How to Choose a Camp

Most offer a variety of programs for children starting at age seven. Resident camp options include coed, single sex and specialty camps that focus on a particular program. Resident camps offer varying overnight accommodations such as cabins, tents, and tepees.

Similar to resident camps except campers are somewhat younger, starting at four-year-olds, and everyone returns home at the end of the day.

Campers can embark on adventures as varied as learning how to ride a horse, water ski, or dance. If your child has a special interest, there likely is a camp that specializes in it.

A physical, medical, or mental disability is not a roadblock for a camp experience. Each year, more than a million special needs children benefit from the summer camp experience. Some camps specialize in serving certain groups while other camps integrate special-needs campers into the total camp population.

Children may stay at camp for a few days, a few weeks or the entire summer. At camp, there's a session length for every child, budget, and schedule.

Camp remains a very affordable option for most everyone. A large range of price options are available, depending upon the choice of camp, the facilities offered and the camper's needs. The average resident camp fee is $85 a day, while the average day camp fee is $43 per day. Many camps and other organizations offer financial assistance based on need. Contact the camp directly for information on their financial assistance programs.