Let’s be real — summer camps are amazing… but they can be ridiculously expensive.
The first time I priced out a weeklong camp for my kid, I nearly dropped my coffee. Between registration fees, meals, transportation, and extras, we were looking at upwards of $300–$500 for just one week. Multiply that by a couple of kids, and well — that’s more than a family vacation.
But here’s the good news: with a little creativity, planning, and help from some amazing free resources, you can still give your kids a summer full of fun, adventure, and learning — without the huge price tag.
Here are 10 totally free alternatives to expensive summer camps that we’ve personally used and loved:
1. Library Summer Reading Programs
Our local library is one of our favorite summer “campgrounds.” They offer reading challenges, craft days, STEM workshops, story times, and even free movies — all for free. Plus, most programs give away prizes like books or coupons.
Bonus tip: Many libraries now partner with online apps like Libby or Hoopla so your kids can check out books and audiobooks from anywhere.
2. Homegrown Theme Weeks
I started doing this during a “no-spend” summer — each week had a theme like Space Week, Dinosaur Week, or Under the Sea. I found free printables, crafts, snacks, and YouTube videos to match. The kids were all in, and it felt like camp… just at home.
3. Free Virtual Camps
Yep, they’re a thing! Big names like Camp Wonderopolis, Varsity Tutors, and even Microsoft offer totally free online camps with live or self-paced classes. My child did a whole “Inventor’s Workshop” from our kitchen table last year.
4. Kids Bowl Free
Register your kids and they get two free games of bowling every day all summer long. You only pay for shoes (or buy a cheap pair online). It’s a great way to beat the heat.
5. DIY Backyard Campout
Set up a tent in the backyard, roast marshmallows, and tell ghost stories with a flashlight. We even made homemade “merit badges” out of felt. It’s simple, memorable, and 100% free.
6. Local Park & Nature Programs
Many city parks offer free ranger talks, nature scavenger hunts, or even Jr. Ranger programs. Ours had a weekly nature walk with crafts afterward. Check your city or state park websites — you’d be surprised how much they offer.
7. Michaels & Home Depot Kids Events
On select Saturdays, these stores host hands-on workshops that teach kids how to build or craft something cool. You just register online to reserve a spot.
Tip: Home Depot also gives away a free apron and pin for each workshop!
8. Free Museum Days
Many museums offer free family days once a month. I’ve taken my kids to art museums, children’s museums, and even science centers — all without spending a dime. Some cities also have “free museum week” in the summer!
9. YouTube Camp Time
Okay, I know screen time isn’t always the goal — but hear me out. There are whole playlists for “Drawing Camp,” “Kids Cooking Camp,” and “Science at Home.” We made slime, paper rockets, and even tried basic animation — all with free video tutorials.
10. Neighborhood Activity Swaps
This was one of my favorite ideas — a few of us neighborhood parents took turns planning a weekly playdate or activity. One week was sidewalk chalk games, the next was a mini-Olympics in someone’s yard. We called it “Mom Swap Camp” and the kids still ask about it.
The truth is, you don’t need a fancy camp or a big budget to create a summer your kids will remember. With a little planning and a sprinkle of imagination, you can give them a season full of adventure, learning, and joy — all for free.
If you liked this list, don’t miss my Freebie Friday email where I send out new finds every week. Until then — go make some summer magic!
