Key Takeaways
- Summer camps help teens build confidence, independence, and social skills through hands-on, supervised activities in supportive environments.
- Costs vary widely, with day camps averaging $87/day and overnight camps around $173/night, depending on location, amenities, and camp type.
- There’s a wide range of camp types from traditional and arts-focused to international and specialty programs offering something for every interest.
- Trends for 2027 include environmental education, hybrid/virtual options, and a growing number of international camp opportunities.
In this guide, we’ll take a look at:
What Are Summer Camps?
Summer camps are recreational programs during the summer where kids and teens engage in fun, skill-building activities under professional supervision. There are over 20,175 camps in the U.S. Camp options range from outdoor adventures and sports to arts (source: IBISWorld).
For over 150 years, summer camps have helped teens build leadership, communication and teamwork skills. Today, they remain a popular rite of passage known for positive impact on the personal development of teens.
Sharing smiles and culture through dance and play on a sunny day at summer camp.
>>>EXPLORE: Student Travel Programs in 2027
How Much Does Summer Camp Cost?
The cost of summer camps depends on the camp type, location and amenities provided. According to the American Camp Association, the average costs for summer camps are:
- Day Camps: $87 per day (ranging from $50 to $500 per week)
- Overnight Camps: $173 per night (ranging from $1,000 to $2,000 per week)
Transportation, meals, extended hours and add-on activities are excluded from camp tuition.
Tip: Costs vary by location. For example, a week-long overnight camp in California can exceed $2,200, while options in North Dakota may cost just $383 per week (source: SummerCamps.com).
| Cost Item | Day Camp | Overnight Camp |
|---|---|---|
| Tuition | $50–$500 | $1,000–$2,000 |
| Registration Fee | $25–$100 | $50–$100 |
| Transportation | $0–$150 (add-on) | $275–$2,000+ (airfare) |
| Meals/Snacks | $25–$50 (BYO) | Included |
| Field Trips/Activities | $20–$100 | $30–$300 |
| Extended Hours | $25–$200 per week | N/A |
| Additional Costs Vaccinations, insurance, personal expenses, visa and passport fees |
Varies | Varies |
Note: These costs are approximate and can vary based on location, activities, and other factors. Day camps are generally less expensive than overnight camps, which include meals, lodging and more extensive activities. For a full breakdown of teen summer camp pricing, see our cost guide.
What’s Included in a Teen Summer Camp Package?
Teen summer camp packages typically include lodging, meals, daily activities and excursions, trained staff, and safety support. Travel-based programs may bill international airfare separately, while day camps often add transport, meals, and materials. Confirm what’s bundled before comparing prices.
Rustic Pathways programs are all-inclusive on the ground for everything on the itinerary, including lodging, meals, scheduled activities, service projects, Program Leader supervision and 24-hour medical support. Flights to and from the program, insurance, the enrollment fee and personal expenses are separate. Published Program Tuition starts at $1,995.
