How to Sign Up Your Kids for Chicago Summer Camps

Chicago parents, are you ready to fire up your laptops and register your kids for summer camp? With one week left until Park District camp registration opens, here’s what you need to know — plus some other options to explore.

Park District Registration 101

From June 24 to Aug. 2, kids can participate in sports, the arts, and other outdoor activities at parks across the city — if they can get a spot at camp.

Online registration opens next week: Families who live west of California Avenue can register online April 15 at 9 a.m., while those who live east can register April 16 at 9 a.m.

Want to prep? View your local parks’ programs online starting today and create your account.

Among other registration day tips, the Park District recommends using a desktop or laptop (instead of your phone), and not exiting out of the queue screen (you’ll lose your place in line).

In-person registration is expected to take place on April 20 or April 22.

Other Camps to Know About

• 🛝 YMCAs across the city have programming for all ages and for all interests, from cooking to crafting to connecting with critters.
• 🎨 Hyde Park Art Center’s Creativity Camp is for young visual and performing artists who want to explore mixed media or hone in on a specific craft.
• 🧗 First Ascent has climbing camps at its Avondale and Arlington Heights locations. Maybe your kid will be the next Lucy Westlake!
• 🎭 The Revival Camp in the South Loop is for budding theater kids to try out improv, sketch comedy, and more.
• 🥒 SPF’s Camp Cucumber is bringing the pickleball craze and other racket sports to Chicago’s youth in Lincoln Park.
• 🥷 Ultimate Ninjas in Roscoe Village will have obstacle courses, competitions, and games to prep kiddos aspiring to be the next “American Ninja Warrior.”