Why & How to Start Maine Camp Planning Now; Three Tips to Hit the Bullseye

As we unpack the trunks and reintegrate our campers to homelife, we are feeling a deep sense of gratitude for having a Maine Camp summer that was well-run, safe, and fun. Despite some changes in camp programming to keep Covid at bay, Maine campers still had the benefits of: incredible natural beauty; strong traditions and values; and top-notch activities, facilities, instruction, events, and nature trips. Campers put down their electronics, bonded with friends, learned new skills, and created memories that will last a lifetime. Current camp families who know the benefits of Maine Camps will enroll their children soon for next summer.  We offer these three tips to prospective camp families about the why and how of how to start camp planning now, and how to choose the right camp. Tip 1 – Touring camps is not a necessity (many families do enroll sight unseen), but it is nice if you can visit firsthand. Maine Camps are open and hosting tours RIGHT NOW in August and September. So, if you can visit Maine Camps – check out Tip 2 (and if you have time – also enjoy great sights and bites in Maine!). Maine is a quick drive from Boston and an easy road trip from many other east coast states like CT, NY, NJ. Portland International Jetport (PWM) is a very manageable airport for flights from other cities/states. Tip 2 – Ideally, create a short list of 2-4 camps of interest. Visit www.mainecampexperience.com and/or contact our Campcierge™ Laurie () to help focus your camp search (she can also provide recommendations to plan your visit). Some things to think about are: a) desired session length in first year and subsequent years, b) camp size, c) type of programming and activities, and more. Once you have your short list, speak with directors and reference camp families to see which is the best match for your child. Tip 3 – Enroll early. To ensure availability at your top camp, in your child’s age group and for the session length and dates you’d like, enrolling early is advised. Camp is in demand as we are unsure what the school year will bring – parents like knowing that their children will have a haven at summer camp. Some (not all) camps also offer early enrollment discounts. So, as we reflect on the amazing summer of 2021, we’re also already planning ahead to summer 2022. The countdown has already begun! Maine Camp Experience Resources & Tools

You can share your own Maine camps memories & expressions of gratitude on our Memories of Camp section of our website.

Looking for the perfect Maine camp for your child?  Try out our helpful tool where you can select a camp by choosing: type of camp (girls, boys or coed) and session length (1-8 weeks).  It helps to narrow down a few camps to a manageable list that includes rates.  Then you can research these camps in more depth.

Next, be sure to  to discuss these camps as well as for free, year-round advice and assistance on choosing a great Maine summer camp for your child.