Updated for 2026. Looking for the best summer camps in Los Angeles? Whether your child loves sports, beach activities, arts, or STEM programs, L.A. offers a wide range of high-quality camps for every interest and age group. You can explore Los Angeles day camps, sleepaway camps, or browse all options to find the best fit.
Top Summer Camps in Los Angeles by Category
Explore summer camps in Los Angeles by category to find the best fit for your child:
The following list of L.A.'s best 11 camps and programs are listed alphabetically. They were chosen for their longevity, reputation, and positive feedback we've heard from parents. While we consider these camps to be the best of the best, there are hundreds of phenomenal summer camps in Los Angeles. In the end, finding the best Los Angeles summer camp for you is a subjective process. Since many parents have their own criteria to determine the best camps, it's always worthwhile to explore as many options as possible to ensure you don't overlook programs you personally view to be among the best.
1. Aloha Beach Camp – Beach & Water Adventure Camp
Aloha Beach Camp offers one of the most unique summer camp experiences in Los Angeles, combining beach days, water activities, and outdoor adventure. Campers visit top locations like Zuma Beach, Paradise Cove, and Castaic Lake while enjoying a flexible and fun program.
- Location: Malibu, CA
- Ages: Kids & teens
- Focus: Beach activities, water sports, outdoor adventure
- Transportation: Free transportation available
- Known for: Flexible scheduling and beach access
Photo credit: Aloha Beach Camp
2. Camp Surf – Surf Camp in Manhattan Beach
Camp Surf is one of the top surf camps in Los Angeles, offering professional instruction and a fun, supportive environment for kids learning to surf.
- Location: Manhattan Beach, CA
- Focus: Surfing and ocean safety
- Known for: Experienced instructors and strong reputation
Photo credit: CampSurf.com
3. Camp Wildfolk – Creative & Choice-Based Camp
Camp Wildfolk allows kids to choose their own activities while encouraging creativity, independence, and self-expression in a fun and inclusive environment.
- Location: Los Angeles, CA
- Ages: Pre-K through 7th grade
- Focus: Creative exploration and self-directed activities
- Known for: Camper choice and unique programming
Photo credit: Camp Wildfolk
Looking for more options? Explore Los Angeles day camps or Los Angeles sleepaway camps.
4. Iverbe Day & Sports Camp – Multi-Sport Camp
Iverbe offers a wide range of sports and structured activities in a supportive environment, with experienced staff and multiple convenient locations.
- Location: Multiple Los Angeles locations
- Focus: Sports, games, and team activities
- Known for: Strong staff relationships and variety of sports
Photo credit: iverbe.com
5. Los Angeles Boys & Girls Club – Affordable Community Camp
This program offers a mix of sports, academics, and social activities in a structured, affordable environment for kids and teens.
- Location: Los Angeles, CA
- Focus: Sports, academics, and community involvement
- Known for: Affordability and well-rounded programming
Photo credit: LA Boys and Girls Club
6. L.A. Zoo Camp – Animal & Nature Camp
L.A. Zoo Camp offers a behind-the-scenes experience where campers interact with animals and learn about wildlife through hands-on activities.
- Location: Los Angeles Zoo
- Focus: Animals, science, and nature
- Known for: Unique animal interaction experiences
Photo credit: lazoo.org
Want to explore more options? Browse all camps by location and interest: Search Summer Camps on CampSearch
7. Makers Mess – Arts & Creative Camp
Makers Mess is a hands-on arts camp where kids can explore creativity through crafting, design, and fun messy projects.
- Location: Los Angeles, CA
- Focus: Arts, crafts, and creative projects
- Known for: Fun, messy, creative experiences
Photo credit: Makers Mess
8. Saken Sports Camp – Sports Training Camp
Saken Sports Camp provides a structured sports environment where kids improve skills while having fun in a supportive setting.
- Location: Los Angeles, CA
- Focus: Sports training and gameplay
- Known for: High return rate and experienced staff
Photo credit: Saken Sports Camp
9. Stratford School Summer Camps – STEAM Camp
Stratford offers STEAM-based programs combining academics and fun activities, with flexible scheduling and multiple themes.
- Location: Multiple locations
- Focus: STEM, arts, and enrichment
- Known for: Structured learning + fun
Photo credit: Stratford Schools (Summer at Stratford)
10. Summer Acting Camp – Performing Arts Camp
Summer Acting Camp offers a comprehensive performing arts experience including acting, dance, and stage combat.
- Location: La Canada, CA
- Focus: Acting and performing arts
- Known for: Long-standing reputation and experienced instructors
Photo credit: Summer Acting Camp
11. Tumbleweed Day Camp – Traditional Outdoor Camp
Tumbleweed offers a classic summer camp experience with outdoor activities, horseback riding, and team-building in a natural setting.
- Location: Los Angeles, CA
- Focus: Outdoor activities and traditional camp
- Known for: Classic camp experience and outdoor setting
Photo credit: Tumbleweed Day Camp
Find More Summer Camps in Los Angeles
While the camps above are some of the best in Los Angeles, there are hundreds of great options to explore.
Browse all camps by location, interest, and schedule: Search Summer Camps on CampSearch
Many families also attend local camp fairs to meet camp directors in person and compare programs in one place.
Not sure which camp is right? Read our Summer Camp FAQ Guide for help choosing.
