The Ultimate Guide to Summer Camps in Ottawa: Find the Perfect Camp for Your Kid
We love our kids and we want them to have the best experiences possible. That’s why we always check the quality of the camps we sign them up for.
In Ottawa, we are lucky to have many summer camps that cater to different interests and offer fun and educational activities.
Some of the summer camps available for you and your kid to choose from are Camp Can-Aqua, National Kids Camp, Debate Camps, STEM Camp, Ottawa School of Art, and the Canadian Association for Girls in Science, among others.
You can see the full list below. In this article, we will also examine why they are the best summer camps in Ottawa.
1. National Kids Camps
Location: Pinecrest Park, Brewer Park, Camp Fortune
Phone Number: +1 613 723 1101
Website: https://www.nationalkidscamps.com/
National Kids Camps is the kind of summer camp your child will still be talking about years later—the kind that becomes a true core memory. As a reliable one-stop shop for unforgettable summer camp adventures, it offers a wide range of activities across sports, adventure, and outdoor learning for children ages 3 to 15.
For over 41 years, families across Ottawa–Gatineau have trusted National Kids Camps to deliver award-winning, well-structured programs in a safe and inclusive environment. The camps are led by some of the most trained and skilled summer camp staff in the region, ensuring children feel supported, challenged, and encouraged throughout their experience. With more variety than ever, including eight new camps to choose from, families also appreciate the flexibility to change camp type or dates up until May 15.
Campers get hands-on outdoor experiences that keep them active and engaged. Trail biking adventures take kids through parks, hills, and obstacle courses at locations such as Camp Fortune, Gatineau Park, and Mont Cascades, all guided by certified instructors using quality bikes. On the Ottawa River, children are introduced to watersports like sailing, where they learn wind direction, boat handling, and essential safety skills in a fun, supportive setting.
Daily programming also includes a wide variety of sports and games such as tennis, basketball, baseball, track, badminton, and ping pong. Children learn the fundamentals of each sport before putting their skills into practice through friendly games and tournaments. For those who love adventure, survival-style challenges encourage campers to build shelters, learn basic fire-building techniques, and develop outdoor navigation skills, creating confidence through hands-on learning.
Themed experiences are another highlight. My kids especially loved the Amazing Race-style activities, which blended problem-solving, teamwork, and adventure into an experience they still talk about today.
National Kids Camps offers a diverse lineup of programs, including Wilderness Adventure Camp, Survivor Summer Camps, Mountain Bike Kids Camps, Outbound Summer Camps, National Pickleball Camps, National Tennis Camps, Serve & Splash Summer Camp, Sport & Splash Summer Camp, and French summer camps. With locations across Kanata, Nepean, Ottawa, Orléans, and Gatineau, thousands of happy campers join each summer to create memories that truly last a lifetime.
Camp fees vary depending on the program and session length. For example, a one-week Mountain Bike Kids Camp is priced at $379, with full details available on the National Kids Camps website. Bus transportation is also offered from Kanata, Nepean, Ottawa, and Chelsea for an additional fee, with the option for parents to drop off campers directly if preferred. Whether it’s your child’s first camp or their fifth, there’s a spot—and a smile—waiting for them.
2. Old Ottawa South Community Association
Location: 260 Sunnyside Ave., Ottawa, ON K1S 0R7
Phone Number: 613-695-6790
Website: https://oldottawasouth.ca/
The Old Ottawa South Community Association (OSCA) delivers engaging summer camp experiences for children aged 4 and up. Hosted at the Old Ottawa South Community Centre—fondly known as the historic “Firehall”—and nearby Windsor Park, campers enjoy green space, river access, and an outdoor wading pool perfect for warm summer days.
Firehall Camps are recognized for their supportive staff and dedicated volunteers who foster an inclusive and encouraging environment. With small group sizes and thoughtfully planned activities, children are given space to build confidence, develop friendships, and explore their creativity.
Alongside crowd-favourite Theme Camps such as “Amphibian Adventures” and “Spy Academy,” OSCA offers outdoor-focused programs that immerse campers in hands-on adventure. Options like White Water Rafting, Stand Up Paddleboarding, Biking, Fishing, and Overnight Camping provide exciting opportunities to explore and stay active.
Creative minds are equally supported through specialty camps in Lego Engineering and Robotics, Pottery, Dance, and Film Production. These interest-driven programs allow children to discover new passions while developing practical skills in a fun, collaborative setting.
With nearly five decades of community involvement, OSCA has built a legacy that spans generations. Many former campers return as leaders, staff members, and volunteers, continuing the tradition of strong programming, open parent communication, and memorable summer experiences.
3. Camp Can-Aqua
4. STEM Camp
Location: 24 Sandridge Rd
Phone Number: +1 519-475-6600
Website: https://stemcamp.ca
STEM Camp is a summer camp that focuses on science, technology, engineering, and math for kids aged 5 to 13 but with an added mix of pop culture and lots of fun!
The themes of the activities are based on Harry Potter, Minecraft, Star Wars, and superheroes. Here are some of the exciting activities at STEMP Camp that are available for your kids to enroll in:
- Creating games, animations, and apps using various programming languages and platforms such as Scratch, Python, HTML, and Minecraft.
- Building and programming robots using LEGO Mindstorms, Arduino, micro: bit, and other robotics kits.
- Learning how to design and print 3D models using Tinkercad, Blender, and other 3D modeling software.
- Conducting experiments and exploring concepts in physics, chemistry, biology, and more.
The admission fee for STEM Camp depends on the location and the session length. For example, a one-week session at the Ottawa location costs $325.
STEM CAM also offers scholarships and discounts for families who are unable to afford the camp.
I sent my kids to STEM Camp last summer and they enjoyed the themed activities like creating a secret message based on Harry Potter films!
5. Debate Camp
Location: Mariposa Ave
Phone Number: 1- 888 – 512 – 8154
Website: https://www.debatecamp.com/ottawa
Public speaking, confidence, and the ability to articulate one’s self are important skills that should be learned at an early age. Debate Camp offers to teach public speaking, debating, and Model United Nations for kids aged 10 to 16.
Some of the activities this camp offers are:
- Learning different types of speeches such as impromptu, informative, etc. They will also develop the skill of speaking confidently, persuasively, and creatively in front of an audience.
- Creating arguments, refuting opponents, and using evidence and logic to support their stand. Children will practice different styles of debate.
- Researching countries, global issues, and solutions with other delegates. They will participate in simulated UN committees such as the Security Council, the Human Rights Council, and the General Assembly.
The admission fee for Debate Camp is worth the fun and experience you get from learning. A five-day program that my daughter had cost $595.
6. Ottawa School of Art
Location: 35 George St
Phone Number: +1 613-241-7471
Website: https://artottawa.ca/courses-camps/camps/
We were pleasantly surprised when we heard that the Ottawa School of Art offers summer camps for kids aged 4 to 17! We enrolled my daughter in one of its classes, and she had a great time in her painting class.
Here are some of the activities you can choose from:
- Sketching and illustration using pencil, charcoal, and pastels.
- Painting using acrylics, watercolors, oils, and other painting materials.
- Printmaking uses techniques such as stamps, stencils, linocuts, and others.
- Creating sculptures and three-dimensional forms and figures using L clay, plaster, and even wire.
- Making mixed media artworks from different materials such as paper, fabric, and found objects.
The admission fee depends on the course, but for a one-week summer camp for children, we paid $290. Make sure to check its website first and register.
We also loved that the location is very accessible for us, which is about 2 km from downtown Ottawa.
Ottawa School of Art is a well-established organization that has been operating since 1879 and has taught thousands of students. It was a great experience for my daughter to attend summer camp there.
7. Xtreme Trampoline Park
Location: Kanata
Phone Number: 613-801-5005
Website: https://www.xtpark.com/pddaycamp
We’re including Xtreme Trampoline Park because of its very flexible schedule and programs! This trampoline park offers fun or sports programs for kids ages 6 to 9.
Fun activities, such as obstacle courses, spider walls, and ninja courses are typically playful. On the other hand, sports are more goal-oriented with the aim to teach your kids strength and skills.
The camps run from 8:30 am to 4:30 pm, with options for early and late drop-off. With five full days of instructor-led activities, my camper used to go home ready for bed every time.
For a week of activities, we paid $452.00 and it already included food and snacks.
8. Royale Equestrian Centre
Location: 2191 Woodroffe Ave
Phone Number: +1 613-608-1176
Website: https://www.royaleequestriancentre.com/
We’re including the Royale Equestrian Centre in this list because it offers programs that cater to different levels of experience and interest. You and your kids can bond while you learn how to ride, groom, and care for horses.
Royale Equestrian Centre is a premier equestrian facility that offers various programs for horse lovers of all ages. Here are some of the activities available:
- Introduction to horseback riding programs for youth and adults
- Youth horse club for kids who want to learn more about horses and riding
- Rookie riders for kids aged 4 to 6 who want to have fun with ponies
- Youth vet school for kids who wish to learn about horse health and care
- March break and summer camps for kids aged 7 to 14 who want to have fun and learn new skills
For $375, your kid can experience a week of excellent and rewarding experiences with horses. The center will also help them develop confidence, responsibility, empathy, and leadership skills.
9. MasterZ Studio
Location: 256 Gracewood Crescent
Phone Number: (888) 415-3167
Website: http://masterzstudio.com/contact.html
Art is not just a fun experience for the kids but it’s also an activity where they could exercise their imagination. In MasterZ Studio, they will surely learn and enjoy the many forms of art that they have an interest in.
This art studio offers various programs for kids. Here are some of the activities:
- Art classes for kids and adults in drawing, painting, sketching, watercolor, and more
- Special arts and crafts activities
- Art adventures for kids who want to explore different themes and other media
The cost of the MasterZ Studio depends on the activity and the duration of your visit but for a one-week summer camp, it costs $300. Some of my friends who have brought their kids to this camp loved that it’s in a quiet home studio with a friendly environment.
10. Barrhaven Martial Arts Centre
Location: Nepean
Phone Number: 6138233003
Website: https://barrhavenmartialarts.ca/classes/summer-camp
Martial Arts is a great way to keep your kids active and engaged this summer. At Barrhaven Martial Arts’ summer camp, your kids can learn to protect themselves while having fun.
This camp is designed for kids ages 4 to 12 who want to learn martial arts skills, make new friends, and have a blast. You can choose from half-day or full-day options, and enjoy flexible scheduling and affordable pricing.
Whether your kids are beginners or experienced martial artists, they will find something to love at Barrhaven Martial Arts Centre.
11. Ottawa Gymnastics Center
Location: 294 Elmgrove Ave
Phone Number: (613) 722-8698
Website: https://www.ottawagymnasticscentre.ca/pages/schedule/Camps
Gymnastics is a sport that teaches balance but more than that, it also teaches kids to be strong and determined. If you want to impart this to your kids while they have some summer fun, enroll them at the Ottawa Gymnastics Center.
This camp is designed for children of all ages and skill levels, from beginners to advanced. They will learn new skills, make new friends, and have a blast in a safe and supportive environment.
The camps run from July 4th to September 2nd, Monday to Friday, from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm. You can choose from half-day or full-day options, and you can also register for extended care before and after the camp hours.
These are the ten summer camps where you can bring your children for fun, adventure, and learning. There are a variety of activities to choose from depending on your child’s interests.
My children and I love choosing their camp together every year. They are passionate about art and enjoy sports too, and we are so grateful that there are camps that offer both.
For me, the best thing to remember when choosing the summer camp is to ask your kid what activities they are interested in, and go from there. For sure, it is going to be a summer for your kid to remember.