Summer Day Camps – Your Child’s Best Summer Yet!

February 21, 2025 by Andrea Shane

As the warmer weather approaches, it’s the perfect time to start thinking about summer plans. If you’re looking for a fun, engaging, and safe environment for your child, look no further than the City of Ottawa’s Summer Day Camps! These camps are designed for children ages 4 to 14 and offer a variety of exciting activities that cater to all interests and talents.

Whether your child loves sports, magic, outdoor adventures, or diving into creative activities like theatre and dance, we have a camp that will spark their imagination. Plus, they’ll make new friends and memories that will last a lifetime!

What You Can Expect:

Our camps run from 8 am to 5 pm, Monday to Friday, with a few exceptions for statutory holidays. If you need a little extra time, extended pre- and post-care options may be available—just check with the specific camp location.

Our camps cover a wide range of activities, so there’s something for every child. Here are just a few examples of the fun:

Sports Camps: From learning new skills to playing games, your child will love getting active.
Dungeons & Dragons™ Adventures: If your child is into storytelling, strategy, and creativity, this is the perfect camp!
Entrepreneurship with Wize Academy: For those curious about starting a business or simply interested in learning about the world of entrepreneurship.
First Responders’ Adventure: Kids will explore the exciting world of first responders and learn what it’s like to help others in emergencies.
Vet Adventure: For your little animal lovers, this camp offers a hands-on experience with animals.
Theatre & Dance, Magic Camp, and much more: These camps are perfect for kids looking to tap into their creative side!

And don’t forget, many camps also include swimming and outdoor outings, adding even more fun to the mix.

Preparing for Registration:

Registration opens Thursday, February 27 at 9 pm. To make sure you’re ready to sign up as soon as the doors open, we recommend taking a few simple steps:

Create or update your account on Register Ottawa so you’re all set when registration time arrives.
Double-check your details, including your family members and payment info. It’ll save you time when you’re registering.
Have a backup plan: We know the most popular camps can fill up quickly. It’s a good idea to make a wish list of your child’s preferred camps, just in case.

We want to make sure you have the best experience, so take a few moments to watch the registration tutorial video on the site—it’ll guide you through the process!

What to Pack:

To help your child have a smooth, enjoyable day at camp, here’s a quick checklist of what to bring:

Nut-free lunch and snacks (please, no nuts for the safety of other campers)
Sunscreen – We want to keep everyone safe in the sun!
Refillable water bottle to stay hydrated throughout the day
A hat for extra sun protection
Shoes suitable for active play – Think running, jumping, and exploring!

Also, don’t forget to label everything with your child’s name—this helps us keep track of their belongings.

What Not to Bring:

We ask that campers leave a few things at home to keep the camp experience safe and enjoyable for everyone:

No money or valuables
No electronic devices like cell phones, iPads, or video games

We want everyone to be fully immersed in their camp experience without distractions!

A Few Other Details:

Withdrawal Policy: If you need to cancel or change your registration, make sure to do so at least 30 days before the camp starts. This helps other families get the spot if someone’s on the waitlist.
Payment Plans: To make things easier, we offer payment plans. Just make sure your credit card is valid when payments are due, or you can pay upfront.
Forms: You’ll need to complete an enrolment form for each child before camp. If your child needs medication during camp, don’t forget to fill out the necessary forms to ensure their needs are met.

Need Financial Assistance?

We understand that summer plans can get expensive. That’s why we offer the Ottawa Hand in Hand subsidy program for those who need financial assistance. Visit your local recreation or culture facility or any City Client Service Centre for more information.

Stay Connected:

We want you to stay up to date with all the latest news! Subscribe to DiscoverRec for all the important details about registration, camp updates, and more. You can also follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram to keep up with all the happenings.

Important Dates:

Registration Opens: Thursday, February 27 at 9 pm
Camp Dates: Full schedule available at Register Ottawa.

We can’t wait to see your child at camp this summer. It’s going to be a summer filled with fun, adventure, and new experiences! Don’t wait—register early to secure your spot and ensure your child has an amazing summer!