UNM’s RAD Camp returns for summer 2026

The University of New Mexico's Recreational Activities Day Camp (RAD Camp) is returning for summer 2026, marking its second year back after a pause during the COVID-19 pandemic and continuing to grow as a safe and engaging summer program for children.

Hosted by UNM Recreational Services, RAD Camp provides a structured day camp experience for children ages six to 14, combining recreation, learning and supervised activities throughout the summer.

The program runs weekdays from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. and offers a variety of indoor and outdoor activities, including arts and crafts, recreational games and daily swimming. This year, campers will have a dedicated hour of swim time each day, with the entire pool reserved exclusively for the camp.

Organizers say the program's emphasis on safety and supervision is one of the reasons it continues to stand out among youth camps.

"For me as a parent, it's comforting to know my son will stay active and engaged during the break," said Elizabeth Kerl, a parent of a past participant. "My son always comes home happy, and the location is so convenient for work."

Kerl's son, Arden Kerl, also shared that, "We go swimming every day and play in the big ballroom (the yoga room). I just love being there because it's lots of fun."

Counselors are current UNM students and maintain a 1-to-5 counselor-to-camper ratio, allowing staff to closely supervise activities and provide individualized attention to participants. According to organizers, the camp's safety policies are considered among the most comprehensive on campus and are frequently referenced by UNM Risk Services and other university safety offices.

Originally designed to support UNM staff and faculty by providing accessible summer child care, RAD Camp has since expanded and is now open to families across the community while continuing to serve many university employees.

The camp operates in two-week sessions throughout the summer, beginning June 1 and continuing through Aug. 7.

The 2026 sessions include:

• Session 1: June 1 - June 12
• Session 2: June 15 - June 26
• Session 3: June 29 - July 10
• Session 4: July 13 - July 24
• Session 5: July 27 - Aug. 7

Early-bird registration is available March 2 through March 31, allowing families to reserve their child's spot at a discounted rate.

With its focus on recreation, safety and community, RAD Camp continues to offer families a trusted summer experience for children while providing opportunities for UNM student counselors to gain leadership and mentoring experience.

For more information, visit the RAD Camp webpage or email the Camp Coordinator, Natalya Hill, at [email protected].