Welcome to the 2023 Macaroni KID Vancouver Island
Summer Camp & Activities Guide!
We've heard from many of our readers, asking how to find the best Summer Camps and activities on Vancouver Island. Macaroni KID has put the work in again, to help you find the perfect camp settings and activities, to keep your kids busy in the summer of 2023! Our goal is for this guide to be as thorough as possible, allowing you to find the perfect activities for your kids. Stay tuned as we will keep adding to the guide between now and July.
Why should you send your child to a Vancouver Island summer camp? Summer camps are a great time for kids to try new things, nurture unique interests, meet new friends, stretch their creativity, and have tons of Vancouver Island summer fun! Whether you've got a preschooler, a teen, or a few in between, you're guaranteed to find something in our summer camp guide, that your kid will be excited about! For those of you who are early planners, now is the time to make sure you get the spots at the camps your kiddos want to attend the most! Some camps sell out faster than others.
We know that not everyone has a child who is at the age to attend summer camp yet, or maybe you are not in a place financially to make it happen this year, well don't worry, this guide will have all kinds of other fun options for summer entertainment.
Thanks to our Summer Activities Guide SponsorWildPlay Element Parks! WildPlay offers 5 levels of aerial obstacle courses, thrilling zipline tours, freefall jumps, kids camps and more for ages 5 and up! WildPlay has locations in Victoria, Nanaimo and Maple Ridge and is open February through December.
FUN CAMP RESOURCES
1) Setting Your Child Up For Success at Sleepaway Camp
2) Summer Camp Word Search Fun
SUMMER CAMPS
Art Adventure Summer Camps
2270 Cliffe Ave, Courtenay, BC V9N 2L4
(250) 207-4646 alicia@artadventures.ca
Art Adventures full day camps, are geared to children ages 5-12, and offer 9 different themes and dates to choose from. In these 4 day camps, kids will work on a variety of different projects everyday using mediums like acrylics, watercolour, needle-felting, sculpture, mixed media, and more. Kids will take home good quality art projects that they feel proud of. A variety of other activates like storytelling circles, drawing games, hula hooping and a walk to the air park, are also a part of the day. Discover the Brazilian martial art of Capoeira this summer in this amazing Daycamp full of challenges, acrobatics, athletics, dance, music, drumming, wet and wild afternoons, fossil presentations and so much more! Summer is the best time to try out capoeira!
For more information visit the website HERE
Axé Capoeira Summer Day Camps
133 5th Street, Courtenay, BC V9N 1J3
(250) 898-7918 axealicia@hotmail.com
Discover the Brazilian martial art of Capoeira this summer in this amazing Daycamp full of challenges, acrobatics, athletics, dance, music, drumming, wet and wild afternoons, fossil presentations and so much more! Summer is the best time to try out capoeira!
For more information visit the website HERE
Braefoot Community Association Summer Camps
1440 Harrop Road, Victoria, BC V8P 2S5
(778) 535-6351 admin@braefoot.ca
This summer, we're offering a range of camps to suit every interest and age group (ages 3-13), including Sports Camps (Soccer, Kayaking, All Sport, Baseball, Frisbee), EcoQuest Earth Science, Space Exploration, Wilderness Survival, Engineering, and RSI Multi-Sport Camps.
"With more than 30 years of experience providing excellent summer camps for youths, we offer multiple fun, active, and one-of-a-kind camps that contribute to the mental and physical development of your loved ones. We can guarantee an exciting environment while also offering valuable learning experiences for children."
For more information visit the WEBSITE
Camp Qwanoes
1148 Smith Road, Crofton, BC V0R 1R0
(250) 246-3014 life@qwanoes.ca
Jump into the adventure and let friendship fill each day! Experience a world of discovery all in a spectacular oceanfront setting with a staff team from around the world.
Choose from 75 activities (like a giant floating Aqua Park, Challenge Course, concrete skate park, wakeboarding, archery…there are about 75 activities!), All Star Games, Q-Town, great meals, firesides, it all makes for an unforgettable week where kids are accepted for who they are by staff who really care. Experience the best of a Canadian west-coast summer! Qwanoes is an ideal place for fun-filled, life changing experiences. Situated on 55 acres of magnificent scenic waterfront property on Vancouver Island between Victoria and Nanaimo, Qwanoes is a fully-accredited member of the BC Camping Association and Christian Camping International-Canada.
For more information visit the WEBSITE
Easter Seal British Columbia Yukon
2180 Shawnigan Lake Road, Shawnigan Lake, BC V0R 2W5
(250) 766-2137 CampRegistration@EasterSealsBCY.ca
Everyone deserves a summer to remember. That is why Easter Seals camps are fully accessible, nature-based overnight camps where campers with all abilities can explore new activities and skills in a fun, supportive environment.
A summer camp tradition for over 50 years, Easter Seals offers one of a kind camps and programming for children and adults with physical and cognitive disabilities. Everyone is welcome and no one hears the word ‘no’ at camp. With fully accessible facilities and specially trained staff, our programs can accommodate campers with (but not limited to) developmental challenges, anxiety disorders, Down syndrome, autism spectrum disorder, Cerebral Palsy, and epilepsy/seizure disorders. All camps have a direct care ratio of 3:1, a 24-hour medical team on-site, and multi-sensory snozelin rooms.
We know that every camper and family has unique needs, so we've designed our camp programs with that in mind. Our programs are structured to ensure safety and enjoyment, with sensitivity to each camper’s social and learning style. Staff are trained to provide nurturing care that assists campers with having fun-filled experiences, and encourages development in life skills, self-confidence and independence.
For more information visit the WEBSITE
Hangout Summer Climbing Camp
1065 Canada Ave Unit 2, Duncan, BC V9L1V2
(250) 701-6660
ADVANCED CAMP: July 17-21, 10am to 5pm. Ages 10-16. $375
Advanced Climbing Camp is designed for youth with previous climbing experience. Climbers must be able to climb at least three green graded boulder problems at Hangout and have their own climbing shoes. The goal of this camp is to create a fun, positive environment for young climbers to make new friends and learn new skills to help them advance through our Hangers Youth Progression System. Ideally (weather permitting), campers will experience climbing outdoors.
One or two days will include swimming at the Cowichan Aquatic Centre and we hope to climb outside on Wednesday and Friday if the weather is nice!
MORNING CAMP: July 24-28 or Aug 28 - Sept 1. 9am to Noon. $225 ($202.50 for additional siblings or Hangout member)
This camp is for new climbers who want to try a new sport, or regular climbers who just can’t get enough climbing. There is no minimum requirement for entry. Climbers will be introduced to the sport of climbing through a variety of games and activities.
Visit the website for more info HERE
Museum at Campbell River Summer Kids Camps
470 Island Highway, Campbell River, BC V9W 4Z9
(250) 287-3103 general.inquiries@crmuseum.ca
Week-long summer camps, for kids aged 7-11, are filled with games, crafts, hands-on activities and exploring the Museum’s exhibits! Camps are themed for outdoor enthusiasts, exploring history by travelling through time, or learning how art expresses our understanding of the world. The camps cost $175 per week for a half day camp, and $215 per week for a full day camp.
For more information visit the WEBSITE
Nanaimo Canoe and Kayak Club
4295 Victoria Ave, Nanaimo, BC V9T 2A9
(250) 758-4052 information@nckc.ca
Join us at Long Lake this summer for some paddling fun during our Canoe Kayak Summer Camps, for 6-13 year olds! Experience a variety of canoes and kayaks, including recreational, olympic sprint, and big canoes (voyageur and dragonboat). Learn how to safely paddle, while developing fundamental sport skills, teamwork, leadership and confidence on the water. Land games and activities will be used throughout the camp as well. For more information scan the QR Code!
Nanaimo Gymnastics School
1975 Bollinger Road, Nanaimo, BC V9S5W9
(250) 740-0330 info@nanaimogymnastics.ca
Summer Gymnastics Camps available for ages 6+ Full day: 9am - 3pm and Half day: 9am - 12pm. Itsy Bitsy Camps available for ages 3-5 from 10:30am - 12pm.
Activities include all gymnastics apparatus, crafts, outdoor activities and our weekly tie dye t-shirt! For more information visit the WEBSITE
Next Level Training
225 South Dogwood Street, Campbell River, BC V9W2Y1
nextlevelbc@gmail.com
Next Level Training Summer Camps are running again this year from July 17th to September 1st.
NLT is based out of Campbell River and all of the ice times are at Strathcona Gardens.
All of the ice sessions will be planned and led by Hockey Canada Certified Skills Coach Bryce Cockburn, and all of our camps will have multiple, highly certified, quality coaches, and we always keep our coaches to player ratio low to encourage more 1-1 teaching and ensure increased development every ice session.
NLT has been developing hockey players since 2009 and is very passionate about teaching these young athletes. We offer a variety of camps for different ages and skill levels from U9 beginners to pro, and our registration is on a first come first serve basis.
Please email us to register or if you have any questions. For more information visit the WEBSITE
Sara Raymond Dance Academy
204 - 6750 Island Highway North, Nanaimo, BC V9S5W9
(250) 802-5116 admin@srdanceacademy.ca
Come try fun dance camps that are geared for first time dancers to those that have danced before. Our classes are fun, affordable and educational. We have a few options to try this year. Camps are for ages 4-12yrs. Register online to grab your spot today! For more information visit the WEBSITE
Sprout Meadows Riding Academy
3583 Dove Creek Rd, Courtenay, BC V9V 13
(250) 871-5169 sprout-meadows@hotmail.com
Sprout Meadows Riding camp is very excited to offer One and Three Day Riding Camps, for Beginner to Intermediate Riders ages 5+, who want to ride in a fun filled environment. This is a great way to become introduced to horses and the sport of riding. A day filled with horse riding lesson, stable management, beauty shop with ponies and learning basic care for our equine friends. For more information visit the WEBSITE
Stephanie Roth Performing Arts Studio
4985 Christie Road, Ladysmith, BC V9G1J3
(416) 805-6558 stephanierothstudio@gmail.com
Stephanie Roth Performing Arts Studio is hosting a Summer Musical Theatre Camp featuring a 15 Min Musical: Matilda August 8-11 from 9- 3 pm at Ladysmith Little Theatre. Broadway actor Stephanie Roth will lead the camp, drawing on her 35+ years of experience in the industry to teach children how to sing, dance, and act. The final day will feature a special presentation for loved ones where the children will perform what they've learned. Sign up now to give your child the opportunity to explore their creativity, learn new skills, and have fun in a safe and supportive environment!
Join Broadway actor Stephanie Roth for a magical week at the Frozen Adventure Musical Theatre Camp at Ladysmith Little Theatre, designed specifically for children aged 5-7 years old who love everything Frozen! Running from July 31 to August 4, 9am-2pm, this camp will give your child the opportunity to bring the beloved characters of Frozen to life on stage with Stephanie's 35+ years of industry experience. The final day will feature a special presentation for loved ones where the children will showcase what they've learned. Don't miss out on this unforgettable experience - sign up now!
Join Drama camp "The Play's the Thing: A Summer of Theatrical Fun" at the Stephanie Roth Performing Arts Studio! Led by a Broadway actor with over 35 years of experience, our drama summer camp for ages 11-15 will take place at the Ladysmith Little Theatre August 14-18 from 9-3 pm. Participate in theatre games, character development and scene study. The final day will feature a special presentation for loved ones where the children will perform what they've learned. Don't miss out on this exciting opportunity to discover your passion for theatre. Sign up today!
For more information visit the WEBSITE
Superior Farm's Summer Camps
7995 Superior Road, Lantzville, BC V0R2H0
(250) 390-2435 camp@superiorfarmsbc.ca
Superior Farm's Summer Camps, run for 6 weeks starting July 4th, and allow campers to immerse themselves in everything Superior Farms has to offer, including daily farm chores, such as feeding and cleaning the animals, collecting eggs, planting seeds, weeding and harvesting. The fun doesn’t end there: with six different themes to choose from, their activities engage the mind and senses, inviting campers to develop a new relationship with the farm animals, their food, and the natural world. Using child-led, place-based, and play-based learning principles, their programs aim to make farm camp a place for laughter, connection, friendships, engaging activities, learning, fun and growth. Camps are geared to children ages 6-12. Visit the WEBSITE for more info.
Victoria Academy of Ballet
2713 Quadra St, Victoria, BC V8T4E5
(250) 590-6752 admin@vaballet.ca
Storybook Ballet Camp
Come and explore ballet’s most beautiful and imaginative tales in our Storybook Ballet Camps for students ages 4-6.
July 10 – 14, 2023 and August 21 – September 1, 2023. Camp runs daily from 9am to 12pm
Junior Dance Intensive
A fun and action-packed half-day (4 hrs. per day) summer program for dancers ages 8-12 participating in ballet, jazz, contemporary, character, and stretching classes.
August 21 – September 1, 2023. Classes run daily from 1 – 5pm
Summer Dance Intensive
Lead by VAB’s highly qualified faculty and renowned guest teachers, this program is for students 12+ with at least 3 years of ballet training.
Keep dancing throughout the summer months and improve your technique and artistry in this multi-disciplined dance intensive.
July 17 – 28, 2023. Classes run daily from 9am – 3pm
For more info visit the WEBSITE
WildPlay Element Park
Victoria: #15 -1767 Island Hwy, Victoria, BC V9B1J1
Nanaimo: 55 Nanaimo River Rd, Nanaimo, BC V9X1S5
(250) 590-7529 camps@wildplay.com
Youth ages 7-14 are invited to WildPlay’s NEW Anti-Gravity Camp! Become a pro at WildPlay’s famous Adventure Courses, learn the ropes, play camp games and do nature-based arts and crafts with new friends during these unique single-day and week-long camp programs in Victoria, Nanaimo and Maple Ridge! Single day camps are suitable for ages 7-14 and week-long camps for ages 10-14. For more information visit the WEBSITE
WIP Climbing
780 30th Street, Courtenay, BC V9N7S7 (
250) 871-7514 info@wipclimbing.com
WIP Summer Climbing Camps offer 6 weeks to choose from. Each camp runs Monday to Friday from 9am-12pm. The Climbing Camps offer a great mix between free climbing, roped climbing and instructor led climbing and are geared to ages 5 and up. For more information visit the WEBSITE
GET OUTDOORS
- 5 Creative Ways to Explore Nature With Your Kids
- Family Friendly Hikes on Vancouver Island & The Gulf Islands
- Geocaching: An Outdoor Treasure Hunt Adventure
CRAFTING FUN
