“I want to go back to camp because that was the best summer I had in my whole life!”

— Jackson, Age 6 / Niles Park District Oasis Waterpark Summer Camp, 2022

ELIGIBILITY

Camp Out for Kids Eligibility Criteria:

AGE: We serve children and youth between the ages of 5 – 17. Youth over the age of 17 are considered if they are enrolled as a full-time high school or high-school equivalent student. The age limit may also be waived for children and youth with special needs. Any waiver of age limit is determined on an individual basis and at the sole discretion of Camp Out for Kids.

INCOME ELIGIBILITY: Children must be less privileged and whose families do not have the means to pay for camp.

AUTOMATIC ELIGIBILITY: Children in the foster care system are automatically eligible for Camp Out for Kids assistance.

NONDISCRIMINATION: Camp Out for Kids considers all applicants who meet the age and income eligibility requirements and does not discriminate on the basis of race, sex, color, national origin, disability, religious affiliation, or sexual orientation.

TRANSPORTATION: Transportation to and from the chosen camp is the responsibility of the parent or guardian.

summer 2026 APPLICATION information

2026 summer camp grants and applications are closed for the season.

INTERESTED? Contact Taylor at taylor@campoutforkids.org

*Please note that camp applications are open only to eligible campers and campers who meet the financial aid or scholarship requirements, if applicable. Camp Out for Kids cannot guarantee a place in camp. Camp acceptance is at the sole discretion of the camp you are applying to. We will still accept applications directly, but on a very limited first come-first serve basis.

Camp On

Camper experiences

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2025 CAMPER TESTIMONIALS

2025

2025 — A Letter to Camp
A reflection on the memories, lessons, and gratitude campers carry long after summer ends.

2023 — No Place I'd Rather Be
Through the voices of campers from Off the Street Club, this film explores what camp means to them and the lasting impact it has on their lives.

2022 — The Fun of Camp
A celebration of camp through at-home camper footage, memories, laughter, the simple joy that makes camp unforgettable and… fun.

Camper Story Archive

2024 — Everlasting
Inspired by the idea that camp is more than a place—it's a feeling, a community, and a part of who you become. "Because camp, no matter where it is or who you are, is everlasting."

Camper Stories

This place changed my life.

— Experience Camps Camper, 2022
Camp was the first time I could remember walking somewhere without looking over my shoulder in fear.

— Four Star Fellowship Camper, 2022
I have never experienced life like this. I thought this stuff only happened on TV.

— Beat the Streets Chicago Camper, 2022