top of page
Physical and Recreational Activities
Albemarle County Parks and Recreation
Our vision is to create unparalleled outdoor and recreation experiences right here at home
Our mission is dedicated to providing a unique system of parks, trails, and recreational experiences, while being superior stewards of the environment.
Our mission is dedicated to providing a unique system of parks, trails, and recreational experiences, while being superior stewards of the environment.
Albemarle-Charlottesville 4-H
The Albemarle/Charlottesville 4-H Program offers many exciting activities for kids! Join a local club and work on hands-on projects; join us for one of our camping experiences; participate in a workshop or contest; enjoy programs offered through our local schools; or contact us with suggestions of other ways we might bring 4-H to your neighborhood!
More specifically, youth can be involved in Albemarle 4-H in four ways:
More specifically, youth can be involved in Albemarle 4-H in four ways:
Botanical Garden of the Piedmont
The mission of the Botanical Garden of the Piedmont is to welcome all community members and visitors to engage in nature, to inspire learning through the beauty and importance of plants, to advance sustainability, and to promote human and environmental well-being.
Camp Holiday Trails
Camp Holiday Trails is honored to provide the camp experience to youth ages 6-17 yrs old and their families who are impacted by a medical diagnosis. During the summer we provide day & overnight camp programming to campers and their siblings for 1 to 2 week sessions. Additionally, we have various volunteer opportunities both during the summer and year-round.
COST OF PROGRAM
$100 per camper per week
COST OF PROGRAM
$100 per camper per week
Charlottesville Community Bikes
Charlottesville Community Bikes is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) bicycle shop that promotes environmentally-sound transportation,
recycles bicycles, and makes cycling accessible in Charlottesville, VA.
We believe bicycles can be a means to social change, addressing issues of equity, access, and inclusion.
recycles bicycles, and makes cycling accessible in Charlottesville, VA.
We believe bicycles can be a means to social change, addressing issues of equity, access, and inclusion.
Charlottesville Parks and Recreation Camps
Join Charlottesville Parks & Rec this summer for one of their many exciting camp opportunities! From their General Summer Day Camp to the Ultimate Adventure Camp (Field trips everyday), there is always something fun to do.
COST OF PROGRAM
City Residents $95.00 weekly /Non-Residents $150.00 weekly and Adventure Camp City Residents $125/Non $200
COST OF PROGRAM
City Residents $95.00 weekly /Non-Residents $150.00 weekly and Adventure Camp City Residents $125/Non $200
City of Charlottesville Parks & Recreation- Adaptive Recreation
We provide recreation programs for individuals with disabilities. These include ongoing skills programs, community outings, special events and overnight trips. We begin at age 6 and offer monthly youth/teen programs as well as 7 weeks of summer camp.
Decades Arcade
Central VA's largest arcade with over 120 games! $12 /person age 4+ Fri 5-10, Sat 1:30-10, Sun 1:30-6
Fry Spring's Beach Club - Scholarships Available
Established in 1921, FSBC uniquely blends modern day life and yesteryear charm. It offers members and their guests a summertime resort in the heart of Charlottesville. Come join the Club and swim, grill, play and lounge with us! FSBC extends full membership scholarships to up to 10% of its families each year. Scholarship families receive full access to the club and may opt to participate in swim lessons and/or swim team as well. Older children may seek employment at the club, a popular avenue for many teens at FSBC.
Many children in the area from families with low-income have not had access to pools or swim lessons and feel uncomfortable around the water. FSBC can provide swim lessons for new swimmers in these families or connect them with the Ben Hair Just Swim for Life program, a local non-profit operating out of FSBC. The program’s goal is to “waterproof” participants so that they are first safe around water. Upon learning how to swim, many children are eager to continue swimming and go on to join the FSBC Swim Team.
FSBC is seeking to expand its scholarship program through work with community partners and local schools. We encourage under-represented families to apply directly and members to nominate families for scholarships as well.
Many children in the area from families with low-income have not had access to pools or swim lessons and feel uncomfortable around the water. FSBC can provide swim lessons for new swimmers in these families or connect them with the Ben Hair Just Swim for Life program, a local non-profit operating out of FSBC. The program’s goal is to “waterproof” participants so that they are first safe around water. Upon learning how to swim, many children are eager to continue swimming and go on to join the FSBC Swim Team.
FSBC is seeking to expand its scholarship program through work with community partners and local schools. We encourage under-represented families to apply directly and members to nominate families for scholarships as well.
H.E.R. Sports
H.E.R. Sports seeks to address disparities that will overcome obstacles and break down barriers that will forge new pathways for greater engagement in girl sports. Our programs are inclusive to addressing holistic needs of girls at various stages of their personal and athletic development.
Putt-Putt Charlottesville
Mission: To provide families with a safe, clean, wholesome entertainment venue where they can have an enjoyable experience for a reasonable cost in their own community.
The First Tee of the Virginia Blue Ridge
Our mission is to provide transformational and educational programs that build character, instill life-enhancing values, and promote healthy choices through the game of golf.
Tom Sox
The mission of the Charlottesville Baseball Group is to promote the game of baseball in Central Virginia by providing a high quality collegiate summer team, a memorable fan experience, and opportunities for players and interns to grow in the game and in character.
Every Summer we invite 40+ elite collegiate baseball players to Charlottesville for 2.5 months, 42-game season with the Valley Baseball League. We hire 20+ high school and college interns who help us put on a professional and engaging baseball experience for more than 5,000 fans throughout the summer.
We selected the name “Tom Sox” as part of our founding in 2015. We held a public contest and solicited suggestions from our surrounding community. We settled on "Tom Sox" over three other excellent finalists as a blending of Charlottesville’s love for baseball and being the ancestral home of President Thomas Jefferson.
We have won three Valley League Championships in our eight-year history - 2017, 2019, and 2022.
Every Summer we invite 40+ elite collegiate baseball players to Charlottesville for 2.5 months, 42-game season with the Valley Baseball League. We hire 20+ high school and college interns who help us put on a professional and engaging baseball experience for more than 5,000 fans throughout the summer.
We selected the name “Tom Sox” as part of our founding in 2015. We held a public contest and solicited suggestions from our surrounding community. We settled on "Tom Sox" over three other excellent finalists as a blending of Charlottesville’s love for baseball and being the ancestral home of President Thomas Jefferson.
We have won three Valley League Championships in our eight-year history - 2017, 2019, and 2022.
Triple C Camp
Triple C Camp is about adventure, friendship, fun, discovery, and challenge. It is a safe place where independence is fostered and trying new things is encouraged.
We believe in the “Challenge by Choice” philosophy. Our staff are trained to encourage all campers to participate in all programs offered. However, some campers do not feel comfortable in all settings – at Triple C they have the option to participate, observe their group, or make special arrangements with the Director’s consent. The activities are designed with the campers in mind so that all can have a safe, fun summer.
MISSION: Triple C Camp exists to provide children a safe, fun, experience in a traditional camp environment. Everyone at Triple C learns about themselves as well as working with others, all while creating positive lifelong memories.
We believe in the “Challenge by Choice” philosophy. Our staff are trained to encourage all campers to participate in all programs offered. However, some campers do not feel comfortable in all settings – at Triple C they have the option to participate, observe their group, or make special arrangements with the Director’s consent. The activities are designed with the campers in mind so that all can have a safe, fun summer.
MISSION: Triple C Camp exists to provide children a safe, fun, experience in a traditional camp environment. Everyone at Triple C learns about themselves as well as working with others, all while creating positive lifelong memories.
Virginia Basketball Association (VABA)
The Virginia Basketball Academy is a comprehensive, year-round basketball training program comprised of a variety of learning opportunities for boys and girls of all ages. Our unique program consists of camps, mini-camps, clinics, coaches clinics, weekly skills academies, winter leagues, travel/AAU teams and private and group instruction.
Each program is detailed and disciplined in its planning and approach. The VABA basketball teaching curriculum is aimed at helping each participant develop a love for the game of basketball, work toward real improvement on the court and beyond, and carry out the VABA mission of building character and shaping lives through the game of basketball.
VABA is a organization based on Christian values and principles. However, there is no aim to proselytize - those of all philosophies/religions are embraced. The basis of our mission comes from a desire to follow a calling to joyfully and humbly serve members of our community and demonstrating proper leadership in character for our youth and their families.
Each program is detailed and disciplined in its planning and approach. The VABA basketball teaching curriculum is aimed at helping each participant develop a love for the game of basketball, work toward real improvement on the court and beyond, and carry out the VABA mission of building character and shaping lives through the game of basketball.
VABA is a organization based on Christian values and principles. However, there is no aim to proselytize - those of all philosophies/religions are embraced. The basis of our mission comes from a desire to follow a calling to joyfully and humbly serve members of our community and demonstrating proper leadership in character for our youth and their families.
Virginia Discovery Museum
The Virginia Discovery Museum is a small, nonprofit children's museum for families with infants to kids age 8. VDM seeks to foster intellectual curiosity and development for all children in our community through hands-on educational, exploratory, and imaginative play across 6,000 square feet of exhibit space.
Vizion Sports Association
Vizion Sports Association was founded on the principles of providing all youth the opportunity to play their chosen sport while showcasing their talents. The platform that we provide allows your athlete(s) to be exposed to high-level competition and professional personnel, in hopes of securing an opportunity to play at the collegiate level!
Wartime Fitness Warriors
Wartime Fitness Warriors is a gym that operates as nonprofit 501c3 organization with a mission is to inspire youth to gain mental, physical and health benefits by creatively integrating boxing which promotes self-confidence while acting as a safe haven and outlet within the community.
Wildrock Nature Adventure
Wildrock’s mission is to promote nature play for health and happiness. Given that nature play is less a part of daily life today than in any previous generation, it is necessary to create enticing opportunities for people to reconnect with the natural world.
Week 1: June 9-13
Week 2: June 16-20
Cost: $365
Get ready for the ultimate nature camp experience! This summer, we’re thrilled to welcome middle school-aged kids for an action-packed two weeks of exploring, adventuring, and making memories that will last a lifetime!
Fire Pit Fun: Join us as we gather around our awesome fire pit! You’ll learn how to safely build and maintain a fire, roast marshmallows, and share epic stories with new friends.
Creek Adventures: Dive into excitement as we splash around in the cool creek! Get your feet wet while discovering incredible wildlife and participating in fun water games designed for thrill-seekers!
Building Forts: Unleash your creativity and teamwork skills as you construct epic forts and shelters using natural materials found in the woods! Who will build the ultimate hideout?
And that’s just the beginning! Whether you’re exploring the forest, making new friends, or enjoying hands-on activities, every day is a new adventure!
Week 1: June 9-13
Week 2: June 16-20
Cost: $365
Get ready for the ultimate nature camp experience! This summer, we’re thrilled to welcome middle school-aged kids for an action-packed two weeks of exploring, adventuring, and making memories that will last a lifetime!
Fire Pit Fun: Join us as we gather around our awesome fire pit! You’ll learn how to safely build and maintain a fire, roast marshmallows, and share epic stories with new friends.
Creek Adventures: Dive into excitement as we splash around in the cool creek! Get your feet wet while discovering incredible wildlife and participating in fun water games designed for thrill-seekers!
Building Forts: Unleash your creativity and teamwork skills as you construct epic forts and shelters using natural materials found in the woods! Who will build the ultimate hideout?
And that’s just the beginning! Whether you’re exploring the forest, making new friends, or enjoying hands-on activities, every day is a new adventure!
YMCA Piedmont EXPLORATION CAMP IN CVILLE: AGES 5-9
EXPLORATION CAMP IN CVILLE: AGES 5-9
At our 2025 eXploration Camp in Charlottesville, VA, young campers embark on a journey of learning and fun. Each week brings a new theme, sparking creativity through arts and crafts, engaging their curiosity with STEM projects, and promoting physical health with exciting PE games. Swimming sessions twice a week ensure campers stay cool and confident in the water. Field trips add an extra layer of adventure, and themed dress-up days make learning immersive and exciting.
Ages: 5-9. This is a school-age camp, so campers are grouped into age-appropriate huddles.
Location: Burley Middle School (Weeks 2-7) & Brooks Family YMCA (Weeks 1, 8, & 9)
At our 2025 eXploration Camp in Charlottesville, VA, young campers embark on a journey of learning and fun. Each week brings a new theme, sparking creativity through arts and crafts, engaging their curiosity with STEM projects, and promoting physical health with exciting PE games. Swimming sessions twice a week ensure campers stay cool and confident in the water. Field trips add an extra layer of adventure, and themed dress-up days make learning immersive and exciting.
Ages: 5-9. This is a school-age camp, so campers are grouped into age-appropriate huddles.
Location: Burley Middle School (Weeks 2-7) & Brooks Family YMCA (Weeks 1, 8, & 9)
YMCA Piedmont: EXPLORATION CAMP GREENE COUNTY: AGES 5-9
At our 2025 eXploration Camp in Ruckersville, VA, young campers embark on a journey of learning and fun. Each week brings a new theme, sparking creativity through arts and crafts, engaging their curiosity with STEM projects, and promoting physical health with exciting PE games. Field trips add an extra layer of adventure, and themed dress-up days make learning immersive and exciting.
Virginia licensed school-age summer camp
Location: Nathanael Greene Elementary School
Ages: 5-9. This is a school-age camp, so campers are grouped into age appropriate huddles.
Virginia licensed school-age summer camp
Location: Nathanael Greene Elementary School
Ages: 5-9. This is a school-age camp, so campers are grouped into age appropriate huddles.
YMCA Piedmont: SPORTS CAMPS
2025 registration opens on January 13
The Piedmont Family YMCA Sports Camps focus on instructional skill building, fun, and social skills. Every day your child will receive instruction from our YMCA staff. Sports camp is a recreational, play-based program that focuses on fundamentals rather than competition.
Our 2025 sessions include Flag Football, Basketball, Volleyball, Sports Extravaganza Camp, and All-Girls Sports Extravaganza Camp.
The Piedmont Family YMCA Sports Camps focus on instructional skill building, fun, and social skills. Every day your child will receive instruction from our YMCA staff. Sports camp is a recreational, play-based program that focuses on fundamentals rather than competition.
Our 2025 sessions include Flag Football, Basketball, Volleyball, Sports Extravaganza Camp, and All-Girls Sports Extravaganza Camp.
YMCA Piedmont: TEEN CIT CAMP
Our 2025 Teen CIT (Counselors-in-Training) Camp in Charlottesville, VA is designed to teach and inspire students ages 13-15.
This innovative program offers teens a structured path to develop their leadership potential. Spanning two three-week sessions, the program is divided into certifications for new and returning participants. Completion of a session awards a certificate, marking a significant step in their leadership journey.
Hands-on training experiences and professional development workshops provide the foundation of the program. The students spend their time learning about leadership in the morning, including practice in resume writing and interview skills. UVA professionals visit the program to share information about different career paths. Students practice their skills mentoring the campers in the afternoon. Students learn basic safety, group control, games, camp best practices and valuable employment skills.
Ages: 13-15. This is a camp for teens only.
Location: Brooks Family YMCA (Session A, Week 1) & Burley Middle School (remaining weeks)
This innovative program offers teens a structured path to develop their leadership potential. Spanning two three-week sessions, the program is divided into certifications for new and returning participants. Completion of a session awards a certificate, marking a significant step in their leadership journey.
Hands-on training experiences and professional development workshops provide the foundation of the program. The students spend their time learning about leadership in the morning, including practice in resume writing and interview skills. UVA professionals visit the program to share information about different career paths. Students practice their skills mentoring the campers in the afternoon. Students learn basic safety, group control, games, camp best practices and valuable employment skills.
Ages: 13-15. This is a camp for teens only.
Location: Brooks Family YMCA (Session A, Week 1) & Burley Middle School (remaining weeks)
YMCA Piedmont: TEEN EXTREME CAMP CVILLE: AGES 13-15
Don’t just hang out this summer—stand out and create memories that last a lifetime! Make new friends and pack your days full of epic adventures with the Y.
From STEM challenges to field trips, hiking and swimming, playing sports, and team activities...make your summer unforgettable!
Ages: 13-15. This is a camp for teens only.
Location: Burley Middle School (Weeks 2-7) & Brooks Family YMCA (Weeks 1 & 8)
We have fun field trips planned to:
Cville Escape Room
Putt Putt
Waterparks
and more!
From STEM challenges to field trips, hiking and swimming, playing sports, and team activities...make your summer unforgettable!
Ages: 13-15. This is a camp for teens only.
Location: Burley Middle School (Weeks 2-7) & Brooks Family YMCA (Weeks 1 & 8)
We have fun field trips planned to:
Cville Escape Room
Putt Putt
Waterparks
and more!
YMCA Piedmont: TWEEN EXPERIENCE CVILLE: AGES 10-12
The 2025 Tween eXperience in Charlottesville, VA is tailored for the inquisitive minds of tweens. This camp offers a blend of project-based and STEM activities, each with a unique focus on music and science. Participants will also enjoy enriching field trips that complement their learning. The camp emphasizes developing leadership skills and building character, ensuring a well-rounded experience.
Virginia licensed school-age summer camp
Location: Burley Middle School (Weeks 2-7) & Brooks Family YMCA (Weeks 1, 8, & 9)
Ages: 10-12.
Virginia licensed school-age summer camp
Location: Burley Middle School (Weeks 2-7) & Brooks Family YMCA (Weeks 1, 8, & 9)
Ages: 10-12.
bottom of page