Starting a summer camp is an exciting venture. It combines an entrepreneurial spirit with a passion for creating fun experiences for kids. Below, we break down the key steps needed to successfully launch your summer camp.
We’ll cover:
Step 1: Business Plan
Step 2: Finding the Right Location
Step 3: Licenses and Insurance
Step 4: Attract and Hire Camp Counselors
Step 5: Market Your Summer Camp
Step 6: Use Technology for registrations, marketing and communications
Step 7: Adapt and Monitor
Bonus: Other tools to help you open a summer camp
Author’s note: I’m Olivier and I share tips and tricks that I’ve learned over the last decade as the owner of a kids’s sports program. Today, as the co-founder of Activity Messenger, I help summer camps across the U.S. and Canada streamline their operations, improve how they communicate, and increase revenue.
A business plan is your roadmap to success when starting a summer camp. It should clearly outline what needs to be done before and after the camp’s launch to ensure its success.
A decision that can greatly affect the success of your summer camp is choosing the right location. Here are a few options to consider:
Renting space in community centers, schools, or other local facilities can significantly reduce your startup costs. These locations often have the infrastructure you need, such as gyms, outdoor fields, and classrooms, making it easier to offer a variety of activities. Partnering with established venues can also help you tap into their existing audiences. Negotiate terms that ensure you have adequate access to the space for your camp’s schedule and activities.
If you’re ready to make a larger financial commitment, building your own camp facility gives you complete control over how your camp operates. You can tailor it to your unique programs, whether it’s outdoor adventure, sports, arts, or STEM activities. Planning is key, from securing funding to designing a facility that meets local zoning, safety, and environmental regulations. With your own facility, you can create a distinctive, purpose-built environment that sets your camp apart.
Mobile camps allow you to deliver your programs in a variety of locations, such as parks, community centers, or even private backyards. This model eliminates the overhead of maintaining a permanent location while providing flexibility for you and your clients. Mobile camps work well for families who value convenience and personalized programming. However, strong logistical planning and targeted marketing are essential to ensure consistent enrollment. This option is ideal for those looking to start small with a low initial investment.
Franchising is an excellent way to enter the summer camp industry with a proven model. Look for franchises that offer strong support, including marketing assistance, operational training and a structured curriculum. Franchisors like Mad Science and Bricks 4 Kidz are known for their turnkey solutions and proven programs. Franchises often offer ongoing support to maintain quality and streamline operations, increasing your chances of success.
Compliance is a critical element in building trust and credibility with families who enroll in your summer camp. Here are the key areas of compliance to consider when starting your camp:
To legally operate a summer camp, you’ll need to obtain the appropriate business license or permit from your local city or county. Requirements can vary by location, so it’s important to check with your local government office or website to understand specific regulations.
Maintaining strict health and safety standards is paramount. This includes ensuring that your camp facilities meet all required safety regulations, such as fire codes and sanitation standards. You should also have emergency plans in place and ensure that staff are trained in first aid and CPR to effectively handle incidents.
Having the right insurance coverage is essential to protecting your camp and giving parents peace of mind. Key policies include
These safeguards protect both your camp operations and the families you serve from unforeseen circumstances.
By addressing these compliance areas, you’ll not only ensure a smooth operation, but also build a trustworthy reputation that will attract more families to your camp.
It’s important to hire counselors and staff with relevant certifications, such as first aid, CPR, and lifeguarding (if applicable). These qualifications demonstrate that your team is equipped to handle emergencies and follow safety protocols. Certifications add credibility to your camp and reassure parents that their children are in good hands.
Look for candidates with a strong background in working with children and leading group activities. Experience in outdoor recreation, the arts, sports, or STEM is also good, depending on the focus of your camp. Staff who are patient, enthusiastic, and skilled at engaging children will create a more positive and memorable experience for your campers.
Thorough background checks are non-negotiable when hiring camp staff. These checks should include criminal records, previous employment verification, and references. This step ensures that you’re creating a safe and trustworthy environment for your campers and their families.
To attract qualified and motivated employees, create a dynamic work environment that appeals to younger generations such as Gen Z. Highlight benefits such as:
Promoting these aspects will help attract talented individuals who are passionate about making a difference.
To retain your staff every summer, focus on creating a culture of recognition and communication. Regular check-ins, feedback sessions, and performance reviews can help employees feel valued and heard. Younger employees also value flexibility and autonomy. Offering work-life balance, flexible scheduling, and opportunities for input on camp programming will foster a loyal and engaged team.
Effectively marketing your summer camp requires an omnichannel approach to reach and convert families. By combining digital and traditional marketing strategies, you can increase awareness and drive enrollment.
Here are some key summer camp marketing ideas:
Business efficiency and the overall customer experience can be greatly improved by incorporating technology into your dance studio. An online platform such as Activity Messenger offers a variety of features to help streamline your operations:
Setting up registration forms for camp programs is easy with Activity Messenger. Its intuitive interface simplifies enrollment and reduces administrative tasks by allowing parents to register their children online quickly and efficiently.
Move liability waivers online with Activity Messenger. Parents can sign waivers digitally during registration, reducing paperwork, minimizing errors, and securely storing sensitive information. This seamless process enhances the registration experience and saves valuable time for your staff.
Ensure safety and accountability with an efficient attendance tracking system. Activity Messenger allows counselors to take attendance digitally, ensuring real-time records that are easily accessible. You can also use QR codes for check-in and check-out, reducing manual errors and improving overall organization. Attendance tracking can be integrated with camper schedules to keep staff informed of each child’s activities throughout the day.
Simplify the collection and management of important medical information with online camp medical forms. Parents can fill out forms digitally, providing details such as allergies, medications, and emergency contacts. This ensures that staff have instant access to accurate, up-to-date medical information, which can be critical in the event of an emergency. Activity Messenger securely stores this information, keeping it accessible while maintaining privacy standards.
As your camp grows, the need for an advanced camp management software becomes essential. Activity Messenger provides tools for staff scheduling, billing, and managing camper information. With a single dashboard for tracking and analyzing data, you can make informed decisions and focus on delivering a fantastic camp experience. Start small with a basic registration form and scale up with advanced features as your camp grows.
By using these tools, you can save time, reduce administrative burdens, and create an exceptional experience for families. Embracing technology is a powerful step toward running a successful summer camp!
Activity Messenger can help you open your dance school or studio. It provides all the tools you need to succeed and grow your new dance school.
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If you would like to learn more about Activity Messenger, book a demo with one our experts.
