It may feel hard to believe we are already talking about summer camp when winter is still very much here, but January is actually when many camp registrations open or begin to fill.
As parents and DC area realtors who work closely with families across the region, we know how much thought goes into planning summer for your kids. Over the years, we have explored countless camp options and gathered recommendations through personal experience, client conversations, and our own community. This guide includes camps our families have loved, programs we consistently hear great feedback about, and recommendations we trust.
Day Camps in the DMV Area
The DMV area offers an incredible range of day camps for children of all ages and interests. From sports and outdoor adventure to arts, science, and creative play, these programs give kids a chance to stay active, build friendships, and try new things while coming home each day.
ActivePlay
Registration Now Open
ActivePlay is a long-time favorite in our household. My son has been going since he was three, and year after year it remains the camp he looks forward to most. With activities like street hockey, go karting, slip and slides, and frisbee golf, it is a place where kids truly get to be kids.
Weekly traditions like Camper of the Week and the Talent Show are always highlights, and Coach Seth and Coach John create an environment filled with encouragement, confidence, and fun. Their positive energy makes a lasting impression. Bonus points – you can skip packing a lunch and buy lunch there!
– Jenn
Bullis Summer Programs
Registration Now Open
Bullis offers a wide range of programs to match just about every interest. From Bulldog Day Camp with art, swimming, and sports to sport specific camps, STEM programs, theater, and wilderness adventures, there is truly something for everyone.
– Caitlin
Camp Dabble Lab
Registration Opens January 12th
A creative favorite among local families, DabbleLab sparks imagination through hands-on art, building, and design. Each week features new themes and projects—keeping even the most inventive kids inspired and excited. From painting and sculpting to crafting and tinkering, it’s a camp that encourages creativity, curiosity, and confidence.
– Cara
City of Rockville Summer Camps
Camp Guide Available January 30th
Rockville’s summer camps are a great option close to home. With offerings that include swimming, field trips, cooking, drama, sports, and even magic, kids can explore a wide range of interests. Teen programs offer opportunities to earn SSL hours or take part in daily excursions, and flexible scheduling makes planning easier for families.
– Megan
Green Acres Camp
New Family Registration Opens January 14
Located on a 15 acre campus in North Bethesda, Green Acres offers a beautiful setting for summer fun. With wooded playgrounds, an outdoor amphitheater, playing fields, a gym, air conditioned buildings, and an onsite pool, campers have endless opportunities to explore and stay active.
– Megan
Headfirst
Registration Now Open
While my kids now attend sleepaway camp, they still talk about their time at Headfirst on the Mater Dei campus. Drop off and pick up were easy, the pool was perfect for swim time, and themed weeks kept things exciting. They also offer a sports camp option.
– Cara
Summer at Sandy Spring
Registration Now Open
Sandy Spring combines convenience with adventure. Transportation from Rockville makes getting there easy, and once on the 140 acre campus, kids enjoy a wide range of activities. The onsite adventure park is always a standout.
– Megan
For the Sports Enthusiast
For kids who love sports, these camps offer skill building, teamwork, and confidence, all while having fun and staying active.
Bear Down Lacrosse
Registration Opens January 15
Held on Landon’s campus and run by Landon’s lacrosse coach, this is the perfect camp for lacrosse lovers! Players work on proper techniques and are placed into small groups so that everyone can play all positions.
- Jenn
Commanders Camp
Registration Opens January 15
Run by Flag Star Football, this camp is perfect for anyone who loves football. Campers have the opportunity to play, improve and participate in a week full of friendly competition. All week the boys are guessing who the special Commanders guest appearance will be at the end of the week!
– Jenn
Good Counsel Sports Camp
Registration Opens in January
A wide variety of sports, excellent counselors, and strong coaching make this camp a favorite for active kids looking to improve skills and stay engaged all summer.
– Megan
Home Run Baseball Camp
Registration Now Open
A local favorite with deep roots in the community, Home Run Baseball Camp emphasizes fundamentals, sportsmanship, and character. Daily traditions like starting with the Pledge of Allegiance and ending by cleaning up the field help teach responsibility alongside athletic skills.
– Jenn
We also frequently hear great things about these sleepaway sports camps, even though we have not attended them personally:
Woodberry Forest Sports Camp
McCallie Sports Camp
Sleepaway Camps
Sleepaway camp can be a transformative experience. Our children have come home with greater confidence, independence, and lifelong friendships. These camps encourage kids to unplug, try new things, and grow in ways that extend far beyond summer.
Camp Saginaw
Registration Open
Both of my children attend Camp Saginaw, and while seven weeks is a long time, they absolutely love it. Their days are filled with arts, sports, campfires, and adventure. The electronics free environment allows them to truly connect and be present.
– Cara
Camp Sea Gull and Camp Seafarer
Registration Open
As a former camper and counselor, I loved my time at Camp Seafarer and now love watching my son create the same memories I did as a camper. Located on the coast of North Carolina, campers spend their days sailing, water skiing, and building lifelong friendships while learning independence and resilience.
– Jenn
Camp Weequahic
Registration Open
After meeting with several camps, Camp Weequahic stood out immediately. The director took the time to walk my son through everything camp had to offer and ease his nerves about being away from home. He returned more confident and completely in love with the experience.
– Jen
Have a favorite summer camp your family loves that didn't make our list? We’d love to know about it! Feel free to email us your recommendation so we can keep growing this community resource.
Whether you are looking for a day camp close to home, a sports focused program, or a sleepaway experience that encourages independence and growth, we hope this list helps you get started. And as always, the team at Pearlman Meekin & Co. is happy to be a resource if you want to talk through options or hear more about our experiences.
