Mar 26, 2026
Anyone who has been to summer camp probably has at least some fond memories of the experience, be it the outdoor activities or the shenanigans that may have occurred.
For many kids, summer camp is a milestone.
This year, an estimated 26 million kids are expected to attend summer camp, according to Summer Camp Hub.
But not all kids love the summer camp experience. That’s why it’s important to choose a camp that best fits your child.
According to the American Camp Association, there are more than 15,000 summer camps in the U.S. offering a variety of camp experiences, from day camps to overnight camps, sports camps to STEM camps.
There really is something for every kid!
Day Camp
These camps are generally held in community settings such as cities/towns or YMCAs, and they offer everything from art, music, STEM/STEAM and history, as well as sports and outdoor activities.
Day camps are a great way to introduce kids to the summer camp experience, especially for the younger kids who aren’t ready for a sleepaway camp.
Overnight Camp
Overnight camp is typically a week-long experience (or more) that give campers the opportunity to make new friends while teaching independence.
These camps can be church camps or sports camps or outdoor-immersive camps, and generally include sleeping bags, bunk rooms and camp counselors.
If your child is part of a traveling sports team or a junior/senior high school team, they may be invited to attend a sports camp.
These camps can include the entire team or just a few players, and many of these camps are held on college campuses.
Some sports camps are day camps, some are residential overnight, so not only are the kids getting sport-specific enrichment, but they also get a taste of the college dorm experience.
Liberal Arts Camp
If your child isn’t into sports, but loves music or art, there’s probably a camp for that!
Many communities offer theatre/drama camp or art/music camps where participants delve into performance art, often culminating in an art show, music recital or stage production.
These camps are a great way to foster creativity during the long summer months.
History Camp
Children who are into history may want to consider a camp that is tailored to their interests.
Many museums and historical centers offer hands-on history camps that take them back to a particular time and place and teach them about the way of life then.
There are many ways to match your child with a camp.
Check websites and newsletters at your place of worship, health club, nature center or museum.
(And, of course, resources such as Kern County Family!) Visit KCFM's 2026 Camp & School Expo Guide to find out more about local camps and classes.
The American Camp Association (www.acacamps.org) can also help you find an accredited camp.
7 Questions to Ask Before You Choose a Camp
After you’ve found a camp that fits your child’s interests, then make sure you know what you are ALL getting into before you send the deposit.
Here are 7 questions to ask when choosing a summer camp:
- What can my child expect in a typical day?
- What are the rules regarding digital devices and screen time?
- What is the ratio of counselors/leaders to campers?
- What kind of training do camp counselors have?
- What kind of healthcare is on-site? (Covid plans, medical policies—can my child carry her inhaler? What about food allergies?)
- Do you have a list of things to bring/not to bring?
- How will you handle homesickness/emergencies?
Once you’ve found a good fit for your child and your budget, submit your registration and relax! Summer will be here before you know it, and there are so many memories to be made!
