Summer camp is one of those things that can make or break your family's summer. Pick the right one, and your kid comes home happy, tired, and full of stories. Pick the wrong one, and you spend your evenings dealing with complaints and counting down the days until school starts again.
Silver Spring has a solid lineup of summer camp options for 2026, from hands-on gymnastics programs to STEM-focused learning experiences. Whether your child is 3 or 12, athletic or artsy, there is a program that fits.
Here is a rundown of the best camps in the area, along with tips to help you choose.
Each of these programs brings something different to the table. The right choice depends on your child's interests, your schedule, and what you want them to get out of the experience.
If your kid loves to move, flip, climb, and play, Silver Stars Gymnastics camps are hard to beat. The camp combines extended gymnastics lessons on vault, bars, beam, tumbling, trampoline, and dance with crafts, games, and ninja challenges.
What makes Silver Stars camps a top pick:
Silver Stars is located at 2701 Pittman Dr, Silver Spring, MD 20910. Registration fills up quickly, so check the schedule early at gosilverstars.com or call (301) 589-0938.
For kids ages 5-12 who are curious about building, coding, and engineering, Snapology camps offer week-long STEM experiences using LEGO bricks, robotics kits, and other hands-on materials. Camps are themed around specific topics like robotics, game design, or engineering challenges, so kids can pick the sessions that interest them most.
The Evergreen School runs a Montessori STEAM summer program from June through August. The program combines science, technology, engineering, art, and math activities with the Montessori philosophy of self-directed learning. Specialty camps focused on creativity and exploration are also available throughout the summer.
For younger campers ages 2-12, Kiddie Academy's CampVentures program offers a mix of field trips, on-site enrichment activities, and outdoor play. The program is especially well-suited for families who need full-day childcare alongside structured summer activities.
The YMCA provides a traditional day camp experience with swimming, sports, outdoor activities, and community-building. Camps run throughout the summer with full-day options, and registration is available through their online enrollment system. Financial assistance may be available for qualifying families.
Not all camps are the same, and what works for one kid may not work for another.
An active kid who loves climbing and flipping will thrive at a gymnastics camp. A child who loves building things may prefer a STEM camp. A social kid wanting variety might enjoy a YMCA-style program. Start with what your child actually enjoys.
Consider daily structure too. Kids who do well with routine prefer structured programs with scheduled rotations. Ask about staff-to-camper ratios, training requirements, and how staff handle behavioral issues. At Silver Stars, certified coaches lead every session, and the safety-first approach has been refined over three decades.
Camp spots in Silver Spring go fast. Here is how to make sure your child gets into the program you want.
Many programs offer early bird discounts in late winter or early spring. Popular sessions fill up first, so registering by March or April gives you the best selection. Some camps require a full-week commitment, while others offer flexible scheduling. Silver Stars Gymnastics camps include both half-day and full-day options to fit different family schedules. Before you pay, understand the cancellation and refund policy to prevent headaches later.
Getting your child ready each morning is easier with a standard packing list: a labeled water bottle, packed lunch and snacks, sunscreen (applied before drop-off), a change of clothes, and athletic clothing with appropriate footwear. At Silver Stars, campers should wear clothing suitable for gymnastics activities and avoid jeans, dresses, and anything with hardware.
Summer camp is about more than keeping kids busy. A well-chosen program gives your child the chance to build new skills, make friends, and gain independence in a supportive environment. Whether your child spends their summer flipping on a balance beam, building robots, or swimming laps, the right camp creates memories that last.
For families in Silver Spring looking for an active, skill-building experience, Silver Stars Gymnastics summer camps combine the best of physical activity, creativity, and fun in a trusted setting. Visit gosilverstars.com to see the 2026 camp schedule and reserve your child's spot before sessions fill up. You can also call (301) 589-0938 with any questions.
Q. When does summer camp registration open in Silver Spring?
Most Silver Spring camps open registration in late winter or early spring. Checking websites and signing up for email lists by February ensures you do not miss early bird deadlines.
Q. What ages are summer camps available for in Silver Spring?
Programs vary, but options exist for kids as young as 2 (at centers like Kiddie Academy) through age 12 and beyond. Silver Stars Gymnastics camps are available for ages 5 and up.
Q. How much do summer camps cost in Silver Spring?
Costs depend on the program type, length, and schedule. Half-day camps are generally less expensive than full-day options. Contact each program directly for 2026 pricing.
Q. Can my child attend camp if they have no gymnastics experience?
Absolutely. Gymnastics camps like Silver Stars are designed for all skill levels. Campers are grouped appropriately, and coaches tailor activities so every child can participate and have fun.
Q. What happens if my child does not like a camp activity?
Good camps offer alternatives. At Silver Stars, campers are never forced to do anything they are uncomfortable with. Staff work with each child to find activities they enjoy.
Q. Are there half-day camp options in Silver Spring?
Yes. Several programs, including Silver Stars Gymnastics, offer both half-day and full-day camp options to accommodate different family schedules.
