When families start searching for summer camps near the Boston area, they quickly discover just how many options there are. From inclusive programs for children with special needs to immersive arts, music, and equine camps, Greater Boston offers something for every interest, learning style, and personality.
To help you navigate the choices, we’ve rounded up some of the best types of specialty summer camps in the Boston area. We encourage families to do their own research on camps they are considering to ensure it’s the right fit – we even have a blog article about the top questions parents ask when choosing a summer camp.
Special Needs Summer Camp: Camp Starfish
Camp Starfish is a one-of-a-kind special needs summer camp serving children and teens with emotional, behavioral, and learning challenges. Located within 2 hours of Boston and proudly serving families in the Greater Boston area, Camp Starfish is designed for campers who may struggle in traditional camp settings but thrive when given the right support, structure, and understanding.
What sets Camp Starfish apart is its therapeutic, relationship-based approach. Campers benefit from:
- A 1:1 staff-to-camper ratio
- Individualized behavioral and emotional supports
- A predictable and structured daily routine paired with classic camp fun
- A focus on building confidence, independence, and social skills
Activities include swimming, arts and crafts, sports, nature exploration, and team-building games, all scaffolded so every camper can succeed. For families seeking a summer camp near Boston that truly understands neurodiversity and social-emotional needs, Camp Starfish is a trusted and transformative choice.
Arts Camp: New Art Center Children’s Summer Camps
Boston’s rich arts scene makes it a fantastic place for young creatives to explore visual art, theater, dance, and more. The New Art Center in Newton, MA offers summer camps for kids in grades 1-6, as well as Teen Summer Art Studios for kids in grades 7-12. Classes are intended for kids at any art ability level, and camp days are packed with 5 exciting activities each day with all materials provided. An extended day program is offered to accommodate a busy work schedule.
Projects completed will use the following techniques:
- Drawing and Painting
- Sculpting and Clay
- STEAM-inspired activities
Exciting themed weeks like “Game On,” “Buildings and Cities,” and “Cartoons and Comics” await you when you sign your child up for this summer arts day camp!
Music Camp: The Walden Young Musicians Program
For campers who are constantly humming, drumming, or composing, you may want to look for a music-specific summer camp near Boston. One standout music summer camp near Boston is the Walden Young Musicians Program for kids ages 9-18. This is a sleepaway program located within 2 hours of the Boston area. The program uses an application process, so make sure you know when the due date is to apply for the program in time.
Musical focuses of the program include:
- Composition
- Musicianship
- Choral Singing
- Enrichment Classes
- Concerts
- Improvisation
- Electronic Music
- Composers Forum
According to the program, Walden alumni are among the most promising young musicians, and regardless of their career choices, a summer at the camp encourages learning, growth, and a lifelong appreciation of the creative process.
Equine Camp: Willow Brook Farm Camps
Equine camps are a favorite for campers who love animals and the outdoors. One remarkable horseback riding summer camp near Boston is offered by Willow Brook Farm located in Holliston, MA. The program is geared toward children as young as 4.5 all the way up to 13 years old. Half day and full day options are available.
Typical equine camp activities include:
- Horseback riding lessons
- Grooming and stable care
- Learning horse behavior and communication
- Outdoor games and farm activities
The Willow Brook Farm camp boasts an impressive property with 2 large indoor arenas, an outdoor arena with a jumper course, a cross-country schooling field, trails around the property, and over 30 exceptional horses and ponies. The camp has options to rent gear required for riding.
Science and Nature Camp: Boston Nature Center Camp by Mass Audubon
Camp is about outdoor exploration, and some programs take this a step further by adding science education to help campers grow and connect with the world around them. One of these programs is the Boston Nature Center Camp through Mass Audubon in Mattapan. Programs are offered for children as young as 5 through the age of 13. Various payment options are available.
In addition to the core programs offered, specialty programs include:
- A farming-focused camp for ages 9-11
- A specialty “Pollinator Power” week for ages 9-11
- A Counselors-in-Training program for ages 14-15
Extended day programs are also available to accommodate a busy work schedule. Be sure to follow when general registration is open to ensure your spot.
Choosing the Right Summer Camp
With so many specialty summer camps in the Boston area, the “best” camp really depends on your child’s interests, strengths, and support needs. As you explore options, consider:
- Your child’s social and emotional needs
- Staff training and camper-to-counselor ratios
- Structure versus flexibility in daily schedules
- Whether the camp environment feels welcoming and inclusive
For families whose children need extra understanding, patience, and individualized support, Camp Starfish stands out as a place where campers are truly seen, valued, and celebrated.
Looking for a summer camp where your child can grow, belong, and have fun? Camp Starfish is proud to be part of the diverse and vibrant landscape of summer camps in the Boston area, offering a safe and supportive space where every camper can shine.
