An overnight program is commonly called sleep-away camp. Youth go away for a period of time and sleep in cabins or tents with their camp counselors and other campers. Overnight camps are structured to offer kids a variety of activities and to increase kids’ independence, self-esteem and social skills. Many overnight programs include field trips, treks or community service opportunities in addition to traditional activities like swimming and arts and crafts.

Conversely, a day camp program is shorter: typically six-to-seven hours long. Youth return home at the end of the day. These camps are structure to help parents who need childcare while they are at work. Thus, these programs often do not run on weekends, though some may have optional programming. Day camp is perfect for youth who are not ready or do not want to sleep away from their parents but still want a camp experience. Instead of hiring a babysitter or having youth sit in front of the television all summer, parents can sign youth up for day camp programs that keep kids active and engaged.