Choosing A Camp
As you begin to explore the many options, keep in mind your child's interests and maturity level.
Think about the following items and discuss them with your child
- How much can you afford to spend on summer camp?
- How far away is the camp from your home? This might incur additional costs.
- Do you want a large or small camp?
- How many weeks does your child want to spend at camp?
- Do you want a co-ed or single sex camp?
- What kind of activities will your child enjoy? There are camps that offer a variety of activities. Some camps concentrate on one area like sports, the arts, academics, etc. There are special needs camps for specific populations, for example children with cancer, diabetes, physically challenged, etc.
After answering and thinking about the above questions you are ready to begin your search for a summer camp. There are thousands of camps in the United States. How to choose the right one?
Items to consider about when reviewing camps and speaking with the Camp Director:
- What is the camp philosophy? Camp program?
- What is a typical day like at camp?
- What is the quality of activities and facilities?
- What is the counselor to camper ratio?
- What is the age and background of the counseling staff? How is the staff trained?
- What is the percentage of staff members who return each year?
- How does the camp insure the safety and security of its campers?
- What is the camp's drug/alcohol policy?
- What kind of health care is provided?
- What medical facilities do you use?
- What is the satisfaction level of previous campers?
- What is the food like?
- What is the policy on phone calls and family visits?
How to find a camp?
- Ask friends, neighbors, relatives. Ask them what they liked about a particular camp.
- Books and Websites:
- Frost's Summer Camp Guide:
www.frosts.com Phone: 201-784-7662 - American Camping Association's Guide to Accredited Camps:
www.ACAcamps.org Phone: 765-342-8456
- Frost's Summer Camp Guide:
- Camp Links: