How to Choose a Camp?

If you’ve started researching sleepaway camps, you probably already know there are a lot of them. And at first glance, they all sound amazing. Beautiful lakes. Happy kids. Cabins. Activities. Lifelong friendships.

So how are you actually supposed to choose one?

After going through this process myself, being a part of camp for decades, and talking to countless parents in the camp community, I’ve realized something important: there is no single “best” camp. 

There is only the best camp for your child and your family.

Here are the things I think actually matter when you're trying to figure that out.

Start with YOUR child and YOUR family:

It’s very tempting to talk to all your friends about their favorite camps,  but the besst place to start is with your child.

Ask yourself:

• Are they social and excited to meet new people, or do they need a smaller environment to feel comfortable?

• Do they thrive with lots of structure or prefer more freedom?

• Are they sporty, creative, outdoorsy, or a mix of everything?

Some kids will love a large, high-energy camp with tons of team sports. Others will feel much happier in a smaller camp with more individualized programming.

The goal isn’t to find the most impressive camp to post on your instagram. It’s to find the right fit.

Figure out the Camp Cultur

Every camp offers activities. Archery, swimming, arts and crafts, ropes courses, drama, sports… the list goes on.

But what really differentiates camps is their culture.

Is it very competitive or more relaxed?

Are the kids mostly from one geographic area or from everywhere?

Does the camp emphasize independence or structure?

Is it a place where kids are constantly moving or where they can slow down a bit?

When parents say, “This camp just felt right,” they’re usually reacting to the culture, even if they don’t realize it.

Talk to Real Parents

Camp websites and brochures are beautiful, but the most valuable information often comes from other parents.  Join our facebook group at Live 10 for 2, for Parents too to ask broad stroke questions about camps or ask around. Even directors or owners of camps can connect you with current families as references.

You’ll learn more from a ten-minute conversation with a parent whose child attends the camp than from hours of reading online.

Trust your gut:

After you’ve researched, spoken with parents, and maybe toured a few camps, you’ll probably notice something interesting.

One or two will simply stand out.

Sometimes it’s the director. Sometimes it’s the feeling you get walking the grounds. Sometimes it’s hearing how excited your child sounds when they talk about it.

That instinct is often worth listening to.

Almost every camp parent has gone through the same process of researching, asking questions, and wondering if they’re making the right choice.

The good news is that there are so many incredible camps out there. The goal is finding a place where your child will grow, gain confidence, and maybe even discover friendships that last a lifetime. It doesn't have to be perfect.

It is what makes us all want to live 10 for 2.