For weeks, we’ve been watching from afar.

We’ve loved seeing the photos and videos of smiling faces on camp social media, reading handwritten letters home, and hearing a bit during a scheduled phone call. But nothing compares to Visiting Day.

It’s one of the most anticipated days of the summer, for campers and parents alike.

While we’ve been at home going about our daily routines, our campers have been busy building a summer they’ll never forget. They’ve learned to sail across crystal-clear Maine lakes, joined sports leagues, rehearsed for camp productions, made friends, climbed to new heights on aerial adventure courses, and challenged themselves in ways they never imagined.

They’ve celebrated with camp carnivals, explored Maine on unforgettable trips, hiked scenic trails, cooled off at everyone’s favorite Funtown Splashtown USA, laughed around campfires, and packed more adventure into a few short weeks than most of us fit into an entire season.

Then comes Visiting Day. That first hug!!!

One of the best parts isn’t just seeing your child. It’s seeing them in their element.

They look different.

Maybe they’re a little taller. Maybe it’s just the confidence. They walk around camp with a sense of belonging that wasn’t there on Opening Day. They know exactly where everything is. They proudly introduce you to their friends, counselors, and favorite activity instructors. They have stories to tell around every corner.

As you walk around camp together, they’ll excitedly show you the cabin they’ve come to call home, introduce you to their camp friends, and proudly point out favorite places around camp. They’ll want you to watch them waterski, hit some tennis balls together, ride horses, see the project they created in the arts studio, or sample something they’ve made in culinary arts. Every stop is another glimpse into the life they’ve built over the past few weeks, and it’s incredibly special to see them take ownership of what has become their home away from home.

You’ll see the confidence they’ve gained. The independence they’ve developed. The friendships they’ve built. The pride they feel in showing you everything they’ve accomplished.

And before you know it, you’ll understand why camp has become such an important part of their life.

A Few Visiting Day Tips

While we don’t encourage bringing an entire carload of treats, a few thoughtful extras can certainly make your camper smile.

One favorite tradition for many Maine Camp Experience families is ordering goodies from Mindy’s Munchies of Maine. Instead of packing snacks into your luggage or squeezing them into the car, you can preorder your camper’s favorite treats (camp-themed candy boxes, coloring sets, Squishies, and more) and conveniently pick them up in southern Maine on your way to camp. call - 207-536-1621; falmouth@mindysmunchies.com

Another popular favorite is Tyed With Love, known for colorful, personalized tie-dye apparel and camp accessories that campers love. Whether it’s a sweatshirt, T-shirt, or another fun camp item, it’s a great way to surprise your camper with something they’ll enjoy for the rest of the summer and beyond.

And StickerBeans rhinestone collectible stickers in the cutest designs and fun colors, collector’s books, bag tags and charms, and more are always appreciated!

Most of all, remember that your presence is the greatest gift.

Take lots of photos. Walk around camp. Meet the counselors who have become such important role models. Chat with directors. Watch an activity or two. Soak in the beauty of Maine. And enjoy seeing firsthand everything your camper has been experiencing.

Because Visiting Day isn’t just about visiting camp.

It’s about seeing how much your child has grown.

When it’s time to say goodbye again, you’ll head home knowing they’re exactly where they’re meant to be: happy, thriving, and making memories that will last a lifetime.

And, while Visiting Day is one of the best days of the summer, we know it’s also a transition. Camps are prepared to reconnnect campers with camp life after Visiting Day ends. Check out our recent blog by Dr. Tracy Brenner for MCE with advice about how parents can help ease the transition as they say goodbye.

And… enjoy all there is to see, eat, and do while in Maine! Because when children go to camp in Maine, parents get to enjoy “Vacationland” too! Great restaurants, active adventures (hiking, rafting), beaches, hotels, and more are available throughout the state in several towns and cities including Portland, Kennebunkport, Freeport, Bar Harbor, and beyond! Mainecampexperience.com has great information about planning your trip.

Maine Camp Experience Resources & Tools

Looking for the perfect Maine camp for your child? Try out our helpful Select-A-Camp 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.