Summer Camp Options
Austin Parks & Recreation has excellent summer camps for kids ages 5 to 15. They have camps for different interests like nature, arts, and sports. If you need help paying for camp, they offer financial aid. You can find more information and sign up here.
Link – Summer Camps | AustinTexas.gov
Summer Playgrounds by Austin Parks & Recreation is a free drop-in program where kids can join fun outdoor activities like sports, arts and crafts, games, and more. This program runs from June 10 to August 2, Monday to Friday, from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm for kids ages 5 to 12. There is no need to sign up early; just show up and play! (This is on a first-come, first-served basis)
Link – Summer Playgrounds Program | AustinTexas.gov
Camp El Ranchito provides outdoor experiences for children, offering them a safe and fun environment to learn, grow, and create lasting memories. There is limited space so register quickly!
Job Opportunities for Teenagers
If you have a teenager wanting to earn money, Austin Parks and Recreation hires summer camp counselors at $20 per hour. Teens must be 18 or older to apply. Learn more and apply here.
Link – Join Our Team! | AustinTexas.gov
Summer Food Programs
Need help with food? Check out these programs:
Austin Independent School District offers free breakfast and lunch for students at many schools during the summer.
Link – Free Summer Meals | Austin ISD
Link – Free Meals for Kids & Teens | Central Texas Food Bank
Find meal sites using Find Food Now. You can also call 2-1-1, text FOODTX to 877-877 for help locating a site near you.
For more food options outside Austin:
Texas Department of Agriculture Summer Meal Site Map
Call 2-1-1 or text FOOD or COMIDA to 304-304 to find free meals nearby.
Fun & free family activities:
The Thinkery offers free admission on Sundays from 3–5 pm and Tuesdays from 3–7 pm. It has fun STEAM activities for kids.
Link – Community Hours – Thinkery (thinkeryaustin.org)
The Blanton Museum at the University of Texas at Austin has free admission every Tuesday.
Link – Free Tuesday at the Blanton! – Blanton Museum of Art
The Texas Bob Bullock History Museum offers free admission every first Sunday of the month with interactive exhibits about Texas history.
Link – The Bullock Texas State History Museum (thestoryoftexas.com)
We hope you have a fantastic summer filled with fun and learning.