“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 applications and grants will be available in February 2026. Stay tuned!

Questions? 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

Camp On

Camper experiences

 

The 2025 Camp Out for Kids Annual Fundraiser Video

We are thrilled to share with you “A Letter to Camp” — a heartfelt tribute that premiered at our 2025 Camp Out for Kids Annual Fundraiser. This video captures the spirit of camp through the voices of those who know it best: the kids whose lives are forever changed by their time there.

Whether you joined us in person or are experiencing this for the first time, we invite you to step into the stories, memories, and magic that makes summer camp a place like no other. Thank you for your continued support in helping Camp Out for Kids bring the joy of camp to every child who needs it.

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