Camp Friends

My son Hank is having the bittersweet experience of acclimating back to life at home after I picked him up on his last day of summer camp earlier this week. As the youngest in our family, all three kids have now officially aged out of camp, and we have mixed feelings about that.

For those of us who had great experiences with summer camps growing up, we can relate to the difficulty of saying goodbye at the end of the summer to those friendships forged in idyllic settings, while living in rustic cabins near lakes. My son’s camp had a strict no-phone policy, which is such a healthy and rare experience for kids these days.

The American Camp Association counts more than 20,000 camps across the country. The ACA’s research highlights “the four ‘C’s of the camp community: compassion, contribution, commitment, and character! For years, campers’ parents have reported that when their children return home from camp they are more caring, understand the importance of giving, are more equipped to stand up for what they know is right, and are willing to be more responsible. These are the qualities that will help build a successful nation and a civil society.”

Camp comes in all sizes and flavors. These days, there seems to be a camp to fit any need or interest, and even some that cater to adults who want to disconnect and new make friends.

My son’s camp provided a touch of spirituality, combined with an array of outdoor activities and field trips. On the camp’s app, I saw photos of Hank playing sports, wearing silly costumes, fishing and rafting, among other things–all with friends. He told me on the way home that this year was the best summer ever at camp. Why was it so great? Yes, the weather cooperated, not always a given in New England. Yes, he loved being in the oldest age group. He and his friends served as leaders and mentors to the younger campers, bringing their whole community closer together. But, without a doubt, the best part about his experience at camp this summer was sharing it with friends that he’ll cherish for life.