Local Youth Summer Programs for All Ages

Everyone's favorite season is upon us, the Summer. That means no school, long hot days in the sun, and spending time with family and friends, while enjoying delicious barbecue. If you are looking for anything fun to do to keep your children occupied and active, there are plenty of summer time activities and camps around Fort Bragg, and the surrounding local area that offer just that, with little to no cost. Here are just a few to consider. 

Fort Bragg has the Armed Services YMCA, located on the main post. They provide programs for all military children from ages 3-17.  "Operation Camp" is the summer program offered. It provides opportunities for military children to make meaningful connections. For military children, who may face moving to a new city, state, and school every two to three years, these friendships, support networks, and memories last a lifetime. Operation Camp is open to the public and available for children in grades Kindergarten – 5th, and runs from June 2nd through August 8th. Located at South Harnett Elementary,  with the hours of operation being from 7:00 am to 6:00 pm. Weekly cost is $165. Visit Operation Camp - Fort Bragg ASYMCA for more information. 

The YMCA of the Sandhills has plenty of programs to offer for the local area, and are at different locations to include Fayetteville, Cameron, and Sanford. The location in Cameron provides the free GET SUMMER membership for ages 12-18 which includes exclusive teen-only workouts, swimming, trips, competitions and social events - all designed for fun and connection.  Plus, teens can gain real world skills with help from local mentors, learning things like how to ace a job interview, manage money, and handle stress. GET SUMMER teen membership sign-ups start May 15, 2025 and includes membership for June, July and August, and specific programs and events only for teens. Visit the YMCA in Cameron if interested in registering. Visit the YMCA of the Sandhills Home page. 

Harnett County 4-H is offering a variety of fun and educational activities for youth ages 5 to 18. Some of the workshops that the youth will participate in include cooking, gardening, circuitry, STEM, fishing, rocket building, baking, beginning sewing, and other activities. All programs will have limited spaces for youth and are offered on a first-come, first-served basis. Registration opens at 12:30 p.m. on May 21, 2025. If interested, visit 4-H Summer Fun 2025 | N.C. Cooperative Extension for information on how to register. 

First Tee Sandhills offers summer programs for the youth who are interested in or curious about learning how to golf. First Tee is a youth development organization that enables kids to build the strength of character that empowers them through a lifetime of new challenges. Ages 7-18 can participate in this program. There are numerous golf courses in the Sandhills area that the First Tee program is offered. Visit First Tee - Homepage | First Tee for more information. 

Other Summer Camp and activities available for youth on fort Bragg and local and surrounding communities:

Army MWR Youth centers and programs. Army CYS Services 

Throckmorton Library Offers summer reading and literature programs. Summer Reading Program :: Ft. Bragg :: US Army MWR

Middle School Teen Camp Located at the Chay Youth Center in Linden Oaks. Middle School Teen Summer Camp :: Ft. Bragg :: US Army MWR

Other Resources Fayetteville Summer Camps 2025 Fayetteville summer camps, 2025 Fayetteville camps, Fayetteville camps, Fayetteville summer camps

Summer Reading Camp Fort Bragg Library provide iREAD program for the summer. Kids Summer Reading - Fort Bragg Library

Summer Camp for Kids and Teens with Autism Camp Royall offers fun summer activities for kid and teens with disabilities and autism. WELCOME TO CAMP ROYALL - Autism Society of NC