Understanding (and Normalizing) Post-Camp Uncertainty
“But I Don’t Want to Go Back to Camp…”
Why Post-Camp Hesitation Is Normal – and What to Do About It
It’s one of the most common questions we get this time of year:
“My child had a great summer… so why are they suddenly saying they don’t want to go back to camp?”
If you’re asking yourself that too, you’re not alone – and you’re not doing anything wrong. In fact, it’s more normal than you think. This kind of post-camp hesitation is something we hear every year from families, often right around the time early enrollment deadlines are creeping up.
It usually goes something like this:
Your child steps off the bus in August beaming with joy, rattling off names of new best friends, retelling color war moments, and wearing camp merch with pride. Maybe they even cried when saying goodbye. They’re clearly “campsick” and glowing with growth and independence.
But then… you bring up camp for next summer, and they hesitate. Or say no. Or offer a vague “I’m not sure.”
And you’re left thinking – Wait, what just happened?!
The Re-Entry Reality
Coming home from camp – especially after a first summer – can be a rollercoaster of emotion. On one hand, they’ve had this incredible, immersive experience. On the other, they’re back to the comforts of home: sleeping in their own bed, endless pantry access, one-on-one parental attention. It’s cozy. Safe. Familiar.
Suddenly, the idea of leaving again – even if camp was great – can feel overwhelming. Especially for younger campers or those who experienced some homesickness, the emotional residue of missing home can still linger, even if the summer was a resounding success overall.
There’s also a timing factor. They’re barely unpacked before jumping into school, sports, and routines. And when life at home starts to fill back up, camp may begin to feel like a distant dream rather than a place they’re excited to return to.
All of this is not only normal, but also expected.
Trust the Process – and the Bigger Picture
Camp is aspirational by design. Every summer builds on the last, unlocking new roles, privileges, traditions, and friendships. One of our team members shared that their son took several years to fully buy into the “magic” of camp – but now, after his fourth summer, he calls it his summer home.
Another wise reminder: your camper isn’t returning to the same experience. They’re going back as a veteran. With confidence. With knowledge. With a seat at the table. The inside jokes, the songs, the shared history – that’s what makes each summer even more meaningful.
Sometimes kids just need time and space to remember all that.
We’ve seen it countless times: the same child who says “I don’t think I want to go back” in September is suddenly counting down the days by February.
What Can You Do?
Here’s how to navigate this moment with empathy and perspective:
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Give it time. Try not to panic. You don’t need to force a decision now. Many families choose to secure their spot with a deposit and simply let the topic breathe for a few months.
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Follow their lead. Some kids want to talk about camp right away. Others need distance. Either way is okay. Respect their rhythm.
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Reflect, don’t convince. Instead of asking “Do you want to go back?”, try:
“What were some of your favorite moments?”
“Do you miss anyone from your bunk?”
“What are you most proud of from camp?”
These questions invite storytelling and connection, which can naturally rekindle the camp love. -
Reconnect with camp friends. Set up playdates or FaceTimes. Seeing those familiar faces often reignites their excitement.
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Revisit the photos and letters. Sometimes kids forget just how happy they were – a few memories go a long way.
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Loop in your director or advisor. A winter or spring home visit or a casual call with camp leadership can make a huge difference. Directors love connecting with returning campers and helping remind them of what they have to look forward to.
Let Them Borrow Your Confidence
The truth is, your camper might not yet see the big picture – but you can. You saw their growth. Their joy. Their independence. And you’re allowed to lovingly hold that belief on their behalf until they’re ready to see it again for themselves.
Trust that the hesitations will settle. That “I’m not sure” may become “I can’t wait” once the air turns warmer and the calendar flips toward summer.
Until then, keep the lines of connection open, hold space for mixed feelings, and remember:
Sometimes the best thing we can do as parents is remind our kids of just how strong, brave, and capable they already are.
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.