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Which States Have The Best Summer Camps?

July 15, 2024 creativenavadmin

When it comes to summer camps, the United States boasts some of the finest options for children and teenagers. These camps offer a wide range of activities, from traditional outdoor adventures to specialized programs in arts, sports, and technology. In this article, we explore the states renowned for having the best summer camps, focusing on New York, Pennsylvania, Maine, and New Hampshire, with mentions of other notable states like California, Colorado, Connecticut, Massachusetts, North Carolina, Vermont, and Wisconsin.

New York

New York is home to some of the most prestigious summer camps in the country. The state’s diverse landscape, from the Catskill Mountains to the Adirondacks, provides a stunning backdrop for a variety of camp experiences. The best camps in New York are known for their extensive activities, which often include watersports on pristine lakes, hiking, arts and crafts, and adventure programs. Renowned camps such as Brant Lake, Timber Lake Camp and Timber Lake West offer exceptional facilities and a strong sense of community, making New York a top choice for many families.

Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania’s summer camps are celebrated for their rich history and tradition. Nestled in the picturesque Pocono Mountains and throughout Wayne County, camps like Camp Starlight and Camp Equinunk and Blue Ridge offer an immersive camp experience with separate campuses for boys and girls. These camps emphasize personal growth, teamwork, and skill development across a wide range of activities including sports, arts, and outdoor adventures. Pennsylvania’s camps are known for their friendly atmosphere and dedicated staff, ensuring a memorable summer for all campers. Long time tradition is a staple, with Tyler Hill Camp, Lake Bryn Mawr Camp, Weequahic, and Island Lake included among the absolute best summer camps in Pennsylvania.

Maine

Maine is synonymous with iconic summer camp experiences. The state’s breathtaking natural beauty, with its dense forests and crystal-clear lakes, makes it a perfect setting for camps. Camps in Maine, such as Camp Laurel, Camp Laurel South and Camp North Star, focus on fostering independence, building self-confidence, and encouraging campers to explore new interests. With activities ranging from sailing and kayaking to theater and fine arts, Maine camps provide a well-rounded experience that keeps campers returning year after year.

New Hampshire

New Hampshire offers some of the most traditional and scenic summer camps in the United States. Known for its majestic White Mountains and serene lakes, New Hampshire camps in New England provide an ideal environment for outdoor activities like hiking, rock climbing, and canoeing. Camps such as Camp Birchmont and Camp Robin Hood have a long-standing reputation for excellence, providing a nurturing environment where campers can develop lifelong skills and friendships.

Other Notable States

The Northeast and on the East coast of the U.S.A. clearly have some of the best summer sleepaway camp options in the world, but other states are rich and storied in overnight camping tradition.

California is renowned for its diverse camp offerings, from surf camps along the coast to tech camps in Silicon Valley to nature and farm camps in Northern California. The state’s varied landscape allows for a multitude of outdoor adventures and innovative programs, with Mountain Camp reigning supreme.

Colorado boasts camps set in the majestic Rockies, offering unparalleled opportunities for hiking, horseback riding, and nature exploration. Camps like Cheley Colorado Camps are famous for their focus on leadership and personal growth.

Connecticut and Massachusetts offer a rich array of summer camps that blend traditional camp activities with academic enrichment. These states are known for their beautiful countryside and strong camp traditions. KenMont and KenWood Camp is an exceptional camp in Connecticut, and Camp Danbee and Camp Watitoh are premier programs in Massachusetts.

North Carolina is home to camps that take advantage of the Blue Ridge Mountains and Atlantic coast, providing a mix of outdoor adventure and beach activities. Camps like Blue Star Camps emphasize community and character development.

Vermont is famed for its rustic charm and beautiful landscapes. Camps in Vermont focus on environmental education, outdoor sports, and fostering a close-knit camp community. Camp Lochearn is a wonderful all-girls traditional sleepaway camp in Vermont.

Wisconsin offers a variety of camps that make the most of the state’s lakes and forests. Known for their welcoming environments and diverse programs, Wisconsin camps provide a classic summer camp experience. Camp Horseshoe is a premier all-boys sleepaway camp in Wisconsin.

The best summer camps can be found across various states in the U.S., each offering unique experiences that cater to different interests and preferences. Whether it’s the scenic beauty of New York and Maine, the rich traditions of Pennsylvania, or the adventurous spirit of New Hampshire, these states provide unparalleled opportunities for an unforgettable summer camp experience.

The Best Sleepaway Camps To Work At In America

May 16, 2024 creativenavadmin

Embark on an exhilarating journey this summer by joining the ranks of the world’s most renowned camps nestled within the heart of the U.S.A.! These camps aren’t just ordinary summer destinations for children; they’re veritable havens for adventure-seeking individuals like you, offering unparalleled opportunities for both fun and personal growth.

Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of sleep-away summer camps, where thousands of seasonal positions await eager high school graduates, college students, and educators on summer hiatus. Experience the thrill of shaping young minds, leading outdoor expeditions, and fostering lifelong memories—all while getting paid for it! And let’s not forget the invaluable addition to your professional portfolio that a stint at one of these esteemed camps will bring.

Ready to transform your summer into an unforgettable odyssey? Dive into our curated selection of the finest camps offering employment opportunities for the summer of 2025 below, and set course for an extraordinary season ahead!

Check out just some of our premier summer camps that are hiring people like you, right NOW!

Summer Camp Jobs

Camp Laurel

Camp Laurel stands as one of the most prestigious and highly esteemed camps across the nation. It provides top-tier instruction meticulously crafted to enable children to engage in their beloved activities while also opening doors to new and exhilarating opportunities for exploration.

At Camp Laurel, the emphasis lies in fostering a professional yet familial atmosphere, coupled with superior instruction and the cultivation of lifelong bonds forged each summer. Its dedicated staff comprises collegiate individuals and seasoned professionals, all driven by a shared commitment to making a meaningful impact on the lives of children.

The camp’s extensive array of activity areas encompasses Boys and Girls Sports, Waterfront Activities, Fine Arts, Theatre, Adventure pursuits, Riding, and beyond. Boasting premier facilities, Camp Laurel features a picturesque waterfront and beach, regulation sports fields, basketball courts, a brilliantly lit roller hockey arena, a beach volleyball court bathed in light, as well as state-of-the-art arts and crafts studios including photography and ceramics workshops.

Moreover, the camp offers an impressive roster of amenities including 15 all-weather tennis courts, an aerial park, climbing towers, stables, riding arenas, and a professionally-equipped theatre, ensuring a diverse and enriching experience for all who partake.

At Camp Laurel, prepare for an unforgettable adventure! Nestled in a breathtaking natural setting, you’ll dive into a whirlwind of activities from sports to arts and crafts, and thrilling wilderness expeditions. But that’s not all! Forge lifelong connections with your fellow staff members, cultivating friendships that’ll last a lifetime. Learn more about working at Camp Laurel for summer 2024…

Summer camp jobs at Equinunk and Blue Ridge for summer 2023

Camps Equinunk and Blue Ridge

Camps Equinunk and Blue Ridge is a brother/sister summer camp with separate boys and girls campuses, located in Equinunk, Pennsylvania. EBR houses children ages 6-16 and offer a wide range of activities and events, including sports, arts and crafts, adventure and wilderness programs, and more.

At Camps Equinunk and Blue Ridge, campers and staff have the opportunity to make new friends, develop new skills, and build confidence and independence in a supportive and engaging environment. Counselors and staff on both campuses are dedicated to creating a positive and memorable experience for all campers and are committed to helping them have fun and thrive.

Camps Equinunk and Blue Ridge offer an exciting and fulfilling summer experience in a an exquisite natural setting. Come join the fun and make lasting memories at Camps Equinunk and Blue Ridge! More about summer camp positions at Camps Equinunk and Blue Ridge this summer…

Camp Birchmont

At Camp Birchmont, kids step into a world of newfound independence, transitioning from home to a welcoming “home away from home.” Set in a stunning camp environment, Birchmont nurtures a supportive community where campers thrive. Encouraging active participation, making friends, and embracing new adventures are key. Friendship, mutual respect, and endless fun are the cornerstones of the Birchmont experience.

At Birchmont, cabin life instills support and camaraderie in every child. Through cooperation and consideration, campers foster a strong sense of community amidst 300 acres of summer fun and adventure.

Joining Birchmont’s staff means being part of an exceptional camper-to-counselor ratio, with roughly one staff member for every three campers! Plus, you’ll receive unparalleled support from a seasoned supervisory team boasting decades of collective Birchmont expertise, ensuring your summer is guided with care and wisdom. Check out summer camp jobs at Camp Birchmont in New Hampshire…

Camp Weequahic

Camp Weequahic is a co-ed summer camp located in Lakewood, Pennsylvania that serves children ages 6-16. Working at Camp Weequahic is an exciting, rewarding and fulfilling experience for many reasons.

Working at Camp Weequahic allows people to make an impact on the lives of kids. You will have the chance as a camp counselor or staff member to be a role model and mentor for campers, assisting them in developing new skills, confidence, and independence, forming long-lasting bonds and friendships with the children in your care.

Working at Camp Weequahic also provides chances for personal and professional development. Through your daily tasks and interactions with campers and coworkers, you will have the opportunity to build and improve your leadership, communication, and problem-solving abilities. You will also be able to learn from and collaborate with a varied group of people from various backgrounds and experiences.

Working and playing at Camp Weequahic is an incredible experience! You will live and work in a pristine summer camp setting and take part in a huge range of activities, events and timeless Weequahic traditions. The friendships you make will last forever. Learn more about working at Camp Weequahic in summer 2024…

Brant Lake Camp

Step into the legacy of Brant Lake Camp, one of the earliest single-family-owned camps in the US, established in 1916. With a tailored approach to child care, we understand the evolving needs of each boy as he grows. Nestled on a pristine six-mile lake, our camp offers private waterfronts and beaches for endless summer adventures. Our top-notch facilities provide the perfect backdrop for sports, tradition, and pure fun.

Joining our team as a counselor promises a uniquely fulfilling experience. Guiding young minds and making a tangible impact on their lives will leave you with profound personal growth and lasting fulfillment. More about summer jobs at Brant Lake Camp in New York…

Camp Robin Hood

Camp Robin Hood, nestled in the picturesque Freedom, New Hampshire, offers an electrifying summer experience for children aged 6-17. Joining the team at Camp Robin Hood is not just a job; it’s an opportunity to ignite joy and growth in young hearts.

As a counselor or staff member, you become a beacon of guidance and inspiration, shaping the future of campers by fostering skills, confidence, and independence. Every day is a canvas for creating cherished memories and forging lifelong connections with campers who will forever hold you dear in their hearts.

Beyond the sheer joy of impacting lives, working at Camp Robin Hood propels personal and professional evolution. Leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills are honed amidst the vibrant camp atmosphere. Collaborating with a diverse array of individuals enriches your experience, fostering a community where growth knows no bounds. Learn more about working at Camp Robin Hood for summer 2024…

Island Lake Camp

Founded in 1986, Island Lake Sports & Arts Center thrives on personalized attention and achievement. We’re dedicated to tailoring the camp experience to meet the unique interests and needs of both staff and campers alike. Our ultimate goal? Ensuring that every moment spent at camp is brimming with excitement and cherished memories.

Nestled in a warm and nurturing environment, Island Lake embraces all who enter as part of our extended family. Our directors and leadership team are always accessible, fostering an atmosphere where communication flows freely and kindness abounds.

At Island Lake Camp, the possibilities are endless. Engage in a myriad of activities from sports to arts and crafts, adventure excursions, and beyond. Forge deep connections with fellow staff members and create enduring bonds with the children under your care. Don’t let this chance to craft an unforgettable summer while leaving a lasting impact slip away. Join the Island Lake Camp team today! Learn more about working at Island Lake Camp this summer…

Premier Summer Camps Hiring People Like YOU:

Brant Lake Camp in New York
Camp Lochearn in Vermont
Timber Lake Camp in New York
Camp North Star in Maine
Camp Tanuga in Michigan
Farm Camp in California
Camps Equinunk and Blue Ridge in PA
Chipinaw & Silver Lake in NY
Amplify Arts Sleepaway Camp in CA
Mountain Camp in Northern California
Island Lake Camp in Pennsylvania
Camp Horseshoe in Wisconsin
Cheley Colorado Camps in the Rocky Mountains
Greenwood Trails in Connecticut
Lake Bryn Mawr Camp in Pennsylvania

Some of the Best Summer Camps in the World

April 23, 2024 creativenavadmin

Updated: July 15, 2024

Some of the best summer camps in the world are nestled within the vast and diverse landscapes of the United States, offering unparalleled opportunities for adventure, growth, and lifelong memories. One of the reasons why the U.S. boasts top-notch summer sleepaway camps is its stunning natural scenery, ranging from rugged mountains and pristine lakes to sprawling forests and picturesque coastlines. This diverse environment provides the perfect backdrop for a wide range of outdoor activities, from hiking and canoeing to rock climbing and horseback riding.

American summer camps are renowned for their commitment to providing a well-rounded experience that caters to the interests and needs of every camper. Whether it’s traditional activities like swimming and arts and crafts or specialized programs in sports, music, or STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics), there’s something for everyone to enjoy. This diversity of offerings ensures that campers can explore their passions, discover new talents, and develop valuable skills in a supportive and inclusive environment.

Another key factor that sets American summer camps apart is the emphasis on fostering a sense of community and belonging among campers. Campers come from all walks of life and backgrounds, creating a rich tapestry of diversity and shared experiences. Through teamwork, cooperation, and friendship-building activities, campers learn important social skills, empathy, and respect for others, creating bonds that often last a lifetime.

American summer camps are staffed by dedicated and experienced counselors who are passionate about working with children and creating meaningful experiences. These counselors undergo rigorous training and are committed to ensuring the safety, well-being, and happiness of every camper. With their guidance, encouragement, and mentorship, campers are empowered to step out of their comfort zones, embrace new challenges, and grow into confident, resilient, and compassionate individuals.

Find The Best Summer Camp For Your Child

World-Class American Summer Camps

Brant Lake Camp in New York
Camp Lochearn in Vermont
Timber Lake Camp in New York
Camp North Star in Maine
Camp Tanuga in Michigan
Farm Camp in California
Camps Equinunk and Blue Ridge in PA
Chipinaw & Silver Lake in NY
Amplify Arts Sleepaway Camp in CA
Mountain Camp in Northern California
Island Lake Camp in Pennsylvania
Camp Horseshoe in Wisconsin
Cheley Colorado Camps in the Rocky Mountains
Greenwood Trails in Connecticut
Lake Bryn Mawr Camp in Pennsylvania

Camp Laurel

Readfield, Maine, New England

Camp Laurel in Maine stands as one of the nation’s most prestigious camps, offering top-tier instruction tailored to children’s passions while opening doors to new adventures. The camp fosters a familial yet professional atmosphere, with dedicated staff committed to impacting children’s lives positively. With a wide range of activities including sports, fine arts, adventure, and more, Camp Laurel boasts premier facilities like waterfronts, sports fields, and state-of-the-art studios. Additionally, amenities such as tennis courts, aerial parks, and theaters ensure a diverse and enriching experience for all campers.

Prepare for an unforgettable adventure at Camp Laurel! Nestled in breathtaking natural surroundings, campers dive into a whirlwind of activities from sports to arts and crafts and thrilling wilderness expeditions. Beyond the fun, forge lifelong connections with fellow staff members, cultivating friendships that last a lifetime.

Timber Lake Camp

Shandaken, New York, Catskill Mountains

Nestled atop a mountaintop amid the breathtaking Catskill Mountains of New York, Timber Lake Camp beckons with 500 acres of pure adventure, just 2.5 hours from the vibrant pulse of New York City. As a premier co-ed camp, TLC boasts not one, but two private, spring-fed lakes, set against a backdrop of lush, landscaped grounds and an array of top-notch facilities. Renowned as one of the most spirited and respected resident camps in the Northeast, Timber Lake Camp is where memories are made and dreams take flight.

At TLC, we’re not just about fun – we’re about transformation. Our mission? To empower children with the tools they need to forge lifelong friendships, build unwavering self-esteem, and cultivate resilience that knows no bounds. From thrilling adventures to heart-pounding challenges, every moment at Timber Lake is crafted to give campers the ultimate edge in their journey to becoming confident, capable young adults. With a program rooted in safe, exhilarating play, we lay the foundation for growth that propels each child toward their full potential. Here at Timber Lake, the impact we make isn’t just for the summer – it’s a legacy that stays with our campers for a lifetime.

Camps Equinunk and Blue Ridge

Equinunk, Pennsylvania, Wayne County

Camps Equinunk and Blue Ridge, located in Wayne County, Pennsylvania, provide an enriching brother/sister summer camp experience for children ages 6-16. With separate boys and girls campuses, EBR offers a diverse range of activities including sports, arts and crafts, adventure programs, and more, fostering friendships and personal growth in a supportive environment.

At Camps Equinunk and Blue Ridge, campers and staff alike have the chance to forge new friendships, acquire new skills, and cultivate confidence and independence. With dedicated counselors committed to creating positive and memorable experiences, campers thrive in an engaging atmosphere designed for fun and personal development. Join the excitement and create lasting memories amidst the beauty of Camps Equinunk and Blue Ridge!

Camp Birchmont

Wolfeboro, New Hampshire, New England

At Camp Birchmont, children embrace newfound independence within a supportive “home away from home” environment. Nestled in a stunning camp setting, Birchmont fosters a vibrant community where active participation, friendship, and new adventures thrive. With a focus on mutual respect and endless fun, Birchmont instills camaraderie and support among campers, creating lasting memories across 300 acres of summer excitement.

Joining Birchmont’s staff offers an exceptional camper-to-counselor ratio, ensuring personalized attention and guidance for every child. With roughly one staff member for every three campers, along with support from a seasoned supervisory team, counselors embark on a summer adventure filled with care, wisdom, and unforgettable experiences.

Cheley Colorado Camps

Estes Park, Colorado, Rocky Mountains

Nestled amidst the majestic Rocky Mountains in Estes Park, Colorado, Cheley Colorado Camps stands as a beacon of excellence in the world of summer camps. For over a century, Cheley has been owned and operated by the same devoted family, offering an unforgettable summer experience for boys and girls aged 9 to 17. From thrilling activities like hiking, horseback riding, and technical climbing to serene pursuits like crafts and stand-up paddle boarding, Cheley provides a diverse array of adventures for campers to discover.

Immersed in the breathtaking beauty of nature, time spent away from home at Cheley offers invaluable opportunities for personal growth and development. Amidst the splendor of the Rockies, campers cultivate judgment, insight, and skills that lay the foundation for a joyful and meaningful life. Summer camp is not only a time for friendship and fun but also a chance to embrace physical challenges and embark on exhilarating adventures that foster a deep connection with nature. According to campers, Cheley is truly transformative, instilling a sense of groundedness, focus, and involvement in life. Living amidst mountain peaks and ancient rocks, surrounded by towering ponderosa pines, campers emerge feeling more alive, connected, and in touch with their best selves.

Next: Find a Camp for Summer 2025 | Work at camp: Summer 2025 Jobs

Summer Camp Review: Brant Lake Camp in New York

September 14, 2022 ASC

Sports Done Right

Brant Lake Camp for Boys, in the Adirondacks of New York, is one of the best camps in the world. With an emphasis on sports, Brant Lake offers a safe and fun environment for boys to learn new skills, make friends, and explore new interests. Brant Lake Camp is accredited by the American Camp Association (ACA), which ensures that they meet high standards for safety and quality.

Brant Lake Camp has a tremendous history and reputation in the American summer camping industry, and is beloved by thousands of current campers, alumni, current and former staff members, and more. Brant Lake Camp’s record speaks for itself and is highly recommended to any American or International boy looking for a summer camp with an emphasis on sports.

Program Highlights

Single family owned for over 100 years
Professional, experienced Key Staff
Emphasis on sports instruction and sportsmanship
Teaching values through sports
Ran by education professionals and teachers
Age appropriate Mini-Camp System
3.5 hours from New York City

American Summer Camps Overview of Brant Lake Camp
Click here for a list of Brant Lake Camp activities
Brant Lake Camp Rates & Dates for Summer 2023
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Brant Lake Camp Videos
Take a Virtual Tour of Brant Lake Camp

Brant Lake Camp Reviews

Google Reviews: 5.0/5
Facebook Reviews: 4.4/5
Indeed.com Reviews: 4.3/5
NiceLocal.com Reviews: 5.0/5
Read real submitted Brant Lake Camp testimonials

CampRatingz.com

5/5 – A great place on a great lake, family owned for so many years!

5/5 – Best run camp out there with attention to every detail. No other owner out there takes the time and effort to know every single camper and family. Brant Lake Camp is such a tradition centered camp and there’s no place else like it.

4/5 – Here’s the thing about BLDC, everyone there is so nice. The classes are great and stuff, but people are ultra cliquey. The directors can be rude to the counsalors. And sometimes the counsalors complain about it. The boys have treated me like dirt. Plus, most of the girls’ families that go there have a lot of money. the like to brag about it. Be prepared for that. But other than that, I’ve been going there for 3 years. It’s a great camp, but be prepared for some issues

5/5 – Greatest Camp Ever. Amazing Staff and Facilites. The Lake is Great. The Gerstens are awsome. I went for 7 years and i miss it so much. Green and Gray is the best 4 days of the year and everything you do in this camp is awsome. Gray Pride

5/5 – Rated best camp in ny 20 years in a row!! With top staff and top owner Richie Gersten have held a great record

5/5 – An excellent camp with fully engaged counselors and campers a happy place late fosters good teamwork, caring for each other fun and good relationships with confidence building activities . Yay for BLC

4.8/5 – BLDC IS AMAZING! i was first realli homesick but the people there were soo nice and everyone was comforting! Its a small camp so everyone gets too know eachother, and there are no groups, everyone becomes tight =] and the dancing here is great! Definitley recommend it!

4.6/5 – best camp ever…very pricey but the quality of sports, surroundings, friends and people that consistently get brought back to blc cannnot be matched. Green and Gray is really like no other competition i have ever experienced. Sure, some of the kids are not too respectful but its a small price you have to pay for having one of the greatest summers of your life.

5/5 – I go here. best camp for real and lots of people say that but its true. i was 7 and looked at the camp and held on to a tree for dear life so i could stay. i love it and GO GREEN

About Brant Lake Camp

Boys between the ages of 7 and 16 can be found at Brant Lake, a summer camp that is 3.5 hours from New York City and nestled in the Adirondack Mountains. Kids are cared for with consideration at Brant Lake Camp. “Sports Done Right” is the motto of BLC, a camp that takes a nuanced and careful approach to instruction and competition. BLC is divided into three mini-camps in recognition of the fact that boys’ requirements alter as they mature. This gives BLC the chance to assert that “We Know our Kids” thanks to the longevity, experience, and distinctive counseling approach of their Key Staff. BLC, which has some of the best facilities of any camp in the USA, is set against the backdrop of the picturesque Brant Lake and the rolling Adirondack hills.

Price: $$$$$

Ages: 7-16

Duration: 7 weeks (with a 4 week option)

Location: Brant Lake, New York

7586 State Route 8, Brant Lake, New York 12815
(518) 494-2406
brantlake.com