How to Choose a Camp

Start with your goals. Are you hoping for your child to build confidence, try new things, or simply have fun and make friends? Are you looking for a day or overnight program? Does the camp need to offer before and after care? Make a list of what matters most to your family. It will help narrow the search.

Every child is different. Consider your child’s personality, interests, and any specific needs. Are they drawn to high-energy activities or do they prefer smaller groups? The better you can describe your child to a camp director, the easier it will be to find a good fit.

The American Camp Association, New York and New Jersey offers free, personalized help to families. Whether you’re looking for a traditional, specialty, or short-session camp, we’ll talk through your goals and help point you in the right direction. You don’t have to figure this out alone.

Speaking directly with the director or leadership team at a camp helps you get a sense of how they work with kids and families. A strong relationship with the camp director is one of the most important factors in having a successful summer.

Visiting a camp, either in person or virtually, gives you a firsthand look at the space, facilities, and feel of the program. Day camps often tour year-round, and overnight camps offer summer and fall visits. Touring helps you ask the right questions and see if the camp feels like a match.

Camp fairs are a great way to meet many camp directors in one place. These events give you the chance to have real conversations and gather materials about different programs. They’re especially helpful if you’re early in your search.

Most camps do a great job showcasing their programs online. Look for details on activities, session lengths, staffing, and philosophy. Photos and videos can help give you a feel for the camp’s personality and whether it matches what you’re looking for.

Friends, neighbors, or co-workers may have great camp suggestions. Hearing about their experiences can be helpful. Just remember that the right camp for one child may not be right for another. Every family is different.

Open houses let you see a camp in action and often include tours, sample activities, and a chance to talk to the staff. They’re a fun and low-pressure way to explore whether a camp might be a good fit.

Choosing an ACA Accredited camp gives you peace of mind. Accreditation means the camp meets or exceeds standards in areas like health, safety, staffing, and programming. It’s one of the best ways to know a camp takes its responsibilities seriously.