Tips on paying for summer camp

In this guide, we look at camp costs in Canada—both overnight and day options—and the ways to reduce costs through scholarships, camperships, payment plans, sibling discounts, government tax measures, and support from charitable organizations.

Contents

• How much do camps cost?
• What's included in the base camp fee?
• Sources of financial aid and savings

How much does summer camp cost?

The cost of an overnight camp usually starts at $800 a week and runs as high as $2,000+ weekly, a figure out of reach for many families. Day camp costs tend to be less expensive, though prices can vary sigfnificantly depending on the program, between $50 to $600 a week.

Rather than looking at price alone, it helps to compare:

• how many hours or days are included
• whether meals, transportation, or supplies are covered
• whether specialty programs come with extra fees
• whether the camp offers discounts, payment plans, or financial aid

What's included in the base camp fee?

Every camp is different, but you can expect the base camp fees to include:

• Access to the camp's facilities
• Accommodation
• Medical services
• Supervision from trained staff members
• Laundry,  in some overnight settings for sessions longer than 1 week

Some camps may charge extra for:

• Optional programs and activities
• Supplies
• Equipment
• Camp merchandise, clothes and snacks, which may be available at tuck shops

Before registering, it is worth asking for a clear breakdown of what is and is not included so there are no surprises later. 

Sources of financial aid and savings

Here are some sources of funds and cost-savings to help give your kids an experience they will cherish for a lifetime.

Financial aid and savings from camps:

• Camps with financial aid: A number of camps offer camperships, scholarships or other forms of subsidies for families or campers that qualify. Financial applications are usually due by February. Apply early to make sure you can take advantage of the funds available.
• Sibling discount camps: If your children are close in age, consider sending them to the same camp. Most offer a discount if two children from the same family are attending. Call ahead and book early to make sure both your children get a spot in the camp. There is an added benefit of knowing your children will feel less homesick because they are away together.
• Budget-friendly camps are camps that offer a payment plan, ideal if you can’t or don't wish to pay the entire cost all at once.
• Early-bird discounts: Most Canadian camps offer early registration discounts; check the camp’s OurKids.net profile for details (under Financial Aid & Payment Details).
• Other discounts. Some camps offer return camper or upfront full payment discounts, which can save you significantly if you plan in advance.

You can also use our site to find the following lists:

• Affordable summer camps lists all summer camps (including day camps and even overnight summer camp sessions) that are under $100 per session.
• Affordable overnight camps lists overnight summer camps that offer at least one session that is under $500.

Government supports and tax-related savings

Families may also be able to offset some camp costs through government benefits or tax measures.

• Canada Child Benefit (CCB): This provides financial assistance to all Canadian families with children under 18, offering up to $8,157 per child annually. Use this for camp tuition!
• Childcare Expense Deduction (CCED): Parents can deduct eligible child care expenses, including fees for day camps and overnight camps, up to specific annual limits based on the child's age and condition.
• Provincial tax credits: Some provinces offer tax breaks similar to the federal fitness and arts credits:
  • Manitoba and Yukon: Children's Fitness Tax Credit and Children's Arts Tax Credit
  • Saskatchewan: Active Families Benefit
  • Quebec: Tax Credit for Children’s Activities
  • Nova Scotia: Children’s Sports and Arts Tax Credit
  • New Brunswick: New Brunswick Child Tax Credit
  • PEI: Children’s Wellness Tax Credit
  • Newfoundland and Labrador: Physical Activity Tax Credit

  As of 2026, we could not find tax credits available for families in British Columbia or Alberta.

Tips for obtaining tax credits

• Keep all your receipts
• Keep track of all deadlines
• Fill out all relevant forms in a timely manner

Financial aid from charities and third-party organizations:

Depending on where you live and your child’s needs, outside organizations may also help cover camp costs. Examples include:

• Kids in Camp offers subsidies or "camperships" for children at Ontario Camping Association camps
• Amici Children’s Camping Charity
• Canadian Tire’s Jumpstart Program  which offers funding support for eligible sport and recreation activities

Some organizations that specialize in aid for kids with disabilities are as follows: 

• The Easter Seals Society
• The Ontario March of Dimes

You can also check with Ontario’s Children’s Aid Societies or Big Brothers/Big Sisters, as well as service clubs or places of worship you attend.

Other practical ways to make camp more affordable:

Families sometimes piece together support from several smaller sources. In addition to formal aid, some parents also:

• Gift suggestions: When people ask for gift suggestions for your child on birthdays or holidays, consider asking them to contribute to camp fees.
• Kids can also earn money themselves by doing errands and chores for friends, families, or neighbours.
• Consider a fundraising campaign through sites like GoFundMe.com or Fundly.com.

Camp can be a major investment, but for many families, it becomes more possible once they know where to look for help.