 
The Bottom Line about Camp Costs
Summer camp is an experience that will last a lifetime.
Parents, however, may worry that they will be paying for the
experience for a lifetime, especially if there is more than one
camp-aged child in the house. While fees to attend camp vary, fees
generally range from $201 to $350 per week for ACA-accredited
resident camps and ACA-accredited day camps generally range from
$75 to $200 per week.
In addition, parents may be able to reduce the costs even
further by asking the right questions. When talking with the camp
director, parents should ask the following:
What is the refund policy?
Refund policies vary greatly from camp to camp. Some refund for
illness only, some will give a total refund prior to certain date,
and some don't refund at all. Most camps will ask for a small
non-refundable deposit at the time of application, which may or
may not go toward the cost of tuition. It is important to know the
refund policy before you send any money.
Is there financial assistance available?
Many camps offer camperships, which is a partial or total subsidy
of the tuition costs, but parents need to ask if they are
available. Although they are usually awarded based on need, don't
assume that you make too much to qualify. According to a 1998
survey of camp directors conducted by the American Camping
Association, 65 percent of camps surveyed offered some level of
financial assistance. It is important to apply early.
Bottom Line About Camp
What is included in the tuition?
Day camps will typically include transportation as part of their
tuition. Resident camps may offer limited transportation, such as
a van ride from a major local train station. Other amenities to
ask about are fees for special programs and trips, laundry
service, camp canteen, special equipment that is required and
service organization membership. Also, ask the camp director if it
is appropriate to send spending money with your child.
Are special discounts available?
Often, camps will offer special discounts for such things as early
registration, full-season enrollment and enrollment of multiple
family members. If more than one special discount applies, parents
may only be able to take advantage of one.
Founded in 1910, the American Camping Association is a national
community of camp professionals and is dedicated to enriching the
lives of children and adults through the camp experience. ACA
recognizes the camp experience as a significant contributor to
positive child and youth development. In addition, it is the only
organization that accredits all types of camps based on 300
standards for health, safety and program quality. For more
information call 1-800-428-CAMP.
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