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The Best Philly Summer Camps 2026

A circus camp for kids of all kinds, a no-electronics day camp so loved its bus is packed across the city, and an overnight camp where girls made friends from around the world.

ESF Camps & Experiences

Choosing the right summer camp can be a life-changing decision for your child. Whether they’re interested in arts, sports, outdoor adventures, or building leadership skills, finding a camp that fosters growth and fun is key. The Philly Family community has recommended their favorite day and overnight camps that cater to various interests and age groups. Our Family Focus Media team is pleased to present these camps, which offer enriching programs that keep kids engaged and excited all summer long.

Read the endorsements from local parents in our Philly Family Community about who they love and then pop over to our Philadelphia Family Best for Families Guide to find more trusted resources! Best for Families Celebration photos by AMC Photography.

2026 LOVE AWARD WINNER:
Best Day Camp

ESF Camps & Expeirences

Multiple Locations around the Philadelphia Region

“ESF Friends has been the best camp my son has ever experienced. The staff is absolutely amazing, so welcoming, warm, and attentive. The communication is phenomenal, which gives me so much peace of mind as a parent. He’s had the opportunity to meet kids from all over the city and truly grow socially and confidently. Mr. Lafay and Ms. Deion are heaven-sent. Thank you for continuing to pour into the children of Philadelphia. Please keep being great! 💛”

– Shontee R.

2026 LOVE AWARD WINNER:
Best Circus Camps

Philadelphia School of Circus Arts

Philadelphia

“PSCA has always provided our family with creative, in-person connection, including community events, and accessible summer camps for all types of kids.”

– Philly Family Community Parent

2026 LOVE AWARD WINNER:
Best Early Childhood Camp

Summerside Camps at SCH Academy

Philadelphia

“Our son had the most wonderful summer last year at SCH for the Summerside Camp and we are looking forward to another awesome summer filled with adventure and all the happiness a 4 year old can hold! Everyday he was offering up all the fun he had that day with a wide variety of activities (water play, art, dancing, nature exploration, etc). We found their communication to be top-notch and always felt confident our son was cared for to the fullest extent.”

Philly Family Community Parent

2026 FAMILY FAVORITE HONOREE:
Day Camp

Camp Cupola

Malvern

“Our daughter is packed and ready to leave for Cupola in the morning well before we need to go because she’s just that excited to start her day! Cupola has fostered a positive + engaging culture and community in addition to providing stimulating and unique experiences students can’t get anywhere else. We couldn’t be happier with Cupola Academy’s programs.”

– Kellie G.

2026 FAMILY FAVORITE HONOREE:
Overnight Camp

Independent Lake Camp

Thompson, Pennsylvania

“My girls’ first time going was in 2021 – they were 12 years old and they loved this camp. I wish I would’ve sent them to camp sooner. They came home with lots of new experiences and lots of new friends. The number one reason I chose this camp was because of the diversity. When we arrived at camp we met people from all around the world. The second reason I chose this camp is because of its beautiful campus. They are looking forward to attending again this year.”

– Charlie R.

2026 FAMILY FAVORITE HONOREE:
Day Camp

Liberty Lake Day Camp

Bordentown, New Jersey

“Liberty Lake offers a wonderfully diverse, outdoor, no-electronics experience where my kids pick their own activities while learning character skills, and feeling part of a strong community. They are so proud to wear their Liberty Lake shirts in Center City Philly! Camp Director Andy runs a great camp, and his staff pass along the love, especially on the bus ride to and from the city. The food is also ‘amazing’ according to my kids. They are big supporters of our school, and the bus is packed in our neighborhood!”

– Suzanne F.

2026 FAMILY FAVORITE HONOREE:
Day Camp

Ramah Day Camp Philly

Philadelphia

“Ramah Day Camp stands out as an exceptional day camp because it offers children a joyful, nurturing, and Jewish values-driven summer experience. Rooted in Jewish tradition, community, and kindness, campers build meaningful friendships, confidence, and independence in a warm and inclusive environment. With thoughtful programming, dedicated staff, and a strong sense of community, Ramah Day Camp creates meaningful summers that families return to year after year.”

– Philly Family Community Parent

2026 FAMILY FAVORITE HONOREE:
Day Camp

Tall Pines Day Camp

Williamstown, NJ

“Last summer was my daughter’s first summer at Tall Pines and she had the best time. She went for three weeks and I was blown away at how much her swimming improved. I was also very impressed at the communication, for example a camp director called us on her first day to let us know how she was doing, and her counselor texted several times a week with updates. She still talks about Tall Pines several times a week and is so excited to go back for all eight weeks next summer. Highly recommend.”

– Jesse S.

As you explore these outstanding camps recognized as Philadelphia Family LOVE Award Winners and Family Favorite Honorees, we hope you find the perfect fit for your child’s interests, personality, and sense of adventure. Whether they come home having discovered a new passion, made lifelong friends, or simply gained a little more confidence in themselves, the right camp experience has a way of leaving a lasting mark. We encourage you to connect with the dedicated camp directors and staff who pour their energy into creating summers kids never forget. Here’s to a season full of growth, laughter, and memories that will carry your child far beyond the last day of camp — and to the Philly Family community for helping us shine a light on the very best our region has to offer!

Be sure to explore the Main Line Parent Best for Families Guide and Bucks County Parent Best for Families Guide to find even more resources that can support your family’s journey.

Know a fantastic local resource that should be on this list? Share your experience with a Philadelphia Family Member on their Profile Page (we count new endorsements as nominations year-round)! If you would like YOUR organization to be more connected with local parents, caregivers, and family-focused business leaders in our community, we invite you to join our Philadelphia Family Membership Program.

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Philadelphia Family is published by a team of local women to connect families raising their kids in the city with resources, events, and each other. Learn more about us, our mission, and our method for supporting local businesses at familyfocus.org.

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