Summer break offers a valuable opportunity for students to explore new interests, reinforce academic skills, and engage in safe, structured activities. To support families and educators in providing meaningful summer experiences, we’ve compiled a list of free or low-cost summer programs and activities for elementary and middle school students. This guide includes nationwide options as well as examples from specific states, with a special focus on accessibility and enrichment.
Nationwide Free Summer Programs
DiscoverSummer.org
Powered by the National Summer Learning Association, this platform lists over 35,000 summer programs searchable by zip code.
After-School All-Stars (ASAS)
Offers free academic, health, and enrichment programs in 78 cities.
Camp Wonderopolis
A free, online summer learning destination with hands-on STEM and literacy activities.
YMCA Summer Camps
Local YMCA chapters provide a mix of affordable summer programming, with financial aid options.
Salvation Army Camps
Offers spiritual, recreational, and educational programming—often free or low-cost.
Local Parks & Recreation Departments
Most cities offer summer day camps, nature programs, and sports leagues at little to no cost. Check your city or county’s parks department website.
Camp Kesem
A free, week-long summer camp for children ages 6–18 who have a parent affected by cancer. Operates in over 130 locations nationwide.
Programs by State
California
Qualcomm Thinkabit Labs (San Diego): Hands-on engineering experiences focused on wearable tech and STEM careers for middle school students.
Massachusetts
dynaMIT (MIT Campus, Cambridge): A free, week-long STEM program for rising 6th to 9th graders, led by MIT students.
New York
NYU College & Career Lab (New York City): A four-week program for 7th and 8th graders, offering exposure to college life and career paths.
Columbia University S-PREP: An academic enrichment program for underrepresented students in grades 7–12, focusing on STEM and health careers.
Georgia
Gwinnett County Public Schools SEA Program: Free summer learning focused on reading and math.
Fulton County Schools Summer Learning: In-person and virtual sessions designed to boost literacy and numeracy.
Explore Georgia’s Free Summer Events: Includes outdoor movies, festivals, and family activities.
Get Georgia Reading: Offers resources to encourage summer literacy and continued learning.
Gwinnett County Parks & Recreation Day Camps: Day camps with activities like arts and crafts, sports, and outdoor exploration.
Kennesaw State University Summer Camps: Various camps, including sports and arts intensives, for children and teens.
Tips for Finding Local Programs
- Local Libraries: Many offer free summer reading programs and activities.
- Community Centers: Often host affordable or free camps and workshops.
- Places of Worship: Vacation Bible Schools and other programs are frequently available at low or no cost.
- City or County Websites: Check for listings of local events and programs.
- School District Websites: Many districts list summer learning programs and free community events.
- Care.com’s List of Free Camps: A useful article listing national options.
Final Thoughts
Summer doesn’t have to be a time of academic loss or idle boredom—especially when so many free and accessible programs are available to support young learners. Whether you’re a parent, teacher, or community advocate, helping kids connect with these opportunities can make a big difference in their confidence, learning, and overall development.
We recommend contacting local schools, libraries, city recreation departments, and nonprofit organizations to discover more programs available in your specific area.
Disclaimer
Program availability, eligibility, and details may vary by location and year. While we strive to include accurate and up-to-date information, we recommend checking directly with program organizers to confirm schedules, costs, and enrollment requirements. This list is not exhaustive and does not imply endorsement of any specific organization.