How Do You Know a Camp Is Safe? 10 Questions Every Parent Should Ask
By now, many families have either chosen a summer camp, are finalizing their decision, or are still scrambling to find the perfect fit. The number one question I get asked? “How do you know a camp is safe?”
That’s exactly why I help families find the right summer program. Ensuring your child is safe, secure, and given the opportunity to grow independently requires evaluating a camp across multiple criteria.
So, what should you be looking for? Here are the top 10 questions to ask:
10. Is the camp accredited?
Accreditation, such as from the American Camp Association (ACA), means the camp meets established safety and operational standards. While accreditation alone doesn’t guarantee safety, it’s a strong starting point.
9. How old are the counselors?
Most reputable camps require staff to have at least one year of college experience before being hired. Some exceptions exist, such as long-time campers who have completed extensive training programs. However, senior counselors should be older and have significant leadership experience beyond just their freshman year of college.
8. What is the camper-to-counselor ratio?
Ask this question carefully! Some camps may give you a misleading total staff-to-camper ratio. Instead, find out:
7. What medical staff and emergency care are available?
A well-staffed camp should have at least one registered nurse per 75 campers and one of the following:
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A doctor on-site (if your child has specific medical needs, ask about their specialty and availability).
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A doctor in town with standing medical orders, located within 10 minutes of camp.
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A hospital or emergency care facility within 20 minutes, with clear evacuation procedures in place (including airlift protocols if needed).
6. How secure is the facility?
Even remote camps need strong security measures. Ask about:
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Guarded entrances—Is there a gate with controlled access?
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Proximity to main roads—How easy is it for outsiders to access the camp?
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Surrounding barriers—How well is the camp protected from unauthorized entry?
5. What kind of staff training is provided?
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How long is the pre-camp training period? (At least one week is ideal.)
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How many staff members are CPR-certified or trained to use an EpiPen?
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What percentage of counselors are returning vs. new?
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What are the camp’s policies on internet use, alcohol, and drugs?
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Is there a system in place for replacing counselors if someone needs to be fired or falls ill?
4. What is the chain of command for handling issues?
You may love the camp director, but in a large camp, will they be directly involved in solving problems? Find out:
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Who handles day-to-day concerns?
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How quickly do issues get escalated to leadership?
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How many campers is the director personally overseeing?
3. How does the camp handle homesickness?
Homesickness is common, but every camp addresses it differently. Ask:
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Will you be informed if your child is struggling?
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Will you be allowed to speak with them?
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What strategies do they use to help kids adjust?
2. What are the food policies?
For children with food allergies or dietary restrictions, strict policies are crucial. Some questions to ask:
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Does the camp accommodate peanut/tree nut allergies?
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Are meals available for kids who are gluten-free, dairy-free, vegetarian, etc.?
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How are cross-contamination risks managed?
1. Should I use a Camp Expert?
Navigating the overwhelming number of camp options can be time-consuming and stressful. A Camp Expert has personally visited camps, evaluated safety measures, and built relationships with directors. Working with one can save hours of research and ensure you find the best and safest camp for your child.
Final Thoughts
Finding a safe and well-suited camp requires more than a quick Google search. By asking the right questions, you can ensure peace of mind while giving your child an incredible summer experience.
And remember—safety isn’t just about policies; it’s about execution. A camp can have great rules on paper, but what matters most is how well they are enforced.
Happy camp hunting!