How to Choose a Summer Camp: The Complete Decision Guide
With thousands of camps to choose from, finding the right one feels overwhelming. This guide provides a systematic framework—not just a list of things to consider, but a step-by-step process to narrow your options and make a confident choice.
1Know Your Child
The best camp isn't the highest-rated one—it's the one that fits YOUR child. Before looking at any camp, answer these questions honestly:
Interest Assessment
- What activities does your child love? Not what you wish they loved—what actually excites them.
- Do they have a passion to go deep on? (Soccer, music, coding, horses) Or do they prefer variety?
- Are they outdoorsy or indoorsy? Some kids thrive in wilderness; others wilt.
- What would THEY say they want from camp? Ask them directly.
Personality Assessment
Introvert Indicators
- • Needs alone time to recharge
- • Prefers small groups
- • Observes before participating
- → Look for: Smaller camps, quiet time built in, choice-based schedules
Extrovert Indicators
- • Energized by groups
- • Jumps into new situations
- • Bored without activity
- → Look for: Larger camps, packed schedules, team activities
Readiness Factors
- □Has your child slept away from home successfully?
- □Can they manage basic self-care (showering, dressing)?
- □Can they ask adults for help when needed?
- □Are THEY interested, or are you pushing them?
- □Any special needs, medical conditions, or accommodations required?
2Define Your Requirements
Before searching, establish your non-negotiables. This prevents falling in love with a camp you can't actually use.
Day Camp vs. Overnight
Day Camp If:
- • First camp experience
- • Child under 8 years old
- • Significant separation anxiety
- • Medical needs requiring home care
- • Budget is a primary concern
Overnight Camp If:
- • Child is ready for independence
- • You want immersive experience
- • Building independence is a goal
- • They've done day camp before
- • Specialty programs require it
Logistics
- Dates: When do you need camp? All summer? Specific weeks?
- Duration: 1 week for first-timers, 2-4+ for experienced campers?
- Location: Maximum distance you're comfortable with?
- Budget: What can you realistically spend? (See our pricing guide)
Camp Type Decision Tree
Strong single interest? → Specialty camp (sports, arts, STEM)
Want variety? → Traditional multi-activity camp
Faith is important? → Faith-based camp
Love the outdoors? → Adventure/wilderness camp
Special needs? → Specialized or inclusive camp with accommodations
Family time? → Family camp
3Research Camp Options
Now you know what you're looking for. Time to find camps that match.
Where to Search
- Camp.land - Search by type, location, and features
- American Camp Association - Accredited camps database (acacamps.org)
- Word of mouth - Ask friends, school parents, pediatricians
- Specialty organizations - Sports leagues, arts programs, religious organizations
- School counselors - Often have regional recommendations
Create a Shortlist
Aim for 3-5 camps that meet your requirements. More than that becomes overwhelming. Fewer doesn't give you enough comparison. Request information from each one.
4Evaluate Quality & Safety
Now scrutinize your shortlist. Not all camps are created equal.
Essential Questions to Ask Every Camp
Staff & Safety
- • What is the staff-to-camper ratio?
- • What background checks and training do staff receive?
- • How long have counselors worked there? (High turnover = red flag)
- • What are your emergency protocols?
- • Is there medical staff on-site?
Program
- • Can I see a sample daily schedule?
- • How much choice do campers have?
- • What makes your camp different from others?
- • How do you handle homesickness?
- • What's your philosophy on competition vs. participation?
Practical
- • What's included in tuition? What's extra?
- • What is your refund/cancellation policy?
- • How will I communicate with my child?
- • Can I speak with references from other families?
Quality Indicators
Green Flags
- ✓ ACA accredited
- ✓ Transparent about all policies
- ✓ Eager to provide references
- ✓ Thorough application process
- ✓ High returning camper rate
- ✓ Staff with multi-year tenure
Red Flags
- ✗ Vague answers to direct questions
- ✗ Pressure to commit quickly
- ✗ Won't provide references
- ✗ No clear emergency protocols
- ✗ Hidden fees or unclear pricing
- ✗ Unwilling to let you visit
Visit If Possible
Nothing replaces seeing a camp in action. Many camps offer open houses, tours, or trial days. If you can't visit, ask for a video call or virtual tour.
5Make Your Decision
You've done the research. Now trust your judgment.
Final Decision Checklist
- □Does this camp match my child's interests and personality?
- □Do the logistics work (dates, location, budget)?
- □Did they answer my questions thoroughly and honestly?
- □Do references confirm what the camp told me?
- □Does my gut say yes?
- □Is my CHILD excited about this specific camp?
Trust Your Instincts
If something feels off, it probably is. And if a camp feels right—even if it wasn't your original top choice—pay attention to that feeling. Parent intuition is powerful.
🌳Quick Decision Flowchart
Is this their first camp experience?
YES → Start with day camp or short overnight session
NO → Consider longer sessions and specialty programs
Does your child have a strong single interest?
YES → Specialty camp (sports, arts, STEM, etc.)
NO → Traditional multi-activity camp
Is budget your primary constraint?
YES → Look at faith-based camps, day camps, or apply for financial aid
NO → Prioritize fit over cost
Does your child need specific accommodations?
YES → See our Special Needs Camp Guide
NO → Standard mainstream camps
The Bottom Line
The "perfect" camp doesn't exist—but the right camp for YOUR child does. Focus on fit over prestige, trust your research, and involve your child in the decision. When the match is right, camp can be a transformative experience.