If you were lucky enough to go to summer camp as a kid, you know some of the great joys in life. Ghost storytelling and s’mores making around a roaring campfire. Canoeing and swimming in murky, fish-filled lakes. Endless hiking through woodsy landscapes (before anyone even heard of forest bathing). Finding lifelong friends and crushing on cute counselors. Whether you stayed for a single week or the entire season, you knew you were experiencing peak summer fun.
That was then. This is now.
Yes, but grownups seeking that sweet sense of nostalgia are attending adult summer camps in droves. No surprise, really, because when Oprah talks about something, it’s bound to become the next big thing. So let’s unpack this travel trend by diving into what these camps offer so you can capture the same magic (and bookings!) for your resort.
Revisiting the past
There are summer camps for purists – by day, anyway. Camp No Counselors – with its positioning statement of “Play Like a Kid. Party Like a Grown-up.” – pairs classic activities like dodgeball tournaments, talent shows and arts & crafts with spirited nightly socials. Plus, there are no counselors to announce it’s time for lights out. Club Getaway follows a similar agenda with waterfront activities and adventurous pursuits by day and pulsing nightlife after the sun sets.
Creating community
There are summer camps that deliver one genuine Kumbaya moment after another with all the trappings of the experience you remember and love. Campowerment brings together women – and all individuals who identify with the feminine experience – to forge “authentic connections at the edge of the comfort zone, where our campers can lean into the safe haven and get real.” Camp Camp welcomes LGBTQ+ singles and couples to be a kid again and unleash their inner gaga nestled within the protective space of a supportive community.
Indulging interests
There are summer camps that focus on a particular, popular activity. IMG Academy lets athletes who always wanted to be on the winning team to flex their competitive spirit and improve their skills in golf and tennis camps. Camp Runabout delivers a similar sports-forward environment for runners and fitness enthusiasts. For the arts & crafts set, there are just as many providers – including Camp Craftaway and camp offerings at Interlochen College of Creative Arts. And let’s not forget the science-minded wannabe campers out there that would give just about anything for another chance to go to Space Camp.
Now, take your turn
So what do these camps have that your resort doesn’t? Nothing! OK, maybe you don’t have the right equipment to pull off interactive space mission simulations. But you do boast the accommodations, eateries and amenities to offer guests the glamping version of their favorite throwback summer experience. You just need to create a stay package – or collection of packages – that bundles guest rooms with dining and camp-inspired activities. Can you say, “Cannonball contest at the pool?”
Need help curating and promoting your adult summer camp packages? We’re masters of the (art &) craft! Contact Lynn Kaniper at 609.466.9187 ext. 117 or lkaniper@danacommunications.com today to get started.
