Registration is now open for the Chicago Park District's 2025 summer programming, but some parents are experiencing sticker shock due to increased camp fees. Online registration opened on Monday, April 14, for camps west of California Avenue and all virtual programs. Registration for camps east of California will begin on Tuesday, April 15, at 9 a.m., followed by gymnastics programs opening at noon.
The district's summer programs, which include sports, fitness, and arts, were made available for viewing on the park district's website on April 7. Day camp runs from June 23 to August 1, while most other summer programs take place from June 16 to August 10. Last fall, the Chicago Park District announced a "modest" price increase for summer day camps, but some parents are finding the increases significant.
Johanna Paul, a mother of two from Lincoln Park, expressed her concerns about the increased costs. Her sons, ages 7 and 9, attended camp last summer at Wrightwood Park and had a wonderful experience. However, when she learned the price for the six-week camp at Wrightwood had jumped from $330 last year to $460 this year, she felt overwhelmed. "With one kid, you can probably manage that increase. But for us, we’re always having to multiply the price, and that cost just wasn’t feasible for us this year," Paul said.
The Chicago Park District confirmed that summer camp fees have increased across the board. A spokesperson explained, "As previously announced in the 2025 budget, the Park District has implemented modest program fee adjustments at some parks. As a measure to provide relief to families facing financial uncertainties back in 2020, camp fees had been cut in half. To bring fees back up to pre-COVID levels and to address rising operational costs, fees are being raised for this summer." The district added that even with these adjustments, day camp fees remain below pre-pandemic levels, standing at 97% of Chicago parks.
The highest camp cost this year will be $4.00 per hour, while the average cost across the district is $1.39 per hour. While the increase in fees has caused concern among some parents, the park district assures that families facing financial hardships will not be turned away. Financial assistance is available for those who qualify, including payment plans.
Paul acknowledged the value of the park district camps, stating, "It is still a great deal and I think people definitely should be doing the park district camps." However, she wished there had been more communication regarding the extent of the price increase. She remarked, "I wish there was more of a heads up about how much the increase was going to be, then I could have managed my expectations."
For families wishing to register, the park district recommends checking their email and password, creating a wish list of programs, and using a desktop or laptop for optimal registration experience. In-person registration will be available on Saturday, April 19, and April 21, varying by park.
In addition to summer camps, the Chicago Park District is also hiring lifeguards for the upcoming summer season. Applications for lifeguard positions are open now, with skills tests scheduled to begin in May. The job offers $19.75 an hour, and the district is hopeful to avoid a lifeguard shortage this year, having successfully done so in 2024 for the first time in years.
As the summer approaches, the Chicago Park District remains committed to providing quality programs and experiences for children, even amidst the challenges of rising costs. Families are encouraged to take advantage of the available resources, including financial assistance, to ensure their children can participate in the enriching activities offered throughout the summer.
