07 May Free and Lower Cost Summer Camps for NYC Kids

Summer camp can be a valuable experience for kids, but high costs make it out of reach for many families. Fortunately, NYC offers several free and lower cost summer camps across the five boroughs, providing children with opportunities for learning, outdoor fun, and social development without breaking the bank. Here’s a list of some of the best affordable and free summer camps in NYC for 2025, along with details on how to apply.

1. NYC Parks Summer Day Camp

Locations: Various NYC parks
Cost: Sliding scale ($25-$500 for the full summer, based on income)
Website: www.nycgovparks.org

Run by the NYC Department of Parks & Recreation, this camp offers sports, arts and crafts, nature exploration, and field trips at a fraction of the cost of private camps. Enrollment is by lottery, with applications typically opening in March.

2. Police Athletic League (PAL) Summer Camps

Locations: Various PAL centers across NYC
Cost: Free or low-cost
Website: www.palnyc.org

PAL offers structured activities including sports, STEM learning, arts, and field trips for NYC children. Spaces are limited, and registration typically begins in April.

3. NYC DOE Summer Rising Program

Locations: Public schools citywide
Cost: Free
Website: www.nyc.gov

Summer Rising is NYC’s free academic and enrichment program for K-8 students, combining morning academics with afternoon recreational activities. Enrollment details are released in spring, with priority given to public school students.

4. Brooklyn Children’s Summer Rising Program

Location: Brooklyn, NY
Cost: Free
Website: www.brooklynkids.org

Summer Rising is a free program offered through a partnership between NYC Public Schools and the Department of Youth and Community Development (DYCD). Open to all New York City students in grades K–8 (based on availability), BCM’s Summer Rising program specifically serves children in grades K–5.

5. Trail Blazers Summer Camps

Locations: Prospect Park, Brooklyn & Sussex County, NJ
Cost: Sliding scale based on income
Website: www.trailblazers.org

Trail Blazers offers day and overnight camp programs focused on outdoor adventures, leadership, and environmental education. Scholarships and financial aid are available.

6. YMCA Summer Day Camps

Locations: YMCA branches across NYC
Cost: Sliding scale, financial assistance available
Website: www.ymcanyc.org

YMCA camps offer sports, swimming, arts, and STEM activities. Financial aid is available, with applications opening in early spring.

There are plenty of  free and low-cost summer camp options in NYC for 2025, making summer enrichment accessible for all families. Keep an eye on registration deadlines and apply early, as spots fill up fast.

For more summer camp recommendations, check out our Summer Camp Directory.