We know that finding the best summer camp for your child is a top priority. In Westchester, there are nearly 250 day camps to choose from, so you are sure to find more than a few that meet your child’s interests, as well as your schedule and budget. Once you’ve narrowed down the field of prospective camps, be sure that the camps you are considering have a permit from the health department.
When a children’s program qualifies as a camp, the health department permits the program to operate legally, and ensures that it operates in compliance with New York State Sanitary Code requirements. A permit is issued only when the camp is in compliance with the state’s health regulations. Permitted children’s camps are inspected twice yearly by a health department sanitarian to ensure the physical facilities are safe, supervision is adequate and the facility is in compliance with the NYS Sanitary Code.
It’s important to know that not all summer programs for children qualify as children's camps. Those that do not qualify as a camp are not inspected by the health department. When the camp involves just a single activity, such as lacrosse, hockey, football or tennis, or even drama or computing, and does not include swimming or boating, the program is not considered a camp and does not get inspected by or need a permit from the health department.
Parents can view the most current list of children’s camps that hold a permit from the Westchester County Health Department. The list is updated as permits are issued, so camps that open later in the summer may not be listed yet. If you don’t see your day camp listed, please call us at 914-813-5000. Please note that some camps on our list are located and operated at private clubs and are open to the children of club members only.
If you would like to see the most recent inspection for a particular camp, please submit a record request to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. Include your name, email address and the name and address of the camp.
Some private day camps also are accredited by the American Camping Association. The ACA seal indicates an additional level of scrutiny, with its own set of standards that must be met. For example, background checks of all staff members are required for all ACA camps. Currently, municipal day camps do not seek ACA accreditation.
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Staying healthy is a big job for kids! And often, keeping their children healthy is a bigger job for parents. A child’s health is more than just about being disease-free; it includes their physical, emotional and mental wellbeing. It is important that kids go to their health care provider for regular check-ups, in addition to going when they are not feeling well. In New York State, every child is eligible for health insurance. If your child does not currently have health coverage, learn more about Child Health Plus and enroll them today.
Regular check-ups with a primary care or general practitioner are essential for maintaining good health. For various reasons*, adults often forgo visiting their doctor. However, regular check-ups are an important part of staying healthy. Health issues such as cancer, diabetes, prenatal care, vaccination and sexually transmitted diseases impact the lives of many adults.
