Looking for affordable summer camps in Portland? Whether you need low-cost day camps or even free summer programs, we’ve rounded up the best options to keep your kids active and engaged without breaking the bank.
Portland Parks & Recreation
Registration for Portland Parks & Recreation camps opens on Monday, May 11 (camp descriptions will be available starting April 23) and camps run from June 7 through August 23. Longtime PP&R camp families know that summer camps fill up fast, so it’s best to be ready to register at 9:30 am, right when registration opens. But the good news is that registration is open for camps four weeks at a time. PP&R also offers Nature Day Camps for kids ages 5-12. Pro tip: Do you know about the Portland Parks & Recreation’s Access Pass? This program is designed to increase access to PP&R programs (including summer camps!) for low-income families.
North Clackamas Parks & Recreation District
North Clackamas Parks & Recreation District camp registration opens on Tuesday, April 7 at noon for NCPRD residents and on April 14 at noon for non-residents. There’s a wide selection of options from LEGO to horseback riding.
Tualatin Hills Park & Recreation District
Noticing a pattern? Parks & Rec departments have the most budget-friendly pricing, and Tualatin Hills Park & Recreation District is no exception. THPRD plans a variety of sports, recreation, tennis and nature camps for campers age 4-15 from June through August. These full-day and half-day camps are offered at 10 facilities in the district. Registration opens on April 11 for in-district campers.
SUMMER PPS Camps
Each summer, Portland Public Schools offers a variety of options for students of all ages. The theme of this year’s SUMMER PPS camps will be updated soon.
Cognizart by MetroArts Inc.
Cognizart by MetroArts Inc. gives kids a chance to be immersed in visual arts, music, theater and dance each summer during its 360 Arts Camp. Even better, scholarships running 20-90% off camp fees are available and based on camper loads and funds availability. Scholarships are issued on a first-come, first-considered basis, so don’t wait! Camps are held at the World Forestry Center across from the Oregon Zoo.
High School Journalism Institute
While not strictly a camp, teens will learn hands-on journalism skills from professional reporters and editors, and this experience is free! The 2026 application isn’t open yet, but you can sign up for an email with a registration link when it’s available.
Half-Day Camps
If your work schedule allows, half-day camps are a great way to save money while still giving your kids the summer camp experience. If they need to watch a movie in the afternoon so you can get some work done, you know they had an active, engaged morning!
If you’re looking for even more summer camp options, check out our comprehensive Summer Camps Guide!