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Why should I tour a camp?
Viewing camp web sites and DVD’s is a wonderful way to first learn about a camp, but seeing it in action will give you a feel for the energy and life of the camp. You can walk into a bunk, watch a sports lesson, see an arts & crafts project being created, and observe a camper challenge themselves at outdoor adventure. It’s a hands-on experience that speaks louder than words. You have the opportunity to learn about the camp, as well as ask questions about what you are seeing.
Visiting a camp gives you a clear picture of the camp’s facilities, activities, camper population and the people who operate the camp program. It lets your child become familiar with the camp site which may make them feel more comfortable if it will be their first time away from home. The ACA, NY Section highly recommend touring camps.
Do I need to make an appointment to tour a camp?
Yes, you will need to schedule an appointment so that the person responsible for giving you the tour will be available to answer your questions and spend time walking you around the facilities. When contacting a camp to schedule a visit, you should ask the following questions:
- Will you be touring with just your family, or will it be a group tour with many families? -Will your child tour camp with you, or will they be participating in camp activities while you tour the camp?
- If the tour is given by a staff member other than the camp director, will you have an opportunity to meet with the director at some point during your visit?
- How long will the tour last?
It’s best to know what to expect prior to visiting the camp to help make your experience more comfortable. How many camps can I visit in a day?
It is a good idea to limit your visits to 2 (3 at the most) camps a day. Visiting camps is exciting, but tiring at the same time. You will most likely be in the sun and either walking around or getting on and off a golf cart throughout your visit. You don’t want to cram in too many camps, and miss out on really seeing the camps you have scheduled during the latter part of the day. If you and your child are too tired, you won’t appreciate all that the camp has to offer which defeats the purpose of touring in the first place.
What if I can’t schedule a tour while the camp is in session?
If you don’t have the time to hit the road and visit camps when they are in action…no need to panic…you still have options.
Have the camp come to you. After the camp season ends, many camp directors will schedule a home visit to meet you and your family. You will have the camp director’s undivided attention. This can be challenging at camp due to the busy camp day and a director’s need to be attentive to all camp issues. They in turn can get to know more about what you are looking for and understand you and your child’s needs.
Another great option is to contact the camp professionals at the American Camp Association - New York who can assist you in finding the perfect camp for your child. The ACA camp professionals’ services are FREE, and they visit the camps, know the camp directors and can offer you great guidance in your camp search. They will spend as much time with you on the phone as you need getting to know you and your child and recommend the camps that best meet your family’s needs.
We know that choosing a camp involves great research, attention, time and homework. Visiting camps can help you feel more comfortable in your selection process, as well as ease the anxiety of a nervous camper (or parent) that is on the fence about attending overnight camp. But any way you choose, touring a camp, having a camp visit you, or working with the professionals at the ACA-NY office, enjoy the process of selecting a camp and preparing your camper for a wonderful summer experience.
For more information, please feel free to contact Renee Flax at 1-800-777-CAMP(2267).
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