It may be cold and windy out but now is the best time to start planning for summer camp. Why? With many camps, you can get an early bird discount by registering soon. Also, popular camps and specialty programs fill long before camp is here.
Camp registration has begun for some and won't happen for others for another month or two. We've been working on our 2025 Summer Camp Guide but you'll see it grow every week.
Choosing the right camp can feel a bit overwhelming, even for the seasoned parent. But don’t stress! Whether you’re in Camarillo, Ventura, or Oxnard, this guide is here to help you find the perfect camp for your little one—without driving yourself crazy. And hey, there’s even a free printable Camp Comparison Worksheet to make it all a little easier!
Step 1: Think About Your Kid’s Personality
Before diving into “summer camps near me,” take a second to think about your child. Not every camp is a one-size-fits-all deal, and every kid is different. Here are a few personality types to keep in mind:
- The Outdoor Kid: Loves the beach, all things swimming and water, playing sports, and soaking in all the fun-in-the-sun they can fit in! Sports camps and surfing or watersports camps will be mean, 'best summer ever!'
- The Social Butterfly: Thinks 12 hours of camp isn’t enough time to make enough new friends. Group activities and larger camps will keep them happy.
- The Creative Soul: Still finds glitter in their pockets weeks after every craft project. STEAM, arts, and specialty camps are perfect for them.
- The Homebody: Would rather hang out at home than be stuck in a bunk bed somewhere. A local day camp with flexible scheduling might be just right.
Knowing what makes your child tick will help you narrow down your options—and save you from signing them up for a week of misery.
Step 2: Consider Interests (Theirs and Yours)
Yes, it’s their camp experience, but let’s not forget—your sanity matters, too.
- Their Interests: Are they obsessed with the beach? There are several surfing and water sports camps available here in Ventura and Port Hueneme. More into sports? Check out a soccer camp in Camarillo or i9 Sports camp in all 3 cities.
- Your Interests: Need them to come home totally wiped out? Active camps are your best bet. Want some quiet time during the day? Full-day camps could give you that much-needed break.
 | Summer Survival Guide 2025: Your Secret to a Stress-Free Summer Our convenient guide is searchable by theme which makes it the perfect place to start (or finish) your search! Find it HERE. Say goodbye to the “I’m bored!” blues with our Summer Camp Guide, your one-stop resource for finding the perfect camp in Camarillo, Ventura, and Oxnard. Whether your kids are aspiring athletes, love watersports, or creative geniuses, we’ve got camps for every interest and personality. This guide is your ticket to keeping them engaged, happy, and blissfully tired—all summer long. Start planning now and make this summer the best one yet! |
Step 3: Budget Like a Pro
Summer camps around Camarillo, Ventura, and Oxnard come in all kinds of price ranges, from affordable day camps to high-end specialty camps. Set your budget early to avoid any surprises.
Pro Tip: Many local camps offer early-bird discounts, sibling deals, or even scholarships (especially the non-profit ones).
Step 4: Logistics, Logistics, Logistics
You’ve got a list of camps, but do they actually fit into your life?
- Location: Is the camp close to home, work, or a place where you can grab coffee?
- Schedule: Can you swing drop-off and pick-up without feeling like you’re in the middle of a NASCAR race? Or do you have a friend who you can carpool with?
- Extras: Some camps offer before/after care, which can be a lifesaver if you’re juggling a busy schedule.
Step 5: Do Some “Research”
Don’t just go by the glossy brochure—take a deeper dive. Look at reviews, check social media, and ask other local parents for recommendations. You’ll want to know:
- Are other parents happy with the camp?
- Does the staff-to-child ratio feel safe and manageable?
- Are the photos showing real kids doing real activities (not just stock images)?
- If it's a sports or water camp, do they have the right safety credentials?
Step 6: Get Your Kid’s Input (Without Giving Up Control)
Once you’ve narrowed it down to a few camps, ask your child for their opinion. Let them feel like they have a say (it’s amazing how well this works). Just make sure their options still fit within your schedule and budget.
Step 7: Use the Free Printable Worksheet
Overwhelmed? No worries—the Camp Comparison Worksheet is here to help. Write down key details like location, price, activities, and registration deadlines for each camp you’re considering. This will make things way easier to compare—and you might even feel like you’ve got this whole parenting thing under control.
Step 8: Register Early (Seriously, Don’t Wait!)
Camps in Camarillo, Ventura, and Oxnard fill up fast. Once you’ve made your choice, lock in your spot before someone else beats you to it.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right summer camp doesn’t have to be stressful. Whether your kid’s an explorer, artist, or future CEO, there’s a camp out there that’s perfect for them—and for you. With a little planning (and the help of your handy worksheet), you’ll be ready to give your child a summer filled with fun, adventure, and memories they’ll treasure forever.
Ready to get started? Print the free Camp Comparison Worksheet and find the perfect camp for your kid today!
Did you know one thing that makes camp even better? Having friends there. Please share our guide with your friends or in your local mom's group. Helping fill the camps, helps make sure all the specialty programs are able to run.
Is your favorite camp not listed yet? Send us an email with their name and town. We'll get in touch. Are you a camp director and don't see your program. Let's connect - angelan@macaronikid.com
