Midwinter may seem like an odd time for families to begin thinking about summer camp, but parents with a history of arranging summer camp experiences for their children know spots typically fill up long before the first day of spring.
Many summer camps limit the number of campers they accept, so it pays for families to familiarize themselves with a typical camp timeline so children’s summers can be as memorable as possible.

January and February

Families can begin researching summer camps once the holiday season has ended. If that seems early, this timeline reflects the growing demand for summer camps and the competition to secure a spot in a desired camp before it fills up. The American Camp Association estimates that more than 26 million children enroll in summer camp each year. That statistic underscores the demand for summer camp and suggests the competition for spots could be significant. By researching potential options in January, families can identify their camp preferences and then go from there.
Research conducted in January and February can be used to determine budget. The cost of summer camp varies widely, and parents who know how much they can afford to spend on camp can use that budget to whittle down their options. February also is a good time to consider summer travel plans. Some camps charge by the week, which means parents might not have to pay camp fees during those weeks when they will be on vacation with their children. If camps won’t charge camper fees during weeks when families are on vacation, parents may be able to afford more expensive camps. Parents can use this period to identify fee structures at their preferred camps.

March

Some camps begin registration in March, while others may make paperwork necessary for registration available at this time. If registration begins in March, parents are urged to identify precisely when that process begins and exactly what needs to be done to ensure they can register their child. Secure all necessary paperwork prior to registration and ensure it’s completed and submitted beforehand if that’s a prerequisite for registration. If registration is completed online, confirm the URL in advance of registration day. Visit the website in advance as well. Doing so can allow you to create a user ID and password prior to registration, which is especially important if spots in the camp are limited and fill up quickly.

May and June

Camp officials will likely reach out sometime during this period to welcome campers and let parents know about any supplies their children will need once camp opens. Some may offer orientation sessions during this period, and families can attend such meetings together so children can get acclimated to the campgrounds prior to the first day of camp. Visiting the site prior to camp opening can be especially helpful for first time campers who may have some anxiety about going to a new place.
Tens of millions of children make lasting memories at camp every summer. Parents who know the typical summer camp timeline have a better chance of securing a spot at a camp their children will enjoy.