Summer Programs

Staff walk campers to the pool once a week. Campers wear swimsuits to camp that day and bring a backpack with a towel, goggles, and a change of clothes. Accommodations are available for campers who choose not to swim. The Albany Aquatic Center is located at 1311 Portland Ave.

Friendship Camp has two classrooms with an assortment of curated activity spaces.  The activities are developed by our staff and thoughtfully designed to allow children the opportunity to explore and create. Below we have provided a sneak peak into what your children can expect with our curriculum. 

Tinkering

At Friendship Camp we value sustainability and creativity. You can find the children at the Cardboard Construction Tinker Table utilizing recycled materials to create anything they want using their imagination . Cardboard

Sensory Tables

Our sensory tables allow children to explore different materials, problem-solve, and develop creativity using their hands and a variety of tools. 

Arts and Crafts

We value and encourage creativity while providing a fun and interactive way for children to develop and improve motor skills. Our projects are presented and then driven by the interests and imaginations of the children. 

Science Exploration

This ultimately strengthens children's problem-solving and analytical skills by using the scientific method.  It prompts children to question how things work and develop an understanding of their environment. Children are born mini scientists and science exploration nurtures children to be agents of their own learning, fostering skills in critical thinking.

Building & Engineering

In our Building and Engineering space, we encourage the children to explore the concepts of stability, balance, and measurement.  We have waffle blocks, Legos, plus plus, magnetiles, wood blocks, and more.

Dramatic Play

Our small kitchen, non-operational computers and phones, and stuffed animals allow children the opportunity to take on roles and act them out as a way of exploring themselves, their surroundings, and other perspectives.

Reading Nook

We have a variety of books that are available in all day long for the children to relax and explore new stories. 

Outdoor Games & Spaces

In our outdoor space, the children play various games while learning the importance of teamwork and sportsmanship. Our outdoor space allows children to relax, exercise, and a chance to share their interests with others. 

Friendship Summer Camp offers a fun and engaging summer experience for children entering grades 1–5. Each week includes arts and crafts, hands-on projects, group games, outdoor play, and swim days at the Albany Aquatic Center. Led by experienced Friendship Club staff, camp provides a safe and welcoming space for children to make friends, try new activities, and enjoy summer. Links below provide full program details.

Friendship Club Staff lead a Pokémon Camp where campers learn gameplay, deck building, and strategy. Each day includes challenges and friendly tournaments. Campers of all experience levels are welcome. Participants may bring their own cards to play and practice new skills. Links below provide full program details.

Friendship Club Staff lead an arts and crafts camp where campers explore painting, drawing, sculpting, and nature crafts. Campers learn new techniques and express their ideas through hands-on projects. Activities include creating sculptures with recycled materials and making friendship bracelets. Campers take home their creations at the end of the session. Links below provide full program details.

Financial subsidies are available for Friendship Summer Camps, the Junior Counselor Program and the Friendship Club Afterschool Program. Subsidy participants must live in Albany and demonstrate income eligibility. 

The Friendship Subsidy Program does not apply to City of Albany contract classes or camps.

Apply Here

Register Here

Registration will close at 11 AM on the Thursday prior to the beginning of each camp week. Camp welcome emails for the week ahead will be sent at that time. 

CAMP REFUND POLICY

All Refund Requests must be made in writing by email to friendshipclub@albanyca.org

• Thirty (30) business days or more before the first day of camp: Payee refunded less a $20 withdrawal fee.
• Eleven (11) business days or more before the first day of camp: Payee will receive a 50% refund.
• Ten (10) business days or fewer to the first day of camp: Refunds will not be granted.
• Camp is refunded if cancelled by the City of Albany.
• Cancellations and transfers will not be granted for nonattendance.

Yes! We've planned an enriching curriculum for the children and Staff will be equipped to implement weekly activities in arts, crafts, engineering, science, sensory activities, as well as indoor and outdoor games.

Please do not bring toys from home into camp. We will provide all the toys, games, and supplies for a great time!

Staff will not apply sunscreen on campers. Sunscreen should be applied at the start of the camp day by a parent/guardian. If you would like to send sunscreen with campers, they can re-apply sunscreen anytime.

Friendship Camp does not provide food of any kind. Children are required to bring2 snacks(morning and afternoon),1 lunch, and1 reusable water bottle. Friendship Camp is a NUT FREE environment.

Children should wear weather appropriate clothing and comfortable shoes.

 Our camps are mixed age groups ranging from 1st-5thgraders. Groups will not be separated by age groups, but rather encouraged to work together in developmentally appropriate activities.