Planning for summer camp? This FAQ provides helpful information for both new and returning families, including details about registration, camp options, ePACT Network, and what to expect throughout the process. Whether you’re new to our camps or a returning camper, browse the answers to the frequently asked questions below to learn what to expect from this year’s registration process.
What is the difference between the camps being offered?
- Adventure Explorer’s Camp at Douglass and Leonhard are essentially the same camp in different locations! Both are run by the same management staff, take field trips, go to Sholem twice a week, and spend lots of time in the park with friends. (For ages 6-12)
- Creative Kids Summer Camp at Springer Cultural Center offers the same traditional camp activities, such as swimming and field trips, while adding an extra emphasis on arts, crafts, dance, and performing arts. (For ages 6-12)
- Teen Trailblazers Camp meets at Leonhard Recreation Center daily before heading on a unique adventure. The camp alternates weekly between biking trips and out-of-town excursions. (For ages 12-14)
- Preschool Camp at Springer Cultural Center provides a fun and engaging environment for young children all summer. Kids will enjoy indoor and outdoor activities, including music, arts and crafts, storytime, snacks, and playtime at West Side Park. (For ages 3-5)
- Champaign-Urbana Special Recreation For Kids Only Camp at CUSR Center is an inclusive camp that provides exciting sensory activities like games, crafts, sports, cooking, swimming, and field trips. A 1:4 staff-to-participant ratio is maintained as often as possible. FKO Camp is open to any individual with a disability in the age range. (For ages 5-12)
- Champaign-Urbana Special Recreation Camp Spirit at CUSR Center is an inclusive camp that provides engaging sensory activities like games, crafts, sports, cooking, swimming, and field trips for teens and young adults. A 1:4 staff-to-participant ratio is maintained as often as possible. Camp Spirit is open to any individual with a disability in the age range. (For ages 13-high school graduate)
My child would benefit from a one-on-one aide. Is there an inclusion service available for camps?
Yes! For families new to inclusion services, please be sure to check the ADA box when registering for the program. After registration, the park district program supervisor will contact you to discuss the specific support your child may need to succeed in the program.
If you feel your child would benefit from a one-on-one assistant, the park district program supervisor will submit an Inclusion Notification form to CUSR. Following this, CUSR will reach out to you with paperwork to help us better understand your child’s needs and how we can best support them.
For more questions, email the Inclusion Coordinator: cole.alvis@champaignparks.org
Do I have to pay in full upfront?
No, full payment is not required at the time of registration. Families can choose to pay in full at registration or use an installment plan. A deposit is required for each week when selecting installments, and remaining payments are due prior to the start of each camp week. For exact payment deadlines, please refer to the registration portal.
Are scholarships available for summer camp?
Yes! Parents MUST apply for scholarships as soon as possible to ensure a smooth registration process. Click here to apply.
CUSR Summer Camp scholarships have a separate application. Click here to apply.
What happens if there are no available spots when I try to register?
Complete the registration process even if your camp of choice appears to be full. Champaign Park District offers a first-come, first-served waitlist. If a spot opens, you will be contacted when it is your turn on the waitlist, and you will have 24 hours to register after being contacted. If your camper is already in a camp for those dates, please reach out to Registration (217-398-2550) ASAP to process a transfer.
What is ePact Network?
ePACT Network is a health and safety software to better support all our members and make it easier to submit critical data securely!
ePACT is a secure digital solution that allows you to quickly share the health and emergency information we need and also provides us with powerful communication tools to ensure we have a way to message you in the event of an illness, injury, or larger scale emergency.
After you register for an activity, you will receive an email invite to share information with the Champaign Park District. Click ‘Complete Request’ to create a free account, or log-in if you already have an existing ePACT account.
