New England is home to some of the best overnight summer camps in the United States, offering everything from traditional sleepaway camps in Maine to outdoor adventure camps in Vermont and athletics-focused programs in Massachusetts and Connecticut. Whether your child is looking to build confidence, make lifelong friendships, explore the outdoors, or unplug from screens, this guide breaks down the best New England summer camps and the unique perks of each state to help families find the right fit.
Finding the best New England summer camps can feel overwhelming for families planning the perfect summer experience. From traditional overnight camps in Maine to adventure-focused sleepaway camps in Vermont and New Hampshire, New England is home to some of the most respected summer camps in the United States.
In this guide, we’ve selected some of the top New England summer camps for kids and teens based on program quality, outdoor adventure opportunities, community culture, facilities, and overall camper experience. Whether your child is looking for athletics, waterfront activities, leadership development, creative arts, or a traditional camp experience, these camps offer unforgettable summers filled with friendship, confidence, and adventure.
New England has long been considered the heart of traditional American summer camp culture. With its lakes, forests, mountains, and cooler summer climate, the region provides the perfect setting for kids to unplug from screens, build independence, and experience the magic of camp life.
Why Families Choose New England Summer Camps
New England summer camps are known for their strong traditions, beautiful natural settings, and close-knit camp communities. Many of the region’s camps have been operating for decades — some for over 100 years — creating a culture that families return to generation after generation.
Parents often choose overnight camps in New England because they combine outdoor adventure with opportunities for personal growth. Campers spend their days swimming, canoeing, hiking, playing sports, performing arts, and building friendships that can last a lifetime.
The region is also ideal for traditional sleepaway camps thanks to its:
- Beautiful lakes and waterfronts
- Safe, nature-focused environments
- Cooler summer temperatures
- Strong camp traditions
- Diverse activity offerings
- Emphasis on leadership and independence
For many kids, attending a New England summer camp becomes one of the most meaningful experiences of their childhood.
Why Summer Camps in Each New England State Stand Out

Why Send Your Child to Summer Camp in Maine?
Why Send Your Child to Summer Camp in Massachusetts?
Why Send Your Child to Summer Camp in Vermont?
Why Send Your Child to Summer Camp in Connecticut?
Why Send Your Child to Summer Camp in New Hampshire?
How to Choose the Right New England Summer Camp

Every child is different, which means there is no single “best” overnight camp for every family. Choosing the right New England summer camp depends on your child’s personality, interests, maturity level, and what kind of camp experience you hope they will have.
Some children thrive in highly active sports environments, while others are drawn to creative arts, wilderness adventure, horseback riding, or waterfront activities. The best camp fit is usually one where campers feel supported, challenged, and excited to try new things.
When comparing New England summer camps, families should carefully consider several important factors before making a decision.
Camp Type
One of the first things to consider is the type of camp experience your child wants.
Some New England overnight camps specialize in:
- Athletics and competitive sports
- Creative arts and theater
- Outdoor adventure and wilderness trips
- Leadership development
- Traditional camp programming
- STEM or educational enrichment
- Equestrian activities
- Waterfront sports
Traditional sleepaway camps typically provide a balanced mix of activities, while specialty camps focus more heavily on one area of interest.
If your child enjoys variety and wants to explore new hobbies, a traditional overnight camp may be the best fit. If they are passionate about a specific activity like soccer, theater, horseback riding, or sailing, a specialty camp could provide a more immersive experience.
Learn more about Types of Summer Camps >>
Session Length
Summer camps in New England offer a wide range of session lengths depending on the camp and age group.
Many camps provide:
- One-week beginner sessions
- Two-week sessions
- Four-week sessions
- Full summer programs
For first-time campers, shorter sessions can help children build confidence and adjust to overnight camp life before committing to a longer stay. Older or returning campers often enjoy longer sessions because they allow more time to develop friendships, improve skills, and fully settle into camp routines.
Families should also consider their child’s readiness for time away from home. Some children adapt quickly, while others may benefit from easing into the sleepaway camp experience gradually.
Camp Culture
Camp culture can have a huge impact on a child’s overall experience.
Some camps are highly competitive and achievement-focused, especially athletics-based camps, while others prioritize community, personal growth, creativity, and teamwork. Neither approach is inherently better — the key is finding the environment that best matches your child’s personality.
When researching camps, families should look at:
- Camper-to-counselor ratios
- Camp values and mission statements
- Parent reviews and testimonials
- Leadership philosophy
- Staff experience and training
- Diversity and inclusivity
- Communication style with families
Speaking directly with camp directors can also provide valuable insight into the camp’s atmosphere and community culture.
Location
The setting of a camp plays a major role in the overall experience.
New England summer camps are often located in some of the most beautiful outdoor environments in the country, including:
- Lakeside waterfront settings
- Mountain regions
- Forested wilderness areas
- Rural countryside locations
Some children love the energy of large lakefront camps with busy activity schedules, while others may prefer smaller, quieter camps with a more rustic feel.
Families should think about what type of environment would make their child feel most comfortable and excited.
Camper Support
For first-time sleepaway campers, strong emotional support and counselor guidance can make a huge difference.
The best overnight camps understand that homesickness is a normal part of the camp experience and provide systems to help children adjust successfully. Supportive counselors, structured routines, and strong camp communities help campers build confidence and independence throughout the summer.
Families may want to ask camps about:
- Counselor training programs
- Mental health and wellness support
- Homesickness strategies
- Communication policies
- Camper supervision
- Safety procedures
- Health center staffing
A nurturing environment can help children feel secure while still encouraging personal growth, resilience, and independence.
Activities and Daily Schedule
It’s also important to look closely at a camp’s daily schedule and activity offerings.
Some camps allow campers to choose most of their activities, while others follow a more structured daily routine. Flexible scheduling can be ideal for independent campers who want freedom and variety, while more structured camps may work better for younger campers who benefit from consistency.
Parents should also consider whether the camp offers a healthy balance between:
- Organized activities
- Free time
- Outdoor recreation
- Social events
- Rest periods
A well-balanced camp schedule helps prevent burnout and creates a more enjoyable experience for campers.
Cost and Value
Overnight camps in New England can vary significantly in cost depending on session length, facilities, location, and programming.
While tuition is an important consideration, families should also evaluate the overall value of the experience, including:
- Staff quality
- Activity variety
- Safety standards
- Camper support
- Facilities and accommodations
- Included trips or specialty programs
Many camps also offer financial aid or scholarship opportunities to help make camp more accessible for families.
Ultimately, the right New England summer camp is one where your child feels excited, supported, and able to grow. Taking the time to research camp culture, programming, and environment can help families find a camp experience that creates lifelong memories and meaningful personal development.
Benefits of Overnight Camp
The best New England summer camps offer far more than just activities. Overnight camp experiences help kids develop skills and confidence that last long after summer ends.
Benefits of sleepaway camp include:
- Independence
- Leadership development
- Social confidence
- Resilience
- Teamwork
- Screen-free living
- Outdoor exploration
- Lifelong friendships
For many families, summer camp becomes one of the most valuable investments they make in their child’s personal growth.
Read more about the Benefits of Overnight Camp >>
Frequently Asked Questions About New England Summer Camps
Some of the top-rated New England summer camps include Camp Pemigewassett, Laurel South, Camp Wah-Nee, KenMont and KenWood, Camp Danbee, and Camp Lochearn.
Maine is often considered the most famous state for traditional overnight camps, though Massachusetts, Vermont, New Hampshire, and Connecticut also have exceptional programs.
Many children begin overnight camp between ages 7 and 10, though readiness depends on the child’s personality and comfort level.
Costs vary widely depending on session length, facilities, and programming. Traditional overnight camps often range from several thousand dollars to full-summer tuition programs.
Absolutely! Summer camp helps children build independence, confidence, friendships, and life skills while enjoying outdoor adventure and screen-free experiences.
Ready to Learn More?
The best New England summer camps offer much more than just a fun summer. They create environments where kids can grow, challenge themselves, develop confidence, and form lifelong friendships.
Whether your child is interested in athletics, arts, wilderness adventure, waterfront activities, or traditional camp life, New England offers some of the most respected overnight camps in the country.
If you’re still deciding which camp is the right fit for your child, we can help. At American Summer Camps, we help families explore top overnight camps across New England and find programs that match their child’s interests, personality, and goals.
Incredible Summer Camps in New England
Camp Emerson Co-ed Overnight Camp in Hinsdale, Massachusetts

Nestled along the Appalachian Trail in the heart of the Berkshires, Camp Emerson has been creating unforgettable summer experiences for over 50 years. We offer two-week sessions for kids ages 7-15, featuring an exciting mix of activities—Athletics, Performing Arts, Science, Visual Arts, Watersports, and Wilderness adventures. But what truly sets us apart is our welcoming, tight-knit community where kids feel at home.
At Emerson, camp is pure magic. It’s a place where kids feel safe, accepted, and free to be themselves—silly, creative, joyful, and supported through life’s challenges. Deep friendships form, laughter fills the air, and campers leave with confidence and resilience. As they grow, campers step into leadership roles, becoming role models and giving back to their camp family. This unique sense of belonging keeps them coming back summer af…
> more about Camp EmersonCamp Mah-Kee-Nac Boys Only Overnight Camp in Lenox, Massachusetts

Camp Mah-Kee-Nac offers boys a classic overnight camp experience rooted in tradition, personal growth, and the power of community. As a boys-only camp, it creates an environment where campers can feel comfortable taking healthy risks, forming strong friendships, and building confidence in a supportive, distraction-free setting. The camp’s long history is reflected in its timeless traditions, while its program continues to evolve to meet the needs of today’s campers.
Nestled in the Berkshire Mountains on the shores of Stockbridge Bowl, Mah-Kee-Nac combines a picturesque New England setting with a wide array of modern facilities. Campers enjoy access to expansive athletics fields, courts, creative arts spaces, and a fully equipped waterfront—an ideal backdrop for adventure, skill-building, and discovery. Its close proximity to both Boston and New York…
> more about Camp Mah-Kee-NacCamp Birchmont Co-ed Overnight Camp in Wolfeboro, New Hampshire

Sleeping away from family…living in a new “home”… creating a new family of friends: this is what the Birchmont Experience is about.
Our overnight camp gives your children the opportunity to begin the transition from the security of home and family to the independence of creating a new “home away from home.” Camp Birchmont is a community which fosters a caring and engaging environment in a beautiful camp setting. We encourage our campers to actively participate in camp life and broaden their horizons by making new friends and trying new experiences. At Birchmont, the highest values are placed on friendship, mutual respect and fun.
On a practical level, the newly acquired camper skills of taking care of one’s self, organizing personal belongings, sharing cabin chores, and striving for better performance on the fields & courts, e…
> more about Camp BirchmontCamp Wah-Nee Co-ed Summer Camp in Torrington, Connecticut

Camp Wah-Nee offers a classic overnight camp experience in the beautiful Berkshire Mountains of northwestern Connecticut. With nearly a century of traditions, the camp blends a warm, spirited community with a structured program designed to help campers build confidence, independence, and friendships that last well beyond the summer. Its peaceful, wooded location and private lake create an ideal backdrop for adventure and growth.
Just over two hours from both New York City and Boston, Camp Wah-Nee is easily accessible yet feels worlds away from everyday life. Campers enjoy modern bunks, wide-open fields, creative arts spaces, and an expansive waterfront that supports everything from swimming to boating. This balance of nature and well-equipped facilities provides the perfect setting for boys and girls to explore new interests and strengthen existing skills…
> more about Camp Wah-NeeCamp Danbee Girls Only Sleepaway Camp in Hinsdale, Massachusetts

Summer 2026 is right around the corner! It is a Girl’s World at Danbee. We strive to prepare girls to “take on the world” through passion and perseverance. Danbee empowers campers to set and achieve goals. Everything we do at camp is designed to motivate and encourage each girl to be her best self. Danbee programming allows girls to build life-skills that they will utilize the rest of their lives. Strong, resilient women are what Danbee works to nurture.
At Danbee, the goal is to provide girls with a summer experience filled with moments of self-discovery and spirited activity. Instilled with the tradition of warmth, caring and companionship, Danbee is a place where summer relationships are born and lifelong friendships develop. Challenges are faced head on and girls are encouraged to learn from their mistakes and achieve their goals through perseve…
> more about Camp DanbeeLaurel South Co-ed Sleepaway Camp in Casco, Maine

In the Sebago Lakes area of Maine, Laurel South is situated on the shores of Crescent Lake. Campers are exposed to a variety of activities within our distinctive 6-part core program of Athletics, Waterfront, Adventure, Inter-Arts, Tennis, and Equestrian during our thrilling and action-packed four-week adventure. Our campers are encouraged to explore new interests, acquire new skills, and identify new strengths in our inclusive and inviting community by our professional and nurturing staff of coaches, educators, and college students. Making friends, gaining confidence, and having fun is what Laurel South is all about! We consistently go above and beyond the expectations of our campers and families by putting a strong emphasis on building relationships, cabin life, diversified programming, exceptional staff, fantastic activities, and nutritious and delicious dinin…
> more about Laurel SouthCamp Med-o-lark Co-ed Summer Camp in Washington, Maine

Camp Med-o-lark is a co-ed Maine arts summer camp for children ages 8-16 situated on a pristine lake in Washington, Maine, USA. Med-o-lark offers an all-elective arts program in which campers create their own schedule from a wide array of activities such as performing arts, fine arts, sports, waterfront and much more. Med-o-larkers gather each summer to create a community where everyone has the chance to discover,to grow, to create, to learn and to shine. Emphasizing the creative arts, Med-o-lark has the most extensive offering of programs in dance, fine arts, handcrafts and theater of any camp in New England.
Ultimately, what makes Med-o-lark truly special is its understanding of what camping should be. It’s about the atmosphere. Above all, Med-o-lark encourages self-expression and discovery. Med-o-lark is a place where campers have the chance to try n…
> more about Camp Med-o-larkCamp Pemigewassett Boys Only Summer Camp in Wentworth, New Hampshire

Camp Pemigewassett is an all-boys overnight camp located on the shores of Lower Baker Pond in central New Hampshire, offering a classic New England camp experience rooted in tradition and purpose. Since its founding, Pemi has focused on helping boys grow into confident, capable young people by emphasizing character, responsibility, and respect for others. Camp life is intentionally structured to encourage independence while providing the support boys need to feel secure, challenged, and valued.
At the heart of Pemi’s philosophy is the belief that boys thrive when they are known, supported, and encouraged to be themselves. Campers live, learn, and grow within small cabin groups that foster strong friendships and a true sense of belonging. Through shared routines, camp traditions, and daily responsibilities, boys learn cooperation, accountability, and the…
> more about Camp PemigewassettCamp North Star Co-ed Summer Camp in Poland Spring, Maine

Our mission is to encourage each of our campers to discover and develop the best version of themselves. We are committed to personal development within each of our campers and instilling our camp values and the 21st century life skills to encourage positive outcomes.
Campers live and learn in a nurturing and caring environment. Our enthusiastic, talented and skilled staff members, help facilitate and guide the development of each camper in their pursuit of strengthening social & life skills, fostering friendships and developing multicultural relationships.
Camp North Star will check all your boxes: Great facilities…check. Well trained and experienced staff…check. Water-ski…check. Performing arts…check. Great kids and welcoming environment…check. Tons of fun…check. But at Camp North Star, there is even more. We know that the exper…
> more about Camp North StarKenMont and KenWood Camp Brother/Sister Camp Summer Camp in Kent, Connecticut

Below are just a few of the differentiators that make KenMont and KenWood a truly unique summer experience:
- 90 minutes from New York City in beautiful Kent, Connecticut, KenMont for Boys and KenWood for Girls has operated since 1924 – with shared, expert leadership – as two distinct brother/sister camps with their own special traditions.
- Two complete Sessions provide an unforgettable camp experience including Special Event Days, Out of Camp Trips and Color War. We also offer two-week options with the chance to extend for the remainder of each Session.
- With expert instruction in 45+ activities in Athletics, Waterfront, Arts and Adventure, our facilities are among the finest in the camping world: 20 Tennis Courts, Waterskiing, Gymnastics, Culinary Arts, 7 Basketball Courts, Ceramics, On Campus 3-hole Golf Course, Go-Karts, an…
> more about KenMont and KenWood Camp
Camp Laurel Co-ed Summer Camp in Readfield, Maine
> more about Camp LaurelA parent’s decision to send their child to summer camp is a huge act of faith. At Camp Laurel, we take that obligation very seriously and uphold a setting that promotes safety, health, and a positive sense of self. We give campers chances to develop emotionally and physically, support their innate skills, and instill the advantages of community living. Our objective is to give our campers a fun and adventurous summer experience that inspires them to face life with courage, confidence, and a sense of self worth.
Camp Laurel is located on 160 acres in the Belgrade Lakes region of Maine, 20 minutes west of Augusta, the state capital. The camp is situated on 9-mile-long Echo Lake, just beyond the village of Kents Hill.
Camp Robin Hood Co-ed Overnight Camp in Freedom, NH

Set on 180 acres just minutes from New Hampshire’s White Mountain National Forest, Camp Robin Hood is more than just an overnight summer camp—it is a tradition, a legacy, and a home. Since 1927, Robin Hood has provided an encouraging, inviting, and supportive summer environment for our campers. That environment is created in large part by our caring and attentive staff, composed almost entirely of young men and women who grew up as campers in the Robin Hood community. Understanding the enduring positive influence of the Robin Hood experience, our staff members return to camp each summer eager to provide that same experience for our next generation of campers.
It is our responsibility to provide your child with a structured, supportive environment, in which they will develop lasting friendships, gain personal insight into the importance of mutual resp…
> more about Camp Robin HoodCamp Watitoh Co-ed Overnight Camp in Becket, Massachusetts

What differentiates Watitoh from other camps is our size. We are a smaller camp so everyone knows each other. Campers and counselors alike feel like they are part of something more than a camp, they feel like a family. Since 1937, our warm, family-oriented, coed camp, nestled in the heart of the Berkshire Mountains on crystal-clear Center Lake, has provided a safe and supportive environment where each of our campers can live summer dreams and make them come true in their summer home.
Every summer our remarkable campers are living the dream of a place where everyone belongs and everyone knows each other’s name.
They are living the dream of lasting friendships and endless fun.
They are living the dream of feeling included and secure with bunkmates, teammates, and campmates in a caring, coed community.
They are living the dream of tryi…
> more about Camp WatitohCamp Lochearn Girls Only Sleepaway Camp in Post Mills, Vermont

Thanks for checking out Camp Lochearn for Girls—where summer is all about fun, adventure, and lifelong friendships! For over a century, Lochearn has been a home away from home for girls ages 7-15, and at the heart of it all is our incredible culture of kindness.
At Lochearn, we believe in treating everyone with respect and embracing what makes each person unique. Our community is built on inclusivity, welcoming campers and staff from all backgrounds and perspectives. We’re dedicated to creating a safe, supportive space where girls can explore, grow, and make meaningful connections.
From the moment they arrive, new campers are wrapped into the Lochearn circle with open arms. Kindness, understanding, and cooperation are the foundation of everything we do—because at Lochearn, every voice matters, and every camper belongs. Campers go through thei…
> more about Camp Lochearn















