More than 20 million U.S. teens attend summer camps each year, building friendships and confidence in structured, supervised environments. This guide to summer camps for teens covers camp types, typical costs, safety questions to ask, and how to choose the right program for 2026.
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 2026 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 2026
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.
>>>Read our detailed cost guide for more budget-friendly camp options.
