A Birmingham Parent Magazine Publication
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Teens Need Camp
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MEET THE TEAM
AMY L. FOREMAN PUBLISHER EDITORIAL AMANDA MILLER MANAGING EDITOR AMANDA CIANI MADELINE PISTORIUS
AMELIA ROESSLER JULIANNA STEEN ASSOCIATE EDITORS ART/PRODUCTION CHLOE ALLEN PRODUCTION MANAGER KAYLA DUPREE MADELINE MILETELLO ASAREL SMITH MCKINNA SPROLES GRAPHIC DESIGNERS MORGAN ESPENAN DIGITAL CONTENT COORDINATOR SARAH MILLER CLIENT SUCCESS MANAGER SABRINA SMITH BREE WRAY CLIENT SUCCESS SPECIALIST JILLIAN NORMAN PRODUCTION INTERN ADVERTISING/MARKETING ASHLEY ZANDERS SALES OPERATIONS CRYSTAL BARRETT ANTOINE COURTNEY KAYLA FRICKS GOMEZ RYN WHITESIDE SENIOR ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES CAMILLE CAVIN
CONTENTS
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From the Publisher
9 Undeniable Benefits of Summer Camp for Teens
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Close to Home, Big on Growth: The Power of Day Camp
JENNIFER HOFFMANN KAYLEIGH MONTANA JILLIAN WRAY ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES ELISABETH BARRETT
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Day Camps
MARKETING COORDINATOR COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT TERI HODGES DIRECTOR OF COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIPS ROXANE VOORHIES COMMUNITY OUTREACH ADMINISTRATION BRANDON FOREMAN CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER LAURIE ACOSTA DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS GAYLE GAUTHREAUX DIRECTOR OF FINANCE ALEXIS ALEXANDER SENIOR EXECUTIVE ADMINISTRATOR
Sleepaway Camp Readiness: What Parents Should Look For Am I Ready to Send My Kid to Overnight Camp?
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Overnight Camps
The Ultimate Camp Guide is published by FAMILY RESOURCE GROUP INC. and distributed free of charge. Subscriptions accepted. Only authorized distributors may deliver and pick up the magazine. We reserve the right to edit, reject, or comment editorially on all materials contributed. We cannot be responsible for the return of any unsolicited material. The Ultimate Camp Guide Copyright © 2026. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without written permission prohibited.
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FROM THE PUBLISHER
SUMMER STARTS HERE
Every year, summer sneaks up on us—and then somehow disappears in the blink of an eye. One minute we’re cheering on the last day of school, and the next we’re wondering how it’s already time to shop for backpacks again. Those in-between weeks? They’re golden—and they go fast.
That’s where our annual Summer Camp Guide comes in.
This guide is packed with amazing camp opportunities, from local day camps to unforgettable overnight experiences, all right here in our community. You’ll find a wide range of options, along with detailed camp profiles that give you a real feel for what each program offers. Whether your child wants to explore the great outdoors, create something new, try a new sport, or gain a little independence (and maybe miss you just a tiny bit), there’s a camp here that fits. Summer camp isn’t just about filling the days—it’s about friendships, confidence, fresh air, and coming home with stories that start with, “Guess what we did today?” And because summer has a habit of speeding by, planning ahead helps make sure those weeks are full of memories instead of last-minute scrambling. I hope this guide makes planning easier, sparks excitement, and helps your family soak up every sunny moment of summer—before it’s gone in a flash.
Amy L. Foreman Publisher amy@frg.inc
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9 UNDENIABLE BENEFITS OF SUMMER CAMP FOR TEENS BY KERRIE MCLOUGHLIN
1. Master Real-World Skills Through Community Service Community service camps offer a great chance for your teen to make a difference while learning valuable life skills. Activities might include packing food for the homeless, teaching younger kids how to read, or working on community projects
Maybe the thought hasn’t crossed your mind that your teen needs a dedicated break, beyond just working or hanging out. While those are fine, sending them to a summer camp for teens offers fun, learning, and growth. Here are the nine key benefits of attending summer camp this year:
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6. Staying Active and Improving Physical Health
like cleaning up a playground. They could even learn how to paint a house or provide yard care for an elderly person, gaining practical, real-world experience. 2. Forge Deep Friendships and Sharpen Social Skills Some teens return to the same camps and reconnect with old friends, but many are attending for the first time. They need to hone their social skills to connect with peers outside of school. Being in close proximity for days or weeks helps kids get closer, faster, building strong new bonds. 3. Uncover a New Passion with Focused, Deep Learning Whether your teen attends a camp focused on horses, adventure, a specific sport, or any other subject, they have an extended period to fully immerse themselves in that one activity. This deep, focused learning is unlike the standard classroom education. Your teen might discover a new passion that could shape their educational or future work life. When your child is unplugged from their smartphone, TV, and video games, they can truly focus on developing a hobby in a creative way. Today, there’s a camp for nearly every interest. Camps exist for animal lovers, sports enthusiasts of all types, and specialized programs like Scout camps. 5. Build Essential Collaboration and Teamwork Skills Your child will meet diverse kids from different backgrounds. Learning how to get along and work as a team is a huge life skill. Many camp activities are structured to require collaboration, and some include team-building exercises designed to help campers rely on one another. 4. Disconnect to Develop a Valuable New Hobby
Forget sitting around during the summer doing excessive “screen time.” When a teen attends summer camp, they typically forget those sedentary habits and focus on fun physical activities. This often involves hikes, swimming, paddle boating, sports, and more, depending on the camp.
7. Boost Self-Reliance and Independence for College
Camp is a practice run for college and adulthood. Going away, even briefly, teaches crucial self-management and independence. Because adult mentors (not parents) set the clear daily structure, teens are often more receptive to following instructions and learning to respect non-parental authority—vital skills for life after high school.
8. The Power of Absence: Appreciation & Reconnection
The built-in digital detox helps teens focus on nature, learning, and forming genuine relationships. It also gives them a new appreciation for the simple comforts of home, like a full pantry, their own comfy bed, and personal privacy. 9. Strengthen Spiritual Life Through Shared Values (Faith-Based Camps) Whether it’s memorizing Scripture or singing songs around a bonfire, connecting over shared values creates strong, spiritual bonds. Teen summer camp has so many key benefits... as for the rest of the summer? Your teen can spend that time doing odd jobs to help pay for camp next year!of the summer? Your teen can spend that time doing odd jobs to help pay for camp next year!
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CLOSE TO HOME, BIG ON GROWTH: THE POWER OF DAY CAMP BY SHANNON DEAN
F or many parents, the words “summer camp” conjure images of lakeside cabins, campfire songs, and kids experiencing their first taste of independence at sleepaway camp. And while that traditional experience is wonderful for some children, it’s not a universal fit for all. Plenty of kids simply aren’t ready for an extended stretch away from home. Parents of those kids may be relieved to know that “camp magic” can happen without a single night spent in a bunk. A high-quality day camp can deliver just as much growth, skill-building, and joy. And it can offer all the adventure of camp while allowing children to recharge in the comfort of home each evening. The Day Camp Advantage: Day camps greet children each morning and send them home at pickup, creating a daily rhythm that feels both structured and safe. This gentle approach is ideal for younger children, for anxious or introverted kids, or for families who prefer evening routines
and shared dinners. Instead of diving into the deep end of independence, children step into it gradually—trying new activities, bonding with peers, and stretching their comfort zones with a built-in safety net. Some mental health professionals recommend day camps for exactly this reason. The balance of daytime stimulation and nighttime familiarity encourages positive risk-taking, which helps kids build resilience and emotional flexibility. In other words, day camp can stretch the same developmental muscles as sleepaway camp, just exercised in shorter intervals. What the Research Shows: Research highlighted by the American Camp Association shows that camp experiences—day or overnight—are consistently linked to improvements in emotional well-being, belonging, and social skills. Studies repeatedly demonstrate boosts in self-esteem, resilience, teamwork, and friendship
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games, camp environments invite kids to move, create, and explore in ways that feel effortless and unplugged. The benefits go well beyond burning energy. A clinical review in Pediatrics found that regular physical activity improves concentration, reduces symptoms of anxiety and depression, and supports better sleep. Add in the “green time” that nature-based camps provide, and children gain a mood-boosting, stress-reducing daily reset. Day campers learn to love fresh air, dirty hands, and grass under their feet—gifts that matter more than ever in our digital era. Is Day Camp Right for Your Child?: If you’re weighing your summer options, it may help to consider your child’s emotional needs and your family rhythm. Is your child excited about new activities but uncomfortable with overnight stays? Do you value evenings together or need flexibility for work schedules? Are you hoping for high-quality programming without committing to a full sleepaway experience? If so, day camp may be the perfect match. Day camp isn’t the “lesser” path. It’s simply a different one. It’s robust, nurturing, research-supported, and deeply effective for growth and confidence. For many families, it’s not a placeholder until sleepaway camp, but the right camp experience for this moment in their child’s life. Whether your child dreams of trying new things or prefers to return home for bedtime stories, day camp offers the best of both worlds: adventure, learning, connection, and comfort. This summer, don’t overlook the possibilities in your own community. The memories your child treasures most might be waiting just down the road.
abilities across campers of all backgrounds. Even more compelling, research from the Harvard Graduate School of Education notes that the very skills nurtured at camp, such as building friendships, problem-solving, and resolving conflict, directly support academic success and long-term happiness. Across dozens of studies, children in day camp programs show measurable emotional growth and stronger adaptability. Day Camp Is Not “Less.” It’s Just Different: For parents who worry that day camps are somehow a “lite” version of camp, the evidence offers reassurance. Recent research suggests that what matters most isn’t where a child sleeps. It’s the quality and consistency of their camp experience. A national longitudinal study of early adolescents found that more time engaged in camp programming led to greater social-emo- tional gains, regardless of whether the camp was day or overnight. That makes multi-week or full-day programs especially powerful for growth. Day camps also offer the hidden advantage of exposure to new people and mentors. As Dr. Michael Ungar, author of Too Safe For Their Own Good , explains, camps give children “new relationships, not just with peers, but with trusted adults other than their parents.” Learning to communicate with adults independently is one of the quiet but crucial skills that carry into adolescence and beyond. A Natural Digital Detox: In a world dominated by screens, families often assume sleepaway camps hold the monopoly on digital detox. But many day camps offer the same relief from constant connectivity and pair it with hours of physical activity. Through activities like swimming, hiking, crafts, tag, and outdoor
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DAY CAMPS
There’s no shortage of summer fun at these day camps around Birmingham! From art and acting to soccer, ballet, and everything in between, explore this guide to find the perfect camp for your kids to enjoy all season long.
16 2026 | ULTIMATE CAMP GUIDE Anniston Museums & Gardens’ Paleo Summer Camp 800 Museum Dr., Anniston (256) 237-6766 exploreamag.org Alabama School of Fine Arts S.T.E.A.M Summer Camps 1800 Rev. Abraham Woods Jr. Blvd., Birmingham (205) 252-9241 asfaschool.org Ages: Rising 5th grade–12th grade Cost: $195–650 AIM Academy Summer Camp Multiple locations (205) 882-4040 youraimacademy.com Ages: 5–10 Cost: $265/week Alabama Ballet Junior Intensive 2726 1st Ave. S., Birmingham (205) 322-4300 alabamaballet.org Ages: 9–12 Cost: $400/week Altamont Summer 4801 Altamont Rd. S., Birmingham (205) 879-2006 altamontschool.org Grades: 3–6, 10, 12 Cost: $225–250
Ages: 9–13 Cost: $120–135
Big Blue Marble Academy’s Summer Explorers: Passport to Fun 401 Emery Dr., Hoover 104 Heatherbrooke Dr., Meadowbrook (205) 883-9293 & (205) 984-2771 bbmacademy.com Ages: 5–12 Cost: $250–300 Birmingham Children’s Theatre SPARK Summer Camp The Altamont School (4801 Altamont Rd. S.) (205) 458-8187
bct123.org Ages: 4–18 Cost: $250–590
Camp Adventure Shades Mountain Community Church (2281 Old Tyler Rd., Birmingham) administrator@thecampadventure.com
thecampadventure.com Ages: 3–Rising 8th grade Cost: $150–215/week
Camp Briarwood Camp Kanawahala (1745-2095 Girl Scout Rd., Chelsea) (205) 776-5237 campbriarwood.org Grades: 1–3 Cost: $515
Summer 2026
Camps
Art Studio for Teens June 1-5. 9:00 am-2:00 pm Explorations in Music June 8-12 9:00 am-2:00 pm Bulldog Art I June 15-19 9:00 am-2:00 pm Bulldog Art II June 22-29 9:00 am-2:00pm
Adventures in Music July 13-17 8:00 am-4:30 pm Bulldog Art III July 20-24. 9:00 am-2:00 pm Strings July 27-30 8:00 am-12:30 pm
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Camp Fletcher 5150 Fletcher Rd., Bessemer (205) 584-6033 bridgewaysal.org Grades: K5–8 Cost: $190–200/week Camp Fliptastic 500 Caldwell Trce., Birmingham (205) 981-2720 headoverheelsgyms.com Ages: 3–11 Cost: $200–270
227 West Valley Ave., Homewood (205) 370-3994 cheerprotraining.com Ages: 5–13 Cost: $400–425 Conservation & Careers Camp 2630 Cahaba Rd., Birmingham (205) 910-0907 birminghamzoo.com Ages: 13–15 Cost: $420 Dawson Ballet Camp 1114 Oxmoor Rd., Birmingham (205) 871-7324 dawsonchurch.org Ages: 4 years–2nd grade Cost: $165 Dawson Basketball Camp & Day Camp 1114 Oxmoor Rd., Birmingham (205) 871-7324 dawsonchurch.org Grades: Baketball: K–2, 3–5; Day: 1–5 Cost: Basketball: $155, Day: $255–310 Friends of Birmingham Botanical Gardens Summer Camps 2612 Lane Park Rd., Birmingham
Camp Indian Springs 190 Woodward Dr., Indian Springs (205) 982-9720 campindiansprings119.com Ages: 5–13 Cost: $315/week Camp Mathnasium 2798 John Hawkins Pkwy. #124, Hoover (205) 407-4078 mathnasium.com/hoover Grades: 2–8 Cost: $250–275 Camp McWane 200 19th St. N., Birmingham (205) 714-8300 mcwane.org Grades: 4K–K (half-day), 1–6 Cost: $45–85 Camp SVS 2701 Sydney Dr., Birmingham (205) 423-8660 springvalleyschool.org Grades: Rising 1–8 Cost: $600 Camp VST 3650 Bethune Dr., Mountain Brook (205) 251-1228 virginiasamfordtheatre.org
(205) 414-3950 bbgardens.org Ages: Age 5–6th grade Cost: $160–200
Goldfish Swim School - Hoover Jump Start Clinics 5549 Grove Blvd., Hoover (205) 512-9941 goldfishswimschool.com/hoover Ages: 2–12 Cost: $175–200
GradePower Learning Summer Programs
Greystone & Pelham locations (205) 620-2373 & (205) 980-5745 gradepowerlearning.com Ages: 4–18 Cost: $50/hour
Ages: 7–15 Cost: $300
Cheerpro Training Summer Cheer Camp
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Samford University Academy Music Camps 1939 South Lakeshore Dr., Birmingham (205) 726-2739 samford.edu/academy-of-the-arts Grades: 1–12 Cost: $310–405 Space One Eleven Summer Art Camps 2409 Second Ave. N., Birmingham (205) 328-0553 spaceoneeleven.org Grades: Rising 2–12 Cost: $320–544 (Tuition aid available) Stickandstrum Summer Music Camps 106 A David Green Rd., Birmingham (205) 434-0870 stickandstrum.com Ages: 4–18 Cost: $75–400 Summer Art Camp at Birmingham Museum of Art 2000 Rev. Abraham Woods Jr. Blvd., Birmingham (205) 254-2565
Gross Out Camp! Multiple locations (205) 540-6642 grossoutcamp.org Grades: Rising 1–4, Rising 5–8 Cost: $187–375 High Point Climbing Camp 4766 Hwy. 280, Birmingham (205) 981-9190 highpointclimbing.com Ages: 5–14 Cost: $279–309/week Highlands School Summer Camp 4901 Old Leeds Rd., Birmingham (205) 956-9731 highlandsschool.org Grades: Rising 4K–6th, CIT: 7–11 Cost: $225–400 J Camp 3960 Montclair Rd., Birmingham (205) 510-9022 bhamjcc.org Grades: Rising 1–7 Cost: $280–350/week
artsbma.org Grades: 1–12 Cost: $345–420
Kidcam Camps @ Oak Mountain State Park 200 Terrace Dr., Pelham (877) 454-3226 kidcamcamp.com Ages: 5–13 Cost: $195/week Mason Music Camps Multiple locations (205) 908-7059 masonmusic.com Ages: 3–18 Cost: $210–425
Summer Camp at Aldridge Gardens 3530 Lorna Rd., Hoover (205) 739-6555 aldridgegardens.com Grades: 5K–3 Cost: $130–150
Summer Theatre Camps at Red Mountain Theatre 1600 3rd Ave. S., Birmingham (205) 324-2424 redmountaintheatre.org Grades: Rising K–12 Cost: $195–450 Summer@Springs 190 Woodward Dr., Indian Springs
Mike Getman Soccer Camp LJCC (3960 Montclair Rd., Birmingham) (205) 216-3883 mikegetmansoccercamp.com Ages: 5–18 Cost: $250–335
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(205) 975-4769 go.uab.edu/uabartplaysummercamp Ages: 6–18 Cost: $150–840/week UAB St. Vincent’s 119 Summer Culinary Camps 7191 Cahaba Valley Rd., Meadowbrook (205) 408-6550 uabstvincents.org Grades: 6–18 Cost: $260/week
(205) 988-3350 summeratsprings.org Grades: 6–12 Cost: $200–400 weekly
The Dance Foundation Summer Camps 1715 27th Ct. S., Homewood (205) 870-0073 thedancefoundation.org
Grades: 4K–12 Cost: $175–275
Tutus & Tiaras 2726 1st Ave. S., Birmingham (205) 322-4300 alabamaballet.org Ages: 4–8 Cost: $275/session UAB ArtPlay Summer Camp UAB Alys Stephens Center: 1200 10th Ave. S., Birmingham UAB ArtPlay House: 1006 19th St. S., Birmingham
YMCA Summer Day Camp Multiple locations (205) 445-2850 bhamycamp.org Ages: K–8 Cost: $128–246/week Zoo Camp 2630 Cahaba Rd., Birmingham (205) 910-0907 birminghamzoo.com
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SLEEPAWAY CAMP READINESS: WHAT PARENTS SHOULD LOOK FOR BY SHANNON DEAN T he camp brochure makes it all look so alluring—sunlit cabins, kids grinning with excited faces, and experiences. It really is going to depend on the parent or primary caregiver looking carefully at the child’s readiness, which depends on the previous experience that child has had away from home.”
arms tossed around new best friends. It’s easy to picture your child there, soaking up independence and adventure. But then the doubts creep in. Are they really ready? What if they’re homesick? What if they can’t fall asleep without me? If you’re asking these questions, you’re in good company. Many parents worry about camp readiness for good reason. It’s a huge step. But camp readiness rarely comes down to the number on your child’s birthday cake. It’s much more about developmental readiness. In fact, when parents shift the focus from age to skills, it becomes easier to see what truly matters: a unique blend of independence, confidence, social skills, and emotional strength. Dr. Chris Thurber, author of The Summer Camp Handbook, notes, “The age at which a young person might go to overnight camp for the first time depends a lot on their previous life
With that in mind, here is a developmental checklist to help you see the full picture: The Independence Index: Beyond Tying Shoes: A natural starting point is day-to- day self-care. Can your child handle the basics? Can they brush their teeth well, take a thorough shower (hair included), or change their clothes without constantly being reminded? What about maintaining a bit of order? Can your child keep track of their stuff or regularly tidy their space? Camp doesn’t require perfection, but it does require awareness and effort. Experts say that while camp counselors are supportive, they can’t be expected to be valets or housekeeping staff. A child who has practiced simple routines at
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home arrives feeling capable rather than overwhelmed.
kids feel shaky at times, and experts say that homesickness at camp is very normal. In one study, 83 percent of sleepaway campers reported feeling homesick at some point. The goal isn’t to avoid homesickness. It’s to equip your child to handle it. Think about their past experiences away from home. Have they regularly spent the night at Grandma’s or had sleepovers with friends? These “practice separations” build confidence. Another key factor is your own readiness. Children read their parents’ emotional temperature with startling accuracy. If you’re anxious, they will be too. Dr. Tina Payne Bryson, co-author of The Whole-Brain Child , encourages parents to reflect on whether their concerns are rooted in their child’s discomfort or their own. She explains that children build true resilience with “the right kind of adversity with the right kind of support” —exactly what the right camp can provide. If You’re Still Unsure: If you’re still on the fence, there are ways to ease into camp, like: Try a shorter session. Some camps offer three or four-day beginner programs that give kids the full experience without the long separation. Invite a friend to sign up too. A familiar face can soften the transition and boost confidence. Try a day camp with an optional overnight. Even one night away can be a great test run. Ultimately, sending your child to sleepaway camp is an act of trust—trust in them, in the camp, and in the growth that comes from stepping into something new. When they come home taller (figuratively, or maybe literally) and bursting with stories, you’ll know the decision was worth it.
Independence also shows up in how they handle small setbacks. When they spill a drink, do they instantly seek an adult, or do they go find a paper towel on their own? Those small moments of initiative offer big clues about readiness. Are They Socially Ready?: While independence matters, social readiness plays an equally important role. Overnight camp is one long group project, with shared cabins, shared meals, and shared activities. Social readiness isn’t just about having friends. It’s about navigating constant interaction. Think about your child’s ability to compromise, share, take turns, and bounce back after conflict. Kids who can weather minor social bumps tend to thrive in camp. In fact, a study in the Journal of Applied Developmental Psychology found that children with stronger social problem-solving skills were not only happier at camp but also felt less lonely. It’s also helpful to consider how your child views new experiences. If their fear of missing out on what their friends at home are doing outweighs their excitement for adventure, camp may feel more stressful than fun. Conversely, a child who lights up at novelty is often ready to dive right in. Finally, observe their general coping style. When they face something tough, do they try again, or do they shut down quickly? Camp strengthens resilience, but that growth starts with being able to tolerate small frustrations, like missing the bullseye in archery, navigating cabin disagreements, or learning a challenging new skill. The Emotional Resilience Meter: Anticipating Homesickness: Even mature
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Photo by Freepik
AM I READY TO SEND MY KIDS TO OVERNIGHT CAMP? BY REBECCA HASTINGS
T he thought of sending your child to overnight camp can stir up a mix of emotions: excitement, nervousness, and perhaps a twinge of doubt. For parents, this milestone often brings a moment of self-reflection: “Am I ready to let them go?” While every family’s journey is unique, focusing on your own feelings and readiness can help make this decision easier. 1. How Do You Feel About Separation? Letting go is no small feat for parents. Reflect on your emotions: • Do you feel anxious or excited about the prospect of your child being away? • Are you worried about how they will cope without you? • Can you trust others to care for your child in your absence? It’s normal to feel torn. Separation offers an opportunity for growth, but it also challenges your sense of control.
Acknowledge your feelings without judgment and recognize that this step is as much about your growth as it is about theirs. 2. Can You Trust the Process? Sending your child to camp requires confidence in the environment they’re stepping into. Ask yourself: • Have you researched the camp thoroughly? • Do you feel reassured by the staff, safety protocols, and facilities? • Are you comfortable with the Trusting the camp’s ability to provide a safe and enriching experience can ease your worries. If doubts persist, reach out to camp directors and other parents for clarity and reassurance. 3. Are You Ready for Limited Control? Overnight camp is a space where children learn independence. This also means camp’s policies, including limited communication?
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confidence and excitement, they’re more likely to feel the same. Avoid expressing fears or doubts in front of them; instead, save those conversations for other adults. Prepare for Homesickness. Knowing your child might miss home can make you feel apprehensive. Remember, this is normal and temporary. Trust that the camp staff are equipped to handle these moments and help your child adjust. Trust Your Parenting. Sending your child to camp is a vote of confidence in how you’ve raised them. Trust that the values and skills you’ve instilled will guide them in this new environment. Practical Steps to Help You Feel Ready Learn About the Camp. Attend open houses, watch virtual tours, and speak with the camp directors. The more informed you are, the more confident you’ll feel. Write Letters in Advance. Plan to send notes that encourage your child. Focus on uplifting messages rather than how much you miss them. Stay Busy. While your child is away, fill your days with meaningful activities like hobbies and time with friends. Plan for Reconnection. Look forward to the moment they return, eager to share stories and experiences. The Rewards of Letting Go Sending your child to overnight camp is a significant step in their journey—and yours. It’s a moment to celebrate their growing independence and your ability to support them from afar. Are you ready? With thoughtful preparation and an open heart, the answer might just be a resounding “Yes!”
stepping back as a parent:
• Are you prepared for your child to make decisions and solve problems without your immediate guidance? • Can you resist the urge to intervene if homesickness or minor challenges arise? Recognize that these moments of independence help your child develop resilience, and they can help you build confidence in their abilities. The days your child is at camp can feel like an emotional roller coaster. Plan ahead: • How will you fill your time while they’re gone? • Do you have a support network to lean on? • Are there activities or projects you’ve been putting off that could keep you busy? 4. How Will You Cope While They’re Away? Taking care of yourself during this period will make the separation more manageable and rewarding. Tips for Preparing Yourself Acknowledge Your Emotions. It’s okay to feel sad, worried, or even guilty about sending your child to camp. Share your feelings with trusted friends, your partner, or other parents who’ve been through the experience. Shift Your Perspective. Focus on the benefits for both you and your child. While they’re learning new skills and forming friendships, you’ll have an opportunity to rest, recharge, and perhaps rediscover parts of yourself that get overlooked in day-to-day parenting.
Stay Positive. Your attitude will set the tone for your child. If you exude
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OVERNIGHT CAMPS Looking for the perfect overnight camp for your child? From classic summer camp fun to outdoor adventure and skill-building experiences, these overnight camps offer unforgettable weeks away for kids and teens. Browse the list below to find the best fit by location, age range, and activities—summer memories are just a registration away!
Alabama 4-H Center Summer Camp 892 4-H Rd., Columbiana, AL (205) 669-4241 alabama4hcenter.org
264 Highway Above the Clouds, Mentone, AL (256) 634-4394 campdesoto.com
Grades: Rising 1–10 Cost: $1,700–6,700
Ages: 9–14 Cost: $175
Camp Fletcher Residential Camp 5150 Fletcher Rd., Bessemer, AL (205) 584-6033 bridgewaysal.org Grades: 2–8 Cost: $400–425 Camp Green Cove 617 Green Cove Rd., Zirconia, NC
Alpine Summer Camp for Boys 138 County Rd. 619, Mentone, AL (256) 634-4404 alpinecamp.com Grades: K–9
Cost: $900–7,350 Camp Briarwood
YMCA Camp Chandler (1240 Jordan Dam Rd., Wetumpka), AL (205) 776-5237 campbriarwood.org Grades: 4–10 Cost: $845–870
(828) 692-6355 greencove.com Ages: 6–17 Cost: $4,900–9,100
Camp Hardtner 2393 Camp Hardtner Rd., Pollock, LA
Camp DeSoto
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Cost: $3,950–8,550
(318) 765-3794 camphardtner.org Grades: 2–12 Cost: $185–1,360
Camp Merri-Mac 1123 Montreat Rd., Black
Mountain, NC (828) 669-8766 merri-mac.com Ages: 1–11 Cost: $5,350–9,150
Camp Hollymont for Girls 339 Nacoochee Dr., Rabun Gap, GA
(828) 686-5343 hollymont.com Grades: K–9 Cost: $1,850–5,310
Camp Nakanawa 1084 Camp Nakanawa Rd.,
Crossville, TN (931) 277-3711 campnakanawa.org Ages: 8–17 Cost: $3,200–5,400
Camp Istrouma 25975 Greenwell Springs Rd., Greenwell Springs, LA (225) 261-2089 campistrouma.com Grades: 1–12 Cost: $125–480
Camp of the Rising Son 444 Lake Rd., French Camp, MS (662) 547-6169 campoftherisingson.com Ages: 6–17 Cost: $330–560
Camp Juliette Low 321 Camp Juliette Low Rd.,
Cloudland, GA (770) 428-1062 cjl.org Ages: 8–17 Cost: $1,060–2,405
Camp Skyline Ranch 4888 Alabama Hwy. 117, Mentone, AL (256) 634-4001 campskyline.com Grades: 1–11 Cost: $3,238–5,914
Camp Mac 2671 Cheaha Rd., Munford
(256) 362-7449 campmac.com Grades: 1–8 Cost: $2,195–5,795
Camp St. Bernard 1600 St. Bernard Dr., Cullman, AL (256) 739-6682 campstbernard.com Ages: 6–14 Cost: $250–500
Camp McDowell 105 Delong Rd., Nauvoo (205) 387-1806 campmcdowell.org Grades: 1–12 Cost: $200–700 Camp Merrie-Woode 100 Merrie-Woode Rd., Sapphire, NC (828) 743-3300 merriewoode.com Ages: 7–17
Camp Stanislaus 304 South Beach Blvd., Bay St. Louis, MS (228) 467-9057 campstanislaus.com Ages: 8–15 Cost: $945/week
Camp Winnataska
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Cost: $1,897–6,190
260 Winnataska Dr., Pell City, AL (205) 640-4248 winnataska.org Grades: Rising 1–10 Cost: $575–995 Camp Woodmont 381 Moonlight Dr., Cloudland, GA (423) 472-6070 campwoodmont.com Ages: 6–15 Cost: $1,375–2,650
Living River Summer Camp 2000 Living River Pkwy., Montevallo, AL (205) 208-0035 livingriver.org Grades: 4 yr. old—12 Cost: $250–700 Lookout Mountain Camp for Boys 277 County Rd. 632, Mentone, AL (504) 861-1534 lookoutmountaincamp.com Ages: 6–16 Cost: $4,250–8,100 Maranatha Camps 1091 Jeffery Rd., Scottsboro, AL (256) 574-4539 maranatha.camp Grades: 5–10 Cost: $355–799 McCallie Summer Programs McCallie School, 500 Dodds Ave., Chattanooga, TN (423) 493-5886 mccalliesummercamps.com Grades: 3–9 Cost: $275–4,100 Pine Cove Camp Multiple locations (TX, GA, SC)
Charis Hills Camp 498 Faulkner Rd., Sunset, TX
(940) 964-2145 charishills.org Ages: 7–18+ Cost: $2,200
Dauphin Island Sea Lab 101 Bienville Blvd., Dauphin Island, AL (251) 861-2141 disl.edu Grades: 5–12 Cost: $400–950 Deer Run Camp 3845 Perkins Rd., Thompson’s Station, TN (615) 235-5688 campdeerrun.com Grades: 3–10 Cost: $950–2,000 JH Ranch 8525 Homestead Ln., Etna, CA (800) 242-1224
pinecove.com Grades: 2–12 Cost: $1,199–1,499
jhranch.com Grades: 8–12 Cost: $4,200–6,200
Ponderosa Bible Camp 1018 County Rd. 734, Mentone, AL (256) 634-4397 ponderosabiblecamp.com Ages: 5–17 Cost: $195–625
Kanakuk 833 Lake Shore Dr., Branson, MO
(417) 266-3000 kanakuk.com Ages: 6–18
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Riverview Camp for Girls 757 County Road 614, Mentone, AL (256) 634-4043 riverviewcamp.com Ages: 6–16 Cost: $2,995–5,395
Cost: $2,600–7,000
WinShape Camps Headquarters: 5200 Buffington Rd., Atlanta, GA Girls: Berry College (2277 Martha Berry Hwy, Mt Berry, GA) Girls: Young Harris College (1 College St., Young Harris, GA) Boys: Truett McConnell University (100 Alumni Dr., Cleveland, GA) (844) 972-2677 camps.winshape.org Grades: 1–11 Cost: $999–2,749 YMCA Camp Cosby 2290 Paul Bear Bryant Rd., Alpine, AL (256) 268-2007 campcosby.ymcabham.org Grades: 1–11 Cost: $575–1,650
Twin Lakes Camp 155 Milner Rd., Florence, MS (601) 845-6858 twinlakescamp.org Ages: 6–15 Cost: $745–795 Valley View Ranch Equestrian Camp 606 Valley View Ranch Rd.,
Cloudland, GA (706) 862-2231 valleyviewranch.com Ages: 8–17
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