The 60 Best Summer Camp Movies of All Time, Ranked

Henrike Nietzold
WRITTEN BY
Henrike Nietzold

Summer camp-themed movies capture the spirit of adventure, friendship and unforgettable memories. These movies let us dive into a world where friendships are formed, and life lessons are learnedoften with nature as a backdrop.

We’ve created a comprehensive rating system to evaluate 60 movies based on critical reviews and audience reactions. 

Here’s our definitive list of the best summer camp movies, guaranteed to spark nostalgia and inspire future campgoers.

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1. Crip Camp (2020)

1h 47min | Documentary |⭐85%*

Crip Camp is a documentary about Camp Jened, a summer camp for disabled teens in 1971. At the camp, the teens found acceptance and freedom to be themselves without judgment.

Years later, many of these campers became leaders in the fight for equal right and accessibility. Judy Heumann, a camp counselor, played a key role in the movement, pushing for major changes.

*Rating combines scores from IMDb, Tomatometer, Popcorn Meter, Metacritic and Letterboxd.

Crip Camp movie poster features two campers along with details about the film.

Image Credit: IMDb. Crip Camp (2020) poster.

The Stage Door movie poster showcases the main characters and includes key information about the film.

Image Credit: Amazon. Stage Door (1937) poster.

2. Stage Door (1937)

1h 32min | Comedy/Drama |⭐85%

Gregory La Cava’s Stage Door (1937) is about a group of young women in a New York theater boarding house, each dreaming of becoming actresses. Unlike typical portrayals of women at the time, they are bold and full of attitude.

The film centers on their complex relationships, showing both camaraderie and rivalry, making it feel relevant today.

If you enjoyed Wicked (2024) and its dynamic take on female friendship, Stage Door is a must-watch.

3. Moonrise Kingdom (2012)

1h 34min | Comedy/Romance|⭐84%

Moonrise Kingdom is about two smart, unpopular kids who fall in love at summer camp and run away together in 1965. As they adventure in the wild, their disappearance sparks a search led by a group of scouts and their parents.

The movie’s colorful style and straightforward storytelling is typical Wes Anderson.

A storm and a change of heart from the scouts lead to a heartfelt ending that stays with you long after the credits roll.

The Moonrise Kingdom poster features the two main characters in a forest setting, with key details about the film displayed in yellow font.

Image Credit: IMDb. Moonrise Kingdom (2012) poster.

The Magic Camp movie poster depicts a rabbit in a grass field, along with key details about the film.

Image Credit: IMDb. Magic Camp (2012) poster.

4. Magic Camp (2012)

1h 40min | Documentary|⭐79%

Magic Camp is a documentary about five kids at Tannen’s Magic Camp in Pennsylvania. Throughout the week, they learn new tricks and prepare for a big competition.

Beyond magic, the summer camp is a place where the kids confront their personal struggles and connect with each other. They grow as magicians and as individuals.

>>> READ MORE: Summer Camps for Teens – Ultimate Guide

5. Santa Camp (2022)

1h 32min | Documentary|⭐77%

Santa Camp is a documentary about a training camp in New Hampshire that redefines who can be Santa, Mrs. Claus or an elf. The movie celebrates love and inclusivity. 

A must-watch for those ready to embrace a new kind of holiday magic.

Santa Camp poster features the main character's face and other characters. The poster is christmas-themed with red and green colors.

Image Credit: IMDb. Santa Camp (2022) poster

Camp Manna movie poster in yellow and orange colors featuring a statue of Jesus.

Image Credit: IMDb. Camp Manna (2018) poster.

6. Camp Manna (2018)

1h 26min | Comedy |⭐77%

Camp Manna is a comedy about a Christian summer camp where faith meets chaos.

The story follows 15-year-old Ian, sent to the camp after losing his parents. Led by Kujo, a Vietnam vet-turned-camp leader, the camp runs on strict faith-based rules.

While some moments in the film lean into cheesy camp tropes, it delivers plenty of laughs and glimpse into faith-based camp life.

7. The Parent Trap (1961)

2h 8min | Family/Comedy|⭐76%

The Parent Trap is a Disney classic. Twin sisters, Susan and Sharon, are separated after their parents’ divorce but meet at summer camp. They come up with a plan to reunite their parents by switching places. The mix of playful pranks and heartfelt moments makes this movie a timeless favorite.

While the split-screen effects show their age, Hayley Mills’ unforgettable performance charms audiences decades later.

The Parent Trap movie poster features the main characters: the twin sisters and their parents, along with additional text highlighting key details about the film.

Image Credit: Reynold Brown, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons. The Parent Trap (1961) poster.

The Theater Camp movie poster showcases a stage with the main character in a theater setting.

Image Credit: IMDb. Theater Camp (2023) poster.

8. Theater Camp (2023)

1h 33min | Comedy/Musical |⭐75%

Theater Camp is a mockumentary set at a summer camp where kids and adults put on big plays. When the camp leader falls into a coma and her clueless son takes over, the final show appears headed for disaster.

The characters are all in, letting creativity take the lead, no matter how chaotic it gets. In the end, it’s the kids who step up, proving they’re the ones who truly save the day.

>>>READ MORE: Types of Summer Camps for Teens | 2025

 

9. Those Happy Days (2006)

1h 43min | Comedy |⭐75%

Those Happy Days (French: Nos jours heureux) is a French comedy about Vincent Rousseau, who runs a summer camp for the first time in 1992.

Just like other camp-themed movies, things go wrong as he faces on challenge after another in a two weeks period of adventures and emotional ups and downs.

Those Happy Days movie poster showing students doing various things: fighting, cuddling and waiting.

Image Credit: IMDb. Those Happy Days (2006) poster.

The Dirty Dancing film poster shows Baby and Johnny, dancing in a close embrace, with the title prominently displayed in bold lettering.

Image Credit: gateway film center. Dirty Dancing (1987) poster.

10. Dirty Dancing (1987)

1h 40min | Romance/Dance |⭐74%

Nobody puts baby in the corner.

Dirty Dancing is a timeless 80s classic set at a 1960s summer resort. The film follows teenager Baby (Jennifer Grey) and dance instructor Johnny (Patrick Swayze) as they discover a special connection through dance. 

The film’s charm lies in its chemistry between the leads and its unforgettable music. It’s a must-see for those who love feel-good, dance-filled movies.

11. The Parent Trap (1998)

2h 7min | Family/Comedy |⭐73%

The 1998 version of The Parent Trap stars Lindsay Lohan in a dual role as twin sisters, Hallie and Annie, who are reunited at summer camp after being separated at birth. The twins switch places to bring their parents back together.

With beautiful settings like vineyards and mansions, the twins’ plan feels surprisingly believable.

This remake of the 1961 classic offers a fresh twist on an old trope.

>>>READ MORE: How Much Does a Summer Camp Cost?

The The Parent Trap (1998) film poster features the twin sisters, Annie and Hallie, next to each other. Two pictures in the back represent their separate lives.

Image Credit: Disney. The Parent Trap (1998) poster.

12. Holes (2003)

2h | Family/Adventure |⭐73%

In Holes, a boy is sent to a tough camp where he and other troubled kids have to dig holes in the hot desert. As the story unfolds, the past and present connect, revealing a hidden treasure.

Based on Louis Sachar’s bestselling novel, Holes mixes adventure with warm moments.

13. The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants (2005)

1h 59min | Romance/Adventure |⭐71%

In The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants, four lifelong friends spend their summer apart, each on their own adventure. The twist? They share a magical pair of jeans that fit all of them perfectly.

Each girl takes turns wearing the jeans, sending them to the next friend along with their own story of personal growth.

The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants movie poster features a pair of jeans worn by one of the characters, with a Polaroid picture of the four friends emerging from the pocket.

Image Credit: WarnerBros. The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants (2005) poster.

The Addams Family Values movie poster features the iconic Addams family in a quirky, darkly comedic pose.

Image Credit: Vidiots. Addams Family Values (1993) poster.

14. Addams Family Values (1993)

1h 34min | Comedy/Family |⭐69%

Addams Family Values takes the Addams clan to new heights of hilarity. Wednesday and Pugsley are sent to a cheerful summer camp, where they rebel in hilarious fashion. 

This sequel delivers dark comedy gold—it’s weird and absolutely iconic.

Get to know young Wednesday’s twisted humor and rebellious spirit if you loved Wednesday TV series.

15. Once I Was a Beehive (2015)

1h 59min | Comedy/Family |⭐68%

Once I Was a Beehive is a coming-of-age film about Lane, a teenager who’s forced to spend a month at her aunt’s house and eventually lands at a Mormon church camp. Despite feeling out of place, Lane learns important lessons about relationships.

The pacing can feel slow at times, but the movie is uplifting and sweet.

The Forest Rangers poster features an illustration of the four main characters, with forest fires in the background and key details about the movie.

Image Credit: IMDb. Forest Rangers (1942) poster.

16. The Forest Rangers (1942)

1h 27min | Adventure/Action |⭐67%

In The Forest Rangers, forest ranger Don finds himself in a love triangle while dealing with forest fires and camp drama. As Don and his team investigate a suspicious blaze, they uncover that it may have been set intentionally. But the deeper they dig, the more complicated the truth becomes.

Although the color cinematography is faded and the sound quality isn’t perfect, the film remains entertaining. Plus, it introduced the catchy song “Jingle Jangle Jingle,” which became a big hit.

17. Race for Your Life, Charlie Brown (1977)

1h 17min | Comedy/Adventure |⭐67%

Race for Your Life, Charlie Brown takes the Peanuts gang to camp, where they battle bullies in a raft race. Though the plot is simple, the film’s charm and upbeat energy make it a timeless favorite, especially for Peanuts fans and kids.

 

 

This illustration by Schulz depicts Charlie and his friends rafting down a waterfall, with the movie title prominently displayed.

Image Credit: Amazon Prime. Race For Your Life, Charlie Brown (1977) poster.

18. Troop Zero (2019)

1h 34min | Family/Comedy |⭐67%

Troop Zero follows a group of misfit kids who form their own scouting troop to win a competition. Led by Christmas Flint, a quirky girl with dreams of contacting aliens, they face challenges as they work to earn badges and prove themselves. Rejected by the local troop, they draw strength from their friendship.

19. The Rainbow Tribe (2008)

1h 30min | Family/Comedy |⭐66%

In The Rainbow Tribe a counselor is looking for a miracle and he finds it. While overcoming his personal crisis he helps troubled kids at a summer camp. 

It’s a feel-good movie for viewers of all ages.

 

 

The Rainbow Tribe movie poster features the seven main characters posing for the camera, each displaying a distinct facial expression that reflects their unique traits.

Image Credit: Prime Video. The Rainbow Tribe (2008) poster.

20. Holy Camp (2017)

1h 49min | Musical/Comedy |⭐66%

Holy Camp (La Llamada) is a Spanish musical comedy about two rebellious teens, María and Susana, at a Catholic summer camp.

Their love for reggaeton takes a turn when María starts having divine visions. The nuns running the camp face their own struggles, leading to unexpected changes for everyone.

The images are used for educational and informational purposes under fair use.

Additional Summer Camp Movies, Rated

Nr Name Year Genre Average Score
21 Little Darlings 1980 Comedy/Drama 65%
22 Sleepaway Camp 1983 Horror/Crime 65%
23 Camp Takota 2014 Comedy/Drama 64%
24 Boot Camp 2024 Romance/Comedy 63%
25 Meatballs 1979 Comedy 63%
26 Friday the 13th 1980 Horror/Crime 63%
27 The Burning 1981 Horror/Slasher 63%
28 Heavyweights 1995 Family/Comedy 63%
29 Summerhood 2008 Comedy/Romance 62%
30 A Week Away 2021 Musical/Family 61%
31 Indian Summer 1993 Comedy/Romance 60%
32 Wet Hot American Summer 2001 Comedy/Romance 60%
33 Camp Rock 2008 Family/Musical 59%
34 Summer School 1987 Comedy/Drama 59%
35 The Go-Getter 1937 Comedy/Drama 56%
36 The Great Outdoors 1988 Family/Comedy 55%
37 Poison Ivy 1985 Thriller/Drama 55%
38 Space Camp 1986 Adventure/Sci-fi 54%
39 Camp Cucamonga 1990 Comedy/Family 54%
40 Family Camp 2022 Comedy/Drama 54%
41 Adventure Scouts 2010 Family/Adventure 54%
42 Summer Camp Nightmare 1987 Horror/Drama 52%
43 Troop Beverly Hills 1989 Comedy/Family 51%
44 Scouts Guide to the Zombie Apocalypse 2015 Horror/Comedy 51%
45 Camp Hideout 2023 Comedy 50%
46 Ernest Goes to Camp 1987 Family/Comedy 50%
47 Magic Camp 2020 Family/Comedy 50%
48 Camp Nowhere 1994 Family/Comedy 49%
49 Summer Camp 2015 Horror/Drama 47%
50 It Takes Two 1995 Family/Comedy 44%
51 Rim of the World 2019 Adventure/Sci-fi 44%
52 Summer Camp 2024 Comedy 43%
53 Madman 1981 Horror/Indie film 42%
54 Cheerleader Camp 1988 Horror/Comedy 41%
55 Gorp 1980 Comedy/Indie film 37%
56 Family Plan 1997 Comedy/Family 36%
57 Return to Sleepaway Camp 2008 Horror/Comedy 34%
58 Camp Slaughter 2005 Horror/Sci-fi 33%
59 Daddy Day Camp 2007 Family/Comedy 25%
60 Cheer Camp Killer 2020 Drama 24%

Final Thoughts

Our ranking system highlights the best summer camp movies, based on aggregated audience ratings.

But after watching all of the films on this top 20 list, I must say that the modern version Parent Trap is my personal favorite. Lindsay Lohan at her tween actor peak is a bit of nostalgia that I just love.   

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About the Author
Henrike Nietzold
Associate

Henrike Nietzold is from Germany and holds a bachelor's degree in business administration and Fashion Design from Carl von Ossietzky University in Oldenburg. She has been traveling across Europe since she was young, starting with her first solo trip to London at 15. During a semester abroad, Henrike developed a strong love for South Korea, where she now lives. At Rustic Pathways, she aims to create meaningful travel experiences that promote a connected and globally conscious world.