What Steve & Kate's Camp is and who runs it
Steve & Kate's Camp is a day camp operator based in Los Angeles that runs multiple locations across Southern California. The organization was founded in 2001 and focuses on unstructured, child-led play rather than traditional skill-based instruction. Each location serves children roughly ages 4 through 12, though age groupings vary by site.
The camps are run by Steve Davison and Kate Dostal, who designed the program around the idea that children learn best through self-directed exploration and play with peers. Staff members facilitate activities but do not lead structured classes in the way many traditional day camps do. The philosophy emphasizes creativity, independence, and social interaction over competitive sports or performance-based activities.
Key Takeaways
- Steve & Kate's Camp operates multiple locations in the Los Angeles area, each with its own schedule and age groups served.
- The camp model centers on unstructured play and child-led activities rather than instructor-led classes or sports teams.
- Weekly tuition varies by location and week, and the camp typically runs during school breaks and summer months.
- Enrollment happens through the camp's website, and spots fill at different rates depending on the location and session.
- The camp does not focus on teaching specific skills like swimming or soccer, so families looking for skill instruction should confirm the program matches their goals.
Locations and how to find the one nearest you
Steve & Kate's Camp operates several locations across Los Angeles County. The main locations have included sites in Los Angeles proper, as well as satellite camps in surrounding areas. Each location may have different hours, age groupings, and availability depending on the session.
To find the specific location nearest you, visit the camp's website and look for the location directory. Each site lists its address, the age groups it serves, and the weeks it operates. Some locations run year-round during school breaks, while others may operate only during summer. Contact information for each site is listed separately, so you can call or email the location directly with questions about that specific camp.
Cost and payment structure
Tuition at Steve & Kate's Camp is charged by the week. The weekly rate varies depending on which location you choose and which week you enroll in. Rates are typically higher during peak summer weeks and lower during shoulder seasons like spring break or early fall.
The camp's website displays pricing for each location and session. Most camps offer a discount if you enroll for multiple consecutive weeks. Some locations may offer payment plans or financial information, though this varies by site. You will need to contact your specific location directly to ask about payment options, as policies are not uniform across all camps.
What a typical day looks like
A day at Steve & Kate's Camp is built around open play and child choice rather than a fixed schedule of classes. Children arrive in the morning and have access to various activity areas—art supplies, building materials, outdoor play spaces, sports equipment, and games. Staff members are present to supervise and facilitate, but children choose what they want to do and for how long.
Snack time and lunch are built into the day, and outdoor time is a regular part of the schedule. The camp does not teach formal lessons in swimming, dance, or sports, though children may play these activities if they choose. The emphasis is on peer interaction, imaginative play, and allowing children to direct their own learning. This approach differs significantly from traditional day camps that offer structured classes or skill-based instruction.
Age groups and how children are organized
Steve & Kate's Camp serves children from roughly age 4 through age 12, though the exact age ranges vary by location. Some camps may separate younger and older children into different sessions or different areas of the same session. A few locations may offer mixed-age groups where children of different ages play together throughout the day.
When you contact your local camp, ask specifically about the age groupings for the week you are interested in. Some weeks may be designated for younger children (ages 4–7) while others serve older children (ages 8–12), and some may mix ages. This affects both the activities available and the social environment your child will experience.
Enrollment and how to register
Registration for Steve & Kate's Camp happens through the camp's website. You will need to create an account, select your location and the week you want to attend, and complete enrollment information for your child. Payment is typically required at the time of registration, though some locations may allow payment plans if you contact them in advance.
Spots fill at different rates depending on the location and the week. Popular weeks—particularly mid-summer—may fill quickly, while shoulder-season weeks may have more availability. The website shows which weeks have open spots at each location. If your first choice is full, you can check other locations or other weeks, or contact the camp directly to ask about a waitlist.
What to bring and what the camp provides
Steve & Kate's Camp typically provides snacks and lunch, though you should confirm this with your specific location when you register. You will need to pack a lunch for your child unless the camp states otherwise. Bring a water bottle, sunscreen, and any medications your child needs.
Wear comfortable clothes suitable for active play and outdoor time. The camp does not require uniforms or specific gear. If your child has a favorite toy or comfort item, check the camp's policy on personal belongings before packing it, as some camps ask that valuable or irreplaceable items stay home. Ask your location about what to do on rainy days and whether outdoor play happens in light rain.
How this camp differs from other day camp models
The main difference between Steve & Kate's Camp and many other day camps is the absence of structured, instructor-led classes. Traditional day camps often offer separate sessions for swimming lessons, soccer, art instruction, or drama. Steve & Kate's Camp does not organize activities this way. Instead, children have access to materials and spaces and choose their own activities.
This model appeals to families who want their child to have unstructured social time and freedom to explore interests independently. It may not be the right fit for families looking for formal instruction in a specific skill or sport. If your child thrives with clear structure and guided activities, or if you want them to learn a particular skill during camp, you may want to compare this program with more traditional day camps in your area.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Steve & Kate's Camp teach swimming or sports?
The camp does not offer formal instruction in swimming, sports, or other specific skills. Children may play these activities if they choose during free play time, but there are no structured classes or lessons. If skill instruction is important to you, this camp may not be the best fit.
What happens if my child gets sick or injured at camp?
Contact your specific location to ask about their illness and injury policies. Most camps have a staff member trained in first aid and can handle minor injuries. For illness, ask whether the camp sends children home and what symptoms require pickup. Get these details before enrollment so you know what to expect.
Can I visit the camp before enrolling?
Many camps allow parent visits or tours. Contact your location directly to ask about scheduling a visit. Seeing the space and meeting staff can help you decide whether the program is right for your child.
What if my child does not like unstructured play?
Some children prefer guided activities and clear structure. If your child struggles with open-ended time or needs more direction, talk to the camp staff about how they support different play styles. You might also consider whether a more traditional, activity-based camp would be a better match.
Are there discounts for multiple weeks or siblings?
Many locations offer discounts for enrolling in consecutive weeks. Sibling discounts vary by location. Contact your specific camp to ask what discounts are available and how the process works them to your registration.