Planning a summer adventure for your teen in 2025? Whether you’re considering day camps, overnight experiences, or specialized programs, this guide breaks down the best types of summer camps to suit your child’s interests, age, and personal goals. With so many options out there—from outdoor adventures and academic enrichment to creative arts and global travel—it can be tough to know where to start. We’re here to help you navigate the choices and find a camp that not only fills their summer with fun, but also supports growth, confidence, and lifelong memories. Summer camps for teens can be categorized into four main types: Overnight camps (sleepaway camps): Full-immersion experiences that promote independence and social growth. Day camps: Flexible, cost-effective options for local activities during the day. Specialty camps: Focused programs in arts, technology, sports and other specific interests. Traditional camps: Camps offering diverse, classic activities in a rustic setting. The world of summer camps uses many terms to describe similar experiences. For example, “overnight camps” are often called “sleepaway camps,” while “specialty camps” may refer to STEM camps, performing arts camps or adventure camps. This guide primarily focuses on different teens and kids summer camp types, helping demystify camp terminology so you can choose the best fit for your teen’s summer plans. Sleepaway Camp vs. Day Camp: Which is Right for Your Child? Don’t miss out on the unforgettable moments a summer camp offers. Choosing between a sleepaway camp and a day camp is one of the most important decisions when planning your teen’s summer experience. All summer camp programs offer their own benefits, depending on your child. Sleepaway Camps Sleepaway camps provide a residential summer experience where children and teens stay away from home. Also known as overnight camps, these camps offer a mix of recreational, educational and community-building activities. 👍 Who It’s For Sleepaway camps are ideal for children ready for an extended time away from home. Overnight camps typically begin for children ages 7 to 9, but a child’s readiness depends on their comfort level (source: Camp Kinder Ring). 🌟 Benefits Life skills: Builds problem-solving, resilience, and teamwork. Social growth: Encourages friendship through shared experiences. Digital detox: Disconnects from screens to enjoy nature and activities. 💰 Cost Overnight camps cost $170-$325 per day, with weekly rates ranging from $1,000 to $2,000 (TrustedCare). This fee usually covers meals, lodging and 24/7 supervision. Pro tip: Look for camps accredited by the American Camp Association for quality and safety. >>> EXPLORE: Costa Rica: Summer Camp Leadership Day Camps Day camps provide structured, fun activities without overnight stays. These programs offer supervised recreation, education and sports for children, usually during summer break and school holidays. 👍 Who It’s For Day camps offer a structured, engaging experiences without overnight stays. These daytime programs provide supervised recreational, educational and sports activities for children, primarily during summer break and school holidays. 🌟 Benefits Budget-friendly: More affordable than overnight camps, with costs ranging from $50 to $500 per week (TrustedCare). Accessible: Convenient for local families who want to balance summer camp fun with home routines. Skill development: Helps kids build confidence, improve social skills and stay active during the summer. 💰 Cost Day camps cost $70–$120 per day and cover activities and adult supervision. Meals are sometimes included and flexible drop-off/pick-up options are often available for an extra fee. Choosing the Right Option The decision between a sleepaway camp and a day camp depends on your child’s personality, interests and readiness for an immersive, overnight experience. Feature Sleepaway Camps Day Camps Duration 1–3+ weeks (overnight stays) 1–5 days per week (~7–9 hours/day) Cost $1,000–$2,000/week $50–$500/week Age Suitability Ages 7+ Ages 3+ Key Benefits Develops independence, teamwork & problem-solving Builds confidence & social skills in a familiar environment. Structure Immersive, highly structured programs; co-ed or gender-specific Flexible schedules; convenient for working parents Supervision 24/7 counselor oversight Supervised by staff during camp hours >>> READ MORE: Summer Camps for Teens – Ultimate Guide
Traditional Camps vs. Specialty Camps: Finding the Right Fit Five smiling students highlight the joy of choosing the right summer camp, whether traditional or specialty. When choosing a summer camp, understanding the difference between traditional and specialty camps is key. Traditional camps offer a broad range of experiences that encourage exploration, while specialty camps focus on specific skills and passions. Knowing what aligns best with your teen’s interests and goals can make all the difference. Traditional Camps Traditional camps combine outdoor adventures, classic activities and a unique sense of community. These camps are rich in tradition, providing children with the opportunity to try new activities while forming lifelong friendships. 👍 Who It’s For Children and teens who: Are passionate about a specific interest, such as coding, performing arts or sports. Prefer structured programs that hone their skills in a chosen field. Enjoy connecting with like-minded peers who share their enthusiasm. ⚙️ Core Features Activities: Tailored to specific themes like coding, robotics, theater or space exploration. Facilities: State-of-the-art equipment and professional-grade spaces. Community: Campers bond over shared interests, forming niche communities. 🌟 Benefits Benefits include: Encourages specialization and expertise development. Provides hands-on learning with guidance from professionals. Builds confidence through achievement in a focused setting. Specialty Camps Specialty camps immerse campers in a single area of interest, allowing them to develop expertise in a focused, enriching environment. These camps feature tailored activities and expert guidance. 👍 Who It’s For Children and teens who: Thrive on variety and want to explore new interests benefit from traditional summer camps. Enjoy outdoor adventures, socializing and community-building. Want a well-rounded summer experience to develop independence and leadership skills. ⚙️ Core Features Activities: Typical camp activities include swimming, canoeing, hiking, horseback riding, campfires, team sports and arts & crafts. Modern additions to camp like rock climbing and theater enhance the experience. Accommodation: Often set in rural or countryside locations with cabins or tents. Culture: Family-owned camps or private camps with traditions such as songs, ceremonies and annual events. 🌟 Benefits A balance of nostalgia and discovery. Fosters independence and resilience through diverse experiences. Builds strong social connections in a supportive environment. Traditional Camps vs. Specialty Camps Comparison Table Feature Traditional Camps Specialty Camps Focus Broad range of activities. Specific skills and interests. Activities Outdoor adventures, sports, arts & crafts and team games. Robotics, performing arts, STEM or niche interests. Facilities Rustic and traditional. Equipment tailored to specialized themes. Social Environment Builds community through diverse shared experiences. Fosters niche connections among like-minded peers. Key Outcome Well-rounded personal growth and leadership skills. Skill mastery and expertise in a chosen field. >>>READ MORE: How Much Does Summer Camp Cost? Sports Camps Play a game of pick up soccer at summer camp. Sports camps offer an unparalleled opportunity for teens to refine their athletic abilities, build teamwork and gain confidence in a supportive environment. Whether your teen is a budding athlete or an experienced player, these camps cater to various skill levels and sports. 👍 Sports camp is ideal for: Teens passionate about improving in a specific sport. Students looking to develop discipline, fitness and teamwork. Athletes seeking expert coaching and a competitive yet fun environment. >>> EXPLORE: Soccer and Service Summer Program in Costa Rica Core Features 📚 Training and Development Skill Mastery: Focus on advanced techniques, strategies and game play under expert coaches. Conditioning Programs: Include strength training, agility drills and endurance building tailored to the sport. Competition: Many camps feature scrimmages and tournaments to encourage healthy competition. 🏡 Facilities Get access to: State-of-the-art sports facilities, including fields, courts and specialized equipment. Many programs partner with professional athletes or local sports organizations to offer exclusive training opportunities. 🧭 Coaching Instructors are often certified professionals or former athletes with extensive experience in the particular sport. 3 Popular Sports Camps Below are some of the top-rated sports camps that provide expert training and competitive opportunities for teens: Sports Camps Camp Focus Camp Price (starting price) IMG Academy Various sports $1,509 Signature Sports Camps Lacrosse, field hockey, soccer $1,350 Nike Sports Camps Various sports $300 Benefits of Sports Camps Physical fitness: Keeps teens active and helps them stay in peak condition during the summer. Teamwork and leadership: Instills collaboration and leadership skills through group activities. Self-discipline: Develops commitment and responsibility through structured schedules and training. Confidence building: Achieving new skills and meeting challenges boosts self-esteem. Preparing for Sports Camps Help your teen make the most of their experience by preparing in advance: Gear check: Ensure all required equipment is packed, including uniforms, protective gear and extra essentials like water bottles. Health prep: Schedule a physical if needed; provide camp staff with any medical details, such as allergies. Set goals: Discuss your teen’s objectives for the camp—whether it’s mastering a skill or improving fitness. Arts Camps Unleash creativity at an arts summer camp. Arts camps offer a creative sanctuary for teens to explore their talents and develop skills. These camps inspire self-expression and foster a love for the arts in an engaging, supportive environment. 👍 Arts camp is ideal for: Creative teens who enjoy expressing themselves through artistic mediums. Students looking to refine their skills in a specific art form. Beginners eager to explore new creative outlets in a structured, supportive setting. Core Features 🎨 Creative Exploration Experiences for teens and kids include: Workshops: Daily hands-on sessions in painting, sculpture, music, acting or filmmaking. Showcases: Many camps culminate in performances or art exhibitions, allowing participants to showcase their growth. Cross-discipline options: Camps often encourage exploration across multiple artistic fields. 🧭 Expert Guidance Learn from the best: Professional artists, musicians and performers lead classes and provide mentorship. Small class sizes ensure personalized feedback and guidance. 🏡 Facilities Unleash your creativity in: Dedicated art studios, music halls, theaters and multimedia labs. Access to specialized tools and equipment, such as digital editing suites, pottery wheels or stage lighting setups. 3 Popular Arts Camps Arts Camps Camp Focus Camp Price (starting price) Interlochen Arts Camp Various art programs $1,950 Brooklyn Museum Summer Art Camp Various art programs $548 New York Film Academy Acting classes $1,325 Benefits of Arts Camps Skill development: Offers opportunities to master techniques and gain hands-on experience in artistic disciplines. Self-expression: Fosters creativity and individuality through unique projects and performances. Confidence building: Encourages teens to step out of their comfort zones, whether performing on stage or presenting their work. Community: Connects like-minded peers who share a passion for the arts. Preparing for Arts Camps The preparation for an arts camp involves ensuring your teen is equipped for creative success. Pack essentials like sketchbooks, musical instruments or costumes, depending on the camp’s focus. Encourage your teen to set personal goals for what they’d like to achieve during their time at camp. International Camps Create lasting bonds with your fellow travelers. International camps offer teens the unique opportunity to combine outdoor adventures with cultural exploration. These camps, also known as travel and expedition camps, take participants on unforgettable journeys, fostering independence, global awareness and personal growth to challenge campers physically, mentally and emotionally. 👍 International camps are perfect for: Adventurous teens eager to explore new places and cultures. Young people who have attended other camps and are looking to increase their challenge or spread their wings further from home Students looking to develop leadership and outdoor skills. Teens interested in immersive experiences that combine travel with personal growth. >>> Explore the World with Rustic Pathways Core Features 🌍 Cultural and Outdoor Exploration International Travel offers you the chance to: Explore historic sites, natural wonders and cultural hotspots. Challenge yourself with activities like hiking, surfing and backpacking. Immerse yourself in local culture through language exchanges, cooking and community projects. 🌟 Leadership and Personal Growth These programs focus on: Skill development: Programs emphasize problem-solving, resilience and adaptability. Teamwork: Teens work together on challenges like expedition planning or community service. Civic engagement: Many camps integrate service projects, teaching the value of giving back to communities. 🧭 Professional Guidance Trained staff: Ensuring safety throughout travel and activities. Cultural experts and local guides: Enhancing your learning experience with local insights. 3 Popular International Camps Travel Camps Camp Focus Camp Price Costa Rica: Summer Camp Leadership Develop a summer camp in La Fortuna and gain valuable leadership skills. $5,574 Portugal & Germany: European Adrenaline Learn surfing in Portugal and hike the Alps of Germany. $6,790 Thailand: Come With Nothing Join a service expedition through remote Thailand to disconnect. $6,995 Benefits of International Camps Global perspective: Teens gain a deeper understanding of different cultures and worldviews. Confidence and independence: Being away from home in unfamiliar environments encourages self-reliance. Memorable experiences: From hiking stunning trails to learning local traditions, these camps create unforgettable memories. Resume skills: Leadership, teamwork and cross-cultural communication are valuable skills for future academic and professional pursuits. >>> Explore our List of Top International Programs for 2025 to plan your teen’s next adventure. Religious Camps Religious camps provide teens with a unique opportunity to deepen their spiritual journey while enjoying traditional camp activities. These camps foster community, self-reflection and faith-based learning in a supportive environment. 👍 Religious camps are ideal for: Teens and young adults seeking to explore their faith in a nurturing setting. Families looking for a cost-effective camp option supported by religious organizations. Campers interested in combining spiritual growth with traditional camp activities. Core Features 🙏 Faith-Based Programs Worship and reflection: Daily prayers, scripture readings, and spiritual discussions tailored to the camp’s religious focus. Community building: Group activities and small group discussions foster connections among participants. Faith exploration: Teens are encouraged to ask meaningful questions and deepen their understanding of their beliefs. 🏕️ Traditional Summer Camp Fun Activities: Hiking, swimming, arts and crafts, and team games. Spiritual lessons: Blending fun with faith through integrated lessons in traditional camp activities. 🧭 Guidance and Mentorship Religious leaders, counselors, and mentors guide campers in exploring their spirituality. Supportive environments encourage self-expression and personal growth. 3 Popular Religious Camps Religious Camps Camp Focus Camp Price (starting price) Camp Nesher Modern Orthodox Jewish $1,100 Buddhist Camp Buddhist Contact Pine Cove Christian $369 Benefits of Religious Camps Spiritual growth: Helps teens deepen their faith and explore meaningful questions in a safe, encouraging environment. Community building: Fosters friendships with like-minded peers who share similar values and beliefs. Balanced activities: Combines spiritual reflection with fun outdoor and creative experiences. Affordable options: Many camps are subsidized by religious organizations, making them more budget-friendly. Special Needs Summer Camps Special needs camps provide a safe and nurturing environment where children with physical, developmental, emotional or behavioral disabilities can thrive. These camps focus on inclusion, independence and skill-building, offering personalized care and activities tailored to each camper’s unique needs. 👍 Special needs camps are ideal for: Children and teens with physical, developmental or emotional disabilities. Families seeking tailored programs that offer inclusivity and professional support. Campers who benefit from low camper-to-counselor ratios and adaptive activities. Core Features 🤝 Inclusive Programming Adapted activities: Traditional camp activities like swimming, arts, and sports are tailored to suit each camper’s abilities. Peer engagement: Structured opportunities for social interaction help build friendships and social skills. Specialized programs: Focus on areas like sensory integration, behavioral support, or life skills development. 👩🏫 Trained Staff and Support Professional staff: Includes counselors with backgrounds in special education, therapy, and medical care. Low camper-to-counselor ratio: Ensures personalized attention and safety. Therapeutic resources: Many camps provide access to occupational, speech, or physical therapists. 🏡 Facilities Fully accessible accommodations and activity spaces designed to meet diverse physical and sensory needs. 3 Popular Special Needs Camps Special Needs Camp Camp Focus Camp Price (starting price) Camp Nuhop Residential sessions for children with and without diagnoses. $600 Adam’s Camp Specialized therapy and adventure programs for children, youth and adults with special needs. Contact Camp Lee Mar Traditional summer camp experience for children with special needs. $15,400 Benefits of Special Needs Camps Personalized care: Tailored activities and low ratios ensure every camper feels supported and included. Skill development: Helps campers develop life skills, independence and confidence in a structured environment. Social connections: Promotes peer interaction, teaching empathy, cooperation and friendship. Safe environment: Experienced staff and adapted facilities ensure physical and emotional safety. Family Camps Cherish special moments and build stronger connections. Family camps are designed to bring families closer together through shared experiences in a relaxed, outdoor setting. These camps offer activities for all ages, making them ideal for creating lasting memories and fostering connections. 👍 Family camps are perfect for: Families looking for a break from their routine to bond in a fun and supportive environment. Parents seeking structured activities that cater to both kids and adults. Multigenerational families who want to vacation together while enjoying age-appropriate programs. Core Features 🎭 Shared Activities Outdoor adventures: Hiking, canoeing, and zip-lining bring families together. Creative fun: Group crafts, music nights, and theater performances encourage collaboration. Team games: Activities like relay races and scavenger hunts build teamwork and laughter. 📅 Flexible Schedules Family camps balance structured group activities with free time for families to relax or explore on their own. 🏠 Accommodations Family-friendly options range from cabins and lodges to tents and RV sites. Meals are often served in communal dining halls. 3 Popular Family Camps Family camp Camp Focus Camp Price (starting price) Ohana Family Camp Focuses on bringing families and friends together to reconnect and celebrate their bonds. $3,000 Camp Highland One-day retreat for families or any combination of parent & child. $100 per adult/$50 per child Montecito Sequoia Lodge Classic family camp experience in California, with activities for all ages. $2,600 Benefits of Family Camps Quality time: Strengthens family bonds through shared experiences and activities. Inclusive environment: Activities cater to all ages, making them perfect for families with young children or older relatives. Stress-free planning: Camps provide accommodations, meals and entertainment, so families can focus on enjoying themselves. Community building: Families connect with others, creating friendships and shared memories. Scout Camps Scout camps offer teens the chance to develop leadership, outdoor survival skills and teamwork while participating in traditional scouting activities. Boy Scout and Girl Scout camps emphasize personal growth and a strong sense of responsibility through engaging programs and outdoor challenges. 👍 Scout camps are ideal for: Teens involved in Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts or similar scouting organizations. Youth interested in building leadership skills and outdoor expertise. Campers eager to earn merit badges or complete scouting challenges. Core Features 🌟 Skills Development Merit Badge Programs: Scouts work toward badges in areas like first aid, environmental science, and personal finance. Wilderness survival: Camps often teach essential outdoor skills, such as orienteering, fire building, and knot-tying. Leadership training: Team-based challenges and activities promote problem-solving, collaboration, and decision-making. 🔍 Unique Experiences Adventure activities: Canoeing, archery, rock climbing, and night hikes are staples of scout camps. STEM integration: Many camps incorporate STEM-focused activities, like robotics or environmental conservation projects, alongside traditional programs. Community service: Service projects teach social responsibility and the importance of giving back to communities. 🏠 Facilities Camps are typically set in natural environments with rustic cabins, tents or campsites to encourage outdoor living. 3 Popular Scout Camps Scout Camp Name Camp Focus Camp Price (starting price) Cuyuna Scout Camp Traditional Scouting experience. Contact Griswold Scout Reservation Scouting activities at Hidden Valley Scout Camp and Camp Bell. $570 K-m Scout Ranch Scout Ranch in Montana offers adventure activities. $350 Benefits of Scout Camps Leadership development: Prepares teens for real-world challenges through hands-on teamwork and decision-making. Outdoor skills: Equips campers with essential survival skills and fosters a deeper connection to nature. Social growth: Scouts bond through shared challenges, building friendships and networks that last a lifetime. Goal achievement: Merit badges and completed challenges create a sense of accomplishment and confidence. Educational Camps Rustic Pathways Students on a Spanish Language Immersion in Costa Rica. Educational camps combine hands-on learning with fun and exploration, helping teens combat the “summer slide” while developing critical thinking and practical skills. From STEM programs to language immersion and technology summer camps, these camps prepare students for future academic and career success. 👍 Educational camps are ideal for: Students eager to dive deeper into academic subjects or explore new areas of interest. Teens preparing for college or looking to earn credits through summer programs. Parents seeking a balance between summer learning and recreation. >>> Learn Spanish on a Student Program in Costa Rica! Core Features 📚 Learning-Focused Programs STEM exploration: Camps focus on science, technology, engineering, and mathematics through hands-on activities like coding, robotics, and experiments. Language immersion: Teens master new languages and cultures in an interactive setting. College prep: SAT/ACT preparation, essay writing workshops, and career-focused courses help teens get ready for the next step. 🌟 Unique Experiences Adventure and academics: Some camps mix academic learning with outdoor activities, providing an engaging environment. Collaborative learning: Group projects and problem-solving exercises encourage teamwork and communication. Inspiring instructors: Camps are led by university professors, industry professionals, or experienced educators. 🏠 Facilities Many camps are hosted on university campuses, offering access to advanced labs, libraries, and dormitory housing for an immersive experience. 3 Popular Educational Camps Educational Camps Camp Focus Camp Price (starting price) UC Berkeley Summer School Two-week, career-focused program that includes 35 hours of lessons, workshops and group projects. $7,630 Spanish Language Immersion Program Enhance your Spanish in this program designed for students of all skill levels. $4,495 The Amazing Science Discovery Camp Hands-on STEM activities that encourage curiosity, foster knowledge and connect science to daily life and future careers. Contact Benefits of Educational Camps Academic growth: Helps teens stay sharp during the summer by exploring academic subjects in fun, engaging ways. Skill development: Encourages critical thinking, problem-solving and teamwork. Future-ready: Prepares students for college applications or future careers. Engagement: Combines learning with recreational activities, creating a balanced and exciting experience. LGBTQ+ Camps Dive into the camp’s welcoming and supportive atmosphere. LGBTQ+ camps provide an affirming and inclusive environment where teens can explore their identities, build confidence and connect with a supportive community. These camps combine traditional summer activities with programs designed to celebrate and empower LGBTQ+ youth. 👍 LGBTQ+ camps are perfect for: Teens seeking a safe space to connect with peers who share similar experiences and identities. Campers interested in leadership and advocacy within the LGBTQ+ community. Families looking for affirming programs that foster self-acceptance and personal growth. Core Features 💪 Identity and Empowerment Find support and growth through: Role model discussions: Campers meet LGBTQ+ leaders and mentors who inspire and guide. Personal growth: Programs help teens explore self-acceptance, advocacy, and confidence in a supportive setting. Celebratory events: LGBTQ-specific activities like Pride parades, proms, and talent shows highlight camp culture. 🎯 Traditional and Specialized Activities Summer fun: Hiking, swimming, and campfires blend outdoor fun with personal enrichment. Creative expression: Arts and crafts, theater, and music help teens explore their creativity in a judgment-free space. Leadership training: Workshops focus on advocacy, community building, and public speaking. 🤗 Supportive Environment Camps ensure inclusivity through trained staff, low counselor-to-camper ratios, and spaces designed to respect all identities. 3 Popular LGBTQ+ Camps LGBTQ+ Camps Camp Focus Camp Price (starting price) Camp Brave Trails This LGBTQ+ summer camp blends traditional camp activities with unique LGBTQ+ programs. $2,500 Harbor Camps Overnight camp with structured activities. $1,550 Odyssey Teen Camp Transformative summer experience focused on personal growth and acceptance. $3,900 Benefits of LGBTQ+ Camps Self-acceptance: Encourages teens to embrace their identities in a positive, affirming space. Community and connection: Builds friendships with like-minded peers who share similar experiences. Empowerment: Provides skills for leadership and advocacy, preparing teens to become confident voices within the LGBTQ+ community. Safe exploration: Offers a secure, non-judgmental environment for self-discovery and expression. How to Prepare for Summer Camp Rustic Pathways pre-departure package. Proper preparation ensures your teen has a smooth and enjoyable camp experience, no matter the camp type. Follow this general checklist to get ready: 1. Gear and Packing Essentials Clothing: Pack weather-appropriate outfits, layers, swimwear and comfortable shoes. Gear: Include camp-specific items like sleeping bags, hiking boots, flashlights, art supplies or sports equipment. Personal items: Toiletries, medications, sunscreen, bug spray and a reusable water bottle. Comfort items: Favorite books, journals or sensory tools (for special needs camps). >>> READ MORE: The Ultimate Packing List 2. Health and Safety Prep Medical information: Share allergies, medications or dietary restrictions with camp staff. Vaccinations and health forms: Ensure up-to-date health records, vaccinations and physical exams (if required). Travel prep (for International Camps): Check passport validity, visas and vaccination guidelines. >>> READ MORE: 7 Steps to Ensure Student Safety When Traveling 3. Set Goals and Expectations Discuss your teen’s objectives for the camp experience: Skill development: Focus on learning a sport, art or STEM subject. Social connections: Meet new friends and connect with like-minded peers. Personal growth: Build confidence, leadership or independence. Encourage a balance between activities and downtime to avoid burnout. 4. Special Considerations Special needs: Provide sensory tools, equipment or comfort items as needed. Religious camps: Pack sacred texts, appropriate clothing and journals for spiritual reflection. International camps: Prepare travel insurance, phrasebooks and lightweight travel gear. Make sure your passport is valid for at least six months. >>> READ MORE: How to Get a U.S. Passport in 2 Weeks or Less Conclusion: Finding the Perfect Summer Camp Experience Summer camps offer transformative experiences that inspire personal growth, build confidence and create lifelong memories (source: Rustic Pathways). Whether your teen is interested in exploring the arts, honing athletic skills or diving into cultural adventures, there’s a camp tailored to their unique passions and needs. Choosing the right camp involves considering factors like your child’s interests, readiness and the camp’s focus. From traditional and specialty camps to international, religious and special needs programs, the possibilities are endless. Start your search today and give your teen the gift of a summer filled with fun, friendships and opportunities for growth. Ready to find the perfect camp? Explore our Comprehensive Guide to Summer Camps for 2025. Don’t wait—camp slots fill up fast!
Frequently Asked Questions About Summer Camps How do I choose the right summer camp for my child? Choose the right summer camp based on your child’s interests, age and readiness. Decide between traditional or specialty programs and consider factors like budget, duration and location. Look for accreditation (e.g., American Camp Association) for quality and safety. What’s the most popular summer camp activity? Swimming is the most popular summer camp activity, followed closely by hiking, arts and crafts, and team sports like soccer or basketball. Is my child ready for overnight camp? Your child is ready for summer camp if they show interest in sleepovers. Start with shorter sessions and build your way up. What should my child pack for camp? Pack essentials like: Clothing: Weather-appropriate layers, swimwear and sturdy shoes. Gear: Sleeping bags, flashlights and reusable water bottles. Personal Items: Toiletries, medications and comfort items (books or journals). Are there camps for special needs children? Yes, many camps offer inclusive programs tailored to children with physical, developmental or emotional disabilities. Activities are adapted and staff are trained to provide personalized care. What are the benefits of summer camp for teens? Camps help teens develop skills, make friends, build confidence and stay active through structured, fun programs. References Rustic Pathways: Summer Camp Statistics Camp Kinder Ring: CKR Official Site TrustedCare: TrustedCare Official Site