Ultimate Guide to Summer Camps in Walnut Creek, CA

Parents in Walnut Creek, California, have a wealth of summer camp options to choose from. Whether your child is an adventurous outdoor explorer, an aspiring scientist, a sports enthusiast, or a budding artist, Walnut Creek offers programs to match every interest. This guide will help you navigate the summer camp Walnut Creek scene – from major camps to hidden gems – with an emphasis on kids around ages 5–7 (and beyond). We’ll cover a range of camp categories (nature/outdoors, STEM, sports, arts, and general all-around camps), provide example schedules and costs (including per-hour breakdowns), and answer frequently asked questions to set you up for a fun, stress-free summer planning experience.

(For a full directory of current camps in the area, you can also browse the Walnut Creek summer camps page on Enrichment.kids, which lists dozens of programs in and around Walnut Creek.)

General & Multi-Activity Day Camps in Walnut Creek

If you’re looking for a well-rounded camp experience with a bit of everything, several general and multi-activity camps in Walnut Creek fit the bill. These programs offer a mix of arts, crafts, sports, games, and more – great for first-time campers and kids who want variety.

• City of Walnut Creek Arts & Rec Camps: The City’s Arts + Rec department runs Classic Day Camps and specialty camps each summer. These programs often blend traditional camp fun (group games, theme days, crafts, occasional swimming) with educational enrichment. The city’s Camp Community Arts program, for example, offers visual and performing arts camps for ages 4–18 in a supportive, process-focused environment. They also have Specialty Camps that span sports, science, theater, dance, and more. One big plus: Walnut Creek Arts & Rec provides need-based scholarships covering 30–75% of camp fees, making these camps more accessible.
• School-Based Camps (Children’s Centers): Local elementary school-based programs like Valle Verde Children’s Center host summer camps open to the community. Valle Verde’s camp is a play-based program where kids explore art, music, sports, science, cooking, and computers in a safe, fun environment. Similarly, Walnut Acres and other school “children’s center” camps offer full-day care with a mix of activities (and extended hours for working parents, typically 8 AM – 5:30 PM). These neighborhood camps provide a comfortable, familiar setting for younger campers. Expect a little of everything: sports and outdoor play, indoor crafts, science experiments, and field trips or theme days.
• Private School Camps: Some private schools run summer programs that welcome kids from any school. For instance, Sonder Creek Academy in Walnut Creek offers a Half- and Full-Day Summer Camp for entering K–8th graders (open to all, not just enrolled students). The program is designed as a fun, activity-based camp where families can choose flexible weeks and times to attend. Historically, Sonder Creek’s full-day camp is priced around $425 per week (with early registration discounts bringing it down to ~$375), and half-day options around $245/week. This works out to a very affordable hourly rate (as low as $12–$14/hour for full days – see cost comparison table below). Programs like these often include arts and crafts, outdoor play, science projects, and sometimes special extras like cooking or tech, giving kids a balanced experience.
• Steve & Kate’s Camp – Walnut Creek: A unique all-inclusive camp, Steve & Kate’s operates at the Seven Hills School in Walnut Creek. It’s known for its child-driven, flexible schedule approach. Campers ages 4–12 can drop in any day and create their own schedule in real-time, choosing from activities like stop-motion animation, sewing, breadmaking, coding, sports and more. All hours (8:00 AM – 6:00 PM) are included and lunch and snacks are provided. Instead of weekly enrollment, Steve & Kate’s offers Day Passes (around ~$120/day) or a full Summer Pass for unlimited visits. This flexibility is great for parents who need extended care or irregular schedules. Many families love the freedom – kids can literally design their day – and the per-hour cost ends up being quite reasonable since the camp covers up to 10 hours a day (see cost table). Note: Steve & Kate’s does not typically have a rigid group schedule; it’s a self-directed playground of activities with plenty of staff supervision to ensure safety and engagement.
• Bay Club Walnut Creek: For a blend of sports and traditional camp fun in a premium facility, Bay Club’s summer camps are a popular choice. Bay Club Walnut Creek offers programs for ages 3–17 with multiple camp options: Little Explorers for preschoolers (introducing games, creative projects, and teamwork), a general Bay Club Camp for ages 5–12 that mixes sports, arts, and weekly themes (past themes included “Wizardry & Magic” and “Under the Sea”, to give you an idea of the creative fun), and even single-sport camps (tennis, golf, swim) for ages 6–14 for kids who want to focus on a particular sport. There’s also a Counselor-in-Training program for teens 13–15. Full-day and half-day options are available, and full-day campers get lunch included. Bay Club camps emphasize physical activity and creativity in a well-balanced way. (Pricing for Bay Club camps varies; for example, a full-day camp might be roughly ~$500+ per week for non-members, with discounted rates for club members, and half-days at lower cost. Always check their latest camp brochure for specifics.) The environment is upscale and staff are professionally trained, so parents often appreciate the quality – but these camps can fill up quickly due to high demand among local families.

In addition to the above, Walnut Creek parents will find other general camp offerings such as church-based camps or community organizations. For example, Walnut Creek United Methodist Church typically hosts a one-week afternoon camp in June focusing on music, art, and drama for local kids. These short-term camps (often similar to a Vacation Bible School) can be low-cost or free, providing a nice intro-to-camp experience in a community setting. Keep an eye out for announcements from local community centers, libraries, or parent networks, as many will list small niche camps that might not be widely advertised.

Outdoor & Nature Camps in Walnut Creek

Surrounded by the beautiful East Bay hills, Walnut Creek is an excellent home base for outdoor and nature-themed camps. If your child loves fresh air, hiking trails, and learning about the environment, consider these options:

• Roughing It Day Camp: While not located in Walnut Creek proper, Roughing It is a much-loved traditional all-outdoors day camp based at the Lafayette Reservoir (just minutes away) that serves many Walnut Creek families. This camp has been running since 1972 and offers a classic camp experience: fishing and canoeing on the reservoir, swimming, horseback riding, crafts, nature exploration, sports, and more. Campers ages 4–16 are grouped by age, and sessions are multi-week (2, 4, or 8-week programs) for a truly immersive experience. One big perk is free transportation from Walnut Creek – Roughing It provides school-bus transportation with stops in Walnut Creek (e.g. at a local CVS parking lot) to shuttle kids to Lafayette each day. They even offer free extended care if you drop off at the reservoir site directly. If you’re looking for a “camp camp” – the kind of unplugged, outdoorsy summer you might remember from your own childhood – Roughing It is a top choice. (Prices are higher due to its all-inclusive, full-day, multi-week format, often running in the ~$800–$1000/week range for shorter sessions, with price breaks for longer enrollments, but it includes transportation and a huge range of activities.)
• Adventure Day Camp (Moraga): Not to be confused with Adventure Kids Camp (covered later), Adventure Day Camp in Moraga is another traditional summer day camp that many Walnut Creek families use. It’s based at a site in nearby Moraga and provides a “welcoming, lively, safe, positive, and diverse environment” for campers with small group sizes and a wide array of activities. Kids participate in everything from hiking and nature study to swimming and water play, plus arts, sports, and team-building challenges. Adventure Day Camp prides itself on personal attention and an experienced staff dedicated to enriching children’s lives. They also typically offer convenient transportation options (bus service) from Walnut Creek and other central points, which makes it easier on parents. This camp is a great option for a general outdoor camp that isn’t as far out in the wilderness – think of it as a happy medium between city recreation camps and an overnight camp. (Weekly tuition in 2025 is around the mid-$500s per week, similar to other full-day camps, all activities included.)
• Girl Scouts Diablo Day Camp (Little Hills): For families with daughters, the Girl Scouts of Northern California run the Diablo Day Camp at Little Hills Ranch in San Ramon – not in Walnut Creek, but it draws from the whole Diablo Valley region. This is a girls-only camp focusing on outdoor skills, teamwork, and character building. Campers spend their days doing traditional Scout camp activities: hiking, nature crafts, campfire songs, outdoor cooking, and earning badges. It’s a volunteer-run camp (often with parents helping out), which gives it a nice community feel and keeps costs relatively low. If your child is already in Scouts (or even if not – many camps are open to non-Girl Scouts too), this can be a wonderful, confidence-building first camp. Sessions usually run for one week and have age-appropriate themes and activities (with older Girl Scout campers taking on some leadership roles). Because it’s popular, sign up early in spring; spots often fill quickly due to limited capacity.
• Avid4 Adventure Camps: Avid4 Adventure offers outdoor adventure camps throughout the Bay Area. In the Walnut Creek area, they host some programs out of Oakland (Chabot Space & Science Center) and other East Bay regional parks, but they do attract Walnut Creek families. Avid4 camps are known for thrilling outdoor sports: groups go mountain biking, kayaking, rock climbing, and hiking under the guidance of skilled instructors. Safety and skill-building are emphasized, and kids gain confidence trying new outdoor activities. If you have an active 2nd grader who’s climbing the furniture at home, or a 5th grader who loves adventure, Avid4 is worth a look. They offer day camps for grades Pre-K through 7th, and even overnight expedition camps (for older kids) if you’re ready for that leap. Expect to pay a premium for these specialty outdoor experiences – weekly rates can run $700-$800 due to the equipment, low camper-to-staff ratios, and certified instructors, but the experience is unique. Transportation is usually on parents (no busing), so you’d need to commute to the camp location, which for Oakland sessions is about a 20-25 minute drive from Walnut Creek.
• Nature & Science Camps at Lindsay Wildlife: The Lindsay Wildlife Experience in Walnut Creek (our wonderful local wildlife museum and rehabilitation center) offers summer STEAM camps with a nature twist. These camps immerse kids in animal science and environmental exploration. For example, Lindsay’s camps for ages 8–11 include activities like meeting live animal ambassadors, exploring how animals engineer their environments, and hands-on projects like building “beaver dams” or bird nests as engineering challenges. It’s a perfect combo of outdoor exploration and science learning. Some sessions are full-day (e.g. 9:00 AM – 3:30 PM) and others half-day, with themes such as Nature Arts (mixing art and nature) and Wild Science. One described camp has kids dive into “animal engineering and art,” conducting group engineering challenges and discovering wildlife adaptations. Group size is usually small, led by Lindsay’s education staff, so kids get up-close experiences with animals and personal attention. If your child is fascinated by critters (or maybe you’ve done the Saturday “Junior Zookeeper” classes at Lindsay and loved them), these camps are a dream. They tend to sell out, so register early. Prices range depending on half vs full day, but roughly around $300 for half-day week, $500+ for full-day week.

Tip: Walnut Creek’s location means you also have access to East Bay Parks nature camps. While not in Walnut Creek, places like Tilden Park (Berkeley) or Black Diamond Mines (Antioch) have nature day camps through East Bay Regional Park District that are inexpensive and very enriching. These might require a bit of a drive, but for a nature-loving kid, they’re worth considering as well.

STEM and Academic Camps in Walnut Creek

Does your kid love to tinker, code, or ask a million “why” questions? STEM camps (Science, Technology, Engineering, Math) are plentiful in our area. Walnut Creek and neighboring communities host a variety of programs that make learning fun over the summer and prevent that “summer slide.” Here are some top picks:

• Camp Galileo (Innovation Camp): Camp Galileo in Walnut Creek is a hugely popular program that blends art, science, and outdoor activities into imaginative themes. In 2025, Camp Galileo is hosted at Walnut Acres Elementary School and runs from June 9 to July 18. Campers are grouped by grade (rising K–1st, 2nd–3rd, 4th–5th, etc., up to an 8th–10th grade Counselor-in-Training program). Each week brings a new theme with hands-on projects – for example, one week might be “Galileo Makers: Toy Designers” where kids craft and test their own toys, another week might be a “Voyagers” theme with science challenges and art projects related to space or nature. The curriculum is designed to foster innovation and creativity, so children are building, experimenting, and creating all day. A sample day might include a morning art project, an outdoor game, a science experiment, and an afternoon design challenge. Extended care is available from 8 AM to 6 PM for working parents (for an extra fee), making it very convenient. Weekly prices are usually around $560 for core camp (approximately 9 AM – 3 PM) with discounts if you enroll in multiple weeks. That’s about $18–19 per hour of camp, which is on par with similar STEM camps. Galileo also offers early-bird and multi-session discounts (e.g. save $25 per week after your first week). If you want a camp that balances STEM learning with summer fun, Galileo is a fantastic choice – kids come home excited about what they built each day.
• Tech and Coding Camps: In Walnut Creek, you’ll find coding and robotics camps to ignite your child’s inner tech whiz. For example, Code Ninjas (Walnut Creek) offers coding camps where kids (often ages 5–14) learn programming by building their own video games and apps in a fun dojo-like environment. Kids work with “Code Senseis” (instructors) to progress through game-based lessons at their own pace. Camps might focus on themes like Minecraft modding, Roblox game coding, or introduction to JavaScript. Similarly, programs like TechKnowHow host week-long camps featuring LEGO® engineering, robotics, and beginner coding projects, often with creative themes that appeal to younger kids. (TechKnowHow has had locations in the East Bay; some summers they run in Pleasant Hill or Danville, so it’s worth checking their site for a Walnut Creek or nearby session.) These camps typically run in half-day modules which you can combine for a full day. For example, a morning could be LEGO robotics, and the afternoon could be Minecraft engineering – giving a mix of activities. Ages range from about 5 to 12 for most of these tech camps. Expect to pay roughly $250–$400 per half-day week (with full-day options doubling that). The learning is cleverly disguised as play – kids will be having a blast assembling robots or designing games, all while practicing problem-solving and tech skills.
• Math Enrichment: To keep math skills sharp (and even get ahead), Walnut Creek has a couple of options. Firecracker Math runs a summer math camp at Tice Creek School in Walnut Creek, targeting kids who enjoy math or want a challenge. It’s not your typical math class – they explore topics like number theory, algebra, puzzles, and logic through games and magic tricks. It’s designed for ages 6–16, usually in the mornings, and blends instruction with fun activities so kids stay engaged. Another option is Mathnasium of Walnut Creek, which offers flexible summer programs for math practice. Mathnasium isn’t a camp per se, but you can sign up for packages of sessions over the summer. They have “Camp Mathnasium” intensive weeks as well as punch-card style scheduling. This can be great for a kid who loves structure or needs some reinforcement in math – they’ll get personalized tutoring in a fun, low-pressure setting (and often some games or STEM projects mixed in). Pricing can vary, but Mathnasium sometimes offers summer bundle deals (for example, 10-session or 15-session packages) that you can schedule at your convenience.
• Science & Specialty STEM: Beyond general tech and math, keep an eye out for specialty STEM camps. We already mentioned Lindsay Wildlife’s animal science camps in the nature section – those are STEM with a zoology twist. Another cool offering is engineering and building camps like those by Play-Well TEKnologies (LEGO engineering) or others focusing on electronics, chemistry, or robotics. In Pleasant Hill (next door to Walnut Creek), Diablo Valley College has a College for Kids program that sometimes includes programming, science, or language classes for youth. Also, the Lawrence Hall of Science (Berkeley) and Chabot Space & Science Center (Oakland) are a short drive away and run renowned science camps that Walnut Creek families do attend. If your child has a very specific interest (say, a young astronomer or a budding biotech scientist), it’s worth looking into these bigger institutions for unique camp themes.
• STEAM and Maker Camps: Several camps integrate art into STEM (commonly called STEAM). Camp EDMO, for instance, is known around the Bay Area for combining science, technology, and maker activities with social-emotional learning. In 2025, Camp EDMO has partnered with school districts to run affordable camps in various East Bay locations. There’s a good chance of a Walnut Creek or nearby location – these camps often take place at local schools or community centers. EDMO camps might have themes like “Maker Mashup,” “Tech Makers & Movers,” or “Science Explorers,” which mix crafting, building, coding, and science experiments. They’re typically for Pre-K through 8th grade, broken into appropriate age groups. As a bonus, EDMO is a nonprofit with a focus on inclusion, so they often have sliding scale fees or scholarships. A full-day is usually 9 AM – 3 PM with optional extended care, and pricing is competitive (around $400/week, with discounts for certain school district residents or early sign-up). Check their site or local school communications – if Walnut Creek School District is hosting EDMO, you might get info through school newsletters.

In summary, Walnut Creek STEM camps run the gamut from creative and playful (LEGO builders, video game design) to academic enrichment (math and science intensives). Many parents opt to enroll their child in one week of STEM camp and another week of a different theme, to keep summer balanced. Given the high demand for tech skills, these camps tend to fill fast – early registration is recommended. And don’t forget to let your little scientist also just play outside in between camp weeks!

Sports Camps in Walnut Creek

If your child has energy to burn (don’t they all?) or wants to learn a new sport, Walnut Creek’s sports camp options are abundant. From multi-sport programs that sample a bit of everything, to sport-specific clinics for honing skills, here’s what the local scene offers:

• Multi-Sport Activity Camps: For younger kids or those who enjoy all kinds of games, a multi-sport camp is ideal. GrowFit Summer Camp in Walnut Creek is a great example – it’s a dynamic camp located at Valle Verde Elementary that introduces children (ages ~4–12) to a variety of sports and games in an ultra-fun way. At GrowFit’s All-Sports Camp, campers play nine different games daily, rotating through favorites like basketball, flag football, bubble soccer, and even glow-in-the-dark scooter races! The emphasis is on teamwork, trying new activities, and building confidence rather than intense competition. They group kids by age for safety and fairness, and ensure every child finds something they love. What’s cool is GrowFit also offers some specialty variations: they have an Art Camp (so kids can do sports in the morning, art in the afternoon), a LEGO® engineering camp, and even a Science camp option where kids do experiments along with active play. So it’s a well-rounded camp with a sporty backbone. Full-day and half-day options are available. Prices are typically in the $400–$500 range per week for full days, and you can often mix-and-match weeks of different themes. Another multi-sport program is through Lifetime Activities at Heather Farm. Lifetime Activities runs Walnut Creek’s tennis center and offers full- or half-day sports camps focusing on tennis (for ages 4–15) plus swimming and other activities. A child might spend the morning in tennis lessons and the afternoon playing pickleball, doing a bit of chess or ping pong, and cooling off in the pool. It’s a nice balance of skill-building and recreation. The facility at Heather Farm is top-notch for tennis, and they cater to all skill levels – so beginners are very welcome.
• Soccer Camps: Walnut Creek is a soccer town, and there are several soccer-specific camps to choose from. One standout is the COPA Soccer Training Center camp. COPA (in Shadelands, Walnut Creek) is known for its high-tech approach to training – their camps incorporate things like smart soccer courts, performance metrics, and fun tech games to boost skills. It’s like blending video-game style feedback with real soccer drills, which keeps kids motivated. COPA camps typically welcome players of all levels and focus on skill development in an engaging way. For a more traditional soccer camp, Gino’s Soccer Academy has been running for 27 years in Walnut Creek, based at Tice Valley Park. Gino’s camps are beloved by local families – it’s a no-frills, high-energy camp for ages 5–14, where kids practice dribbling, shooting, and play scrimmage games daily. They emphasize both competitive and recreational players having a great time, and all coaches are experienced. Over a week, you’ll see huge improvements in young players’ confidence and technique, all while they’re having fun. For the youngest soccer stars, the city often offers Kidz Love Soccer classes and camps (for toddlers through age 10) which are very non-competitive and focus on basic skills and team play in a **“everyone wins” atmosphere. And if you’re looking for a club experience, the Walnut Creek Surf Soccer Club (the local competitive soccer league) runs summer clinics and camps as well. These can be a great way for kids to get a taste of club-level coaching in a short program. Walnut Creek Surf’s philosophy is to develop strong fundamental skills and a love of the game, and they often incorporate life lessons and sportsmanship into their training. Whether your child is a first-time player or a budding Beckham, there’s a soccer camp to match their level – just be sure to send them with cleats, shin guards, and lots of water for those warm Walnut Creek afternoons!
• Gymnastics & Dance Sports: If your kiddo is more into tumbling and jumping, Encore Gymnastics in Walnut Creek offers summer camps that might be perfect. Encore Gym runs engaging camps for ages 3–11 that combine gymnastics instruction with other fun activities. Younger kids (3–5) do half-days filled with obstacle courses, basic gymnastics skills (like forward rolls, balance beam walks), plus storytime and simple crafts. Older kids (6–11) can choose half- or full-day; a full day runs 9:00 AM to 3:30 PM and includes coached gymnastics sessions, open gym/free play, games, and maybe even a bounce house day or a themed activity. It’s a fantastic way to build strength, coordination, and confidence. Encore’s 2025 rates were around $485 per week for half-day (morning or afternoon) and $685 per week for full-day. That may sound high, but when you break it down it’s because gymnastics requires small class ratios and trained coaches – and for a 6.5 hour full-day, it works out to roughly $21/hour of pretty intensive activity (see comparison table). Kids come home happily exhausted! If your child loves cartwheels or bouncing off the furniture, they will likely adore a week at gymnastics camp.
• Martial Arts, Dance & More: Walnut Creek has several martial arts studios (karate, taekwondo, etc.) that run half-day camps focusing on skills and character development. These can be a great way to try out martial arts in a fun format, often mixed with games and maybe an off-site activity like a swim day. Additionally, some dance studios (beyond the arts camps we’ll discuss later) offer dance sport camps or cheerleading/dance team camps for younger kids, which incorporate fitness with fun dance routines. For example, a local studio might have a “Hip-Hop and Tumbling Camp” or a “Cheer Dance Camp” that gives kids a taste of performance combined with athleticism.
• Specialized Sports Clinics: As kids get a bit older, you might look into the more specialized sports camps: e.g. basketball clinics, skateboarding camps, or football skills camps. Walnut Creek has had youth basketball camps through the city and local high schools, usually one-week sessions focusing on drills in the morning and scrimmages after lunch. There are also some unique offerings like Wheel Kids Bicycle Club, which hosts biking camps at The Seven Hills School in Walnut Creek. Wheel Kids camps are fantastic for those who love cycling – they have an Adventure Riding Camp for ages 9–13 that takes kids on daily bike rides around town and on trails (teaching road safety and bike maintenance too), as well as a Girls-Only Mountain Bike Camp (ages 9–14) to build confidence and skills in young female riders. There’s even a “Camp Cruisin’” for ages 6–12 focusing on fun bike games and exploring local paths. All Wheel Kids camps maintain small groups and are tailored by skill level (from newer riders to advanced), making sure everyone is challenged but not left behind. Another noteworthy program: local sports heroes sometimes run clinics – for instance, the Ward Boys (former NFL players from Concord) have run a youth football camp teaching fundamentals and teamwork to kids 5–11, and programs like Next Level Flag Football hold summer sessions at area high schools. These kinds of clinics are usually shorter (maybe 4 days of an evening or a couple hours in the morning for a week) and cost less, but are great for focused skill boosts.

From soccer to skateboarding, the key is to match the camp to your child’s interest and energy level. At ages 5–7, many kids are still sampling different activities, so a multi-sport camp or a low-pressure program is often best. As they discover what they love, you can dial into specialized camps in later years. And remember, staying hydrated and sun-protected is crucial – pack those water bottles, hats, and sunscreen for sports camp days in Walnut Creek’s summer sun!

Arts, Music & Creative Camps in Walnut Creek

Walnut Creek has a vibrant arts community, so it’s no surprise there are plenty of arts, music, and performance camps to inspire young creatives. Whether your child loves to paint, dance, act, or play an instrument (or all of the above!), there’s something here for them:

• Visual Arts Camps: Budding Picassos and Kahlos will feel right at home in Walnut Creek’s art camps. One standout is Rebel Art School, located downtown. Rebel Art School offers summer art camps for kids and teens ages 4–17 that encourage creative expression across many mediums. Campers might spend the week working on projects in acrylic painting, watercolor, plaster sculpture, mixed-media collage, and printmaking – each week introduces new projects, so kids can attend multiple sessions and keep learning new techniques. Both half-day and full-day options are available. A typical day could include a demo of a technique (say, how to do a watercolor wash), followed by hands-on project time, a break for games or outdoor time, and then another art project in the afternoon. The environment is supportive and not about “right or wrong” in art – it’s about exploring creativity. By the end of the week, they’ll come home with a portfolio of amazing artwork. Rebel Art School is taught by professional artists/teachers and gets rave reviews from parents for how it inspires kids to create. Full-day camps (usually 9 AM – 4 PM) tend to cost around $500–$600/week, which covers all art supplies. If your child prefers a shorter day, the half-day sessions can be a great option (and more affordable). Another option is the Walnut Creek Center for Community Arts (mentioned earlier). They run Camp Community Arts, which isn’t just visual art – it includes theater, dance, and music as well – but many of their offerings are artistic. For example, they might have a “Painting & Drawing” camp for ages 5–7 that meets each morning, or a “Crafts from Around the World” camp. The Community Arts camps use a process-based learning approach – meaning the focus is on trying new art skills and being creative, not just on the final product. It’s a wonderful philosophy that helps kids gain confidence in their artistic abilities. Ages span from little ones (preschool art camp) through teens, with something for everyone. Community Arts camps are also relatively budget-friendly (and remember those city scholarships if needed).
• Performing Arts & Theater: If you have a drama king or queen in the making, look at Walnut Creek’s theater camps. Performing Academy (formerly known as Lamorinda Theatre Academy) offers some fantastic programs. In 2025, one highlight was Mixtape: Musical Theatre Camp – a one-week intensive for rising 5th–8th graders where they put together a musical showcase of iconic pop songs. Over the week, campers got daily classes in acting, singing, and dance, rehearsed scenes and musical numbers, and by Friday they put on an outdoor performance for families. For younger kids (ages 5–10), Performing Academy and other local groups often have themed theater camps like “Disney on Broadway” or “Intro to Acting” that run over a week or two, culminating in a low-key show or sharing on the last day. These are great for building confidence, teamwork, and stage skills – even if the result is a 10-minute mini-play, the growth you’ll see in your child is enormous. Expect these camps to run about 4–6 hours per day; some are half-day only, especially for the little ones. There are also dance-focused camps at local dance schools: for instance, Ace Dance Academy in Walnut Creek has youth summer camps with fun themes (like “Princess Ballet” for preschoolers, or hip-hop workshops for grade schoolers). Older or more serious dancers might consider intensives like the Diablo Ballet School Summer Intensive which is a three-week program for ages 11+ that requires an audition – probably beyond the scope of most 5–7 year olds, but worth noting for the future. Another gem in town is The Ballet School (an established dance studio) which offers both ongoing classes and special summer workshops in ballet, jazz, and musical theater. They have Youth Dance Camps for the younger set and more advanced intensives for older students. If your child loves to move to music, a dance camp can be a fun way to spend a week – they’ll get exercise, learn new steps, and usually perform a little routine at the end of the week for parents.
• Music Camps: For the rockstars and music lovers, Walnut Creek has options like School of Rock. School of Rock Walnut Creek offers awesome week-long music camps where kids form a band and put on a show! They have themes by genre or artist – for example, a “Rock 101” camp for beginners aged 8-11 teaches the basics of playing in a band, ending with a live performance. For older or more experienced kids, they’ve done themes like “Green Day Camp” or “Best of the ’90s” where campers (typically ages 12–17) learn songs from those artists/eras and work on technique and stage presence. By the end of the week, they rock out in front of an audience (often playing at the School of Rock facility or maybe a local event). Even in one week, it’s amazing to see how a group of kids can gel into a band – learning 2-3 songs together. These camps accommodate guitarists, bass players, drummers, keyboardists, and singers at various skill levels. If your child doesn’t play an instrument yet, Rock 101 will start them off gently (no experience required, they can even try multiple instruments). Prices usually run around $500/week for about 5 hours a day, which includes all instrument use. Another avenue for music is Village Music School in Walnut Creek. They are a year-round music school with over 30 instructors, and in summer they sometimes offer special workshops or intro classes. For example, they might have a “Intro to Guitar” week for kids to try out guitar in a small group, or a mini-camp for ukulele or voice. These are often shorter (like 2-3 hours a day for a week). Village Music is also a great resource if you want to schedule private lessons during summer; they’re very flexible and work with beginners through advanced. And let’s not forget music production and DJ camps – occasionally, places like a local recording studio or youth center will offer something like a “DJ Camp” or “Electronic Music Camp” for teens. If you have an older child interested in that, keep an eye on community boards or sites like Enrichment.kids for those niche offerings.
• Creative Writing & Other Creative Arts: Rounding out the creative camp category, you might find opportunities like a creative writing camp (sometimes hosted by libraries or writing centers for kids), or culinary camps (kids cooking classes branded as camps). For instance, some community centers have done a “Little Chefs Cooking Camp” where kids learn to make simple recipes, or a “STEAM & Cooking” combo camp. While not as common, these do pop up. Additionally, My Lil’ Leigh Pad in Walnut Creek offers camps for the early childhood crowd that focus on sensory art, nature, and play-based learning. Their Nature Summer Camp even takes little ones on outdoor adventures at Lafayette Reservoir to connect with nature while doing art and movement. It’s a reminder that “arts” for kids can be as simple as finger painting and mud pies – all forms of creative play are valuable!

One of the great things about arts camps is that kids often come home with tangible creations or skills to show off – be it a canvas painting, a new dance move, or the ability to play a song. They get to tap into their imaginations, which builds confidence and self-expression. Walnut Creek’s rich array of arts camps ensures that every child, from the shy artist to the outgoing performer, can find a place to shine.

Comparing Summer Camp Costs in Walnut Creek

Cost is a big factor for many families when choosing a camp. Walnut Creek camps range widely in price depending on factors like program length, materials, instructor expertise, and included amenities (e.g. lunches or field trips). In general, day camps in Walnut Creek start around $200–$300 per week at the low end and can exceed $600–$800 per week for specialized or extended-day camps. To get a better sense of value, it helps to compare the per-hour cost of camps, since some camps run shorter days and others offer long hours. Below is a comparison table of five example camps and their approximate per-hour pricing:

Notes on the table: The hours per week are estimated; some camps may have slightly different daily schedules (e.g. a Friday half-day). Steve & Kate’s doesn’t sell by the week, but if you attend 5 full days the cost equivalent is about $600 (their 2025 Day Pass is around $120) and you get 10 hours a day including meals – a very competitive per-hour rate. Sonder Creek’s camp offers early-bird discounts (down to $375/week), which could make it as low as ~$10/hour! City-run camps or church camps, not listed here, might be even lower in cost (some around $150 for a half-day week, for example), whereas specialized programs with high ratios (like a tech camp using expensive equipment or an overnight camp) would be higher.

When evaluating price, consider what’s included: Does the camp provide lunch or snacks? (If not, you’ll be packing meals.) Are there costly field trips or materials included in the fee? For instance, Adventure Kids’ $545/week fee includes all transportation and admission fees for field trips, which is a good value when you account for daily excursions. Gymnastics and tech camps may appear pricier, but they often have specialized staff and equipment (e.g. certified coaches or robotics kits). On the flip side, a shorter camp day or a program run by volunteers (like some church camps) will cost less but may require more pickup/drop-off coordination or parent involvement.

It’s also worth noting that many camps offer sibling discounts or multi-week discounts. Adventure Kids, for example, knocks $50 off per week if you enroll in multiple weeks. Camp Galileo gives $25 off each additional week after the first. Some will offer an early registration discount if you book by a certain date. Always ask! If budget is a concern, mix and match camp types – perhaps one week of an inexpensive local community camp and one week of a bigger ticket camp your child really wants to try. And remember to apply for scholarships or financial aid at places like the City (if you qualify).

In short, Walnut Creek has camp options for many price ranges. By looking at the per-hour cost, you can better gauge the value you’re getting for the price and choose what fits your budget and schedule.

Frequently Asked Questions About Walnut Creek Summer Camps

Q1: What’s the average cost of a summer camp in Walnut Creek?
A1: Prices vary widely, but most day camps in Walnut Creek cost roughly $200 to $600 per week per child. At the lower end are shorter half-day programs or subsidized community camps, while mid-range ($400–$600/week) covers the majority of full-day private camps. Highly specialized camps (tech, gymnastics, etc.) or those with extended hours can be more (~$700+). For example, a general full-day camp might be ~$550/week, which is about $18/hour of care and activities. Remember that some camps include extras (like field trip fees, lunch, or extended care) which can make them a better value despite a higher upfront cost. Overall, Walnut Creek camp costs are in line with the Bay Area average – not cheap, but there are options at various price points. Many programs also offer multi-week or sibling discounts and financial aid (the City’s need-based scholarships can cover 30–75% of fees), which can help bring down the cost.

Q2: At what age should my child start attending camp?
A2: Children can start day camps as young as 3 or 4 years old for certain programs, though 5 (entering Kindergarten) is a common age for a first camp. In Walnut Creek, you’ll find preschool camps (ages 3–5) that are typically half-day and focus on gentle activities – for example, Bay Club’s Little Explorers starts at age 3 and Encore Gym’s preschool camp takes potty-trained 3-year-olds. These introduce the camp routine in a very nurturing way. By age 5, many kids are ready for a regular day camp (9am–3pm type schedule). Camps like Steve & Kate’s start at age 4, most city camps begin at 4 or 5, and specialized camps (sports, art, etc.) often have entry points around 5–6. The readiness depends on the child – consider their attention span, independence with tasks, and comfort in group settings. If they’ve done preschool or classes without you, they’re likely ready for camp. Starting around age 5 is great because they can attend with peers their age and build social skills. That said, don’t worry if your child is a bit older for their first camp – camps are used to helping newcomers adjust at any age. The key is to choose a program suited to their developmental level (e.g. lots of play for the young ones!). Note: Overnight camps generally start around age 7 or 8 at the earliest, and more commonly 9–10, but local Walnut Creek offerings are almost all day camps.

Q3: Are there camps with extended care hours (early drop-off or late pick-up)?
A3: Yes, plenty. Many Walnut Creek camps offer extended care to accommodate working parents’ schedules. For instance, Steve & Kate’s includes 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM coverage by default – you can drop off or pick up anytime in that window with no extra charge. Camp Galileo offers add-on morning care (typically starting 8 AM) and afternoon care (until ~6 PM) for an additional fee, so your child can have a 10-hour day there if needed. The City of Walnut Creek’s programs often have an option called “Camp Plus” or separate childcare before/after the camp’s core hours. For example, a city camp might run 9 AM–3 PM, but you could add 7:30–9 AM and 3–5:30 PM care for a nominal cost. Sports camps like soccer or gymnastics sometimes don’t have extended day at the facility, but you can mix-and-match half-day camps (do one camp in the morning, another in the afternoon) to cover the full day if they’re at the same location or nearby. When reviewing camps, look for terms like “extended care,” “pre-care,” or “after-care.” Also note what activities are provided during those times – often it’s free play or quiet activities. If no formal extended care is advertised, you might reach out to the provider; occasionally, if enough parents ask, they’ll arrange something. But broadly, Walnut Creek is very working-parent friendly in its camp offerings, and you should be able to find a solution for coverage from at least ~8:30 AM to 5:30 PM or longer. Just be sure to reserve your extended care spot early, as those can fill up too.

Q4: How early should I register for summer camps?
A4: As early as possible – usually winter or early spring. In Walnut Creek, many of the popular camps start registration in January or February for the upcoming summer. For example, the City Arts & Rec camps opened enrollment on January 15, 2025. Private camps like Galileo or Steve & Kate’s also tend to open in Jan/Feb and may offer early-bird pricing for a limited time. Some high-demand camps (certain weeks of tech camps, specialty camps or those with limited spots) can fill up by March or April. It’s not universal – you can often find openings later, especially in general or new programs – but if you have specific weeks you need or your heart set on a particular camp, registering by March is wise. Pro tip: Get on mailing lists for the camps or local parenting newsletters; they’ll announce when registration opens. Also, have a plan ready – many parents literally set alarms for the opening day of city camp sign-ups, because hundreds of families might be vying online at once. If you missed the early window, don’t despair: there are always some camps with openings even last-minute (into May or June). Enrichment.kids and other directories can help you see what’s still available. But generally, January through early April is prime time to lock in your camp schedule. And if you need camps in late summer (like early August), those sometimes have more availability if earlier weeks filled up – so check back for open spots as summer goes on.

Q5: Are there free or low-cost summer camp options in Walnut Creek?
A5: Yes, a few. While most camps do charge fees, families on a budget have some avenues to explore:

• City Scholarships & Subsidized Programs: Walnut Creek Arts & Rec, as mentioned, offers scholarships that can significantly reduce costs (covering 30–75% of fees for those who qualify). Nearby cities (Pleasant Hill, Concord) have similar programs for their residents. Additionally, some city-run camps are just inherently lower cost – for example, a week of half-day playground camp might be $100–$150.
• Recreation “Camp Councils” or Nonprofit Camps: Organizations like the YMCA or Boys & Girls Club sometimes host affordable summer programs. In Walnut Creek, there isn’t a big YMCA camp presence, but check Pleasant Hill’s YMCA and local church camps. As an example, the Walnut Creek United Methodist Church one-week camp (half-day) likely asks for a small donation or modest fee to cover materials. Vacation Bible Schools (VBS) at various churches are often free or under $50 for a week, and they are open to all kids, not just church members – these usually run for a couple of hours each morning for a week and include songs, crafts, and games with a positive message.
• Library and Community Center Programs: The Walnut Creek Library and Center for Community Arts sometimes have one-day or short series workshops in summer that are free or cheap (like an afternoon art workshop or a science demo day for kids). While not full-week camps, stringing together a few can add enrichment at no cost.
• Camperships from Organizations: If your child is interested in scouting, Girl Scouts and Boy Scouts have some grant programs to attend camps. Also, Bay Area Kid Fun (an online resource) notes that some specialty camps offer scholarships or financial aid – it never hurts to email the camp director and inquire. For instance, a local theater camp might quietly offer one free spot per session for a family in need.
• Co-op Camps and Exchanges: In some neighborhoods, parents form co-op “camps” where each family takes turns hosting a themed activity day. Not an official camp, but it can be a fun, free way to give the camp experience (think “Tuesday at the Smith house for backyard water play, Wednesday at the Lee house for craft and picnic in the park,” etc.). This requires coordination but is essentially free aside from supplies.
  In summary, while Walnut Creek is an affluent area with many premium camps, there are low-cost options if you seek them out. Start with the City’s offerings and local community/church programs. And don’t be shy about asking a camp about financial aid – many have quiet provisions to ensure all kids can have a great summer.

Q6: Do Walnut Creek camps offer extended sessions or multi-week packages?
A6: Yes, many camps allow (or even encourage) multi-week registrations, sometimes with a discount. Some camps operate in distinct weekly sessions but will happily have your child attend multiple weeks – repeating or varying themes. For example, Adventure Kids Summer Day Camp runs 8 separate weeks and many kids join for several sessions (with a price break of $50 off per week for multiple weeks). Galileo and EDMO offer tiered discounts (e.g. $25 off each additional week) to reward longer enrollment. A few camps have fixed multi-week programs: Roughing It is 2-, 4-, or 8-week blocks; some theater productions camps might be 2-3 weeks long to put on a show; and certain specialty camps (like a coding camp) might have a progressive curriculum over multiple weeks. From a scheduling perspective, Walnut Creek parents often patch together 5-8 weeks of camp to cover summer. It’s perfectly fine to mix different camps vs. sticking to one all summer – variety keeps it interesting. Just note any policies about taking weeks off: some camps like to place kids in consistent groups if they are back-to-back weeks, while others treat each week independently. When signing up for multiple weeks, also consider balance – e.g. maybe two weeks of sports camp then a week of art camp to exercise different muscles (literally and figuratively!). The good news is, there’s no shortage of weeks to choose from – camps here generally run from early June until mid-August, so you can fill the calendar or leave some free family time as needed.

We hope this comprehensive guide helps you confidently plan an amazing summer for your child. Walnut Creek truly offers something for every interest, schedule, and budget when it comes to summer camps. With a bit of early planning and the information above, you’ll be ready to secure spots in the camps that are the best fit for your kid. Here’s to a summer of growth, friendships, learning, and fun in Walnut Creek!