What to Know About Planning for Summer Camps in Virginia

Families have lots of choices when it comes to planning for summer camp in Virginia. It takes time to research, choose, and sign your kid up for the right summer camp. We’re here to help make it easier for you. Get a head start now by asking yourself the big question: day camp or overnight camp? 

“Whether you go with sleepaway camp, day camp, or a mixture of both, there are local summer camp options that will thrill every kid. Says Eryn Haskins, Director of Operations at Triple C Camp in Charlottesville, Va, “Both day and overnight camps encourage children to unplug from technology, connect with peers, and step outside their comfort zones. In the end, whether they spend their nights at camp or at home, kids gain confidence, character, and lifelong skills they’ll carry with them.” Happy camping!

Day Camps vs. Sleepaway Camps At A Glance:

• Day camps are local, flexible, and affordable. However, many don’t cover the full workday, and parents will need to arrange daily transportation.
• Sleepaway camps are immersive, allowing kids to build independence and form lifelong friendships. However, they are expensive and may be difficult for kids who experience homesickness.
• Picking the right camp will depend on your family and your child’s needs.
• Camp Expos takes place every winter throughout Virginia, allowing local families to explore camp options in the state and the Mid-Atlantic region. 

What to Know About Sleepaway Camp vs. Day Camp in Virginia

Both sleepaway camps and day camps in Virginia will offer fun experiences and build long-lasting memories. It all comes down to what will be best for your kid and your family.

Pros of Virginia Day Camps

• A big perk of a day camp is that it’s local. This means your child may be more comfortable with its location, and might know some of the other campers. 
• Being local offers more flexibility for you and your family. You don’t need to decide between other summer activities, like swim lessons, music classes, or weekend travel, and camp. 
• Day camp is also more affordable, which is good to keep in mind when budgeting for other summer fun. 

Cons of Virginia Day Camps

• For some kids, a drawback to day camp is that the daily routines can feel a little like school. Campers might feel like they have less independence. 
• You will also have to figure out daily transportation to and from camp. 
• Many day camps don’t cover the full workday, so working parents will need to find additional care for young children.

Day Camp Pro Tip: Choosing a camp that features a specific interest, and that is conveniently located will make day camp a fun experience for all.

Pros of Virginia Sleepaway Camps

• An overnight camp is an immersive experience for kids. For many, it is the first time they are away from home for more than a night or two. 
• Navigating a new community without their parents can help a child develop independence, which in turn is beneficial for building confidence. 
• Many kids bond very quickly with their campmates, forming lifelong friendships.

Cons of Virginia Sleepaway Camps

• Overnight camp is more expensive than day camp. You are paying for around the clock care, as well as room and board. 
• Being away from home can also cause homesickness in kids, and for some this overshadows the experience. 

Sleepaway Camp Pro Tip: For a child’s first sleepaway camp experience, see if they can attend with an older sibling or a friend to help them feel less homesick.

How to Decide Which Summer Camp Is Right for Your Child

Ultimately, choosing a camp that your kid is excited to attend is key for both day camp and overnight camp. 

Sarah Ackenbom, Director of Camp Friendship, points out that day camp can often be a good stepping stone to sleepaway camp and suggests, “For kids who are easily worn out, anxious, or young, day camps offer less strenuous schedules and a gradual approach to gaining independence. Day camps build confidence for longer-term experiences away from home.” 

Since an overnight camp is a bigger financial and time commitment, it is also helpful to choose one that comes recommended to you by trusted resources. 

Several factors should be considered when selecting a camp.

• Age and Maturity: How has your child handled separation on a smaller scale? Are “goodbyes” when going to school or for a night at grandma’s house still a struggle? You may need to wait a year or two. 
• Budget: Day camps can offer equally enriching experiences for a fraction of the cost.
• Family schedule: Are there weekend plans, gatherings, or other commitments that you’d like your kid to be present for? Or would a busy work schedule and inability to provide transportation make an overnight camp more appealing?

Discuss these factors and then start exploring camp options! 

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT SUMMER CAMPS

1. What’s the difference between day camp and sleepaway camp?

Day camps take place during the workday, sometimes for a few hours and sometimes for the whole day. Parents drop their kids off in the morning and pick them up at the end of camp. 

Sleepaway camps usually last for several days or weeks, and campers stay at the camp the whole time, including overnight.

2. Where can I find a list of summer camp options for kids in Virginia?

If you’re looking for day camps or sleepaway camps in Virginia, we’re here to help you find the right camp for your kids with as little stress as possible.

Check out our Virginia sleepaway camp directory.

3. How can I learn more about summer camps before I sign up?

If you want to explore summer camp options with your kids, camp fairs are a fantastic way to meet camps in person. Speak with directors and their staff to gain a genuine understanding of their program and camp philosophy. Read our blog all about Camp Fairs throughout the Mid-Atlantic. Camp Fairs also feature fun, hands-on activities for kids, so it is a win-win for the whole family to have a fun and productive outing.