
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.
Queen City Sports Camps
Life Church in Charlotte, NC offers a free summer sports camp every Saturday morning during the summertime for grades K-8 from 9 am to 11 am. They get to enjoy sports, crafts, and activities, and snacks are provided! Parents/guardians are also welcome to join in on the fun. Learn more on the Life Church website.
Jonathan Meeks Football C.A.M.P.
Rock Hill, SC
Former NFL player Jonathan Meeks, alongside The Community Partnership Foundation, is offering the second annual Football C.A.M.P. for free. This community advancement mentorship program happens at Rock Hill High School.
- Free
- June 12-13th, 2025 from 8:30 am to 12:30 pm
- Register by May 30th, 2025
- Ages 7 -15
- Visit The Community Partnership Foundation’s website.
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 7-13 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.
Cabarrus Arts Council Choir Camp
The Cabarrus Arts Council is hosting a choir camp for students ages 7-12 years old. This camp will be $175. Sign up on the Cabarrus Arts Council Website.
City of Concord Destination Recreation Summer Camp
The City of Concord is hosting a summer camp for kids ages 6-12. This camp is $75 per week for residents of the county and $90 per week for non-residents. A free lunch will be provided each day of this camp. 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 July 31st every year. Kids can earn points for reading books and then turn in those points for special prizes. The library also has a wide-variety of storytimes 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!





