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Find cycling camps near you

OurKids.net lists camps and programs in dozens of cities across the country. Find your city in the list below and find bikeriding camps near you.

Search type camps for kids in ANY CITY   

More than just day camps

For kids who love cycling, there are other ways to indulge this passion. See related options below:

Search ALL CYCLING AND BIKING CAMPS AND PROGRAMS   

What kids learn in cycling camp

Here's a look at what kids learn in the variety of cycle camps listed at OurKids.net. Consult with individual programs linked to above to learn what they teach. 

Fundamental biking skills. Learning the basics of biking is important for beginners. Safety, balance, pedalling, braking, and steering are fundamental. Kids learn other skills within each component, including stopping and starting, checking blind-spots, hand signals, changing gears, and turning. 

Bicycle maintenance and repair. Consistent bicycle maintenance and care keeps children safe during rides. Basic bike maintenance includes checking tire air, brakes, seat height and stability, and chains. Teachers assist kids in performing regular inspections, while educating them on safe repair procedures. This skill teaches children responsibility and safety. 

Road rules and safety. Children learn road rules so they can navigate city and residential streets. They learn laws of yielding, traffic signals, turning, and more. As they ride, children learn specific precautions and laws they must follow. This ensures their safety and builds their confidence during runs. 

Social skills. Young cyclists ride in groups in bike camps. While group sizes are small for safety purposes, they’re also co-educational, with a range of ages. Campers socialize and connect with each other, learn together, and make friends. At more advanced bike riding camps, kids and teens meet, compete with, and enjoy the company of others who share their passion for biking. 

Coaching, performance testing, and nutrition tips are part of more advanced cycle camps. Professional cyclists may be on hand to offer training tips and more. Camps are held at locations where cyclists can access diverse road networks like valleys, canyons and mountains. 

The benefits of cycling camp

Exercise and fitness. Biking strengthens legs, of course, as children exercise muscles and joints whilst navigating various terrains. Muscles in the legs and arms are strengthened, and it also has benefits for the cardiopulmonary system (heart and lungs). No matter what stage kids are at in their biking finesse, these camps encourage a healthier lifestyle.

Mental health benefits. Cycling, especially in nature, is linked to reduced stress levels. A study noted in Psychology Today found that participants who engaged in simulated outdoor biking reported a decrease in negative moods. Another study showed cortisol (“stress hormone”) levels decreased in participants who cycled on a stationary bike for less than half an hour. Cycling gives kids and teens a coping mechanism for dealing with stress.

Brings children closer to nature. Camps are often located in secluded areas. Kids get fresh air as they bike on trails through beautiful scenery. They’re pulled away from their devices and gain a new perspective on the natural world around them. Cycling camps navigate kids through parks, cities, residential neighbourhoods, and natural or manmade trails. As a zero emission form of transportation, biking also encourages young children to live more sustainable lifestyles. 

Experience-tailored curriculum. Camp curriculum varies widely from beginner to advanced levels. Kids are always learning to ride alongside others in the same skill set. While beginners learn basic skills and ride in secure locations, advanced bikers ride on specially groomed trails and runs. No matter what stage they’re at, students improve.

Fun! For example, at more advanced overnight camps, there’s accommodation, great food and games that give teenaged cyclists an immersive, enjoyable experience that can give them memories that last a lifetime. 

Questions to ask cycling camps

As you browse camps, consider these questions, as you sort through your options. 

• What are the camp’s average group sizes?
• How much experience teaching or leading camps do instructors have? 
• How many instructors are present during runs/practice?
• What equipment or attire is required for camp? What will be provided?
• What safety precautions are in place during camp? 
• If we are to purchase our own bike, what brand/style is recommended?
• For more advanced camps, how much experience do teachers have with amateur and professional cycling? 

Camps you might also like

Nature camp is perfect for children who enjoy exploration and adventure. Kids participate in nature-themed activities including farming, hiking, and hanging out with animals. There is an emphasis on sustainable living in these camps.

Extreme sports camps include camps specialized in BMX and motocross as well as a plethora of other challenging sports camps such as  skateboarding camps.

Health and fitness camp helps kids maintain healthy living practices. The physical activity and mental clarity gained in cycling camp is further explored here, including curricula that teaches nutrition, self-care, and fitness. 

Find more advice on ourkids.net

Sources and further reading

"Rules that road cyclists need to know." Mapmyrun.com.

"Cycling - health benefits - Better Health Channel." Better Health Channel.

"Bicycling Can Sharpen Your Thinking and Improve Your Mood." Psychology Today.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many Cycling camps are there?
There are 7 programs offering cycling as an activity. Use the filters to narrow by age and program type, then click on matched programs to see daily activities, dates, rates and registration information.

What are the fees to attend Cycling camps?
Fees for programs offering cycling as an activity range from $230 to $3,550 per program (program types and lengths vary). Use the filters here to narrow programs by age and type.

Where can parents meet with Cycling camps?
Meet with program directors and staff at the Our Kids Camp & Program Expo. The Expo is held annually in February, and is a fun and informative day for parents, kids, and teens. Find event details and free tickets here.