Summer Camps & Kids Activities in Ocala
Sports camps, art programs, nature adventures, STEM learning, and year-round youth activities throughout Marion County.
Kids Programs in Marion County
Marion County offers abundant youth programming year-round, from summer camps running June through August to after-school programs, weekend workshops, and holiday break camps. Whether your child loves sports, art, science, nature, or performing arts, Ocala's diverse program offerings provide enriching experiences at price points ranging from free to premium specialty camps.
Camp & Activity Types
Sports Camps
Basketball, soccer, baseball, football, swimming, and multi-sport camps run by local coaches and organizations. Marion County Parks & Recreation, YMCA, and private academies offer week-long sessions throughout summer.
Providers: Marion County Parks & Recreation, Ocala YMCA, local sports academies
Nature & Outdoor Camps
Explore the Ocala National Forest, learn about Florida wildlife, kayak local springs, and build outdoor skills. Silver Springs State Park and local conservation groups offer eco-adventures.
Providers: Silver Springs State Park, Florida Museum programs, Appleton Museum
Arts & Creative Camps
Visual arts, theater, music, dance, and creative writing camps nurture young artists. The Reilly Arts Center, Appleton Museum, and local studios offer immersive creative experiences.
Providers: Reilly Arts Center, Appleton Museum of Art, local dance studios
STEM & Academic Camps
Robotics, coding, science experiments, engineering challenges, and math enrichment camps prepare kids for the future. Libraries, the Discovery Center, and tech-focused programs offer hands-on STEM learning.
Providers: Marion County Library STEM programs, Code Ninjas, local STEM academies
Music & Performing Arts
Piano, guitar, drums, voice, theater, and dance camps help kids discover their talents. Week-long intensives and daily drop-in classes keep young performers engaged all summer.
Providers: School of Rock, local music studios, community theater
Day Camps & Childcare
Full-day supervised programs combining activities, field trips, and social time. Boys & Girls Clubs, church programs, and private providers offer affordable options for working parents.
Providers: Boys & Girls Clubs, YMCA, church-based programs
Free Kids Activities in Ocala
Frequently Asked Questions
What summer camps are available in Ocala Florida?
Ocala offers a wide variety of summer camps including sports camps through Marion County Parks & Recreation and the YMCA, nature and outdoor camps at Silver Springs State Park and the Ocala National Forest, arts camps at the Reilly Arts Center and Appleton Museum, STEM camps at local libraries and tech academies, and full-day camps at Boys & Girls Clubs and church-based programs. Most camps run in weekly sessions from June through August.
How much do summer camps cost in Ocala?
Summer camp costs in Ocala vary widely. Marion County Parks & Recreation camps are among the most affordable at $75-150 per week. Boys & Girls Clubs offer low-cost full-day programs. Private sports academies and specialty camps (STEM, performing arts) typically range from $150-350 per week. Premium overnight or specialty camps may cost more. Financial assistance and scholarships are available through many organizations including the YMCA and Boys & Girls Clubs.
What free kids activities are there in Ocala?
Free kids activities in Ocala include the Marion County Public Library summer reading program (with prizes), Appleton Museum of Art Free First Saturday events, parks and playgrounds throughout the county, Silver Springs State Park ranger programs (with park admission), free swim days at select county pools, and family-friendly events at the downtown First Friday Art Walk. Nature trails at Santos and Sholom Park are also free to access.
Are there after-school programs in Ocala?
Yes, Ocala has many after-school program options. Boys & Girls Clubs of Marion County operates multiple sites offering homework help, enrichment activities, and recreational time. The YMCA provides after-school care. Many churches offer programs through the school year. Marion County Public Schools also operates extended day programs at select elementary schools. Private learning centers offer academic tutoring and enrichment after school.
What is there to do with kids in Ocala?
Ocala offers plenty for families including Silver Springs State Park (glass-bottom boat tours, nature trails), the Appleton Museum of Art (hands-on exhibits), Discovery Center (science and play), parks with splash pads, the Santos mountain bike trails (family-friendly loops), seasonal events at the World Equestrian Center, bowling alleys, mini-golf, movie theaters, and the Marion County library system with regular children's programming.
This guide is for informational purposes. Always verify camp details, registration deadlines, and safety certifications directly with providers. Last updated February 2026. Suggest additions.