Seattle summer camps fill fast as prices soar

Seattle-area parents are scrambling to secure summer camp spots as the school year ends, with costs that can exceed thousands of dollars per child. City-run day camps serve children aged 5–12 and operate from 7 a. m. to 6 p. m.

, but many parents must make difficult financial decisions due to soaring prices. Kyle Bywater, a Seattle Parks and Recreation manager, highlighted that while most of the city's 14 licensed day camp sites still have availability, the depletion of scholarship funds poses challenges for low-income families. Those eligible can seek financial aid through the state Department of Children, Youth and Families. Local mother Senika Smith shared her struggles to find affordable options, emphasizing the need for early planning and waiting list registrations. The cost of city-run camps ranges from $390 to $470 per week, while specialty camps can reach nearly $6,000 for two weeks.

More affordable alternatives exist, such as the Salvation Army camps at $115 per week and various church-run programs. These options help fill child care gaps but may not fully meet the needs of all families.