News Flash

Parks & Recreation

Posted on: May 23, 2023

We've Got Summer Camps!

James City County Parks & Recreation has it all - outdoor adventures, arts and pottery, sports, cooking, science, camps for youth with disabilities, just to name a few! Full day to half day options open all summer long. Camps are listed by week, then age and then camp date. Registration information appears at the end of the camp listing. This listing is updated the first week of each month.

Please note: Days of Discovery Camp for ages 5-22 w/disabilities has filled for summer. For more information, please call 757-259-5354.

Week of June 20

REC Connect /Teens On Point (T.O.P) Summer Camp • Ages 5-14
Field trips, games, crafts, community service, mentoring and more featured! Registrations accepted on a space available basis.
Camps run Monday-Friday, June 20-Aug. 18*, 7 a.m.-6 p.m.
° REC Connect Elementary for ages 5-10; must have completed kindergarten. Offered at Matoaka and Matthew Whaley elementary schools. The Clara Byrd Baker and Stonehouse elementary school sites have filled for the summer; a waitlist will become available after all elementary site locations fill.
° Middle School Teens On Point (T.O.P) for ages 10-14; rising 5-8 grades is offered at J. Blaine Blayton Elementary School.
• Annual Application fee (non-refundable): $50/child (separate weekly fees)
• Full-time (4 or 5 days): $120/week includes field trip fees. $10 discount available for second and subsequent children in the same family attending full time
• Part-time (3 days or less): $100/week includes field trip fees
• Holiday Closures: June 19 (Juneteenth) and July 4
Download registration forms online or pick up at the James City County Recreation Center, the Freedom Park Interpretive Center or Satellite Services in Toano. For more information, call the REC Connect hotline at 757-259-3170 or the Recreation Services Office at 757-259-5351. Discounts are available to any qualifying resident based on total household income. For more discount assistance, please call 757-259-5414.

TSA Skate Camp • Ages 6-15
Tuesday-Friday, June 20-June 23, 9 a.m.-1 p.m.; $150
Skate Park/James City County Recreation Center
Learn the basics of skateboarding, or experienced riders can learn advanced techniques. Campers can use awesome jump ramps to perfect their ollies and other tricks. Camp instruction and activities focus on safety and feature a beginner area for novice riders, plus more advanced instruction for flow/bowl skaters to develop new skills. Be sure to pack your child's water bottle, snack/lunch, helmet, pads and skateboard. For questions, concerns or if your child does not have a helmet, pads or skateboard please email tsaproject@outlook.com. Instructor: Triangle Skateboard Alliance.

Cross Stitch and Embroidery for Beginners • Ages 8-12 NEW!
Tuesday-Friday, June 20-June 23, 9 a.m.-noon; $110
James City County Recreation Center
Gain a valuable life skill through hand sewing projects! Learn the basic skills and stitches of cross stich, embroidery and hand sewing. Multiple projects completed throughout the camp to take home. Instructor: Paula Harris Guerra.

Racket Packet • Ages 9-12 NEW!
Tuesday-Friday, June 20-June 23, 9 a.m.-noon; $75
Veterans Park
Take a swing at pickleball, tennis and badminton in this racket sports sampler. Learn the basics and what makes each of them unique.

Week of June 26

Virginia Legacy Recreational Soccer Camp • Ages 5-12
Half Day: Monday-Friday, June 26-June 30, 9 a.m.-noon; $140
Full Day: Monday-Friday, June 26-June 30, 9 a.m.-3 p.m.; $225
Lois Hornsby Middle School
Revolving around soccer-related games, activities, trainings and competitions, camp is designed to meet the needs of beginner, developmental, recreational and advanced soccer players. All participants receive a Legacy Camp T-shirt and medal! Instructor: Virginia Legacy.

REC Connect /Teens On Point (T.O.P) Summer Camp • Ages 5-14
Monday-Friday through Aug. 18, 7 a.m.- 6 p.m.; various locations/fees.

Science and Engineering Camp • Ages 10-14
Monday-Friday, June 26-June 30, 9 a.m.-4 p.m.; $135
James City County Recreation Center*
*On Wednesday, camp drop off/pickup is Chickahominy Riverfront Park
Discover physics by making rockets and marble roller coasters, chemistry through chemical reactions and engineering by designing a water system. Campers can experience science and engineering through hands-on explorations with a field trip to the Science Museum of Virginia in Richmond. Instructor: Ann Beatty.

Week of July 3

Little Tykes Summer Camp • Ages 3-5
Monday-Thursday, July 3-Aug. 10, 8:30-11:30 a.m.; *$65/week
No program July 4 (*$55/week)
James City County Recreation Center
A super fun pre-K camp with creative arts and crafts, outdoor play, music and interactive stories! Come join the weekly adventures! Children must be toilet trained.

Recycle Rangers • Ages 4-6 NEW!
Wednesday-Friday, July 5-July 7, 1-4 p.m.; $50
James City County Recreation Center
“Waste” no time learning about recycling! Get a jump on the importance of reduce, reuse, recycle through crafts, games and other activities.

REC Connect /Teens On Point (T.O.P) Summer Camp • Ages 5-14
Monday-Friday through Aug. 18, 7 a.m.- 6 p.m.; various locations/fees.

Week of July 10

Little Tykes Summer Camp • Ages 3-5
Monday-Thursday through Aug. 10, 8:30-11:30 a.m.; $65/week.
James City County Recreation Center

Virginia Legacy Recreational Soccer Camp • Ages 5-12
Half Day: Monday-Friday, July 10-July 14, 9 a.m.-noon; $140
Full Day: Monday-Friday, July 10-July 14, 9 a.m.-3 p.m.; $225
Lois Hornsby Middle School
Revolving around soccer-related games, activities, trainings and competitions, this camp is designed to meet the needs of beginner, developmental, recreational and advanced soccer players. All participants receive a Legacy Camp T-shirt and medal! Instructor: Virginia Legacy.

REC Connect /Teens On Point (T.O.P) Summer Camp • Ages 5-14
Monday-Friday through Aug. 18, 7 a.m.- 6 p.m.; various locations/fees.

All Star Football Clinic • Ages 8-13 FREE!
Thursday-Friday, July 13-July 14, 9 a.m.-noon
Warhill Sports Complex
Hands-on/no pads camp to learn tackling, blocking, passing and other skills to be successful. Former WJCC athletes and local high school coaches will get you ready for tryouts! Lunch provided.

Latitude Climbing • Ages 9-12 NEW!
Monday-Wednesday, July 10-July 12, 9 a.m.-4 p.m.; $160
James City County Recreation Center
Explore new heights at Latitude Climbing + Fitness in Hampton while learning about indoor rock climbing! No experience or gear needed.

Science and Engineering Camp • Ages 10-14
Monday-Friday, July 10-July 14, 9 a.m.-4 p.m.; $135
James City County Recreation Center*
*On Wednesday, camp drop off/pickup is Chickahominy Riverfront Park
Discover physics by making rockets and marble roller coasters, chemistry through chemical reactions and engineering by designing a water system. Campers can experience science and engineering through hands-on explorations with a field trip to the Science Museum of Virginia in Richmond. Instructor: Ann Beatty.

Week of July 17

Little Tykes Summer Camp • Ages 3-5
Monday-Thursday through Aug. 10, 8:30-11:30 a.m.; $65/week.
James City County Recreation Center

REC Connect /Teens On Point (T.O.P) Summer Camp • Ages 5-14
Monday-Friday through Aug. 18, 7 a.m.- 6 p.m.; various locations/fees.

Mighty Girls Yoga! Camp • Ages 7-10
Monday-Thursday, July 17-July 20, 9 a.m.-noon; $120
Freedom Park
The focus of the Mighty Girls Yoga Camp is to help increase self-confidence while learning to grow in peace as you build strength and resilience from the inside out. We’ll learn the physical, mental and social benefits of yoga and mindfulness practices within a safe, fun, cooperative environment while exploring the beautiful outdoors of Freedom Park. Discover your strengths through journaling, nature walks, yoga games and art activities. We’ll collaborate on becoming agents of peace within the community and leaders in our lives. Classes based on the Little Flower Yoga methodology. Questions? Call 757-259-4176.

Sound Wellness Camp • Ages 8-13
Monday-Thursday, July 17-July 20, 3-5 p.m.; $75
Freedom Park
Your child will have the opportunity to listen to their favorite songs, create engaging playlists, play drums and other percussion instruments, and learn techniques to relieve stress and anxiety the healthy way!

Stand Up Paddleboard (SUP) Camp • Ages 8-14 (grouped by age)
Tuesday-Thursday, July 18-July 20, 9 a.m.-noon; $130
Jamestown Beach Event Park
This SUP class introduces kids to a whole new way on the water! They’ll learn the anatomy of the board and paddle, how to paddle out, proper stance and paddling techniques all while practicing water safety out on the boards. Life jackets are mandatory. Bring lunch daily. Must be a proficient swimmer.

Park Passport Camp • Ages 9-12
Monday-Friday, July 17-July 21, 9 a.m.-4 p.m.; $175
James City County Recreation Center
Showcasing unique activities, excursions and programs on a tour of surrounding local and state parks. Fees include transportation, admissions, amenities and excursion fees. Bring lunch daily.

Multi-Sport Camp • Ages 10-12
Monday-Friday, July 17-July 21, 9 a.m.-4 p.m.; $125
Lois Hornsby Middle School
Discover numerous different team and individual sport options including basketball, baseball, soccer, floor hockey and more. Camp includes a lunch pizza party on Friday.

Week of July 24

Kiskiack Junior Golf Academy • Ages 6-14
Monday-Thursday, July 24-July 27, 9 a.m.-noon; $130
Kiskiack Golf Course
FORE! Cover the fundamentals of golf including stance, swing, etiquette, sportsmanship, rules and competitive situations. Kiskiack shirt, ball, range voucher and a bag tag included! Instructor: Kiskiack Golf Course.

Youth Running Camp • Ages 8-13
Monday-Wednesday, July 24-July 26, 9-11 a.m.; $75
Greensprings Interpretive Trail
Your child will enjoy this summer running camp where they’ll learn the basics of healthy running, build endurance, speed, agility and motivation. Bring water, beach towel and appropriate running attire. Athletic shoes required.

Week of July 31

AG Basketball & Speed Training Camp • Ages 6-13
Monday-Friday, July 31-Aug. 4, 9 a.m.-4 p.m.; $190
Lois Hornsby Middle School
Increase basketball skills in an intense and fun atmosphere while maximizing performance and achieving peak condition. Concentrate on shooting mechanics, one on one defense, scoring, ball handling, passing and more. Instructor: Athletes Global.

Outdoor Experience with JRA • Ages 10-14
Monday-Friday, July 31-Aug. 4, 9 a.m.-1 p.m.; $200
James City County Marina
Kayak Powhatan Creek, perform seine netting and water quality testing, and learn about the area’s Native American history through archaeological digs. Instructor: James River Association.

Christmas in July • Ages 10-15 NEW!
Monday-Friday, July 31-Aug. 4, 9 a.m.- noon; $110
James City County Recreation Center
Have a Holly Jolly …July? That’s right - it’s Christmas in July! We’ll create holiday crafts, learn wrapping techniques, listen to Christmas music and try out new cookie recipes. It’s never too early to get into the spirit! Instructor: Paula Harris Guerra.

Week of August 7

Youth Running Camp • Ages 8-13
Monday-Wednesday, Aug. 7-Aug. 9, 9-11 a.m.; $75
Greensprings Interpretive Trail
Your child will enjoy this summer running camp where they’ll learn the basics of healthy running, build endurance, speed, agility and motivation. Bring water, beach towel and appropriate running attire. Athletic shoes required.

Kids Stand Up Paddleboard (SUP) Camp • Ages 8-14 (grouped by age)
Tuesday-Thursday, Aug. 8-Aug. 10, 9 a.m.-noon; $130
Jamestown Beach Event Park
This SUP class introduces kids to a whole new way on the water! They’ll learn the anatomy of the board and paddle, how to paddle out, proper stance and paddling techniques all while practicing water safety out on the boards. Life jackets are mandatory. Bring lunch daily. Must be a proficient swimmer.

Outdoor Experience with JRA • Ages 10-14
Monday-Friday, Aug. 7-Aug. 11, 9 a.m.-1 p.m.; $200
James City County Marina
Kayak Powhatan Creek, perform seine netting and water quality testing, and learn about the area’s Native American history through archaeological digs. Instructor: James River Association.

Week of August 14

Kidz R Cookin’ Around the World • Ages 5-8
Monday-Thursday, Aug. 14-Aug. 17, 2-5 p.m.; $165
James City County Recreation Center
Cooking, music and crafts from around the globe will all come together in this special hands-on cooking camp. Each day will be a different culinary adventure by exploring culture, food and tradition. New countries and recipes! Please note any food allergies during registration. Pack a lunch and/or heavy snack. Instructor: Chef Wendy, Kidz-R-Cookin’.

Virginia Legacy Recreational Soccer Camp • Ages 5-12
Half Day: Monday-Friday, Aug. 14-Aug. 18, 9 a.m.-noon; $140
Full Day: Monday-Friday, Aug. 14-Aug. 18, 9 a.m.-3 p.m.; $225
Lois Hornsby Middle School
Revolving around soccer-related games, activities, trainings and competitions, this camp is designed to meet the needs of beginner, developmental, recreational and advanced soccer players. All participants receive a Legacy Camp T-shirt and medal! Instructor: Virginia Legacy.

REC Connect /Teens On Point (T.O.P) Summer Camp • Ages 5-14
Monday-Friday through Aug. 18, 7 a.m.- 6 p.m.; various locations/fees.

Youth Summer Rowing Camps • Middle School (incoming 6-8th grades)
Monday-Saturday, Aug. 14-Aug. 19, times to be announced; $200
Chickahominy Riverfront Park
Rowers can learn the basics of the boat, rowing technique and navigation leading to a Camp Regatta on Saturday. This is great preparation if rowers are interested in continuing the sport in the fall season. Rowers should be able to swim. For more information email comm.wbc@gmail.com or visit www.williamsburgboatclub.org/. Camp cost is $200 with 50% applicable to fall participation.

Paddling Exploration • Ages 12-14 NEW!
Monday-Thursday, Aug. 14-Aug. 17, 9 a.m.-4 p.m.; $175
James City County Recreation Center
Explore surrounding waterways in kayaks, canoes and stand-up paddle boards. Observe the different features and wildlife that make each body of water unique. All activities are weather dependent. Bring lunch daily.

Days of Discovery Adventure Camp • Ages 13-22 with Disabilities NEW!
Tuesday-Thursday, Aug. 15-Aug. 17, 9 a.m.-noon; $75
Spend time in the outdoors, challenge yourself and make new friends in this new camp experience! We’ll meet at various locations each day. Registration required. *New participants must complete an Inclusion Profile. Call 757-259-5354 or email Tracy.Newsom@jamescitycountyva.gov to receive the required paperwork. Registration deadline Aug. 7, noon. Multiple Locations

Week of August 21

STEM: Cooking and Me! • Ages 9-12 NEW!
Monday-Thursday, Aug. 21-Aug. 24, 10 a.m.-1 p.m.; $165
James City County Recreation Center
Each camp day will consist of hands-on cooking activities along with complementary S.T.E.M. concepts. Prepare healthy snacks, beverages and entrees from scratch. All recipes, activities and preparation will cover math, food science and/or nutrition concepts. Please note any food allergies during registration. Pack a lunch. Instructor: Chef Wendy, Kidz-R-Cookin’.

SPA Essentials for Kidz • Ages 9-12
Monday-Thursday, Aug. 21-Aug. 24, 2-5 p.m.; $165
James City County Recreation Center
Using only natural and wholesome ingredients, campers can make their own products including body butters, soy candles, bath bombs, bubble bath, shampoo and more! Learn about the chemical properties of all ingredients used. All products will be labeled and packaged for home. Pack a lunch and/or heavy snack. Instructor: Chef Wendy, Kidz-R-Cookin’.

Multi-Sport Camp • Ages 7-9
Monday-Friday, Aug. 21-Aug. 25, 9 a.m.-1 p.m.; $100
James City County Recreation Center
Discover numerous different team and individual sport options including basketball, baseball, soccer, floor hockey and more. Camp includes a lunch pizza party on Friday.

Reconnect Outdoors • Ages 10-14
Monday-Friday, Aug. 21-Aug. 25, 9 a.m.-noon; $120
James City County Recreation Center
Escape from technology and sample the outdoors! Venture from home base on a different local excursion each day. Activities may include kayaking, geocaching, biking, hiking and more, all while learning about the historical and natural history that surrounds us.

Youth Summer Rowing Camps • High School (incoming 9-12th grades)
Monday-Saturday, Aug. 21-Aug. 26, times to be announced; $200
Chickahominy Riverfront Park
Rowers can learn the basics of the boat, rowing technique and navigation leading to a Camp Regatta on Saturday. This is great preparation if rowers are interested in continuing the sport in the fall season. Rowers should be able to swim. For more information email comm.wbc@gmail.com or visit www.williamsburgboatclub.org/. Camp cost is $200 with 50% applicable to fall participation.

Outdoor Pools Open • All Ages
James City County’s two outdoor pools and splash pad open Memorial Day weekend! For locations, costs and operating hours, visit Outdoor Pools .

To Register
Unless otherwise noted, please visit us online or call 757-259-4200 for more details and registration information. For the complete list of Parks & Recreation activities, programs and events, check out our Summer 2023 Destination Recreation Activity Brochure. Hard copies of the brochure are available at the James City County Recreation Center, the Abram Frink Jr. Community Center, public Parks & Recreation facilities, the Satellite Office in Toano and at the James City County and Williamsburg libraries.

Inclement Weather/Cancellations
All Outdoor Events are weather permitting. Before heading out, please call the Activities Hotline at 757-259-3232 any changes in schedules.

Holiday Closures:
° The James City County Recreation Center and the Abram Frink Jr. Community Center are closed Monday, May 29 in observance of Memorial Day. All County parks, including the Stores/Offices within the parks, are open.
° The James City County Recreation Center and the Abram Frink Jr. Community Center are closed Tuesday, July 4 in observance of Independence Day. All County parks, including the Stores/Offices within the parks, are open.

Program Sites
Abram Frink Jr. Community Center, 8901 Pocahontas Trail
Chickahominy Riverfront Park, 1350 John Tyler Highway
Freedom Park/Interpretive Center, 5537 Centerville Road
Greensprings Interpretive Trail, 3751 John Tyler Highway
J. Blaine Blayton Elementary School, 800 Jolly Pond Road
James City County Marina, 2054 Jamestown Road
James City County Recreation Center, 5301 Longhill Road
Jamestown Beach Event Park, 2205 Jamestown Road
Kiskiack Golf Course, 8104 Club Drive
Lois Hornsby Middle School, 850 Jolly Pond Road
Matoaka Elementary School, 4001 Brick Bat Road
Matthew Whaley Elementary School, 301 Scotland Street
Skate Park (adjacent to James City County Recreation Center), 5301 Longhill Road
Satellite Services Office, 3127 Forge Road, Toano
Veterans Park (Kidsburg), 3793 Ironbound Road
Warhill Sports Complex/Wanner Stadium, 4900 Stadium Drive