Vancouver Island camps for 2026

How to get the most out of Vancouver Island summer camps and kids’ programs

If you’ve never been to camp or have had restricted experience with kids’ camps, take a look at the variety that’s out there and consider the best Vancouver Island camp experience for you and your child. 

Day camps are a great way to introduce kids to camp. Day camp is a fun experience, where kids can take part in fun programming and meet friends from the area. They're often specialized, and listed above you’ll find cycling camps, soccer camps, and other sports camps, as well as camps focused on STEM and other educational activities. It’s a great way to introduce kids to the camp experience. 

Overnight camp gives kids a unique growth experience. While some kids—and even parents—may shy away from the idea, we feel that it gives kids an advantage. Its benefit lies precisely in the fact that it is a personal challenge to go, the first time. Overnight camp naturally encourages kids to develop independence and responsibility, key factors in their maturation. Away from parents and familiar surroundings, they tap into personal resources and learn how to deal with things on their own. Another natural part of overnight camp is taking care of their own stuff, for example. They learn to put things away, to be mindful of others in their cabin, and they negotiate with other kids how to act and behave toward each other. Our sister site, ourkids.net, features a longer look at how overnight camp helps kids mature. 

Special needs camps are also available. These are another wonderful experience for children of all kinds. It opens up the camp experience to kids with a variety of challenges, and is a unique way of maturing and growing up during the summer months. Kids with special considerations are encouraged to participate in a full variety of camp activities. Counselors are specially trained and always present. Camps are sometimes sponsored by non-profit or philanthropic organisations.

Leadership camps put kids into multiple situations where they're required to communicate effectively, solve problems, and lead groups. Supervised by others, they are put into situations that challenge them and spur further personal growth. Many adult camp alumni attest to a variety of different camp experiences as pivotal to their personal growth and to their development into influencers and leaders. 

Faith-based camps on Vancouver Island offer a wide range of outdoor activities while emphasizing positive values. Prayer, meditation, and religious education are often part of everyday activities at these camps.

What do summer camps on Vancouver Island cost?

Vancouver island kids’ camps vary widely in costs, depending on the type. On  average, typical overnight camps can cost $240 to over $1,000 per week, depending on their focus and the duration of the session. Vancouver Island day camps cost $50 to $500.