Premier Sleepaway Camps
It’s decided: you’re sending your child to sleepaway camp, or continuing a family tradition of sending them to sleepaway camp, and everyone is excited!
Okay, there may be some concern that your sweet child, the one who still forgets to put their plate in the sink, is ready to spend weeks away from home, building memories that don’t revolve around you. But it’s okay, it’s a big step. For them, and for you. For it is a summer that offers your child a chance to broaden their independence, grow confidence, and build (or deepen) lasting friendships in that unforgettable way only summer can.
And, thankfully, the beauty of sleepaway camp is that there are many to choose from. Some camps are deeply rooted in tradition, while others are arts-driven, sports-focused, or outdoor-adventure-focused. There are camps better for first-timers and camps for kids who are ready for a bigger stretch.
And we’ve got one for you. Below, we’re highlighting sleepaway camps families will love, with details to help you picture daily life there, from philosophy and setting to signature programs and age ranges. We’ve got you!
Because this is a milestone summer, and it’s a big one. For everyone!
Check out some of our top picks for sleepaway camps below!
Camp Awosting
296 West St, Morris, CT
860-567-4924
summer@awosting.com
awosting.com
Camp Awosting is an esteemed sleepaway camp for boys ages 7 to 16 with over 125 years of history. Located on Bantam Lake in Morris, CT, Awosting offers a range of outdoor facilities, including Go-Karts, Minibikes, Waterskiing, and over 40 other unforgettable activities. Community is the lifeblood of Camp Awosting, and campers become a true part of the Ebner Camps family. The close-knit atmosphere allows Awosting’s experienced staff to focus on developing the camp’s core values in their campers: brotherhood, independence, confidence, and experience. At Camp Awosting, their philosophy is “Boys Learn by Doing,” teaching children life lessons through experiences.
Camp Becket for Boys & Chimney Corners Camp for Girls
748 Hamilton Road, Becket, MA
413-623-8991
bccymca.org
Unplugged adventures, lifelong memories: Located in the beautiful Berkshires of Western MA, these overnight camps focus on independence, confidence, and building life skills in a fun, supportive environment. Parents comment on why their campers return summer after summer: “Chimney Corners has made my girls better friends and happier people, and that’s so much more important than almost anything else I can think of.” -Chimney Corners Parent
“Camp Becket is an amazing place for a child to develop, find themselves, and find their way with others in a positive, values-affirming environment.” -Camp Becket Parent
Kids enjoy private lakes, caring and qualified staff, and over 30 activities, including sports, arts, swimming, sailing, cooking, performing arts, and more. Every day is packed with choice, friendships, and growth.
Camp Chinqueka
1519 Bantam Rd, Bantam, CT
860-567-9678, chinquekateam@chinqueka.com
chinqueka.com
Camp Chinqueka is an all-girl summer camp in Bantam, CT, for campers ages 7-16. Since 1955, girls from around the world have made Chinqueka their summer home. Summers at Camp Chinqueka offer a blend of modern programs such as Archery, Go-Karts, and High Ropes while continuing camp traditions built over 75 years of history. Whether it’s on the sports field or performing onstage, at Chinqueka, girls feel empowered and accomplished. Counselors act as role models to campers, using the camp’s four core values as a foundation to their programs: empowerment, sisterhood, kindness, and growth. The Chinqueka philosophy, “Where Girls Learn Together, Making Friends Forever,” is based on a foundation of life lessons through unique, fun experiences.
Camp Cody
9 Cody Road, Freedom, NH 03836
campcody.com
Camp Cody is a co-ed overnight camp on beautiful Lake Ossipee in Freedom, New Hampshire, welcoming campers ages 7–17 from across the country and around the world. With classic camp traditions and modern facilities, Cody offers extensive waterfront, sports, arts, and adventure activities led by experienced, caring staff. Campers choose much of their own schedule, building confidence and independence while trying new activities and deepening skills they love. Its warm, down-to-earth community and intentional staff training help campers feel known, included, and supported. Families can enroll in flexible 2- or 4-week sessions, allowing campers time to unplug, form lasting friendships, and return home more capable, independent, and excited for next summer at Camp Cody.
Camp Fitch YMCA
12600 Abels Rd
814.922.3219, info@campfitchymca.org
campfitchymca.org
Camp Fitch YMCA is a Great Camp on a Great Lake, with over 100 years of changing young lives. Set on 425 scenic acres along Lake Erie, they welcome campers ages 6–17 into a place to unplug, explore, and grow. With caring staff, campers build Friendships, Achieve new skills, and feel a true sense of Belonging (FAB). Those moments spark confidence, resilience, and independence that last beyond summer. Families return year after year for the friendships, counselors, and unforgettable experiences. Campers enjoy rock climbing, archery, canoeing, crafts, mountain biking, and exclusive Lake Erie waterfront time. Specialized programs add even more adventure for every interest. Overnight sessions run weekly from June 14–August 1. Give your child a summer they’ll never forget.
Camp Level Up
48 Pocono Springs Way, East Stroudsburg, PA 18302
camplevelup.com
Camp Level Up is a one-week sleepaway camp experience for campers entering 4th to 12th grade who want to improve their gaming skills, all while enjoying the traditional camp activities that a sleepaway camp facility can offer! Located and powered by the team at Pocono Springs – a premier private sleepaway camp in the Poconos (75 miles from NYC) – Camp Level Up offers a hybrid program of esports gameplay and traditional camp activities. Campers spend 50% of their day participating in competitive gaming and the other 50% immersed in an assortment of traditional camp activities, including adventure, arts, and aquatics/lakefront. Campers of all gaming skill levels are welcome!
Camp Jewell
6 Prock Hill Rd, Colebrook, CT
860-379-2782
campjewell.org
Established in 1901 and celebrating its 125th summer, Camp Jewell YMCA is where traditions are made, friendships are formed, and unforgettable summers come to life. With over 40 activities, top-notch programs, and comfortable facilities, campers are encouraged to try new things, build confidence, and have an absolute blast every day. Guided by the YMCA values of Caring, Honesty, Respect, and Responsibility, Camp Jewell creates a fun, supportive community where every camper belongs. Two-week overnight programs are available for campers ages 7–16, including exciting specialty camp options. For 125 summers, families have trusted Camp Jewell to deliver life-changing experiences. Visit and explore their beautiful campus, meet the team, and see for yourself why Camp Jewell isn’t just a camp—it’s where summer memories last forever.
Camp Marist
22 Abel Blvd, Effingham, NH
603-539-4552
office@campmarist.com
campmarist.org
Camp Marist offers more than 30 elective activities across Athletics, Fitness, Adventure, Nature, and Creative and Performing Arts. Enthusiastic counselors bring experience as participants, team captains, coaches, or professional instructors. Each day, all campers take part in Waterfront activities led by Red Cross–certified staff who focus on water safety, swimming, and boating skills. The Activities Program emphasizes learning specific skills in a safe, supportive environment, with opportunities to create, perform, or demonstrate mastery each session. Activities may be age- or gender-based or mixed, fostering friendships across cabins. Many offerings feature progressive levels for continued growth year after year. Campers select and rank activities before arrival, receive a personalized schedule, and may adjust it early in the session to ensure strong engagement and enjoyment.
Frost Valley
2000 Frost Valley Rd., Claryville, NY
frostvalley.org/camps
Nestled in the breathtaking Catskill Mountains, just two hours from New York City, Frost Valley offers a safe and inclusive environment where campers of all backgrounds discover the joys of community, nature, art, and recreation. The camp offers one of the most breathtaking natural settings in the country for children. With over 100 summers under their belt, Frost Valley is guided by a mission to build a healthy mind, body and spirit for all. Children from all backgrounds come together to try exciting new things in a safe environment while building friendships. Whether it’s tackling new challenges, building resilience, or forming lifelong friendships, every moment at Frost Valley creates memories that last a lifetime.
Greenwood Trails
390 Winchester Rd, Winsted, CT
860-379-6517
info@greenwoodtrails.com
greenwoodtrails.com
Greenwood Trails is an award-winning coed sleepaway camp for ages 7-16 where kids can unplug from technology and just be kids again! Nestled in the foothills of the Berkshires, the camp offers an unforgettable experience filled with fun, friendship, and personal growth. One of the things that sets Greenwood Trails apart is the unique choice-based program. Campers get to choose their own activities, from sports and arts to swimming and nature exploration to flying trapeze and outdoor cooking to an aerial adventure park to messy paint twister, and everything in between. This ensures every day is an exciting new opportunity. Beyond the fun, kids build lifelong friendships and develop essential life skills like independence, teamwork, and resilience in a supportive and nurturing environment. At Greenwood Trails, the focus is on creating memories, building community, and helping campers truly be themselves and discover their unique paths.
Tranquillity Camp
170 Tranquillity Road, Earlton, NY
518-634-7650
info@tranquillitycamp.com
tranquillitycamp.com
Tranquillity Camp offers campers more than endless outdoor activities or arts and crafts. The camp’s 108 years of long-standing traditions provide them with meaningful opportunities to develop character that lasts a lifetime. Tranquility is a traditional youth sleepaway summer camp, where Jewish-led values guide campers as they learn to respect themselves, each other, and the world around them. Its 1,200-acre property in the picturesque Catskills offers a safe and exciting environment for campers to discover their passions and experience a sense of belonging and community. Tranquillity Camp has 3-, 4-, and 7-week sessions for campers ages 7 to 15. Contact them or schedule a tour to see why Tranquillity Camp is part of growing up—the best part!
YMCA Camp Mason
23 Birch Ridge Road Hardwick, NJ
campmason.org
Discover YMCA Camp Mason Overnight Camp, where adventure, confidence, and lifelong friendships begin. Nestled on 500 acres of beautiful forests, lakes, and trails, Camp Mason provides a safe, supportive environment where kids can unplug, explore, and thrive. Campers enjoy swimming, archery, boating, hiking, arts, sports, climbing, and unforgettable campfires, all led by caring, trained staff who inspire character, independence, and belonging. The camp’s inclusive community welcomes every child to discover their strengths, build resilience, and create memories that last a lifetime. With age-appropriate programs, modern cabins, nutritious meals, and round-the-clock supervision, Camp Mason ensures a summer filled with growth and fun. YMCA Camp Mason offers children the gift of confidence and joy all summer long.
