Fall Family Camps Offer Affordable, Meaningful Experiences
by Public Relations, American Camp Association® (ACA) (BPRW)
Plug into each other
Today's families are in constant motion. Time spent together may be spent in front of the television, working on the computer, or playing video games . . . sometimes all three at once! Camps give families an opportunity to unplug from the world around them and plug into each other without breaking the family budget.
"It's a great way for families to spend time together and really be present with each other," said Nicole Cabelka, registrar for the Berkshire Outdoor Center in Becket, Massachusetts. "Our family camp programs provide activities without cell phones, televisions, computers, or iPods?."
Like many fall camps, the Berkshire Outdoor Center Fall Foliage Family Camp is a local YMCA program. Most programs include traditional fare coupled with more adventurous experiences. Registration is usually per-person and includes meals, lodging, and activities.
Jeff Cheley, camp director at Cheley Colorado Camps, said the convenience of vacationing at family camp means "many of the time-consuming parts of a vacation are taken care of — planning meals, choosing activities, checking schedules, driving, etc. — to give families more time to relax and enjoy each other's company."
Take new risks
While hayrides, bonfires, pumpkin carving, and hikes through the changing woods remain an integral part of most fall camp experiences, many families are signing on for programs that include team-building activities like ropes courses or climbing towers. The camp experience offers families a chance to learn new things and take healthy risks in a safe, nurturing environment.
Include everyone
Family camps offer programs and activities for every age and ability. For many, camp provides an opportunity for everyone — from toddlers to grandparents — to participate in a shared experience. "I believe camp provides a passion for life to those who have the opportunity to participate. The camp experience benefits everyone, from the very young to the young at heart," said Peg Smith, ACA CEO. To find a fall family camp program in your area, visit the Find A Camp feature on ACA's parent Web site at www.CampParents.org.
Contact Public Relations at 765.349.3317 or pr@ACAcamps.org to interview an ACA spokesperson for more information about the family camp experience. Also, for customizable public service announcements or article reprints, visit our Media Center.
About ACA
The American Camp Association? (ACA) works to preserve, promote, and enhance the camp experience for children and adults. ACA-Accredited? camp programs ensure that children are provided with a diversity of educational and developmentally challenging learning opportunities. There are over 2,400 ACA-accredited camps that meet up to 300 health and safety standards. For more information, visit www.ACAcamps.org.
