Where are the cheap summer camps in Westchester County?

June 6, 2017 10:14 AM

I'm hoping that someone has good suggestions for a free/very low cost summer camp options for two boys ages 9 & 12 in Westchester County, New York. I've already run down all of my best guesses including YMCAs and libraries, but I haven't found anything that meets the low cost requirement. It doesn't have to be a full day or full summer program, but just something that will get them out of the house and away from screens for a bit. They do not receive any social services, but meet every low-income standard that can be applied. Creative ideas are welcome! Thanks!
posted by defreckled to Sports, Hobbies, & Recreation (7 answers total)

Just to confirm -- when you check potential places like YMCA and libraries, are you digging further to see if they offer scholarships or other opportunities to lower the cost? My kid attends a summer camp (not in your area) that publishes Rate X but I happen to know that the director offers a reduce price and other scholarship opportunities for families that can't afford it.
posted by BlahLaLa at 10:25 AM on June 6, 2017 [1 favorite]

Also check any county or municipal Parks & Rec departments in the area.... IME those are the lowest-cost options almost universally.
posted by rabbitrabbit at 10:26 AM on June 6, 2017 [3 favorites]

I'm not familiar with your area so I'm not sure if Westchester County is the same as Northern Westchester, but there is a Boys & Girls Club and they're a fantastic organization.
posted by shornco at 10:38 AM on June 6, 2017

Do any other local churches have vacation Bible School? I'm in Ontario, and many of the churches run VBS, and seem to use the same programming which makes me think it might be a nationwide thing. We are not particularly church goers. If you can get past the religion, I found the programs to be well run and kids enjoyed. They ran half days, for a week, and were cheap. It might be worth a Google.
posted by Ftsqg at 11:01 AM on June 6, 2017

Many towns have their own summer day camps. See if yours does.
posted by Elsie at 11:57 AM on June 6, 2017 [1 favorite]

Here is the Westchester County Parks & Rec camp page. Similar for Yonkers.
posted by mikepop at 1:27 PM on June 6, 2017

Definitely look into your town's camp, and also check out other convenient towns, they will sometimes take you.

Also check out Wagon Road by the Children's Aid Society. They may offer a reduced fee?

Edit: most of the towns have parent groups on FB, they are generally really helpful.

Good luck!
posted by cestmoi15 at 7:08 PM on June 6, 2017