Tampa’s Parks and Recreation Department has officially kicked off its summer programming, offering camps and activities for kids of all ages through Aug. 8.
Officials made the announcement Tuesday, highlighting that in order to host more than 7,000 kids in various summer camps, they will employ more than 400 seasonal workers.
“Summer is the best time of year in Parks & Recreation,” Mayor Jane Castor said. “Our camps are full of kids day and night, and they are laughing, playing, and growing – and getting better at sports, dance, gymnastics, swimming, theatre and so much more.”
Officials stated that their popular Stay & Play teen program had a total attendance of over 13,000 last summer. They added that the increase in campers and activities is driving the need for more staff to run the programs.
“The employment opportunities available in the summer are staggering – more than 400 get to earn a paycheck and start a career,” City Councilwoman Naya Young said. “Many of these seasonal employees enjoy their jobs so much that they return in following summers, or move on to full-time jobs with the City of Tampa.”
City officials highlighted the return of a seasonal employee, Russell Cole, who will be working his third summer. Cole will be a Recreation Leader this summer at the Riverfront Recreation Center, which will help him fulfill his internship requirements at the University of Florida. Officials noted, too, that Amahj Malphus, 16, participated in Stay & Play for two years and became a seasonal employee.
Tampa’s Parks & Recreation will also be offering specialty camps in some sports. Officials say there are still spots in sports camps for basketball, flag football and multi-sports camp, as well as girls-only sports. The State & Play free program for teenagers will be operating from 6-11 p.m. at nine locations in the city, seven nights a week.
Parents can visit the city’s website to register or call 813-274-5132 to get information. You can read a parent’s guide here.
According to the city’s website, below are the different types of camps:
R.E.C. Camp | Running from June 1 to August 7, full-day camp.
Price per participant: $80 for the summer
Must be 5 years old or older on or before Sept. 1, 2025
According to the city, participants will enjoy multiple activities, crafts and games. There may also be field trips.
Specialty Camp | This can be a half-day or full-day camp, from 3 days up to one week
Price per participant: Most are $100 per week, city officials say
According to the city, participants will enjoy an in-depth exploration of a specialized activity in arts (visual and theatre), sports, aquatics, or something else.
To view availability for each camp, visit the city’s activity search website.
Learn about seasonal job opportunities here.