Register Now for Low-Cost NYC Parks Summer Camp

The NYC Parks Department summer camp lottery is now open and the cost for the summer is just $25. Photo by Daniel Avila for NYC Parks
The NYC Parks Department summer camp lottery is now open and the cost for the summer is just $25. Photo by Daniel Avila for NYC Parks
5/25/21 - By Jody Mercier

Summer is on the horizon, and that means parents are scurrying to finalize summer camp placements. While we've got plenty of options in our Summer Camp Guide and Directory, you'd be hard-pressed to find a better full-summer deal than the one offered by the New York City Parks Department. Its popular annual summer camp lottery is open through Sunday, May 30, and an entire summer of camp will cost you just $25!

Read on for more details on this summer camp option that's budget-friendly but full of over-the-top fun for kids.

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The New York City Parks Department Camp runs from Tuesday, July 6, through Friday, August 20, 2021. Camp is hosted at 17 locations citywide. All applications are done via a citywide online lottery system from Friday, May 21 to Sunday, May 30. To be considered, children must be between the ages of 6 and 13 on the first day of camp.

The Parks Department camp will follow all CDC and local guidelines for COVID prevention. Daily health screenings are required by participants and staff, and its "Core Four" prevention practices include requiring face masks, maintaining social distancing, staying home if you're sick, and requiring frequent hand washing and sanitizing.

Sessions run Monday through Friday from 9am-5pm, though some sites offer an extended day option, with pick up at 6pm. If your child is selected, the cost for the summer-long program is just $25.

Camps are housed at select recreation centers and Parks Department facilities. Children spend their days engaging in sports, fitness, and outdoor recreation. Campers explore nature with the Urban Park Rangers and enjoy walking field trips nearby.

Lottery winners will be notified of their status following via email by Tuesday, June 3. To secure a spot, you'll need to pay the $25 registration fee, complete an application form, and supply a copy of your child's birth certificate and a medical form by Saturday, June 12. All fees are non-refundable and must be paid by credit card, debit card, postal money order, or certified check; personal checks are not accepted.

To enter the lottery, visit the registration page during the above period.