If you’re considering going to camp for the first time, you probably have some ideas and expectations about what it’ll be like. Fire circles and archery! Ghost stories and sailing on the lake!
However, there are a few misconceptions about camp that many campers arrive with, mostly passed down through movies and books.
Want to know what it’s actually like at camp? Keep reading to find out four common camp myths that are just totally not true!
Myth: Making friends is hard.
Fact: Camp is the perfect place to make new friends!
From the moment you arrive, your camp counselors will introduce you to the other campers by leading fun “get to know you” activities. Emphasis is always on having fun and learning about each other. Classic camp games like “two truths and a lie” give everyone a chance to share something they’re passionate about — whether it’s Minecraft, ice cream, or just being at camp finally!
Unlike school, camp is filled with games and sport activities, giving you plenty of time to talk with other campers and work together as a team. Teamwork at camp builds trust and memories, a perfect foundation for lasting friendship.
Myth: I’m too old for summer camp.
Fact: Summer camp is fun for all ages.
Younger campers enjoy experiencing a variety of activities at camp. Everything is new and interesting and so you sample everything camp has to offer.
Older campers enjoy more in-depth, focused programs. For example, as a young camper you might create a simple clay project during arts and crafts. As an older camper you may have the opportunity to spend more time working on the pottery wheel. While the activities are similar, older campers have the opportunity to go more in-depth to the “craft” of an activity — it’s never just the same thing year after year!
Leadership programs are also available for older campers, with activities like overnight camping and high ropes coursework that younger campers don’t get to do… yet! These give older campers leadership experience, a bit more freedom at camp, and look great on college applications.
Myth: I won’t like any of the food, and I’ll go hungry.
Fact: There are many food choices and your counselors will make sure you get a balanced diet that suits your preferences!
Camp offers a huge variety of food at every meal. (Honestly, lunch is one of the highlights of the day! It’s that good.)
Besides special meals for campers with dietary restrictions, you are always able to choose from a selection of main dishes and a salad bar. Fruit is also available during meals and as a snack. Your counselors may encourage you to try new things, but no one is “forced” to eat anything — counselors work tirelessly to make sure campers get all the nutrition they need for a long day of running around camp!
Myth: I’ll feel “out of the loop” if I’ve never been to camp before.
Fact: Camp is a fun and lighthearted place — perfect for newcomers!
There’s no such thing as trying new things without feeling a little “out of the loop” sometimes. Luckily, camp is among the easiest places to break the ice and start getting into the swing of things. The whole structure of camp, from the activities to the group meals, is specifically designed to make it easy for campers to get to know one another and feel like “part of the team.”
Camp may seem like a mysterious place before you go, but there’s no mystery about how to have fun once you’re here!
Sometimes, the only way to find out for yourself is to take the plunge and come out to summer camp. It’s an unforgettable experience that will keep you coming back again and again.
