Many parents seek enriching and engaging activities to keep their children active and learning during the summer months. Fortunately, the Jacksonville area offers various summer programs and resources that cater to multiple interests and needs. From free lunch programs to STEM camps and creative arts workshops, there’s something for every child to enjoy. 

Here are the top recommendations to help you plan a productive and fun summer for your kids.

Free & Reduced-Price Lunch Programs

Jacksonville Public Library – Free Summer Lunch Program
Jacksonville Library Summer Lunch is from June 10 to August 2, 2025. Children and teens aged 18 and under can enjoy free, nutritious lunches at select Jacksonville Public Library branches. No registration or library card is required. Meals are served Monday through Friday during designated times.

Science, Nature & STEM Camps

Code Ninjas – Coding Camps
Code Ninjas Summer Camps offers interactive summer camps where kids can build video games, explore robotics, and sharpen STEM skills. Programs cater to different experience levels and run all summer long.

Arts & Creativity

Cathedral Arts Project (CAP) – Summer Programs
Cathedral Arts Project provides free visual and performing arts programming for Jacksonville’s youth. Summer offerings include dance, music, theater, and visual arts, helping children develop creativity and self-expression.

Academic & Enrichment Camps

The Bolles School – Summer Programs
Bolles School Summer Programs, from May 27 to August 8, 2025, and offers diverse academic, athletic, and arts programs. Camps are designed for multiple age groups and foster educational growth and fun.

Duval County Public Schools – Summer Programs
DCPS Summer Camps provides various summer learning opportunities, including enrichment, credit recovery, and camps through Kids Hope Alliance. Programs also include driver’s education and are held at multiple school sites.

Outdoor & Recreational Camps

YMCA of Florida’s First Coast – Summer Day Camps
YMCA Summer Camps offer swimming, arts and crafts, sports, and themed field trips. Discounts are available for members and military families.

Boys & Girls Clubs of Northeast Florida – Camp Deep Pond
Camp Deep Pond offers outdoor adventures, including canoeing, swimming, and team-building. Its programs are open to the public and are held throughout the summer.

Summer Reading & Learning

Jacksonville Public Library – Summer Learning Program
Jacksonville Public Library Summer Learning is June 2 to August 2, 2025, The “Color Our World” initiative includes reading challenges, live performances, art and STEM labs, and prize incentives for kids and teens.

Duval County Public Schools – Reading Resources
DCPS Summer Reading, in partnership with the Jacksonville Public Library, supports summer reading with curated book lists, online access, and virtual library cards.

With so many excellent summer programs and resources available near Jacksonville’s South Campus, parents have many opportunities to keep their children engaged, learning, and growing. Whether your child is into science, the arts, sports, or environmental exploration, there’s something for everyone. Register early—spots fill up fast—and enjoy a fun, enriching summer!

Disclaimer: The websites provided are for informational purposes. Please check the respective websites for the most up-to-date information on camp schedules, fees, and registration details.