Once school lets out, summer in Jenkintown can feel like a mix of excitement and logistics. Kids are ready for freedom, parents are juggling work schedules and activities, and suddenly you’re trying to answer the same question every morning: “So… what are we doing today?” The good news is you don’t have to figure it out alone. There are plenty of camps and summer programs near Jenkintown that give kids something fun to look forward to, help them stay active, and make summer feel like more than just screen time and last-minute plans.
Whether you need a full-day camp while you’re working, a week-long experience that feels like a true adventure, or something that gives your child new skills and confidence, these local organizations offer programs worth checking out. Here are a few options close to Jenkintown that can help you build a summer schedule that keeps everyone happy.
A Classic Summer Camp Experience Close to Home
If your family is looking for a traditional day camp feel—busy days, outdoor time, structured activities, and that end-of-day “I’m tired in a good way” energy—Burn Brae Day Camp is a strong option to have on your list. This type of camp is ideal for families who want consistency throughout the week, especially if you’re balancing work and summer schedules. The appeal of a well-run day camp is that kids get a full day of activity without you having to piece together separate plans. It also helps kids build friendships quickly because they’re spending whole days together, not just a couple hours here and there.
Burn Brae is also a great choice for kids who thrive on variety. Summer goes fast, and the camps that mix different activities tend to keep kids engaged longer. If you’re trying to avoid the mid-summer slump where kids get bored and parents get stressed, a day camp routine can be a lifesaver.
An Overnight Camp Option That Feels Like a True Summer Adventure
If you’re looking for a bigger “summer memory” moment, an overnight camp experience can be a game-changer. Camp Nock-A-Mixon is worth exploring if your child is ready for a few days (or a week) of independence, outdoor fun, and that classic camp atmosphere. Overnight camps often become a highlight of childhood because they’re so different from everyday life—new routines, new friends, unplugged time, and the kind of confidence boost that comes from doing things on their own.
This can also be a great fit for families who want a break in the summer schedule. Even if you’re not looking to fill the entire summer with camps, one overnight session can break up the season in a meaningful way. It gives kids something to anticipate and gives parents a chance to reset, too.
A Camp Option That Balances Fun With Growth and Confidence
Some kids love camp from day one. Others need a little more support to feel comfortable in a new setting. If your child does best in an environment that’s focused on growth, community, and building confidence, Camp Anglewood is a great option to consider. Camps like this can be especially helpful for kids who want to try new things but do better with structure and encouragement. The right camp environment can help kids open up, take healthy risks, and come home proud of what they accomplished—even if they were nervous at the start.
For parents, this kind of camp can feel like a huge win because it’s not just about keeping kids busy. It’s about helping them develop skills and independence that stick with them into the school year. If you’re planning your summer schedule early, this is the kind of program worth researching ahead of time so you can choose the session that fits best.
A Nature-Focused Summer That Gets Kids Outside (In a Good Way)
If you’re hoping to get your kids moving, exploring, and learning outdoors, Briar Bush Nature Center is a great local resource. Nature-based summer programs are perfect for kids who are curious, hands-on, and happiest when they’re outside doing something real. They tend to work especially well for children who don’t love sitting still or who need a break from the typical classroom-style environment. Summer is the best time to lean into that kind of learning—without it feeling like “school.”
Nature programs also help kids develop confidence in small, meaningful ways: trying something new, asking questions, exploring trails, and learning to pay attention to their surroundings. If your family spends time outdoors already, this is a natural fit. If you don’t, it can be a great way to introduce kids to a different kind of summer experience that feels both fun and enriching.
A Full-Summer Option With Variety for Busy Families
When families are balancing work schedules, childcare needs, and kids with different interests, the best summer plan is often one that’s simple and reliable. If you’re looking for an organized program with a clear schedule and a lot of activity variety, College Settlement Camp is worth considering. Programs like this can be especially helpful when you want a camp experience that’s consistent—something you can plan around without reinventing your schedule every week.
This kind of camp can also be a great fit for kids who like having a routine. When summer feels too open-ended, some kids struggle to stay engaged. A consistent camp schedule gives them structure, daily activity, and a sense of momentum that keeps the weeks moving in a positive direction.
A Summer Program That Feels Like an Enrichment Boost
If you’re hoping your child’s summer includes learning new skills—not in a “summer school” way, but in a fun, confidence-building way—AFS Summer Camps can be a strong option to explore. Enrichment-focused camps are great when your child wants more than just playtime. These kinds of programs often help kids grow socially, explore new interests, and come back to school feeling more independent and capable.
This can also be a great choice if you’re trying to keep your child engaged all summer without overscheduling. Sometimes the best plan is one camp session that’s different from the usual routine—something that expands their world a little and gives them a new perspective. It’s the kind of summer experience that can turn into a confidence boost that lasts beyond August.
Build a Summer Schedule That Works for Your Family in Jenkintown
The best summer plan is the one that fits your child’s personality and your family’s schedule. Some kids thrive in full-day camp programs, some do best with nature-focused activities, and others love the big adventure of an overnight camp. The good news is you’ve got options near Jenkintown that can help you create a summer that feels fun, balanced, and manageable.
If you’re planning early, it helps to start with two questions: what kind of structure does your child need, and what kind of schedule does your family need? Once you answer those, camps like Burn Brae Day Camp, Camp Nock-A-Mixon, Camp Anglewood, Briar Bush Nature Center, College Settlement Camp, and AFS Summer Camps give you a strong starting point.
At John Kennedy Ford Jenkintown, we love sharing local guides that make life easier for families in the area. If you’re looking for more summer ideas, weekend plans, and community spotlights, keep checking back on our local blog for more ways to enjoy the season close to home.
Image Credit: children camp entertainment activity by Artem Kniaz, licensed by Unsplash License
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