Visiting Day at Maine Camps

Visiting Day — that magical moment when parents reunite with their children and get a glimpse into their summer world. Though it’s only been a few weeks since camp started, campers already seem taller, tanner, and more confident. The stress of the school year has melted away, replaced by a more relaxed child breathing in the Maine pine air with an easy smile.

That First Hug. There’s nothing quite like it — an embrace filled with love, pride, and joy. After that emotional moment, the day unfolds with excitement and discovery: touring the bunks, seeing where your camper sleeps, eats, and plays, and meeting the counselors and bunkmates who have become their summer family.

Walking around camp is a joy to get a glimpse into campers’ daily lives. There’s artwork to admire, tennis to play, basketball games to join, gymnastics and equestrian to watch, theater vignettes to enjoy, and treats to sample from cooking class.

And then there’s the lake. Swimming in the pristine Maine lake with your camper is unforgettable. Bouncing on the blob, sliding down water slides, and seeing campers show off their waterskiing, paddleboarding, and sailing skills is pure joy.

Lunch Together. Whether it’s in the dining hall or in an open-air pavilion, sharing a meal is a cherished moment. Campers eagerly tell stories about bumper tubing, Carnival, the 4th of July, Olympics, trips to a Portland Sea Dogs game, and beloved traditions like Big/Little siblings, and more — all milestones of a summer full of growth and adventure.

Saying Goodbye — the end of the day can be emotional, but parents leave comforted by how well their children are thriving. And the best part? The second half of camp is often even more dynamic — with signature events like Mile Swim, College Days,/Color War/Jamboree/League/Cup, and unforgettable extended trips to places like Acadia National Park. To ease the transition, camps often jump right back into the fun with a giant water fight, sweets party, or other high-energy events where caring counselors help kids quickly return to the camp “bubble.”

Every Camp Does It Differently. Some camps hold Visiting Day three weeks in, others after four. Some don’t have Visiting Day at all, while others offer parents flexible dates. Camps may also have special Visiting Day traditions for oldest campers, like including parents in evening campfires, songs, and dinners that honor their final summer. Also, some camps invite younger, prospective siblings for a sleepover the night before or after. Soon after Visiting Day, parents receive travel updates about camper and trunk return logistics. It all happens so fast — was it a dream?

Maine Camp Experience Resources & Tools: 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 contact our Maine Camp Guide, Laurie to discuss these camps as well as for free, year-round advice and assistance on choosing a great Maine summer camp for your child.