Historically, summer camps have been an American institution since the early 1900’s. In the early days camp was all about getting youngsters out of city life and enjoying the clean cool air of the country while learning camping skills. Today, summer camp has progressed from campfires to computer screens and from nature trails to rollerblade rinks. In fact, many of today’s camp programs take place in the heart of the city.

Even with all those changes, the essence of the purpose of summer camp remains unchanged. Children still need to use their summer break in a healthy, productive way. A good summer camp not only teaches skills but is equally concerned with a child’s growth and maturity. Using a fun and relaxed environment, a camp helps families by developing a child’s capacities for self confidence, self esteem, independence, leadership, mutual understanding and making friends. These life skills are the part of camp experience that last a lifetime.

Below you will find a list of associations and organizations related specifically to summer camps and programs. Click on the links to visit their websites in order to learn more.

American Camp Association

Association of Independent Camps

Boy Scouts of America

Christian Camp and Conference Association

Association for Experiential Education

Girl Scouts of the USA

Midwest Association of Independent Camps (MAIC)

National Association of Therapeutic Wilderness Camps, Inc.

Ontario Camping Association

Western Association of Independent Camps

YMCA