Are you looking for free or cheap summer camps and programs in Charlotte, NC?
We know summer is a time when your kids need extra fun things to do while school is out, AND you don’t want to break the bank. Our list of free or cheap summer camps will give you tons of fun ideas for your kids this summer!
Free Summer Camps in Charlotte, NC
Salvation Army Summer Camp
The Salvation Army hosts free summer camps each year for low-income families where kids get to meet new friends, enjoy outdoor activities, and more. The closest camp to Charlotte is Camp Walter Johnson and you can learn more on the Camp Walter Johnson website.
Jonathan Meeks Football C.A.M.P.
Rock Hill, SC
Former NFL player Jonathan Meeks offers the Football C.A.M.P. for free. This community advancement mentorship program used to happen at Rock Hill High School in collaboration with the community partnership. The information for 2026 is still TBA.
- Free
- 2026 dates and times TBD
- Registration date TBD
- Previously, ages 7 -15
Budget-Friendly Summer Camps Near Charlotte, NC
Mecklenburg County Parks & Recreation Summer Camps
Mecklenburg County Parks & Recreation offers a wide variety of summer camps for residents and non-residents of Mecklenburg County. Several of the camps are under $200 per camper and the sign-ups can be found on the Mecklenburg County Parks & Rec website.
Cabarrus County Half-Day Adventure Camps
The Cabarrus County Parks and Recreation Department is offering a summer camp for kids ages 6-14 for $100-$120 a week. This camp will be held at several park locations across the area. Sign up on the Cabarrus County Parks Website under the “park programs” tab.
Cabarrus Arts Council Choir Camp
The Cabarrus Arts Council is hosting a choir camp (ages 7-12), a mixed media visual arts camp (ages 8-11), and a ukulele camp (ages 9-14). The camps will be $150-200. Sign up on the Cabarrus Arts Council Website.
City of Concord Destination Recreation Summer Camp
The City of Concord is hosting summer camps for kids ages 6-12. These camps are at various location and cost $100 per week for residents of the county and $120 per week for non-residents. A free lunch will be provided each day. Learn more and sign up on the City of Concord Website.
Free Summer Programs in Charlotte, NC
Charlotte Mecklenburg Library Summer Program: Read. Learn. Explore.
The Charlotte Mecklenburg Library Summer Program is free and fun for kids of all ages. This program runs from June 1st to August 15th. Kids can earn points for reading books and then turn in those points for special prizes. The library also has a wide-variety of story times and other events during the summer months. Learn more on the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Library website.
Kannapolis City Schools Summer Reading Program
Kannapolis City Schools offers a free summer reading program each year for eligible students who need extra help with their reading skills. Learn more about this program on the Kannapolis City Schools Website.
Are you looking for more summer camp ideas? Check out our Premier Guide To Summer Camps in Charlotte, NC!