Kids believe summer camp is a vacation from parents.
Staff at Camp Alta Mons, an overnight camp in Montgomery County say their location is a classroom in nature.
Sounds of a new season aren't quiet the same without sounds of tunes of off cue voices singing camp songs first.
"It's a wonderful opportunity for kids to get outdoors, meet folks they normally don't get to meet," said Camp Alta Mons senior staff member Jason Mesching.
Staff at camp Alta Mons in Shawsville are dotting their I's and rechecking their crossed t's trying their best to appeal to everyone's interest.
"We have hiking, canoeing, fishing," said camp staff member Matt Libscomb.
Finding that right camp all depends on your child.
"There are sports camps around, there are adventure camps around," Lipscomb said.
All providing a long, sometimes expensive list of supplies
"Kids should definitely bring sleeping bags, flashlights, and extra pair of water shoes," Lipscomb said.
Sending the kids off to an adventure camp like Camp Alta Mons is a great way from mom and dad to have to time together. Paying for camp fees, supplies and keeping your kid in a dorm without an air condition, is it really worth it?
"I would like to see it as an investment in your child's future more than just a week off from the parents or just a fun time, it really does help socially," Mesching said.
Research agrees. Recent studies from the American Camp Association says students who go to camp usually build leadership and responsibility skills, excelling them in life.
"I think summer camp gives a great sense of teamwork of emotional maturity for kids," Lipscomb said.
And a chance to learn in nature's classroom, a sound camp directors love to hear.
Summer camps can be rewarding but being away from home can be stressful for kids.
Parents shouldn't worry, camp Alta Mons and camps in the Roanoke Valley let families visit the grounds before the kids spend the week at a new location.
Here's a list of just a few camps in our area still accepting kids for camp.
