Your Guide to Summer 2026
Programs for Children and Youth in Hamilton
Summer is almost here! As Hamilton’s Lead Agency for child and youth mental health, one of our key roles is helping families discover the supports, resources, and opportunities available in our community. Meaningful activities, social connection, and skill-building experiences over the summer months are not just fun—they are essential for young people's mental well-being and development.
This guide highlights a variety of 2026 summer programs across the city. From traditional day camps and sports to academic enrichment and paid employment opportunities, there is truly something for every interest and age group.
Please note: This list is for informational purposes and does not imply an endorsement of any specific organization. Always verify details and availability directly with the program provider.
Day Camps & Recreational Programs
YWCA Hamilton Summer Camps
Organization: YWCA Hamilton
Program Description: YWCA Hamilton offers engaging day camps for children ages 4-12 at various locations across the city. Camp activities include theme weeks, arts and crafts, games, neighbourhood exploration, and healthy snacks. Extended care may be available for families who need it. The YWCA is committed to inclusivity, and subsidized spaces may be available for those who qualify.
Website: ywcahamilton.org/childrens-services/camps
Camp Marydale
Organization: C.Y.O. Camp Marydale
Program Description: Since 1963, Camp Marydale has offered boys and girls ages 4-12 a fun-filled summer day camp experience. Located in a beautiful natural setting, campers can enjoy activities including archery, canoeing, fishing, sports, arts and crafts, hiking, water games, and campfires. Each week features a unique theme such as "Superhero Training Academy," "Wild Wild West," or "Camp Olympics." Bus transportation is available from select locations in Hamilton for specific sessions. Before and after care is also offered at the camp site for an additional fee.
Registration opened January 1, 2026.
Website: campmarydale.ca
Camp Brebeuf
Organization: Camp Brebeuf
Program Description: Located in Rockwood, ON (approximately a 30-minute drive from Hamilton), Camp Brebeuf offers a traditional overnight summer camp experience for children and youth. Campers participate in activities such as swimming, canoeing, kayaking, rock climbing, archery, arts and crafts, and campfires. The camp is known for its welcoming, inclusive community and its commitment to making camp accessible to all families. Financial Assistance: Camp Brebeuf offers financial assistance through a subsidy program (the "Brebeuf Bursary") for families who require support with camp fees. They are committed to ensuring that no child is turned away due to an inability to pay.
Website: campbrebeuf.ca
Camp Kidaca
Organization: City of Hamilton
Program Description: One of Hamilton's most popular day camp programs, Camp Kidaca offers full-day, week-long camps at various locations across the city. Activities include large group games, crafts, swimming, cooperative games, and special events. All locations are accredited by the Ontario Camps Association (OCA) and HIGH FIVE®, ensuring quality and safety standards. Camps run Monday to Friday from 8 am to 5 pm. Campers with disabilities or requiring additional support can request 1:1 support staff through the Support Staff Request Waitlist.
Website: hamilton.ca/CampKidaca
YMCA of Hamilton/Burlington/Brantford – Sawmill Branch Day Camp
Organization: YMCA of Hamilton/Burlington/Brantford
Program Description: Located on 50 acres of outdoor space, the YMCA's Sawmill Branch offers day camps for campers entering kindergarten to age 15. Programs include traditional Day Camps (organized by age group) and Specialty Camps such as Art Camp, High-Performance Basketball Camp, Performing Arts Camp, Sports Camp, and Travel Camp. Camp runs from June 22 to August 28, 2026. The YMCA offers financial assistance for those who need it, ensuring that all children can participate regardless of their family's financial situation.
Website: hamiltonymca.org/summer-camp
Sport Fitness School (SFS)
Organization: McMaster University
Program Description: Running since 1977, this multi-sport camp for ages 6 to 14 offers over 25 different sports and fitness activities. The program focuses on promoting healthy, active lifestyles, positive social interactions, and individual development through sport and play. With exceptional coaches and world-class facilities, campers learn essential life skills like teamwork and trying new things. Eight one-week sessions run from July 6 to August 28, 2026.
Website: active.mcmaster.ca/sport-fitness-school
Appleby College Summer Camps
Organization: Appleby College (Oakville - serves Hamilton area)
Program Description: Located in nearby Oakville, Appleby College offers a wide range of summer camps for ages 4 to 17, including Arts Discovery, Sports Discovery, Nature and Science Discovery, Adventure Program, Arts & Media Camps, Tech Science, and a tiered Leadership Program for ages 14-17. Programs run June 22 to August 28, 2026, Monday to Friday from 9 am to 3:30 pm.
Website: appleby.on.ca/summer-camps
Academic & Skill-Building Programs
HWDSB Summer Programs
Organization: Hamilton-Wentworth District School Board (HWDSB)
Program Description: The HWDSB offers a variety of free and low-cost summer programs for elementary and secondary students:
Camp Power & Camp CLIMB (SK–Grade 5): Fun, activity-based literacy and math programs.
Summer Skill Builder (Grades 6–10): Enrichment in literacy and numeracy combined with art, coding, or sports.
High School Headstart (Grade 8): One-week intensive program to build essential skills and confidence before starting high school.
International Languages Program (JK–Grade 8): Academic instruction in languages including Arabic, Chinese, Hindi, Korean, Punjabi, Spanish, Tamil, and Vietnamese.
Summer School (Grades 9–12 & Adults): Full-credit online courses and credit recovery opportunities.
Focus on Youth (Ages 16–21): Paid summer work program with community partners, earning 2 co-op credits.
Website: hwdsb.on.ca/summer-programs
STEM Innovation Summer Program
Organization: STEM Montessori Academy of Canada
Program Description: This pre-university program introduces students ages 10–13 to foundational STEM concepts through engaging, age-appropriate activities. Participants develop critical thinking, teamwork, and problem-solving skills while exploring real-world applications of science and technology. No prior STEM experience is required. The Hamilton session runs July 27 – August 7, 2026 at a university campus in Hamilton.
Website: stemacademy.net
Specialized & Leadership Programs
YWePlay Youth Sports Program
Organization: YWCA Hamilton
Program Description: A completely free program designed specifically for girls, non-binary, and gender-fluid youth ages 5-12 in Hamilton. YWePlay focuses on building leadership, self-confidence, resiliency, positive relationships, and teamwork through physical activity. Sessions are offered both in-person and virtually (Monday-Friday, 4-6pm) and include exercises that promote physical activity, nutrition, healthy eating, and personal well-being.
Employment & Leadership Opportunities
Counsellor in Training (CIT) – Camp Marydale
Organization: C.Y.O. Camp Marydale
Program Description: For youth interested in developing leadership skills and exploring careers in childcare and recreation. The Junior CIT program is for youth currently in Grade 8, and the Senior CIT program is for youth in Grade 9. Over a 6-week session (cost: $150), participants develop leadership and team-building skills, receive training, and have the opportunity to shadow counsellors working with younger campers. Registration opened January 1, 2026.
Website: campmarydale.ca/employment
Parks Canada Student Employment – HMCS Haida
Organization: Parks Canada
Program Description: Work at HMCS Haida National Historic Site in Hamilton! Positions include Heritage Presenter (leading tours and presenting educational programs) and Visitor Services Attendant (providing visitor information and managing admissions). These are full-time summer positions (37.5 hours/week) from May to September 2026, with a salary of $17.75–$18.84 per hour. Open to students in an accredited institution, recent graduates (within 4 months), and youth ages 15–30 who self-identify as Indigenous, racialized, or a person with a disability.
Website: Apply via email at rhugso-sofuhr@pc.gc.ca or through jobs.gc.ca
Youth Recreation Leadership & Employment
Organization: City of Hamilton Recreation Division
Program Description: The City offers training, certifications, and volunteer opportunities to help young people develop employment readiness. Programs include:
Employment 411: Free job readiness program for ages 14–21.
Recreation Leader in Training: Pathway to becoming a camp or recreation leader.
Volunteer Opportunities: Gain hands-on experience and earn volunteer hours.
Standard First Aid & CPR C: Certification required for many recreation positions.
Paid part-time positions (up to 24 hours/week, full-time in summer) are available at recreation centres across the city, including Program and Facility Monitors, Instructor Guards, and Skilled Instructors.
Website: hamilton.ca/youth-recreation
Adapted & Inclusive Programs
City of Hamilton Recreation Division/ Adapted and Inclusive Programming
Organization: City of Hamilton Recreation Division
Program Description: Specialized programs designed for children, youth, and adults with disabilities or additional needs, including:
Teen Connections (13–21 yrs): Recreational program for teens living with additional needs.
SwimAbilities (3–18 yrs): Adapted learn-to-swim program.
Sensory Social (3–11 yrs & 12–21 yrs): Drop-in program with a multi-sensory environment.
Support Staff Request Waitlist: Families can request 1:1 support for Camp Kidaca (ages 4–15) or Teen Connections.
Website: hamilton.ca/adapted-recreation
Tips for Choosing a Summer Program
Register asap: Registration for many popular programs opened in early 2026 (some as early as January or February). If you are interested in a program, don’t delay.
Ask about financial aid: Many camps, including Camp Brebeuf, the YMCA, and the YWCA, offer subsidies or bursaries for families who need financial support. Don't hesitate to ask.
Ask about accessibility: If your child has additional needs, contact the program directly to discuss available supports.
Consider your child's interests and goals: Is your child looking for physical activity, creative expression, academic enrichment, or work experience? Matching the program to their motivation increases success and enjoyment.
We hope this guide helps you and your family find meaningful summer opportunities in Hamilton. A summer filled with connection, skill-building, and joy is a powerful foundation for mental wellness. If you need additional support navigating community resources, Lynwood Charlton Centre's Access and System Navigation (ASN) team is here to help.
