages 3-5. We are going to take a safari around the world! Visit a new country each lesson and learn about animals native to that location with a sprinkle of literature, a dabble of games, and a whole lot of art. Grab your passport and discover the thrill of the hunt without leaving school! Campers must be potty-trained.
M-F, 9 a.m.-12 p.m., 6/23-6/27, $155, Oswald Durant Recreation Center
Art Innovators
Ages 6-9. This innovative foundation on financial literacy also serves as a practical math lab where campers learn and reinforce computational skills while developing a mindset for healthy financial habits. From playing money math games to learning about budgeting through engaging activities, campers have fun while they enhance their “real life” math skills!
M-W,F, 9 a.m.-4 p.m., 6/16-6/20, $380, Oswald Durant Recreation Center
Cyberteck Coding in Minecraft with Lua
Ages 6-9. Using a custom mod called “Computercraft”, students will learn how to program robots called “Turtles” inside the world of Minecraft. Kids will utilize problem-solving skills by learning how to program their robots to complete various tasks and objectives such as programming their turtles to automatically build, mine, and craft items and structures. They will be introduced to programming if-then-else statements, and for-while loops, and implement their functions using Lua, a simple scripting language. *Extended care for session 2 only.
M-F, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. (Varies), 7/14-7/18, $299, Oswald Durant Recreation Center
Minecraft Modding
Ages 6-9. Campers will learn how to create their own custom gameplay items and elements using MCreator and Minecraft, create artwork for various items, and implement them into the game with custom behaviors. Design your custom blocks, weapons, food, biomes, and more! Does your child spend hours at a time playing Minecraft? Have them learn how to improve their gameplay experience and create your own custom mods to take home today! *Extended care for session 2 only.
M-F, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. (Varies), 6/16-6/20, $299, Oswald Durant Recreation Center
Science: Potions & Explosions
Ages 7-11. Experience the thrill of Chemistry! Create “magic” potions and mind-blowing chemical reactions. Erupt a volcano, make indoor snow, grow crystals, blast a rocket into the air, and more. Explore states of matter, mixtures, solutions, and chemical reactions. Join us to channel your inner Professor Snape!
M-F, 9 a.m.-3 p.m., 8/4-8/8, $349, Chinquapin Recreation Center
Computer Technology for the Creative Teen
Ages 10-14. Create a podcast, shoot and edit video, design a website, craft a 3D landscape, customize a t-shirt and hat, produce music beats, and design a room. Experience entrepreneurial and creative fun with potential career paths like movie producer, writer, graphic/web designer, architect, or audio/video production. Bring your laptop and explore the possibilities!
M-F, 1-4 p.m., 6/23-7/18 (Varies), $375, Charles Houston Recreation Center
Learn to Code
Ages 10-14. Learn how to start writing Python code, which is used in AI, and JavaScript code. Learn game development skills with Microsoft Kodu, an Xbox-like development platform. Coding helps build critical thinking skills. Also covered will be computer maintenance and the basics of computer hardware, the internet, and operating systems. Laptop required.
M-F, 9 a.m.-12 p.m., 6/23-7/18 (Varies), $375, Charles Houston Recreation Center
Science Explorers
Grades 1-5. Explore the many branches of science including zoology, chemistry, and geology! You will discover your inner scientist through exciting experiments and investigations, with each day featuring a different field of science.
M-F, 9 a.m.-3 p.m., 7/21-8/1, $390, Jerome "Buddie" Ford Nature Center
Pre-Teen & Teen Camps
Swim Team Prep Camp
Ages 8-14. Campers will receive two daily structured practices with a certified American Red Cross swim instructor designed to improve the efficiency and legality of their strokes. Campers will also enjoy games, arts and crafts, and free swim throughout the week. Camp information forms are required to confirm registration. Campers must bring their own bag, lunch, snacks, water bottle, swimsuit, and towel.
M-F (Varies), 9 a.m.-4 p.m., 6/16-6/27, $ Varies, Minnie Howard Aquatic Facilities
Alexandria Aces Baseball Camp
Ages 8-16. Come enjoy a day at the ballpark with your favorite Alexandria Aces! Learn the fundamentals and play alongside the players you see play at night at Frank Mann Field. From hitting to pitching to fielding, your day will be filled with loads of baseball and fun. Games and competitions will be added to the conclusion of the day, and each camper will receive an official Aces autographed championship yearbook. We look forward to seeing you all there!
M-F (Varies), 9:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m., 6/16-7/18, $ Varies, Four Mile Run Park
Adventure Fishing Camp
Ages 9-14. Adventure Fishing Camp is an immersive week-long day camp that offers young anglers a comprehensive fishing experience. From mastering the intricacies of fishing equipment to understanding fish behavior and responsible angling practices, campers will gain the knowledge and skills necessary to become self-reliant anglers. Throughout the week, campers will have the opportunity to fish in a variety of scenic locations, including freshwater ponds, rivers, lakes, and even Chesapeake Bay.
M-F, 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m., 7/14-7/18, $595, Oswald Durant Recreation Center
Outdoor Adventure Camp
Ages 10-14. Step into the wild and join us at the Outdoor Adventure Camp, where kids with a passion for the outdoors will explore nature’s wonders throughout an exciting week. Each day presents new opportunities, from orienteering to kayaking, white water rafting, tubing, and even hiking adventures!
M-F (Varies), 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m., 6/16-8/15 (Varies), $ Varies, Oswald Durant Recreation Center
Computer Technology for the Creative Teen
Ages 10-14. Create a podcast, shoot and edit video, design a website, craft a 3D landscape, customize a t-shirt and hat, produce music beats, and design a room. Experience entrepreneurial and creative fun with potential career paths like movie producer, writer, graphic/web designer, architect, or audio/video production. Bring your laptop and explore the possibilities!
M-F, 1-4 p.m., 6/23-7/18 (Varies), $375, Charles Houston Recreation Center
Learn to Code
Ages 10-14. Learn how to start writing Python code, which is used in AI, and JavaScript code. Learn game development skills with Microsoft Kodu, an Xbox-like development platform. Coding helps build critical thinking skills. Also covered will be computer maintenance and the basics of computer hardware, the internet, and operating systems. Laptop required.
M-F, 9 a.m.-12 p.m., 6/23-7/18 (Varies), $375, Charles Houston Recreation Center
Nailed It! Artful Cupcakes
Ages 10-14. If your little baker loved Cupcake Wars, they’ll love ‘Nailed It!’ This week, campers decorate creative cupcakes, including animal faces, floral designs, and hamburger cupcakes.
M-F, 9 a.m.-4 p.m., 7/14-7/18, $475, Oswald Durant Recreation Center
Master Chef
Ages 10-14. Master Chef lets campers unleash their kitchen creativity, crafting breakfast, lunch, and dinner recipes. As the week progresses, they’ll learn advanced cooking and baking techniques, earning the title of Master Chef!
M-F, 9 a.m.-4 p.m., 8/4-8/8, $475, Oswald Durant Recreation Center
Local Motion Production Camp
Ages 11-14. Create, produce, and promote your own dance show! Work collaboratively to make original dances, staging decisions, and marketing choices. You’ll be involved in everything from choreography to designing the program to creating videos and more. All levels of experience are welcome!
M-F, 9 a.m.-4 p.m., 7/21-7/25, $445, Lee Center
Summer Power-Up
Ages 11-14 (entering grades 6-9 in Fall 2025). Kidz REC-reate, Power-Up teens are Creatives in the making! Designed for young teens who enjoy spending the summer meeting new people, having fun with friends, and creating lasting memories. Power-Up provides engaging and age-appropriate activities for all campers to enjoy. The program includes traditional recreation activities, sports, creative and performing arts, STEM activities, and more! No program 6/19, 7/4.
M-F, 9 a.m.-6 p.m., 6/16-8/8, $ Varies (Resident, Free/Reduced School Lunch, SNAP & TANF), George Washington Middle School
Alex CIT Program
Ages 13-15. The Counselor in Training (CIT) program is offered for campers to begin to understand the responsibility of being a counselor. CITs will be spend time learning about child development, group management, and basic lesson planning. They will also spend time in camps learning from the staff and receiving hands-on experience. CITS will not be placed in camps with the same age campers and must commit to a two-week session.
M-F, 9 a.m.-1 p.m., 6/16-8/1, $ Varies, Oswald Durant Recreation Center
Out of School Time Camps
Summer Power-On
Ages 6-11 (entering 1st grade-6th grade in Fall 2025). Kidz REC-reate! Discover traditional recreation activities, creative and performing arts, sports, health and wellness, special events, STEAM, and much more! Campers are encouraged to develop a sense of camaraderie and an understanding of teamwork. Registration minimums and maximums vary by location. No program 6/19, 7/4.
M-F, 9 a.m.-6 p.m., 6/16-8/8, $ Varies (Resident, Free/Reduced School Lunch, SNAP & TANF), Locations Vary
Summer Power-Up
Ages 11-14 (entering grades 6-9 in Fall 2025). Kidz REC-reate, Power-Up teens are Creatives in the making! Designed for young teens who enjoy spending the summer meeting new people, having fun with friends, and creating lasting memories. Power-Up provides engaging and age-appropriate activities for all campers to enjoy. The program includes traditional recreation activities, sports, creative and performing arts, STEM activities, and more! No program 6/19, 7/4.
M-F, 9 a.m.-6 p.m., 6/16-8/8, $ Varies (Resident, Free/Reduced School Lunch, SNAP & TANF), George Washington Middle School
Before Care is available at all sites that host Summer Power-On and Summer Power-Up programs for each week of the summer. Registration is required prior to attending Before Care. Please chat with your Power-On or Power-Up program representative for more details.
Camps With Earlier Starts
Alex Fun Day Camp
Ages 6-12. Games, arts and crafts, swimming, and more. There’s something for everyone! Campers will have one weekly special event each week, a highlighted theme of the week, and swim three times a week. Energetic, experienced staff lead your children in a summer of F-U-N. Camp information forms are required for each camper before their first day. Campers must bring their own bag lunch, snacks, water bottle, swimsuit, and towel. The staff to participant ratio is 1:10.
M-F (Varies), 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m., 6/16-8/8, $ Varies, Oswald Durant Recreation Center
Alex Fun Sports Camp
Ages 7-12. Love sports? Let us entertain and educate your children for the entire day, while doing what they love! Mornings immerse campers in a focused sport of the week, while afternoons are spent playing games. Your camper will develop teamwork, camaraderie, and sportsmanship while having fun, and will swim three times weekly! Campers must bring their own bag lunch, snacks, and water bottle. The staff to participant ratio is 1:10.
M-F (Varies), 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m., 6/16-8/8, $ Varies, Minnie Howard Gym
Young Adventurers Camp
Ages 7-9. Young Adventures Camp is a dynamic week-long outdoor experience tailored for kids with a passion for exploring nature and the wild. Each day offers a different adventure including fishing, orienteering, hiking, creek exploration, and climbing. Campers will be transported to various scenic spots, equipped with all necessary gear, and embark on a journey of self-discovery and skill development.
M-F, 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m., 6/23-8/8 (Varies), $595, Oswald Durant Recreation Center
Adventure Fishing Camp
Ages 9-14. Adventure Fishing Camp is an immersive week-long day camp that offers young anglers a comprehensive fishing experience. From mastering the intricacies of fishing equipment to understanding fish behavior and responsible angling practices, campers will gain the knowledge and skills necessary to become self-reliant anglers. Throughout the week, campers will have the opportunity to fish in a variety of scenic locations, including freshwater ponds, rivers, lakes, and even Chesapeake Bay.
M-F, 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m., 7/14-7/18, $595, Oswald Durant Recreation Center
Outdoor Adventures Camp
Ages 10-14. Step into the wild and join us at the Outdoor Adventure Camp, where kids with a passion for the outdoors will explore nature’s wonders throughout an exciting week. Each day presents new opportunities, from orienteering to kayaking, white water rafting, tubing, and even hiking adventures!
M-F (Varies), 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m., 6/16-8/15 (Varies), $ Varies, Oswald Durant Recreation Center
More Offerings
Click the link below to view more offerings.
Discover Why Parents Love Alexandria Camps
"I wanted to write a quick note to acknowledge the ABSOLUTELY AMAZING summer camp offerings that were provided to City residents this summer. My wife and I have lived in the City for 11 years and have three young children. This summer our children participated in about 6 camps offered through the Recreation Department and we could not have been more impressed. We truly could not have been more happy, and our children absolutely loved their camps."
Read more reviews below:
Inclusivity & Accessibility Reviews
"The staff are dedicated to no return in providing the highest quality of programs that are inclusive and accessible that meet social, intellectual, and recreational needs of my daughter. They have taken the steps to remove barriers to participation in program and services. They go above and beyond to improve the overall quality of life and safeguard of my child every day. "
Swim Camp Reviews
- "We are so thankful for the efforts of your swim camp staff in providing just the right balance of challenge and encouragement for our granddaughter. Her improvement in both skills and attitude by the end of camp were both easily discernible and very gratifying. It was clear that your staff went the extra mile to make sure each day was both fun and filled with opportunities for learning for the kids."
- "I saw my daughter swimming today on the last day of Making Waves Swim Camp. WOW!!! So much improvement over such a short time!! She had a wonderful time this week. Many thanks to your team for providing such a wonderful camp that is not only fun, but is also teaching a valuable life skill. She came home happy...every day!!!"
Learn more about Alexandria Swim Camps.
Jerome "Buddie" Ford Nature Reviews
"Our daughter absolutely LOVED the Tadpole camp at the Buddie Ford Nature Center. She especially loved the nature walks to the water. Keep up the great work over there!”
Learn more about Jerome "Buddie" Ford Nature Programs.
Therapeutic Recreation Reviews
"I’m so thankful for this phenomenal program, this group of employees truly believes in “No One Left Behind” and they are committed, dedicated, energetic, enthusiastic, motivated, as well as passionate about what they deliver. The individual impact they have on lives is just priceless. They have made modifications after modifications to programs to ensure that my child and individuals of all abilities have an equal opportunity to enjoy programs, services, and activities."
Learn more about the City's Therapeutic Recreation Programs.
