The 2026 Ultimate Camp Guide

A Nola Family Magazine Publication

Summer Fun, Close to Home Summers that Shape Teens

Signs Your Child is Camp-Ready

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June 8-11 June 22-25 July 6-9 July 27-30

Get the kids involved with one of the most rewarding & exciting adventures available on earth: INNERSPACE. More of us can be AQUANAUTS than astronauts. (504) 888-4882

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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 WRAY PRODUCTION INTERN ADVERTISING/ MARKETING ASHLEY ZANDERS SALES OPERATIONS CRYSTAL BARRETT ANTOINE COURTNEY KAYLA FRICKS GOMEZ RYN WHITESIDE SENIOR ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES CAMILLE CAVIN

CONTENTS 7 From the Publisher 8 Close to Home, Big on Growth: The Power of Day Camp

9 Undeniable Benefits of Summer Camps for Teens

Day Camp Listing

JENNIFER HOFFMANN KAYLEIGH MONTANA JILLIAN WRAY ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES ELISABETH BARRETT

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Overnight Camp Listing

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 CONTACT EDITORIAL@FRG.INC CORPORATE OFFICE (225) 292-0032 3636 S. SHERWOOD FOREST BLVD. STE. 540 BATON ROUGE, LA 70816-6055

Sleepaway Camp Readiness: What Parents Should Look For

THE ULTIMATE CAMP GUIDE is published monthly by FAMILY RESOURCE GROUP INC. (FRG) and distributed free of charge. Subscriptions accepted. Only authorized distributors may deliver and pick up the magazine. Paid advertisements appear in FRG publications, including print and other digital formats. FRG does not endorse or evaluate the product, service, or company, nor any claims made by the advertisement. We reserve the right to edit, reject, or comment editorially on all materials contributed. Some content in this magazine was created with assistance from AI tools and has been reviewed and edited by our human editorial team. We cannot be held responsible for the return of any unsolicited material. THE ULTIMATE CAMP GUIDE Copyright 2026. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission prohibited.

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FROM THE PUBLISHER

SUMMER STARTS HERE

E very 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 unfor- gettable 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 pro- gram 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 be- cause 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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CLOSE TO HOME, BIG ON GROWTH: THE POWER OF DAYCAMP By Shannon Dean

F or many parents, the words kids experiencing their first taste of inde- pendence 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. “summer camp” conjure images of lakeside cabins, campfire songs, and 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 recom- mend day camps for exactly this reason. The balance of daytime stimulation and nighttime familiarity encourages positive risk-taking, which helps kids build resil- ience and emotional flexibility. In other words, day camp can stretch the same de- velopmental muscles as sleepaway camp, just exercised in shorter intervals. What the Research Shows: Research highlighted by the American Camp Associ- ation 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-

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esteem, resilience, teamwork, and friendship abilities across campers of all backgrounds. Even more compelling, research from the Harvard Graduate School of Educa- tion 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 reassur- ance. 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-emotional gains, regardless of whether the camp was day or overnight. That makes multi-week or full-day pro- grams especially powerful for growth. Day camps also offer the hidden advan- tage of exposure to new people and men- tors. 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 commu- nicate with adults independently is one of the quiet but crucial skills that carry into adolescence and beyond. A Natural Digital Detox: In a world dom- inated 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 games, camp envi- ronments invite kids to move, create, and explore in ways that feel effortless and unplugged. The benefits go well beyond burning en- ergy. 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 emotion- al needs and your family rhythm. Is your child excited about new activities but un- comfortable with overnight stays? Do you value evenings together or need flexibility for work schedules? Are you hoping for high-quality programming without com- mitting to a full sleepaway experience? If so, day camp may be the perfect match. Day camp isn’t the “lesser” path. It’s sim- ply a different one. It’s robust, nurturing, research-supported, and deeply effective for growth and confidence. For many fam- ilies, 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.

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OF SUMMER CAMP FOR TEENS 9 By Kerrie McLoughlin

UNDENIABLE BENEFITS

M aybe the thought hasn’t crossed your mind that your teen needs a dedicated break, beyond just work- ing or hanging out. While those are fine, sending them to a summer camp for teens offers fun, learning, and growth. The ben- efits of summer camp for teens are truly undeniable. Here are the nine key benefits of attending summer camp this year:

include packing food for the homeless, teaching younger kids how to read, or working on community projects like cleaning up a playground. They could even learn how to paint a house or provide yard care for an elderly person, gaining practi-

cal, real-world experience. 2. Forge Deep Friendships and Sharpen Social Skills

1. Master Real-World Skills Through Community Service

It’s vital to continue to grow and enrich life by adding new friends. 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

Community service camps offer a great chance for your teen to make a difference while learning valuable life skills. They get to spend their days helping others, which is inherently rewarding. Activities might

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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. 4. Disconnect to Develop a Valuable New Hobby 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 (soccer, swimming, baseball), and specialized programs like Scout camps. They can pursue practically any interest they have. 5. Build Essential Collaboration and Teamwork Skills Your child will meet diverse kids from dif- ferent backgrounds. Learning how to get along and work as a team is a huge life skill reinforced at camp. Many camp activities are structured to require collaboration, and some include specific team-building exercises designed to help campers rely on one another to achieve a shared goal. 6. Staying Active and Improving Physical Health 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, and more, depending on the camp setting.

Choosing a camp targeted to a sport they love guarantees they stay physically fit all summer long.

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 follow- ing instructions and learning to respect non-parental authority—vital skills for life after high school. The built-in digital detox helps teens focus on nature, learning, and forming genuine relationships. This time away also gives them a new appreciation for the simple comforts of home, like a full pantry, their own comfy bed, and personal privacy. 8. The Power of Absence: Appreciation & Reconnection 9. Strengthen Spiritual Life Through Shared Values (Faith-Based Camps) If your teen enjoys faith-based activities, an organized religious camp through a church, synagogue, or mosque can be per- fect. The schedule often involves morning services, followed by outdoor activities and time spent with friends, reinforcing shared beliefs. Whether it’s memorizing scriptures or singing songs around a bon- fire, connecting over shared values creates strong, spiritual bonds. Teen summer camp has so many key bene- fits for teenagers covering physical, social, mental, and spiritual growth. As for the rest of the summer? Your teen can spend that time doing odd jobs to help pay for camp next year!

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DAY CAMP LISTING W hen schools are out, summer of all, plenty of play! Explore our list of the top day camps in the New Orleans area, complete with the details you need to find the best fit. Summer planning starts now! camps are in–with music, history, science, theater, sports, and best

Academy of Sacred Heart 4301 St. Charles Ave., New Orleans (504) 269-1230 ashrosary.org/summer Ages: 1-13 Rates: $350+/week Acorn Camp 8800 Veterans Memorial Blvd., Metairie (504) 467-3105 archbishopchapelle.org/ summer Grades: Rising 1st-7th Rates: $200/week All Star Gymnastics 2037 Bonn St., Harvey (504) 328-3838 allstargymnola.org/sum- mercamp Ages: 4+ Rates: Varies Arden Cahill Academy’s Camp Corral 3101 Wall Blvd., Gretna (504) 392-0902 ardencahillacademy.com Ages/Grades: Age 3 (must turn 4 by 9/30/26) through rising 8th Grade Rates: $365/Weekly to $1,325/Session

Ask Wonder Explore Lakeview Presbyterian Church, 5914 Canal Blvd., New Orleans (504) 252-2984 askwonderexplore.com Ages: 4-11 Rates: $325-399 Best of the 90s Camp School of Rock, 1907 Veterans Blvd., Metairie (504) 618-7625 schoolofrock.com Ages: 13-18 Rates: $475 Bob & Dolores Hope Theater Camp The National WWII Museum, 945 Magazine St., New Orleans (504) 528-1944 nationalww2 museum.org/events Grades: Rising 5th-8th Rates: $340 Camp 250 The National WWII Museum, 945 Magazine St., New Orleans (504) 528-1944 nationalww2

museum.org/events Grades: Rising 3rd-8th Rates: $290/week Camp Cabrini 1400 Moss St., New Orleans (504) 482-1193 cabrinihigh.com/camp Grades: Rising 1st-8th Rates: $150-200/package Camp Cabrini: Leadership Camp 1400 Moss St., New Orleans (504) 482-1193 cabrinihigh.com/camp Grades: Rising 7th Rates: $150-200/package Camp Camo The National WWII Museum, 945 Magazine St., New Orleans (504) 528-1944 nationalww2 museum.org/events Grades: Rising 3rd-6th Rates: Scholarship-based Camp Crusader 1609 Carrollton Ave., Metairie

(504) 833-8224 slkfschool.com

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Grades: Rising PK4-7 Rates: $225-250/week Camp Invention 6201 Camphor St., Metairie (800) 968-4332 invent.org/local Grades: Rising K-6th Rates: $285 Camp Victory Victory Christian Academy, 5708 Airline Drive, Metairie

kids-and-families Ages: 7-12 Rates: $225-225 or Scholarship-based

Grades: Rising K and older Rates: $360-395 Mount Carmel Academy Summer Camp 7027 Milne Blvd., New Orleans (504) 288-7626 mcacubs.com/camp Grades: Rising 2nd-8th girls Rates: $90-115/session Move! Best Kids Summer Camp 4714 Paris Ave., New Orleans movebestkids.com (504) 376-7009 Ages: 5-11 Rates: $227-277/week Pony Tales 156 Bertucci Ln., St. Rose (504) 469-0148 ponytalesbirthdays.com Ages: 4-12 Rates: $40-70/day Pop Legends School of Rock, 1907 Veterans Blvd., Metairie (504) 618-7625 schoolofrock.com Ages: 12-18 Rates: $475 Rock 101 Summer Camp School of Rock, 1872 N Causeway Blvd., Mandeville (504) 618-7625 schoolofrock.com Ages: 8-12 Rates: $475 Rookies Rock

Ecole Bilingue Summer Camp 821 General Pershing St., New Orleans (504) 896-4500 ebnola.net Grades: PK2-8th Rates: $325-405 Entrepreneurship Works Broadmoor Arts & Well- ness Center, 3900 General Taylor, New Orleans (504) 522-2667 cwla-news.com/ entrepreneurship-works

(504) 733-5087 vcagators.net/ camp-victory-2026 Ages: 3-12 Rates: $195/week or $700/month Camp Walden 2539 Columbus St., New Orleans (504) 525-2420 waldorfnola.org/ summer-camp Ages/Grades: Age 3 through 6th Grade Rates: $375/week Classic Rock Rewind Camp School of Rock, 1907 Veterans Blvd., Metairie (504) 618-7625 schoolofrock.com

Ages: 11-14 Rates: Free

JCC Summer Camp 5342 St Charles Ave., New Orleans

(504) 897-0143 nojcc.org/camp

Ages/Grades: 21 Months through rising 8th Grade Rates: $360-370 Kehoe-France School 720 Elise Ave., Metairie (504) 733-0472 campscui.active.com/orgs/ KehoeFranceSchool Ages: 5-13 Rates: $2,075 -2,415 Lolo’s Youth

Ages: 13-18 Rates: $475

Courtyard Camp 820 St. Louis St., New Orleans (504) 525-5661 hgghh.org/

Yoga + Art Studio 6117 Magazine St., New Orleans (415) 786-3317 lolosstudio.com

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Summer Camp School of Rock, 1872 N Causeway Blvd., Mandeville (504) 618-7625 schoolofrock.com Ages: 6-7 Rates: $300 Safe Sitter Camp Junior League of New Orleans, 4319 Carondelet St., New Orleans (504) 891-5845 jlno.org/safe-sitter Grades: 6–8 Rates: $80/class SCUBA Ranger Explorers Harry’s Dive Shop, 4709 Airline Dr., Metairie (504) 888-4882 harrysdiveshop.com

Rates: $700-750/session StM Summer Day Camp 225 Green Acres Rd., Metairie (504) 733-0353 stmsaints.com/student- experience/summer-at-stm Grades: Rising K-7th Rates: $280-350/week StM Theatre Camp 225 Green Acres Rd., Metairie (504) 733-0353 stmsaints.com/student- experience/summer-at-stm Grades: Rising 3rd-8th Rates: $750 Spy Camp The National WWII Museum, 945 Magazine St., New Orleans (504) 428-1944 nationalww2museum. org/events-programs/ kids-and-family-programs/ summer-camp Grades: Rising 3rd-6th Rates: $290/week Summer at

New Orleans (504) 891-5509

stgnola.org/summer Grades: Rising 3rd-8th Rates: $340 Summer at St. George’s: Ready, Set, Read! 923 Napoleon Ave., New Orleans ReadySetRead@ stgnola.org stgnola.org/summer Grades: Rising K-5th Rates: $900-970/session Summer Camp @ The Hive on Woodland 1510 Woodland Hwy., Belle Chasse (504) 410-5013 thehiveonwoodland.com/ summer-camp Ages: 5-10 Rates: $215-535

/classes/kids/ scuba-rangers Ages: 8+ Rates: $475 StM Challenges

Summer Program 225 Green Acres Rd., Metairie

KidCam Camps 6000 Airline Dr, Metairie, LA (877) 454-3226 kidcamcamp.com/

challenges@challenges summerprogram.com challengessummer program.com Grades: Rising 3rd-7th Rates: $975 StM George Cottage Camp 225 Green Acres Rd., Metairie (504) 733-0353 stmsaints.com/student- experience/summer-at-stm

St. George’s: Dragon Camp 923 Napoleon Ave., New Orleans (504) 891-5509

camp-locations-1/metairie Ages/Grades: K through 13 Rates: $160/week

stgnola.org/summer Ages/Grades: Ages 1 through rising 4th Grade Rates: $340/week or $890-1,020/session Summer at St. George’s: Investigators’ Workshop 923 Napoleon Ave.,

Upturn Arts 1719 Toledano St., New Orleans

(504) 390-8399 upturnarts.org Ages: 4-12 Rates: $375

Ages/Grades: Ages 1 through rising PK4

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Summer is just around the corner, and it’s the perfect time to start planning unforgettable experiences for your kiddos! In the pages ahead, you’ll find detailed profiles of camps near and far, each ready to welcome young adventurers for a season of fun, learning, and new friendships. Each profile includes photos, essential contact information, and a QR code you can scan for even more details, making it easy to find the perfect fit for your child’s summer. CAMP GUIDE LISTING

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for today’s families. Each week features exciting themes brought to life through a wide range of activities, including sports, creative arts, STEM projects, team-building games, life skills development, and talent shows. Campers also enjoy outdoor play in secure green spaces, water activities and swimming, and special on-site adventures that create lasting memories—all within a structured, age-appropriate day camp setting. To support working families, Kidcam offers extended care options and convenient food plans, making summer schedules even easier to manage. With a commitment to safety, strong partnerships, and programming kids love, Kidcam Camps continues to be the trusted choice for families seeking a reliable, enriching summer experience. Kidcam Camps continues to be the trusted choice for families seeking a reliable, enriching summer experience. convenient food plans, making summer schedules even easier to manage. With a commitment to safety, strong partnerships, and programming kids love, for today’s families. Each week features exciting themes brought to life through a wide range of activities, including sports, creative arts, STEM projects, team-building games, life skills development, and talent shows. Campers also enjoy outdoor play in secure green spaces, water activities and swimming, and special on-site adventures that create lasting memories—all within a structured, age-appropriate day camp setting. To support working families, Kidcam offers extended care options and

At Kidcam Camps, summer is simplified. For more than 50 years, families have trust- ed Kidcam to deliver safe, engaging, and well-run day camp experiences designed to take the stress out of summer planning. Instead of juggling schedules or committing to an entire summer, families can choose only the weeks they need—selecting from up to 10 themed weeks and custom- izing their schedule from a entire summer, families can choose only the weeks they need—selecting from up to 10 themed weeks and custom- izing their schedule from a single week to the full summer. Kidcam Camps operates more than 30 locations across the Southeast, partnering with trusted community facilities to provide high-quality programs in safe, familiar environments. Summer Camp is all we do, and our experienced team focuses year-round on creat- ing programs that balance fun, structure, and convenience Summer Camp is all we do, and our experienced team focuses year-round on creat- ing programs that balance fun, structure, and convenience trusted community facilities to provide high-quality programs in safe, familiar environments. At Kidcam Camps, summer is simplified. For more than 50 years, families have trust- ed Kidcam to deliver safe, engaging, and well-run day camp experiences designed to take the stress out of summer planning. Instead of juggling schedules or committing to an single week to the full summer. Kidcam Camps operates more than 30 locations across the Southeast, partnering with

KIDCAM CAMPS Founded 1974 (877) 454-3226 kidcamcamp.com Founded 1974 (877) 454-3226 kidcamcamp.com

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Twin Lakes Camp in Florence, MS, is a ministry of First Pres- byterian Church of Jackson, MS. Twin Lakes exists to glorify world through gospel ministry to campers and guests. Our Summer Camp program offers six weeks of overnight camp for campers from 6 to 12 years of age. We also offer our Lead- ership in Training program for youth from 13 to 15 years old and our Counselor in Training program for 16-year-olds. God by making disciples in our communities and the Campers experience a week of fun and amazing activities all with a universal focus on learning about the Gospel and God’s love for them. At the beginning of each activity, a specific, Bible-focused ob- ject lesson and devotional is conducted with the campers. Campers memorize Bible verses and learn songs related

to our Summer Camp theme. In 2026, we will be diving into the life of the Apostle Paul and God’s grace. Available activities at Twin Lakes include our new Aerial Adventure ropes course and climbing wall, our swimming pool, lakefront swimming area, rifle and archery, arts and crafts, super fun games, wet and wild adventure, and horseback riding (Overnight Weeks 1 and 2 only.) Throughout the week, campers will enjoy skits and daily assemblies led by our carefully selected summer camp staff to provide visual learning opportunities tailored to their ages that help to demonstrate and reinforce the Gospel message. It is our greatest joy and privilege to share the good news with your camper in the beautiful setting that is Twin Lakes.

Twin Lakes Camp in Florence, MS, is a ministry of First Pres- byterian Church of Jackson, MS. Twin Lakes exists to glorify God by making disciples in our communities and the world through gospel ministry to campers and guests. Our Summer Camp program offers six weeks of overnight camp for campers from 6 to 12 years of age. We also offer our Lead- ership in Training program for youth from 13 to 15 years old and our Counselor in Training program for 16-year-olds. Campers experience a week of fun and amazing activities all with a universal focus on learning about the Gospel and God’s love for them. At the beginning of each activity, a specific, Bible-focused ob- ject lesson and devotional is conducted with the campers. Campers memorize Bible verses and learn songs related

TWIN LAKES Founded 1970 (601) 845-6858 twinlakescamp.org

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OVERNIGHT CAMP LISTING S earching for the perfect overnight camp for your child? This guide features camps for every interest, offering unforgettable experiences for kids and teens. Explore the list below to find the best fit by location, age range, and activities. Summer memories are just a registration away!

Camp Chief Ouray 1101 County Rd. 53, Granby, CO (970) 887-2648 campchiefouray.org Ages: 7-14 Rates: $500-1,182 Camp Green Cove 617 Green Cove Rd., Tuxedo, NC

Ages: 7-15 Rates: $1,850-5,310 Camp Istrouma

25975 Greenwell Springs Rd., Greenwell Springs, LA (225) 261-2089 campistrouma.com Grades: 2-12 Rates: $300-480 Camp Juliette Low 321 Camp Juliette Low Rd.,

Ida, AR (870) 867-4131 campozark.com Ages: 7-17

(828) 692-6355 greencove.com Ages: 7-16

Rates: $2,595-4,645 Camp Shady Brook 8716 S. Camp Rd., Deckers, CO (303) 647-2313 campshadybrook. ppymca.org Ages: 7-17 Rates: $1,031-2,174 Camp Skyline Ranch 4888 AL-117, PO Box 287, Mentone, AL (256) 634-4001 campskyline.com Grades: 1-11 Rates: $3,238-5,914 Camp St. Bernard 1600 St. Bernard Dr., Cullman, AL (256) 739-6682 campstbernard.com Ages: 6-14 Rates: $500

Cloudland, GA (770) 428-1062 cjl.org Ages: 8-17 Rates: $1,010-2,405 Camp Merri-Mac 1123 Montreat Rd., Black Mountain, NC

Rates: $4,900-9,100 Camp Granite Lake 11902 Camp Eden Rd., Golden, CO (720) 249-2997 campgranitelake.com Grades: 2-11 Rates: $1,550-4,950 Camp Hardtner 2393 Camp Hardtner Rd., Pollock, LA (318) 765-3794 camphardtner.org Grades: 2-12 Rates: $185-1,160 Camp Hollymont for Girls 339 Nacoochee Dr., Asheville, NC

(828) 669-8766 merri-mac.com Grades: 1-11 Rates: $5,350-9,150 Camp of the Rising Son 444 Lake Rd., French Camp, MS (662) 547-6169 campoftherisingson.com Ages: 7-16 Rates: $430-560 Camp Ozark 155 Camp Ozark Drive Mt.

(828) 686-5343 hollymont.com

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Camp Stanislaus 304 South Beach Blvd., Bay St. Louis, MS (228) 467-9057 campstanislaus.com Ages: 8-15 Rates: $945 Camp Winaukee 432 Winaukee Rd., Moultonborough, NH Rates: $5,275-15,825 Camp Winnataska 260 Winnataska Dr., Pell City, AL (205) 640-4248 winnataska.org Grades: Rising 1-10 Rates: $995 Camp Woodmont 381 Moonlight Dr., Cloud- land, GA 30731 (423) 472-6070 campwoodmont.com Ages: 6-14 (800) 487-9157 winaukee.com Ages: 7-15 (940) 964-2145 charishills.org Ages: 7-18 Rates: $2,200 Cub Creek Science Camp 16795 State Hwy. E, Rolla, MO (573) 458-2125 cubcreeksciencecamp.com Ages: 7-17 Rates: $1,495 Rates: $1,800-2,650 Charis Hills Camp 498 Faulkner Rd., Sunset, TX

Dauphin Island Sea Lab 101 Bienville Blvd., Dauphin Island, AL

2000 Old Stage Rd., Florissant, CO (719) 748-3341 sanbornwestern camps.com Ages: 8-17

(251) 861-2141 disl.edu/dhp/ summer-camps Grades: 5-12 Rates: $400-950

Rates: $3,800-7,400 Stone Canyon Edge 12163 S. Perry Park Rd., Larkspur, CO (303) 387-0720 stonecanyonedge.org Ages: 9-15 Rates: $1,300 The Pines Catholic Camp 300 White Pine Rd.

Girl Scouts Louisiana East Camp Marydale 10317 Cr-232, St. Francisville, LA (225) 747-0403 gsle.org Grades: 1-12 Rates: $60-350 Lookout Mountain Camp for Boys 277 County Rd. 632, Mentone, AL (256) 634-4798 lookoutmountain camp.com Ages: 6-16 Rates: $4,250-8,100 McCallie Summer Programs camps.com Grades: 3-9 Rates: $750-4,100 Ponderosa Bible Camp 1018 County Rd. 734, Mentone, AL (256) 634-4397 ponderosabiblecamp.com Ages: 7-17 Rates: $425-625 Sanborn Western Camps McCallie School, 500 Dodds Ave., Chattanooga, TN (423) 493-5886 mccalliesummer

Big Sandy, TX (903) 845-5834 thepines.org Grades: 2-12

Rates: $950-1,950 Twin Lakes Camp 155 Milner Rd., Florence, MS (601) 845-6858 twinlakescamp.org Ages: 6-12 Rates: $765-825

Valley View Ranch Equestrian Camp 606 Valley View Ranch Rd., Cloudland, GA (706) 862-2231 valleyviewranch.com Ages: 8-17 Rates: $2,600-7,000 WinShape Camps 2277 Martha Berry Hwy., Mount Berry, GA (844) 972-2677 winshapecamps.org Grades: 1-11 Rates: $999-2,499

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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 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 devel- opmental 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 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.” 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 home arrives feeling capable rather than overwhelmed.

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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 indepen- dence matters, social readiness plays an equally important role. Overnight camp is one long group project, with shared cabins, shared meals, and shared activi- ties. Social readiness isn’t just about having friends. It’s about navigating constant interaction. Think about your child’s ability to compro- mise, 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 De- velopmental Psychology found that chil- dren 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 bulls- eye in archery, navigating cabin disagree- ments, or learning a challenging new skill. The Emotional Resilience Meter: Antic- ipating Homesickness: Even mature kids feel shaky at times, and experts say that homesickness at camp is very normal. In one study, 83% 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 pro- grams 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 sleep- away 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 sto- ries, you’ll know the decision was worth it.

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