Ever wonder how the experts would register for summer camps? Those few folks who know the system inside and out – what would they do to ease the pain of paying for a full summer of care for their kids? Stay tuned… we are letting the secrets out!

It is about this time of year that we start to dread the dollar signs that come with full time care in the summer. Luckily, we know the SWCC registration systems like the backs of our hands which can make the bill a little easier to swallow! Let us help you!

All of the SWCC Staff mark their calendars in February when the announcement of the Staycation Special discount comes out in the Winter Guide. There is a big red circle around the second Sunday in May. Make sure to register for your camps before the discount ends and you can save up to $10 per camp! I bet you can think of a few things to do with an extra $110 – $220 this summer! Call SWCC or stop by to register, this discount cannot be applied online.

The SWCC Center Director, Maryann Takashima uses the Auto-Debit option when she signs up her son. This option is available as soon as the Spring & Summer Guide comes out in February. Start any time you want. Pay a minimum $15 or $25 down payment depending on the camp. Then you can spread the remaining payments out until 2 weeks before the camp starts. We love that the payment schedule is so flexible and that you can soften the blow of 11 weeks of care by paying for it in small amounts through the spring. Make sure you have solidified vacations and summer activities before registering because the deposit is non-refundable. This needs to be done in person at the center and can take about 15 minutes to process. 

My kiddos are still young and get to stay with family a few days a week. Since I only need part time preschool care during the summer, I decide on my son’s camps and then just register for a few at a time each month on payday. If I can pay for more of it now, it leaves more funds in the bank for family adventures this summer. Now that the new Online Flip Guides are available finding the camps you need is so easy! The new electronic guide links the barcodes of the camp straight to the online registration pages!

Many SWCC Camps sell out – some in April (maybe sooner this year!), some just before the camp starts. If you have your heart set on a particular program, make sure to register early before it fills. You can always go online or call to watch numbers to see how many slots are remaining. 503-823-2840.

If your family needs financial assistance, talk to us about Camp Scholarships!  Download the form from and bring it by.

Have a question or want to get the best registration advice? Call us at 503-823-2840. Our Customer Service Representatives are ready to get you started!

Bring on the sunshine & the smiles!

~Jamie

Jamie Sandness

Recreation Coordinator | Youth & Sports Programs | Sports Camps

Jamie.sandness@portlandoregon.gov

503-823-2840