Overview

The Animal Welfare League of Arlington (AWLA) is excited to offer animal-themed summer camps for kids in 2026! Designed for children ages 6–13, our youth summer camp programs provide a fun, educational, and hands-on experience that helps campers learn about animal welfare while making a real difference for shelter pets. Our Arlington, VA summer camps explore different areas of the animal shelter and engage campers in activities that support the well-being of animals in our care. Each week is filled with interactive lessons, games, crafts, guest speakers, and—of course—supervised time with companion animals. Campers build empathy, confidence, and compassion while creating memories they'll carry with them long after summer ends.

Each day includes a mix of education, enrichment, and hands-on experiences. A sample schedule may include:

• 9:00 a.m. – Check-in, icebreakers, animal encounter
• 9:30 a.m. – Lesson (e.g., Wildlife in Virginia)
• 10:00 a.m. – Brain-break game
• 10:30 a.m. – Animal care activities (vet care, medical rounds, microchips, X-rays)
• 11:30 a.m. – Lunch
• 12:15 p.m. – Games and enrichment
• 12:45 p.m. – Guest speaker
• 2:15 p.m. – Craft activity
• 3:00 p.m. – Pickup Schedules may vary by session.

Will campers interact with animals? Expand Yes—animal interaction is a core part of camp, while always prioritizing camper safety and animal welfare. Because shelter populations change, we cannot guarantee interaction with specific species. Interactions may include hands-on engagement or observation. As a Fear Free organization , interactions may end if an animal shows signs of stress.

• Location: All camps are held on-site at the AWLA animal shelter in Arlington, Virginia
• Camper Capacity: Maximum of 16 campers per session
• Staffing Ratio: At least 3 trained staff/volunteers per 16 campers We can't wait to welcome your child for a meaningful summer camp experience they'll never forget.