The Most Popular Summer Day Camps in Westchester County
One of the many reasons families love living in Westchester County is the incredible variety of summer programs available for children. Whether your child loves sports, swimming, science, the arts, or simply spending time outdoors, there's a camp that fits almost every interest and age group.
For many home buyers relocating to the Hudson Valley, access to great summer camps is an important quality-of-life consideration. If you're moving to Chappaqua, Pleasantville, Armonk, Briarcliff Manor, Scarsdale, or neighboring communities, here are some of the area's most popular day camps.
Camp Hillard (Scarsdale)
One of Westchester's longest-running and most respected day camps, Camp Hillard has been welcoming campers since 1929. The camp combines traditional summer activities with modern facilities, offering swimming, athletics, creative arts, performing arts, and specialty programs. Families appreciate its strong sense of community and experienced staff.
Mohawk Day Camp (White Plains)
Mohawk Day Camp has built an excellent reputation for younger campers. Children enjoy swimming, sports, arts and crafts, nature activities, and themed events throughout the summer. Many local families return year after year because of its welcoming atmosphere and age-appropriate programming.
Purchase Day Camp (Purchase)
Located on a beautiful campus in Purchase, this camp offers a traditional day camp experience with plenty of swimming, athletics, STEM activities, ziplining, arts and crafts, and outdoor fun. Certified teachers help lead many of the programs, making it especially appealing for younger children.
Challenge Camp (Hartsdale)
If your child enjoys learning as much as playing, Challenge Camp offers a unique blend of academics and fun. Campers can choose from robotics, coding, engineering, filmmaking, theater, science, creative writing, and dozens of enrichment classes while still enjoying traditional camp activities.
Elmwood Day Camp (White Plains)
Elmwood emphasizes smaller camper groups and individualized attention. Activities include sports, swimming, creative arts, adventure courses, and specialty programs designed to help children develop confidence while making new friends. It has become a favorite among many Westchester families looking for a personalized camp experience.
Oasis Day Camp (Dobbs Ferry)
Oasis serves children from preschool through high school and offers a wide range of sports, arts, swimming, nature, and adventure activities. Flexible programming and extended-day options make it especially attractive for working parents.
Camp Nabby (Mohegan Lake)
Located in northern Westchester, Camp Nabby features a beautiful 17-acre campus with swimming, athletics, creative arts, and traditional camp games. The camp focuses on building friendships, confidence, and teamwork in a fun outdoor setting.
Teatown Summer Camp (Ossining)
Nature-loving kids often gravitate toward Teatown's unique summer programs. Campers spend their days hiking, exploring forests, studying wildlife, investigating ponds, and learning about the environment through hands-on activities. It's an excellent choice for children who love the outdoors.
Squire Camps (Hartsdale)
Squire Camps offers a customizable camp experience where children can choose activities based on their interests. Programs include athletics, enrichment, arts, and specialty classes, making it a great fit for families looking for flexibility.
Choosing the Right Camp
Every child is different, so the "best" camp depends on personality and interests.
Consider factors such as:
- Age ranges
- Transportation availability
- Swimming instruction
- Counselor-to-camper ratios
- Specialty activities
- Extended day options
- Cost and scheduling flexibility
Many camps offer open houses during the spring, allowing families to tour the facilities before making a decision.
Why This Matters to Home Buyers
Families relocating to Westchester County often ask about schools first—but summer activities are just as important. Access to outstanding day camps is one of the many reasons communities like Chappaqua, Pleasantville, Armonk, Briarcliff Manor, Rye, and Scarsdale remain so attractive to young families.
At NestEdge Realty, we help home buyers evaluate not just the home itself, but the lifestyle that comes with living in Westchester County. From parks and recreation to schools, camps, and community events, understanding what each town offers can make finding the perfect neighborhood much easier.
