What are the best sleep away summer camps in Texas. Which Texas summer camps offer unique experiences for children. How do legendary Texas camps like Camp Olympia create lasting memories.
The Magic of Texas Summer Camps: Traditions and Memories
Texas summer camps hold a special place in the hearts of many, offering a unique blend of adventure, friendship, and personal growth. These camps, often nestled in the picturesque Hill Country near Kerrville, provide a sanctuary from the hustle and bustle of city life. Here, children can immerse themselves in nature, engage in exciting activities, and forge lifelong friendships.
For generations, attending summer camp has been a cherished tradition for Texas families. These camps offer more than just a temporary escape; they become a second home, fostering a sense of belonging and creating memories that last a lifetime. Let’s explore some of the most beloved sleep away summer camps in Texas, each with its own unique charm and storied history.
Heart O’ the Hills: A Blend of History and Modern Adventure
Heart O’ the Hills stands out among Texas summer camps for its distinctive red-roofed, hotel-style cabins. This unique feature stems from the camp’s interesting history. Originally built in 1928 as an inn for parents dropping off their children at neighboring camps, it was transformed into a summer camp in 1953.
What makes Heart O’ the Hills particularly intriguing?
- Its location straddling Highway 39, offering diverse landscapes and activities on both sides
- A mix of traditional cabins (called “tepees”) and the original inn structure
- Special events like Seminar Day, where campers can experience international cultures and unique activities
Heart O’ the Hills exemplifies how Texas summer camps can blend rich history with modern, engaging experiences for young campers.
Camp La Junta: Where Boys Become Adventurers
Established in 1928, Camp La Junta has been shaping young boys’ summers for nearly a century. This all-boys camp, whose name aptly means “the gathering place,” offers a unique blend of traditional camp activities and rugged outdoor adventures.
Highlights of Camp La Junta:
- Wide range of unique activities including mountain biking and trap shooting
- Strong emphasis on horseback riding and outdoor skills
- The prestigious “Rough Riders” program for top riders
How does the “Rough Riders” program enhance the camp experience? This two-day excursion allows the camp’s best riders to embark on a genuine ranching adventure. Participants ride across miles of ranch country, sleep under the stars, cook outdoors, and engage in real ranch work. This program exemplifies how Texas summer camps can offer transformative experiences that build character and instill a love for the outdoors.
Camp Longhorn: Pioneering Summer Fun Since 1939
Camp Longhorn has been a cornerstone of Texas summer camp experiences since its inception in 1939. From humble beginnings at Inks Lake, it has grown to encompass three locations, each offering its own unique flavor of summer fun.
What sets Camp Longhorn apart from other Texas summer camps?
- Inventor of the famous “blob” water activity
- Three distinct locations: Inks Lake (1939), Indian Springs (1975), and C3 (2016)
- A rich history of innovation in camp activities
Camp Longhorn’s creation of the “blob” – an inflatable platform on the lake that launches campers into the air – showcases the camp’s commitment to fun and innovation. This invention has since become a staple at summer camps across the country, cementing Longhorn’s place in summer camp lore.
Camp Olympia: Fostering Olympic Spirit in the Heart of Texas
While not explicitly detailed in the original text, Camp Olympia deserves mention as one of Texas’ top-rated summer camps. Located on Lake Livingston, about an hour north of Houston, Camp Olympia has been inspiring young campers since 1968.
Key Features of Camp Olympia:
- Emphasis on character development and personal growth
- Wide array of land and water activities
- Unique “Spartan/Athenian” competition fostering teamwork and sportsmanship
How does Camp Olympia incorporate its namesake’s spirit into the camp experience? The camp’s program is designed to challenge campers physically and mentally, encouraging them to push their boundaries and discover new strengths. The Spartan/Athenian competition, a summer-long team event, instills values of cooperation, fair play, and mutual respect – all hallmarks of the Olympic spirit.
The Lasting Impact of Texas Summer Camps
What makes Texas summer camps so impactful on young lives? These camps offer more than just a fun summer getaway; they provide a transformative experience that can shape a child’s character and worldview. Through a combination of outdoor adventures, skill-building activities, and social interactions, campers develop independence, resilience, and lifelong friendships.
Many Texas summer camps have multi-generational appeal, with parents sending their children to the same camps they attended in their youth. This continuity creates a sense of tradition and belonging that extends far beyond the camp grounds.
Choosing the Right Texas Summer Camp for Your Child
With so many excellent options available, how can parents choose the best summer camp for their child? Consider these factors:
- Your child’s interests and personality
- The camp’s focus (e.g., general activities, sports, arts, outdoor skills)
- Duration of camp sessions
- Camp traditions and values
- Location and facilities
It’s also beneficial to involve your child in the decision-making process. Reviewing camp websites, watching promotional videos, and even visiting camps during open house events can help your family make an informed choice.
Preparing for the Texas Summer Camp Experience
Once you’ve selected a camp, how can you ensure your child is ready for the adventure ahead? Here are some tips to prepare for a successful summer camp experience:
- Discuss expectations and potential challenges with your child
- Practice independence skills at home
- Pack appropriate gear and clothing
- Arrange communication methods (e.g., letters, limited phone calls)
- Encourage an open mind and positive attitude
Remember, homesickness is common and normal. Preparing your child to cope with these feelings can help ensure a more enjoyable camp experience.
The Future of Texas Summer Camps
As we look to the future, how are Texas summer camps evolving to meet the changing needs of today’s youth? Many camps are incorporating new technologies and activities while still maintaining their core traditions. Some trends include:
- STEM-focused programs and activities
- Increased emphasis on environmental education and sustainability
- Integration of mindfulness and mental health awareness
- Expansion of leadership and life skills training
Despite these innovations, the essence of Texas summer camps remains the same: providing a supportive, fun environment where children can grow, learn, and create lasting memories.
The Economic Impact of Texas Summer Camps
Beyond their impact on individual campers, how do summer camps contribute to the Texas economy? These camps play a significant role in local economies, particularly in rural areas. They provide seasonal employment opportunities, attract visitors from across the state and beyond, and contribute to tourism revenue.
Many camps also engage in community outreach and charitable activities, further extending their positive influence beyond the camp grounds. This economic and social impact underscores the importance of summer camps to the fabric of Texas communities.
Health and Safety at Texas Summer Camps
In an era of increased health awareness, how do Texas summer camps ensure the well-being of their campers? Modern camps implement comprehensive health and safety protocols, including:
- On-site medical staff and facilities
- Regular health screenings
- Strict food safety measures
- Comprehensive staff training in first aid and emergency procedures
- Adherence to state and federal safety regulations
Many camps have also adapted their programs in response to recent global health concerns, implementing additional sanitation measures and adjusting activities to promote social distancing when necessary.
The Role of Technology at Texas Summer Camps
In our increasingly digital world, how do Texas summer camps balance tradition with technology? While many camps maintain a “unplugged” environment to encourage face-to-face interactions and outdoor engagement, others are selectively incorporating technology in innovative ways:
- Using social media to keep parents updated on camp activities
- Offering digital photography or videography classes
- Incorporating technology into environmental education programs
- Using online platforms for pre-camp orientation and post-camp reunions
This balanced approach allows camps to maintain their traditional charm while preparing campers for the digital age.
Diversity and Inclusion at Texas Summer Camps
How are Texas summer camps addressing the important issues of diversity and inclusion? Many camps are taking proactive steps to create more inclusive environments, including:
- Offering scholarships to increase accessibility for all families
- Implementing diversity training for staff members
- Celebrating multicultural events and traditions
- Adapting facilities and programs to accommodate campers with special needs
These efforts ensure that the benefits of the summer camp experience are available to a wider range of children, fostering a more diverse and inclusive camp community.
The Environmental Stewardship of Texas Summer Camps
Given their close connection to nature, how do Texas summer camps contribute to environmental conservation? Many camps incorporate environmental education into their programs, teaching campers about local ecosystems, conservation practices, and sustainable living. Some camps have implemented eco-friendly initiatives such as:
- Solar power installations
- Water conservation measures
- Composting and recycling programs
- Use of locally-sourced, organic foods
These efforts not only reduce the camps’ environmental impact but also instill a sense of environmental responsibility in campers that can last a lifetime.
The Therapeutic Value of Texas Summer Camps
Beyond fun and adventure, how do Texas summer camps contribute to children’s emotional and psychological well-being? The camp experience offers numerous therapeutic benefits:
- Building self-confidence and independence
- Developing social skills and emotional intelligence
- Providing a break from academic pressures and screen time
- Encouraging physical activity and connection with nature
- Offering a supportive environment for personal growth
Many camps also offer specialized programs for children with specific needs, such as those dealing with grief, chronic illnesses, or developmental challenges. These programs demonstrate the adaptability and inclusivity of Texas summer camps in meeting diverse needs.
The Global Reach of Texas Summer Camps
While deeply rooted in Texas tradition, how do these summer camps connect with the wider world? Many Texas camps have an international flavor, attracting campers and staff from around the globe. This cultural exchange offers benefits such as:
- Exposure to diverse perspectives and cultures
- Opportunities for language learning and cultural appreciation
- Fostering global friendships and understanding
- Preparing campers for an increasingly interconnected world
Some camps even offer international travel programs, extending the camp experience beyond Texas borders and providing unique opportunities for global learning and adventure.
The Legacy of Texas Summer Camps
As we reflect on the rich history and ongoing impact of Texas summer camps, it’s clear that these institutions play a vital role in shaping the lives of young Texans and visitors alike. From the red-roofed cabins of Heart O’ the Hills to the innovative spirit of Camp Longhorn, each camp offers a unique blend of tradition, adventure, and personal growth.
The enduring popularity of these camps speaks to their ability to adapt to changing times while maintaining the core values that have made them beloved for generations. As we look to the future, Texas summer camps will undoubtedly continue to evolve, embracing new technologies and addressing contemporary challenges while preserving the timeless magic of summer in the Lone Star State.
Whether it’s conquering fears on a high ropes course, learning to ride a horse, or simply gazing at the stars around a campfire, the experiences gained at Texas summer camps create memories and friendships that last a lifetime. These camps do more than fill summer days with fun; they shape character, foster independence, and instill a deep appreciation for nature and community.
As each new generation of campers arrives, they become part of a rich tapestry of Texas tradition, carrying forward the spirit of adventure, camaraderie, and personal growth that has defined these camps for decades. In this way, Texas summer camps continue to play a vital role in nurturing the leaders, innovators, and citizens of tomorrow, all while providing the simple joys of a Texas summer under the big, bright stars.
Texas’ Most Beloved Summer Camps — Storied Overnight Camps are a Tradition Like No Other for Generations of Texans
Nothing conjures up feelings of sweet nostalgia like summertime in Texas. Blazing sun. Melting ice cream. Fresh, juicy peaches. I, like many Texans, spent my childhood (and young adulthood) enjoying days of summer sunshine and freedom at summer camps. My camp wasn’t just a “summer camp” though. It was more than that — it was a home away from home, and the friends I made there are truly my second family.
Many of these Texas summer retreats lie tucked away in the heart of the beautiful hill country near Kerrville, Texas. For reference, that’s about an hour and a half west of San Antonio. Picture giant canopies of rich green trees that blanket unending rolling hills. It’s like stepping foot into pure paradise: sounds of chirping birds, buzzing cicadas, and gentle streams rescue you from the hustle and bustle of noisy city life — until the yells and laughter of joyful children break the profound tranquility.
Going to camp seems to be in the blood of many Texans. But not all Texas summer camps are created equal. These are Texas’ most beloved summer camps, many with histories that stretch back generations.
Take note: The camps are listed in alphabetical order.
Heart O’ the Hills
For many camp goers, Heart O’ the Hills is most easily identified by its red-roofed hotel-style cabins. Some might find it a bit different that the girls who attend this camp live in an old inn, but why waste good construction and real estate?
The inn was built in 1928 for campers’ parents dropping their children off at neighboring camps.
The inn was in operation until 1953 when it became a camp in honor of the soon-to-be-owners’ daughter, Jo Jones, who died in a car accident in nearby Ingram. Since then, Heart O’ the Hills has grown, and through the years has constructed more traditional-style cabins (what they call “tepees”).
Another interesting characteristic of Heart O’ the Hills is its location just along Highway 39, and by that I mean the highway actually splits the camp.
So as you (carefully) wind the narrow roads, take it as no surprise when you might see some campers horseback riding on your right and others splashing in the Guadalupe River on your left.
Apart from the daily activities, Heart O’ the Hill also holds special events throughout the term. Take, for instance, Seminar Day, a highly-anticipated tradition that provides a change of pace from the day-to-day camp life.
Campers can learn the ideas and customs of their counselors’ home countries in seminars like Fiesta, Netball, Advanced Canoeing, Zip-lining, and even Harry Potter World! I’m not sure exactly what that entails, but I have a feeling it’s a dream come true for many.
La Junta, one of the best Texas summer camps, gives a select few riders the chance to go ranching for two days.
Camp La Junta
Like many of the camps that dot the roads through central Texas, Camp La Junta is one that has been around for decades — since 1928 to be exact. Because of its great tenure, the camp has developed strong traditions and deep history that have stood the test of time.
La Junta is an all-boys camp whose name means “the gathering place”, and the name suits the camp perfectly. Generations of boys have gathered every summer to challenge themselves in sports and activities and learn important life skills, all while building an appreciation for the outdoors and (arguably most importantly) enjoying the simple joys of summer.
The boys at La Junta can take a wide range of activities that are unlike anything they’d be able to experience during summer at home. Imagine taking mountain biking as a class, or trap and skeet shooting, or horseback riding. Yes, please!
But La Junta takes Riding to another level. Back in 1955, they began a tradition called “The Rough Riders”, which since then has given the camp’s top eight riders an opportunity to embark on a two-day camping and ranching excursion. The boys ride over miles of ranch country, sleep and cook outside, run fence lines, and work livestock or game.
You can thank Camp Longhorn, one of the best summer camps in Texas, for creating the blob.
Camp Longhorn
Camp Longhorn has been a summer staple for thousands of young Texans since its founding in 1939 at Inks Lake. The small and humble beginnings of Longhorn are almost unrecognizable now that it boasts three locations. In addition to its home base at Inks Lake, the camp now offers its summer sessions at Indian Springs (established 1975) and C3 (established 2016, located on Inks Lake).
Of the many fun games and activities Longhorn offers, its blob on the lake is an undeniable trademark. To make things clear, Camp Longhorn is actually credited with inventing the exhilarating activity. If you’ve never had the opportunity to experience the excitement (and brief, adrenaline-rushing fear) of a blob, just imagine a giant trampoline.
As one camper (or several) jumps on one end of the massive water installation, the camper on the edge of it gets thrown high up in the air before splashing into the water below.
Unlike many other camps, Longhorn’s focus is more on participation and leadership than on competition.
So it should come as no surprise that there is a “Longhorn Rangers” leadership and adventure program for 10th-grade boy campers.
Those boys who participate in the program get to travel via bus to Colorado and New Mexico with a myriad of activities to check off along the way, like camping, fishing, and rock climbing. After completing the two weeks of bus travel and activities, they return to camp to put their leadership skills into practice as counselors and teachers.
Camp Mystic’s sign lights up at night for all to see.
Camp Mystic
Drive down Highway 39 in the evening hours, and you’ll find this camp marked by its glowing “Mystic” sign atop a hill they call Sky High. Because Camp Mystic was founded in 1926, many campers can say that their mothers, aunts, cousins, grandmothers, and sometimes even great-grandmothers attended the camp as children.
The Guadalupe River splits the more than 700-acre campgrounds and provides a refreshing reprieve from the hot and steamy days that only get worse as the summer wears on.
Mystic offers a number of sports and activities for campers to participate in daily, many of which revolve around the river.
Girls are also members of one of two teams that compete in sports and games throughout each term. One of the teams is declared the crowning champion at the end of each term.
And what of the food you ask? Those who attend Mystic unabashedly boast about its delicious and flavorful dishes. And to make things even better, Mystic serves Blue Bell ice cream every day after lunch. Every. Day.
But the heart of the camp lies in its Christian identity. Sundays are reserved for praise and worship on the waterfront and vespers on Chapel Hill. And with just more than 400 campers per term, Mystic remains a fairly small camp, making it a special place to create those lifelong friendships that we all dream of.
Stewart’s Condor Specialty Programs let campers learn new skills in different areas of interest.
Camp Stewart
Camp Stewart began back in 1924 and is the brother camp to Heart O’ the Hills just down the road.
The two camps, which are not too far from each other, even have a brother/sister picnic for siblings who attend each camp.
Stewart rests on more than 500 acres of land, providing ample room for all sorts of activities and programs. In addition to the everyday activities, the camp offers Condor Specialty Programs to boys once they turn 13. There are four programs within the program itself: Ranchman, Sportsman, Outdoorsman, and Campmaster.
Each of the programs allows the teens to take specific classes in each field to learn more about what interests them most.
But all things activity aside (though the activities Billy Bob Sled and Tarzan Rope sound like the absolute most fun), Camp Stewart also has several special events and traditions that I wish could be celebrated every day outside the confines of camp. Like Rodeo. Or Crazy Hat Breakfast. Or Mardi Gras Lunch. Can I RSVP yes?
The Vista Camps have been around since 1921.
Vista Camps
Of all the camps on this list, Vista Camps holds the honor of being the oldest, having hosted young Texans since 1921.
The Vista Camps are actually comprised of two camps: Rio Vista (for boys) and Sierra Vista (for girls). Though each camp is located on the same grounds, they are distinct and are considered to be more brother-sister camps than anything else.
The activities at Vista are similar to any other camp, but the Vista Camps offer other unique ones as well. Campers can opt to take “Just for Fun,” which is essentially a 50-minute class of fun and free time. Or campers can keep their brain cells fresh and conduct all sorts of science experiments in an activity called Mega Mind.
Though Vista’s boys and girls camps have their own separate schedules and activities throughout the day, they do gather together about once a week for any number of nightly programs. Together they have a dance, as well as a picnic, and even a carnival.
Because of the age of the Vista Camps, the traditions run deep. Oftentimes, generations of families have attended and can share in the memories and traditions together.
Waldemar, one of the best Texas summer camps, prides itself on good food and good manners.
Camp Waldemar
Waldemar, also situated between the rolling hills of central Texas and along the Guadalupe River, has been the summer retreat for summer-loving, camp-devoted girls and their ancestors since 1926. Its deep history and legacy run just as deep as the roots of the camp’s cypress trees.
Since its beginnings, Camp Waldemar has made it its mission to provide wholesome fun and an escape from the business of the outside world, and to instill in the girls the values of faith, friendship, character, and self-esteem.
Of the many things Waldemar is known for, its dedication to excellence in etiquette and manners (particularly at meals) is certainly near the top. The girls are taught all the important to-do’s and not to-do’s of eating at the table, including using “please” and “thank you” when asking for food, waiting to begin eating until the hostess begins her meal, maintaining good posture, and trying one of everything set before them at the table.
Trying a little bit of everything may seem daunting to some, but when all the food preparation is overseen by a gourmet chef, it isn’t too difficult. Waldemar even has its own cookbook you can purchase on its website that includes recipes and dishes from past eras.
Best Overnight Summer Camps In Texas 2023
The sprawling state of Texas offers plenty of ways to enjoy the summer months for everyone. Whether you are looking for a beach getaway, state parks, or a cultural city experience, Texas has it all.
Live music, art and culture, outdoor activities, and delicious barbeque are abundant in the lone star state. For kids, you can’t go wrong when it comes to sleepaway summer camps in the state.
The beautiful warm weather and various activities make it an excellent choice for outdoor programs, especially around the Texas Hill Country area, where most of them are located.
1. Camp Olympia
Address: 723 Olympia Drive Trinity, Texas 75862
Ages: 6-16
Dates: May 29 – August 6
Camp Olympia is nestled among the pines on the beautiful Lake Livingston, just over an hour in a half outside Houston.
Camp Olympia was founded in 1968 by University of Texas football players Chris Gilbert and Cory Robertson Jr. The long-established camp provides a diverse environment where kids can connect with campers from all over the world.
Boys and girls ages 6-16 are welcome to enroll in one, two, or three-week overnight sessions. Kids create their own personalized camp schedule choosing from the huge selection of activities. Those with an adventurous spirit will love the outdoor skills class, zip-lining adventure, horseback riding, rock climbing wall, and challenge course.
Summers are very hot in Texas, but kids can cool off at the lake while swimming, sailing, snorkeling, wakeboarding, or water skiing.
Campers can also enjoy yoga classes, ping pong, board games, and mini-golf. In addition, there are various sporting activities to choose from that take place at their sports fields and courts.
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2. Camp Champions
Address: 775 Camp Rd, Marble Falls, TX 78654
Ages: 5-17
Dates: June 5 – August 12
Camp Champions is a premier sleepaway camp for boys and girls to form lifelong friendships.
There are endless fun activities for children to participate in, ranging from waterfront activities, sports, excellent food, and camp games. They can enjoy sailing, kayaking, pickleball, volleyball, ga-ga, and more. Their extensive facilities host large places like a ninja course, climbing wall, archery range, and even a petting zoo.
Through experiences and activities, campers are taught to be independent, gain self-confidence and resilience while also becoming more mature and increasing leadership skills. This is all done in a welcoming and supportive environment surrounded by experienced camp counselors. Their staff is well-trained and hired from different areas to ensure your child is surrounded by the best mentors available.
Camp Champions hosts multiple camp sessions that last between one week, two weeks, three weeks, and up to 6 weeks. There are different start dates each month that run throughout the entire summer.
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3. Vista Camps
Address: 175 Rio Vista Rd S, Ingram, TX 78025
Ages: 6-16
Dates: June 5 – July 30
The longstanding Vista Camps have been creating cherished summer memories since 1921! Vista Camps offers two separate campgrounds in Texas Hill County: Camp Rio Vista for boys and Camp Sierra Vista for girls.
Campers ages 6-16 can spend one, two, three, or four weeks.
Children can participate in water sports like kneeboarding, kayaking, and swimming, creative arts, animal care, and plenty of traditional outdoor camp activities. Thrill-seekers can zip through the lake on a banana boat, go horseback riding, or explore new heights on the ropes course.
Animal-lovers can visit the local wildlife rehabilitation center and learn about various interesting animals. Team sports like basketball, soccer, volleyball, and softball are also offered.
The fun doesn’t end outside, campers can also enjoy games and team-building exercises in the stone cabins with caring counselors and new friends. In the evenings, kids are entertained with talent shows, dance parties, and overnight camping.
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4. Camp Balcones Springs
Address: 104 Balcones Springs Dr, Marble Falls, TX 78654
Ages: 6-17
Dates: June 5 – August 6
You’ll find Camp Balcones Springs (CBS) just 40 miles outside of Austin on a private 10-acre lake in Texas Hill Country.
Founded in 1993 on Christian beliefs, CBS welcomes boys and girls 6-17 years old. Overnight sessions run for ten days, two weeks, or three weeks.
There’s plenty to discover at Camp Balcones Springs. The campground includes a private lake, barn, tree house, beachfront, and sports fields. Campers can sign up for activities such as ceramics, outdoor cooking, jewelry making, survival skills, woodworking, water sports, drama, and archery. In addition to learning valuable skills, children also learn how to connect with others and grow spiritually.
In addition to emphasizing Christian values, CBS encourages sustainability by teaching zero-waste practices and cooking camp meals with herbs and vegetables from the camp garden. The focus on character development, sustainability, and spirituality are what really sets this camp apart from the rest.
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5. Camp Kiowa
Address: 8484 S Farm to Market 372, Gainesville, TX 76240
Ages: 6-17
Dates: June 27 – August 7
With 81 private acres of land in North Texas, Camp Kiowa is the perfect place for kids to enjoy the outdoors during the summer.
At Camp Kiowa, campers can discover new interests and hobbies, make lifelong friends, and get away from technology. Boys and girls ages 6-17 can spend 1 to 6 weeks of non-stop fun.
Camp Kiowa has all of the classic summer camp activities like horseback riding, archery, woodworking, water activities, and sports. What makes this camp stand out are its unique programs like culinary arts, paintball, robotics wars, newsletter writing, and health and fitness programs. When campers want to cool off from the heat, they can jump in the lake or play games in the air-conditioned cabins.
After each day, campers gather for exciting evening activities, which include campfire songs, movie nights, dance nights, and more! Kids can build out their schedules to fit their interests, build confidence, and learn new talents. Camp Kiowa is only an hour’s drive from Dallas and Fort Worth.
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6. Kickapoo Kamp
Address: 304 Upper Turtle Creek Rd, Kerrville, TX 78028
Ages: 7-17
Dates: June 6 – July 30
Looking for a smaller camp that fosters a family atmosphere for girls? Look no further, Kickapoo Kamp is an overnight all-girls summer camp that’s been running since 1925.
The low counselor-camper ratio is one of the aspects that make this camp stand out from the rest.
Kickapoo Kamp is located in the Texas Hill Country, where campers can get lost in the beauty of nature. Girls ages 7-17 can breathe in the fresh air in the rolling hills and crystal-clear tributary of the Guadalupe River. During their one or two-week session, campers stay active with a wide range of outdoor activities like yoga, gymnastics, sports, archery, horseback riding, swimming, crafts, dance, and other exciting water sports.
The rustic cabins and facilities take girls back in time where they can take a break from social media and focus on personal development and building meaningful relationships. Kickapoo Kamp also hosts mother-daughter weekends during the months of April and May.
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7. CG Victory Legends Camp
Address: 9185 Research Blvd, Austin, TX 78758
Ages: 12-17
Dates: June 25 – June 30
CG Victory’s Legends Camp is for kids in 7th-11th grade who are looking for a more competitive spin on summer camp.
This faith-based camp encourages kids to challenge themselves through sports, fitness, and team-building exercises. Their overnight camp, Legends, is offered at Burnet, TX, while their day camps are in Austin.
This is the perfect sleepaway camp for youth with an adventurous spirit and competitive edge. During the week-long camp session, participants can enjoy waterfront activities, theme nights, relay races, and sporting competitions. Campers come together each morning to hype each other up for the day. Although the camp emphasizes competition, it’s also big on leadership, sportsmanship, and individual growth.
Their legends camp has only one session that starts near the end of June. If you’re looking for a day camp, they’re aimed at ages 6-12 and run from June to August.
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8. Camp Grady Spruce
Address: 3000 Park Rd 36, Graford, TX 76449
Ages: 6-16
Dates: June 5 – July 30
The YMCA Camp Grady Spruce is located on Possum Kingdom Lake, an hour west of Dallas.
Kids ages 6-16 are welcome to spend a week exploring outdoor activities and creating bonds with counselors and other fellow peers. Here, campers can have fun hiking the trails, swimming in the lake, playing sports, and learning outdoor skills.
There are plenty of activities to choose from at Camp Grady Spruce. Some of the highlights are arts and crafts, outdoor survival skills, equestrian, canoeing, water skiing, riflery, sailing, rock wall climbing, and ziplining. Camp Grady Spruce’s mission is to give kids an incredible summer experience that enriches their relationship with God. Having fun is a priority at any summer program, but Camp Grady Spruce offers much more.
Kids develop leadership skills, gain an appreciation for the natural world, and build lifelong friendships in a caring environment. One-week camp sessions run all summer, and each week has a different theme. Some of the themes include color wars, myths & legends, superheroes, wild west, and Olympic games.
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9. Camp Mystic
Address: 689 TX-39, Hunt, TX 78024
Ages: 7-17
Dates: May 31 – August 13
Camp Mystic has two campgrounds, one on the Guadalupe River and one on Cypress Lake. This Christian summer camp invites girls for two-week or four-week sessions. Camp Mystic has been up and running since 1926 with a focus on providing enriching experiences for girls.
At Camp Mystic, campers can bond with each other while learning new skills and enjoying the great outdoors. Some of the exciting activities offered include aerobics, canoeing, kayaking, ceramics, cooking, dance, archery, drama, synchronized swimming, sports, yoga, journalism, and golf. Their unique Beauty Inside and Out activity teaches girls to appreciate physical and mental wellness.
Girls split into tribes upon arrival and spend the week connecting with each other and participating in friendly competitions.
Parents can sign kids up for two-week or four-week camp sessions.
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6 thematic camps for those over twenty
Budget and savings
Polina Kalmykova
found a portal to childhood
Author profile
As a child, trips to the camp seemed boring and monotonous to me: exercises, a walk to the sea, a quiet hour, preparing for a concert and a disco – that’s all the entertainment. Now I remember them with warmth and nostalgia: every shift was full of adventures and new friends, and the daily routine now seems almost perfect.
Even those over twenty can get into the camp: you just need to buy a ticket for one of the adult shifts. This article contains 6 camps that organize such trips. Keep it if you still remember the detachment’s chants and secretly dream of visiting the morning line again.
More Amore Camp
Briefly: camp with yoga, beautiful views and networking opportunities
Details: on the official website
More Amore Camp holds thematic sessions for everyone: there are separate programs for teenagers from 12 years old, adults from 18 years old and families with children.
Children’s trips usually take place in Sheregesh, and adults are invited to Altai for a creative session dedicated to self-realization, or a photo tour of the most impressive places in the region.
Participants live in glampings – in domed houses, tents and tents overlooking the mountains and rivers, two or three people in each room. The daily routine depends on the program, but there will be little free time: every day, participants do yoga, participate in psychological trainings and game practices, prepare creative projects in teams, and arrange photo shoots during sightseeing trips. The evening ends with campfire gatherings with songs, dancing, a movie theater and anything else that the participants want, from night swimming to jumping over the fire.
All events are carried out by professional curators: a director, a photographer, a KVN officer and an organizer of festivals, so on a shift you will not only be able to change the situation, but also learn something new.
Mayak
Brief: creative workshops on the weekend
21 Details: on the official website of
Mayak is another educational adult camp. The shifts are devoted to various aspects of acting: for example, improvisation, public speaking, or TED-style speaking.
Off-site programs usually take place on weekends in the Moscow region – you don’t need to take a vacation or ask for time off from work to join a shift. Although most of the time in the camp is occupied with training, rest is also included in the program: participants do yoga, go to the bathhouse, walk around the neighborhood, listen to music and play.
The cost of the trip includes everything: accommodation in double rooms, three meals a day and transfer from Moscow and back. So you will need money with you only for souvenirs.
Dacamp
Brief: concept trips in the format of a children’s camp
1 Details: on the official website
Dacamp conducts trips for adults in children’s camps and recreation centers in the Far East, primarily in the Khabarovsk Territory.
Each shift has a conceptual name, such as “Pause”, “Youth Theater” or “Cousteau”, but how it will be connected with the program is not known in advance: the organizers keep the exact list of events a secret.
There are several principles that are observed at the exits. The shift should be full of various activities so that everyone finds something to their liking, but at the same time there are no mandatory classes. There is also no clear schedule in the camp: everything starts when it starts and ends when it ends. Also, no alcohol.
In addition to open trips for everyone, the camp holds special shifts for business – with master classes from professional managers and joint events with other entrepreneurs, where you can get to know each other and share experiences. The exact program is kept secret in the same way as on regular trips: these are the rules.
Renewal package
Briefly: nostalgia for childhood for millennials
Price: from 30,000 R, including transfer from Moscow and back
Location: park-o hotel “Sparrows” in the Kaluga region
Details: on the official website
The organizers of the “Prodlenka” promise to recreate children’s impressions of visiting the camp with all the details: living in the “girls” and “boys” wards, counselors who must be obeyed, camp questionnaires, bonfires and amateur concerts.
They promise to turn a blind eye to rule violations. The main rule is “don’t get burned”, otherwise everything is possible: drinking beer in the bushes before the disco, smoking through the window and kissing secretly from the counselors. Those who get caught will not be sent home, but violations will be reflected in the rating of the squad.
Summer camp in Nizhny Novgorod
Brief: creative sailing camp
Cost: 45 000 R — without transfer and accommodation
silt of the wind” in Nizhny Novgorod
Details: on the official website
Yachting camp. They invite both beginners who have never climbed onto the deck, and experienced yachtsmen who are helped to hone their skills. Each participant becomes a member of the yacht’s crew, which consists of four people and an instructor.
They promise 4 days of training and theoretical classes, as well as water races and excursions in the city.
After training, they arrange trainings with acting practices, which are conducted by an actor from the creative laboratory of Gogol School.
The organizers offer self-accommodation, but send a list of recommended hotels. Rooms cost from 1500 to 6000 R per day.
Art Retreat
Brief: creative practices with a small company in a mansion
023 Details: on the official website
Organizers offer spend a few days in a huge mansion in nature. Groups are small – 20 people each. Every day they promise a rich program with creative activities for every taste: vocals, drawing, acting, clothing customization, and so on.
Great attention is paid to housing and delicious food. Mansions are selected more spacious and in picturesque places so that everyone has the opportunity to retire and admire nature, and the menu is suitable for vegetarians, too, and food is included in the cost of the trip.
The creators of the project focus on support and warmth in their groups and position the Art Retreat more like a community than an ordinary camp.
Therefore, such a vacation is suitable for those who want to chat with like-minded people who share a love for art.
Summer “guideless camps” for adults are gaining popularity in the US
- Suzanne Byrne
- Business Writer
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Photo copyright, CNC
Photo caption,
Adults participate in games and competitions with as much passion as children
Every summer, millions of children in the US go to children’s camps.
Meeting new friends, playing games, sleeping in common houses. Everyone who was in children’s camps remembers their special atmosphere and peculiar rituals.
“But why should only children have fun?” – thought the young people who organized the Camp No Counselors group of companies.
So far, this is a small but rapidly growing business that runs “adult” shifts at summer camps. They are very similar to children’s shifts – the same games and adventures. But there are two significant differences: alcohol is allowed here and parties are allowed until late. But you still need to sleep in shared houses.
” Sea pleasures”
“Camp without counselors” was founded by 33-year-old Adam Tihauer from Canada. Prior to that, he led a technology startup in New York.
Photo copyright, CNC
Photo caption,
The organizers say they carefully select the composition of the “adult shifts” so that there are no conflicts between the participants
“I worked all day long, and I just needed a fun weekend with friends” he says.
“I’ve always loved organizing events. I used to go to camps when I was a kid. And all of a sudden I thought, why not rent a camp for the weekend? If you go there with friends, you can have a lot of fun!” Adam continues.
Tichauer’s friends enthusiastically met his offer to plunge into the world of childhood, and the camp in New York was rented for three nights.
Adam invited his friends to invite their acquaintances, as a result, about 90 people came to the camp. The entertainment program included water skiing and a disco with DJs.
The author of the photo, CNC
Adam says that the event was such a success that six months later he decided to organize a winter camp for 120 people.
“I hit the mark”
It was after the winter camp that Adam decided that it was time to transform this undertaking into a business. His friends also supported him, saying that he was a born organizer.
“Everyone said that I just hit the mark with this idea. And my friends also said that this activity is just for me,” Tichauer continues.
In May 2014, he quit his previous job and started Camp Without Counselors.
The name of the company emphasized the main difference between Adam’s camp and children’s institutions: there are no authorities in the camp, which means that no one will interfere with the fun.
“I didn’t have much savings. But I figured I could start with one camp. Then maybe there will be two,” says Adam. “But as soon as we opened, word of mouth started working.”
The author of the photo, CNC
Photo caption,
Usually a little more girls come to the camp: they make up 55% of vacationers, and boys, respectively, 45%
Adam confesses that at first it was difficult for him to persuade the camp owners to accept his unexpected offer. More often than not, they agreed because it allowed them to extend the season.
Adam usually holds his “Camps Without Counselors” before and after the school holidays – just at the time when the camps are empty.
Breakfast cocktails
Tichauer’s business began to grow rapidly.
This year, he and his partners are already organizing 30 camps in 10 different locations in the United States.
Activities include canoeing, rock climbing, softball and tug of war. And alcoholic cocktails – like mojitos or Bloody Marys – can be drunk even at breakfast.
Photo author, CNC
Photo caption,
Those wishing to be admitted to the “camp without guides” must fill out a detailed questionnaire about themselves
Each shift lasts three days and usually takes place on weekends. Up to 200 people can enter the camp. The average age of vacationers is 30 years.
The houses in which the children live are not divided into women’s and men’s. So there may well be a guy in the next bed with the girl. But, according to the organizers, this has not yet scared away any of the clients.
“Pass” to such a camp usually costs 575 dollars. But for this money, participants buy an all-inclusive package, so vacationers do not have to spend money on food and drinks.
Manage “Camps without leaders” eight full-time and 15 freelancers.
Forget about work
Why are “Camps Without Leaders” so popular?
Adam says there’s a lot of nostalgia here: “Isn’t it cool to go back to camp with friends, only to be able to drink and party all night?”
Image copyright CNC
“On the other hand, a lot of guys didn’t go to the camps when they were kids. And they’re interested in seeing everything with their own eyes,” he continues.
Adam adds that there is no Wi-Fi in the camps, so people are forced to put the phone away, forget about work and start having fun and meeting new guys.
Euromonitor research team expert Daphne Kasriel-Alexander agrees with Adam’s reasoning. She adds that many go to the camps to diversify their daily routine and meet new people.
” M utn ov
But some people criticize Camps Without Leaders for not being open to everyone.
Everyone who wants to get on a shift must fill out a questionnaire with data about themselves, as well as provide addresses of their accounts on social networks.
Based on these questionnaires, the company then selects 200 people who can come to the camp.
Image copyright, CNC
Image caption,
Adults are encouraged to unleash their “inner child”
One critic called it “vague social engineering,” but Camps Without Counselors disagrees.
Dave Kushner, Head of Events at the company, explains: “Because space is limited at the camp, we make sure that the 200 people who most want to be there get to shift.”
“We want to make sure everyone on the shift respects each other’s privacy and doesn’t show hate or other dangerous negativity. We’re proud that we didn’t have fights, especially since we have a bar open all the time,” he says.
Adam plans to expand his business in the US, Canada, and possibly other continents.
