10 Things We’re Thankful for at Camp
As Thanksgiving approaches, we find ourselves reflecting on all the big and little things that make camp, well… camp. From the unforgettable to the underrated, the messy to the magical, here are just a few things we’re especially grateful for when it comes to our home away from home.
1. The Counselors Who Become Heroes
They remember your dog’s name, know when you need a quiet moment, and somehow manage to keep 10+ kids and tweens organized, sunscreened, and (usually!) smiling. They’re part role model, part big sibling, part magician – and we’re forever grateful for the energy, heart, and dance moves they bring to every day.
2. The Bunkmates Who Become Lifelong Besties
From midnight giggles to shared flashlights during thunderstorms, these are the people who see you at your silliest, sleepiest, and most real – and love you for it. Some friendships are for a season. Camp friendships? They’re for life.
3. Trying New Things (and Not Always Crushing Them)
That moment you climbed halfway up the rock wall and decided that’s enough for today? Still a win. Whether it’s waterskiing, ceramics, or speaking up in front of the group, camp is full of moments that stretch us – and we’re thankful for the courage to try, not just the trophies.
4. Unplugging and Actually Listening to Birds
Or frogs. Or the sound of a half-deflated basketball hitting a cracked court. Either way, it’s nature, it’s real, and it’s a reminder that the best notifications don’t come from phones – they come from the world around us.
5. Camp Food That Somehow Tastes Better Than It Should
Objectively? It’s not gourmet. But mac & cheese after swim? French toast sticks on a Sunday? Bug juice in any color? Tastes like heaven. And let’s be honest – it’s probably better than the powdered eggs we had back in the day (wait – is it still powdered eggs??!).
6. The Smell of Campfires That Lingers in Your Sweatshirt for Weeks
And you don’t even mind. Because that smoky, sticky, sweet scent means s’mores, songs, stories, and staring up at the stars. It’s gratitude in the form of a hoodie.
7. Being Just the Right Amount of Independent
Making your own bed (sometimes), remembering your flashlight (rarely), and figuring out how to get sand out of your sheets (never). Camp lets kids take ownership of the little stuff – which somehow feels like the big stuff when you’re 10.
8. Directors Who Know Every Camper’s Name (and Favorite Snack)
Camp directors don’t just run a tight ship. They run an entire summer family. We’re thankful for the thoughtful, tireless leaders who keep things safe, silly, and unforgettable all summer long.
9. Making Your Own Decisions (Some Great, Some… Character Building)
Whether it’s swapping grilled cheese for four helpings of dessert or trying to sneak a water balloon into rest hour, camp gives kids room to experiment, explore, and learn. Sometimes the hard way. But hey – that’s what growing up is all about.
10. The Magic You Can’t Explain But Feel Forever
It’s in the cheer battles. The cabin confessions. The messy tie-dye and matching friendship bracelets. The “see you next year” hugs that last a little too long. It’s the feeling you can’t quite name – but always carry with you. And we’re thankful for it every single day.
From all of us at Summer 365, we’re grateful for you – our camp families, our campers, our partners, and our community.
Happy Thanksgiving ❤️
About the contributor:
Summer 365 is the leading consulting service created by and for parents, driven by a customized, holistic approach to finding the best summer experience for each child and family. Through in-person visits and meetings with camps and programs, our momboss team of experts have insider knowledge on more than 500 top sleepaway camps and summer programs for children and teens ages 7–18. Our service makes it easy for parents to find whatever they’re looking for – whether it’s traditional or specialty sleepaway camp, community service, performing arts, enrichment, wilderness, or language immersion programs.