If you have a kiddo who is looking to dip their toe into the world of summer camps (or if they only have the bandwidth for a few hours), there are several organizations around the Portland area offering half-day camps. Another bonus: They can be easier on the wallet!
Pedalheads
Local parents swear by Pedalheads camps. If your child is eager to take part in Portland’s bike culture, Pedalheads will have them cycling in no time. Half-day camps are available, but don’t wait to book — spots go quickly! Camps start at $245/week.
Northwest Children’s Theater (NWCT)
Budding thespians can take to the stage during weeklong, half-day camps at Northwest Children’s Theater (NWCT) . Grouped by age, starting at age 4, camps take place at different locations, including NWCT’s new downtown home, The Judy, Northeast and Southeast Portland, and The Reser in Beaverton. Kiddos learn songs, world-building, role-playing and more. Approximately $240/week.
Steve & Kate’s Camp
Parents know that finding, booking, scheduling and packing for camp is a whole thing. That’s why the folks at Steve & Kate’s make camp accessible and flexible. From 8 am to 6 pm, parents decide when to drop and pick their kids up, including which days. While kids get to choose what they want to do for the day. There’s everything from sewing, to baking, to sports and theater. Day pass is $120.
Portland Jewish Academy
Portland Jewish Academy is back with its annual Summer Discovery. These weeklong, half-day camps, grouped from preschool to sixth grade, are taught by the school’s staff and teachers. Kids can expect enriching, hands-on activities around arts, puppetry, STEM, the outdoors and more. Approximately $230/week.
Oregon Children’s Theatre (OCT)
Oregon Children’s Theatre’s popular Acting Academy is also available in the summer during its weekday, half-day camps in locations throughout the Portland metro area. With small class size for littles as young as 3 to teens 18 and older, OCT inspires creativity with activities such as singing, dancing, improv, acting and more. Approximately $260/week.
Mr. David’s School of Film
Little engineers will love the LEGO Animation and Movie Making camps at Mr. David’s School of Film in southwest Portland. One of our staff members says her daughter still uses the techniques she learned at this camp, many years later! $315/week or $70/day.
Other Worlds Games & Comics
Other Worlds Games & Comics in Hillsdale offers gamers a safe and fun place to play their favorite card and tabletop games. Kids and teens ages 9 to 15 can learn and hone their Magic: the Gathering and Dungeons & Dragons skills during 2-½- or 4-½-hour weekday and Saturday camps. Approximately $175 per week.
Portland Ultimate
Got a kid who loves to run, jump, and toss a disc? Portland Ultimate’s summer camps are perfect for players of all skill levels, from total beginners to experienced athletes. Through games, drills, and scrimmages, campers will develop teamwork, coordination, and strategy—all while having a blast in the sun. Multiple locations across Portland. Ages 5-18, sliding scale pricing.
Art World School
For the budding artist in your family, Art World School offers hands-on camps packed with drawing, painting, sculpture, and mixed media fun. Professional artists guide kids through creative projects in a supportive environment, helping them build skills and confidence. Half- and full-day options available. Beaverton. Ages 4 and up. $315 and up.
Backbeat Music Academy
Rock out this summer at Backbeat Music Academy! Whether your kid is just starting out or already jamming, they’ll learn instruments, play in a band, and gain confidence in their musical abilities. Camps include songwriting, try-everything options, and live performances. Northeast Portland. Ages 5 to adults. $175 and up.
Parkour Visions
If your kids are always climbing, jumping, or flipping off the furniture, Parkour Visions’ summer camp might be their dream come true. These movement-based camps teach agility, strength, and creative problem-solving in a safe and structured way. Coaches help kids build skills progressively, no experience needed. Southeast Portland. Ages 4-18. Approximately $280 per week.