The best summer camps in Pennsylvania, USA.
Introduction
Finding the right summer camp can feel like a big decision. If you're a parent looking for the best camps in Pennsylvania, you're not alone. This guide was created just for you, with helpful advice, top picks, and everything you need to know to feel confident about your child’s camp experience.
Pennsylvania is home to some of the oldest and most respected camps in the country. Whether you're exploring day camps for younger kids or overnight options for more independent adventurers, there's something here for every family.
Key takeaways
- Pennsylvania has a wide variety of camps from traditional to tech, arts, and outdoor adventure
- Most camps run from mid-June through mid-August, with flexible weekly sessions
- Expect warm, humid weather in summer, with occasional storms
- Many top-rated camps are located in the Pocono Mountains and central PA
- Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, and Harrisburg are key hubs for travel and access
Table of contents
Top camps in Pennsylvania
International Sports Training Camp
ISTC is a one-of-a-kind sports camp that combines traditional summer camp experiences with a one week sports camp experience! Each week, 325 campers ages 8 through 17, with varying athletic abilities, come to ISTC for the time of their lives! ISTC is a breathtakingly beautiful 500-acre facility in the heart of northeastern Pennsylvania's Pocono Mountains, making it easily accessible from both New York City and Philadelphia. Our premier facilities boast modern camper cabins, pristine sports fi
Lohikan Adventure Camps
Lohikan Adventure Camps was founded back in 1957 and its top two goals remained unchanged for the last 61 years – to help campers have fun and make friends. This summer camp is located in Northeast Pennsylvania, Wayne County and is designed for boys and girls aged 6-15. The average number of campers reaches up to 450-500, who are grouped into three main divisions: juniors, intermediates and seniors. All campers live in cabins, and 2-3 staff counselors are assigned to each cabin. A licensed
Lake Bryn Mawr Camp
A 7-week camp, Lake Bryn Mawr fosters loyalty, beauty, merit and comradeship in every girl it welcomes. It’s a uniform camp – both for campers and the staff. The green and gold theme takes a leave only during the Carnival and movie nights. Campers live in cabins, allowing girls to meet new and returning campers. The staff makes sure the groups rotate each summer, so that each camper has the chance to meet new girls and make new friendships. Junior and Senior groups make up the two divisio
Lake Greeley Camp
Lake Greeley Camp, located in the Pocono Mountains, Pennsylvania, has been operating for over 50 years now and is open to 6-15-year boys and girls who are placed in three age groups: junior (6-9 years old), intermediate (10-12 years old), and senior (13-15 years old). To ensure the best of experience for kids and teens, Lake Greeley Camp is accredited by the American Camp Association. Before the starting date, each parent will receive a CD via email – a useful handbook to get acquainted with
Camp Saginaw
Established in 1930, Camp Saginaw is rich in history and tradition. Traditions that are carried though to this day, are seamless intertwined into the expectations of 21st century kids and parents. With some of the best facilities on the country, camp Saginaw attracts campers from all across the United States and internationally.
Camp Wayne for Boys
Friends and staff members become “Brothers for Life” at Camp Wayne, founded back in 1921. Big Brother/Little Brother program is created to help newcomers make a smooth transition into the camp life. First-time campers receive a call from their Big Brother to talk about the camp and what they can expect during the coming weeks. School tutoring is also available for boys whose parents will inform the staff about needed instruction in advance. The staff at Camp Wayne is comprised of educators,
Camp Weequahic
Camp Weequahic is located in the Endless Mountains, in Pennsylvania. 8 to 10 campers, who are grouped by age, live with 2 to 3 counselors in the bunks that have electricity, storage spaces, bathrooms and showers. Weequahic offers three-week and six-week options to boys and girls from 2nd-11th grades. As no phones and laptops are allowed, parents and campers are encouraged to communicate via local email system. Parents’ emails are printed out and distributed daily. For first-time campers, the
Camp wayne for Girls
Established in 1921, Camp Wayne is created for girls, aged 7-15. At Camp Wayne they are serious about their staff. They want every counselor to be a role model for the girls. To achieve this goal, they visit more than 30 colleges in the United States and get to know each potential counselor in a 3-hour interview. Despite being a short drive away from two clinics, Camp Wayne has an on-site Health center, fully renovated in 2006. Four registered nurses and a doctor live on campus and are avail
Camp Lee Mar
Designed for children with special needs, Camp Lee Mar offers a 7-week residential summer program. It was founded in 1953 and managed to introduce innovations in the field of camping. Kids and teens, aged 7-21, are eligible for Lee Mar if they face the following learning and developmental challenges: Down Syndrome, Williams Syndrome, ADD, ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Sensory Processing Disorder, Fragile X, and others. The camp is located in the Pocono Mountains Lackawaxen, Pennsylvania. It
About summer camp in Pennsylvania
What's the weather like during camp season?
Pennsylvania summers are warm and humid. Daytime highs in June and July average between 75 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit. Nights can be cooler in the mountain regions, often dropping into the 60s. Occasional rain or thunderstorms are common, so packing layers and a lightweight rain jacket is a good idea.
In forested or lakeside areas like the Poconos, it may feel a bit cooler than in urban zones. Bug spray and sun protection are must-haves for campers heading into nature.
How long does the season run?
The typical summer camp season in Pennsylvania runs from mid-June through mid-August. Many programs offer flexible options, including one-week, two-week, or full-season sessions. Specialty camps might have shorter formats - such as a week-long tech boot camp or a two-week leadership program - while traditional overnight camps often offer multi-week blocks.
Families are encouraged to register early, especially for popular overnight camps that fill up quickly.
Common camp types
Pennsylvania offers a strong mix of camp experiences. Traditional overnight camps, often nestled in wooded areas, provide a balanced mix of swimming, hiking, crafts, sports, and campfire fun. Day camps near urban centers like Philadelphia and Pittsburgh tend to focus on arts, STEM, or sports.
There are also many specialty camps, including:
- Performing arts and theater
- Sports intensives
- Academic enrichment
- Adventure and nature-focused camps
- Jewish and Christian faith-based programs
Where are most camps located?
The Pocono Mountains are one of the best-known areas for overnight camps in Pennsylvania. This region has a long history of established, accredited programs with beautiful lakefronts and cabins.
Other popular areas include:
- Central Pennsylvania (State College and surrounding towns)
- Southeastern PA (Bucks County and Main Line area)
- Western PA (outside Pittsburgh)
- Southern tier near the Maryland border
Planning your trip
What are the closest major airports?
Pennsylvania is well-connected by several regional and major airports. Depending on your child’s camp location, the best options include:
- PHL (Philadelphia International Airport) convenient for southeastern PA camps
- PIT (Pittsburgh International Airport) serves western PA and camps outside the city
- AVP (Wilkes-Barre/Scranton International Airport) close to the Pocono region
- MDT (Harrisburg International Airport) good for central PA camps
Drive times from airports to camps vary from 30 minutes to 2.5 hours. Be sure to check with the camp about pickup/drop-off times if you’re flying in.
What are the best transportation options?
Most families drive to camp, especially for drop-off and pickup. Some overnight camps offer chartered bus service from major metro areas like New York City or Philadelphia. Rental cars can be a flexible option if you're flying in from out of state.
If your child is flying alone, many camps are happy to coordinate with unaccompanied minor airline programs to ensure safe pickup and handoff.
Where should families stay?
If you’re planning to stay overnight during drop-off or visiting day, there are many family-friendly lodging options. In the Poconos and central PA, cabin rentals and inns near lakes are popular choices. Near urban areas like Philly or Pittsburgh, you’ll find plenty of hotels or short-term rentals close to camp locations.
Make sure to book early for weekends, as many popular spots fill up fast in summer.
Choosing the right camp
We understand how personal this decision can be. Every child is different - and every camp offers a unique experience.
Start by considering whether your child is ready for overnight camp or would do better with a local day program. Our Choosing Day vs Overnight Camp guide walks through signs of camper readiness.
Think about your child’s interests too. Are they drawn to art, sports, nature, or science? Pennsylvania camps are incredibly diverse, and you’re likely to find something they’ll love.
Use these resources to help:
- Day camps:Best for younger kids or hesitant first-timers who benefit from returning home each evening.
Learn more about day camp essentials
- Overnight camps:Builds independence, resilience, and deep friendships - ideal for confident or returning campers.
Learn more about overnight camp readiness or even compare day vs overnight camps.
- Specialty camps:Great for focused interests like sports, music, science, tech, or nature. A good fit for passionate kids who love a specific activity.
Learn more about general sports vs specialized sports camps
- Traditional camps:Offers a wide range of activities for well-rounded growth. Ideal if your child wants to try a bit of everything traditional summer camps
You can also learn more in our guide to different types of summer camps for kids.
You can also learn about camp safety and camp accreditation to feel confident in your decision.
FAQ
- What age should kids start summer camp?
- Most kids begin camp between ages 6 and 9, but it depends on their emotional readiness and interest.
- How do camps handle homesickness?
- Camp staff are trained to support kids through homesickness with structured routines, caring counselors, and lots of encouragement.
- Do camps offer financial aid or scholarships??
- Yes, many camps have sliding scale fees or scholarship programs. Contact camps early to ask about options.
- Can my child attend camp with special needs?
- Yes. Many camps offer inclusive programming or are specifically designed to support children with special needs. Contact the camp directly to ask about accommodations.
- Can I stay in touch with my child during camp?
- Most overnight camps allow letter writing or limited email. Phone calls are often restricted to help campers fully unplug and adjust.
Conclusion
Choosing a summer camp is a big step - and one that can bring lifelong memories. With so many amazing camps in Pennsylvania, the key is finding one that fits your child’s personality, interests, and comfort level.
Whether you’re exploring the scenic Pocono Mountains, the culture of central PA, or programs near your own city, Pennsylvania has something for every family. We hope this guide gives you the clarity and confidence to take that next step.
