Summer break is just around the corner, and parents across are gearing up to keep their kids engaged and entertained during the long vacation. Look no further than the Park Authority’s Summer Camps Program, offering an array of over 1,600 camp options for children of all ages and interests.
In this episode of the “County Conversation” podcast, Emilie Shumate, Youth Services Section Manager with the Park Authority, discusses the exciting lineup of camps and activities planned for the upcoming season.
A CAMP FOR EVERY INTEREST
Park Authority’s camp program has a diverse range of offerings, catering to a wide variety of interests and passions. From traditional day camps and sports to specialized camps focused on technology, performing arts, and more, there's something for every child to explore and enjoy.
As Shumate shared, “We have such a wide range of activities. You can sign up for dance one week, chess the next, and the following week, maybe you want to learn how to put on a play. Or be a DJ. So, you really can kind of dial into your camper’s individual focus as it changes.”
CAMPS THE SPARK CURIOSITY AND LEARNING
While many camps offer opportunities for fun and play, the Park Authority's program also prioritizes educational experiences that foster curiosity and learning.
“We have a huge range of STEM offerings from introduction to drones or different coding, using systems that kids are used to like Roblox and Minecraft,” she noted.
Additionally, the program features entrepreneurial camps that teach valuable business skills, as well as camps focused on music production and beat-making, combining STEM principles with creative expression.
ADULT CAMPS: A NEW ADVENTURE
For the first time, the Park Authority is piloting adult summer camps this year, July 1-3. These camps, open to individuals aged 18 and up, include options like pickleball, outdoor adventures, and more, providing a unique opportunity for grownups to experience the joy of camp life.
REGISTRATION AND WAITLIST INFORMATION
Summer camp registration is currently open with spaces still available for many of the offerings. However, popular camps and those with smaller capacities tend to fill up quickly. To secure a spot or join the waitlist, families can visit www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/camps.
On April 2, at 10 a.m., the waitlist option will open, allowing parents to join the waitlist for their desired camps. As spaces become available due to cancellations or adjustments, the Park Authority will work through the waitlist to accommodate as many families as possible.
CONTACT INFORMATION AND RESOURCES
For more information, parents can visit www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/camps where they’ll find FAQs, a parent handbook with required forms and a downloadable spreadsheet tool to search for available camps.
Families can also email camps@fairfaxcounty.gov with specific questions or call the Park Authority’s Registration Unit Call Center at 703-222-4664 for assistance with registration and account creation.
THE COUNTY CONVERSATION PODCAST
The “County Conversation” is a podcast featuring employees and subject matter experts from the Fairfax County Government discussing programs, services, and items of interest to residents of Fairfax County. Click here to listen to past episodes of "County Conversation.” To find other county podcasts, visit www.fairfaxcounty.gov/podcasts.
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