Whether you’re still looking to fill in gaps for this summer or exploring doing sleepaway camp for the first time next summer, shorter “session” camp options or other alternatives to a traditional summer-long stint can be a great idea. In fact, it’s something that more families are exploring. “The landscape of sleepaway camps has changed over the last ten to twenty years. Instead of focusing on one camp for a full summer, more families are now looking for a collection of experiences for their children,” says TLMN camp advisor Matt Candel (chat with Matt here at no cost).
If your family plans include a busy summer of teen travel, community service, pre-college programs, travel sports, dance competitions and family vacations, a more flexible summer camp experience may be right. “For these families, full summer camps don’t work. Camps that offer two and three week sessions are fantastic options if this is your family!” says Matt.
The shorter sessions are also a great introduction for “newbie” campers who have a few weeks to get through the initial stress of being away from home for the first time combined with the opportunity to experience the activities, joy, and new friendships camps offer. When your camp rookies have an amazing session (which they almost always do!) they will be excited to sign up for the longer haul next year.
“While all of the camps on our Guide create amazing experiences and friendships for your kids there are few I wanted to highlight as great options for this upcoming summer,” says Matt. See his shortlist below of camps that still have room for shorter sessions, as well as others he recommends below.
Read our comprehensive 2026 Sleepaway Camp Guide
Brant Lake Sports Academy for Girls offers a top notch sports program with phenomenal coaching set on a traditional campus with a spectacular lake front. The girls also participate in social activities and color war with the Brant Lake Camp boys.
Camp North Star offers a traditional co-ed camp experience on a picture perfect lake in Maine that focuses on fun, building life skills, creativity, and creating lifelong friendships. The vibe is incredibly warm and welcoming.
Camp Walt Whitman offers a traditional co-ed camp experience nestled in the stunning White Mountains of New Hampshire. Adventures, hiking, creating joy, new experiences, and building confidence are what you can expect for your child. (Note: Limited space for 2nd and 3rd graders.)
Camp Weequahic offers a traditional co-ed camp experience in Lakewood, PA. The pillars of Gratitude, Attitude, and Courage along with a choice based curriculum makes for an incredible, fun, and meaningful summer camp experience.
Cheley Colorado Camps is a co-ed camp nestled in the Rocky Mountains. Get ready for an incredible session of hiking, horseback riding, backpacking, white water rafting, and lots of other outdoor adventures.
Camp Winaukee is an all boys camp in New Hampshire with a strong focus on community and athletics. For generations campers have thrived and celebrated The Winaukee Way!
Next Step is a two week life skills programme designed to guide students through the transition from teenage fame to young adulthood. The focus? Building solid skills in communication, confidence, and self-awareness, while sneaking in some leadership opportunities and revealing those secrets they forgot to teach in school.
Some other great camps with space still available:
- Camp Chateaugay (2nd through 6th grade only)
- Camp Killoleet
- Independent Lake Camp
- Pierce Camps
- Ridgewood YMCA Camp Woods
- Camp Bernie
Says Matt: “The camp season starts in less than three months! Availability is limited at most camps this time of year. I encourage you to contact the camps right away to check on space based on your child’s gender and school grade. And of course feel free to contact me with any questions you may have.”
