Are you longing for a taste of that nostalgic summer camp experience? Do you want to rekindle the joy of hiking, biking, and engaging in arts and crafts? Whether you’re reminiscing about your days as a summer camp attendee or exploring a new adventure as an adult, these delightful options will help you embrace your inner child at a grown-up summer camp. (See also: 6 Budget-Friendly Vacation Ideas Without Kids)
1. Club Getaway
Having spent nearly a decade as a camp counselor, I often found myself wishing I could experience the joy of summer camp like the kids did—sleeping in cabins, forging friendships, and receiving care packages. So, when I discovered Club Getaway nestled in the stunning Berkshire Mountains of Kent, Connecticut, I knew I had to arrange a visit. Since 2009, I’ve returned nearly every year because the fun is simply unmatched.
At the adult-only weekends, Friday night kicks off with a welcoming party featuring drinks, appetizers, and a DJ, followed by a delicious dinner that includes—get ready for this—unlimited wine! Yes, every dinner at Club Getaway offers unlimited wine (not that it’s the only reason I attend, but it certainly helps). Post-dinner festivities include dancing or just relaxing around the camp.
After a fantastic buffet breakfast the next morning—seriously, the food here is exceptional—you can dive into various classic camp activities such as volleyball, rock climbing, and canoeing. For those seeking something different, options include flying trapeze lessons, water skiing, or visiting a local winery. The afternoon brings cookouts, games, and open lake time with fun water inflatables, accompanied by themed dinners, live music, and bonfires.
You can choose specific weekends tailored for young professionals, sports enthusiasts, the LGBT community, Gen X, or holiday weekends, which typically extend to three or four days as opposed to the standard Friday to Sunday.
The total cost with taxes hovers around $500 for a regular weekend, while extended weekends range from about $575 to $600. All packages are inclusive aside from alcoholic beverages beyond the meals’ wine offer (though you can opt for an all-inclusive alcohol package). Booking early can lead to savings, as Club Getaway provides early bird discounts starting in January via email, and returning guests can enjoy additional price reductions for referrals.
While I’m not an official representative for the camp, I truly believe there is no better value for a weekend trip that blends relaxation, adventure, and the chance to create new memories. Plus, when you factor in the cost of meals, hotel stays, and outdoor activities, you’d likely end up spending more than $500 elsewhere, meaning Club Getaway is a money-saver!
2. Camp No Counselors
After numerous visits to Club Getaway, I’ve thought about switching things up, and at the top of my list is Camp No Counselors, which has various locations throughout the U.S., including cities like Boston, Chicago, New York, Los Angeles, and two spots in Canada. While CNC offers similar activities to Club Getaway, the key difference is the open bar included in your reservation, starting with mimosas and bloody Marys at breakfast. When you’re not indulging in chef-prepared meals such as baby back ribs or fish tacos, you can embark on adventures like sailing, wakeboarding, or participating in ropes courses, among many other options.
And let’s talk about the drinks! Beer and wine are available during lunch, and an open bar is provided from happy hour through the evening, allowing you to enjoy live shows or dance all night with talented DJs dressed in costumes. The schedule varies by city, as camps are not held every weekend everywhere, with September offering the most availability. Most weekends run from Thursday to Sunday, starting around $575 and reaching $650. CNC also provides three- and six-month payment plans for those who prefer to manage costs over time.
3. Soul Camp
If you’re passionate about health and wellness, Soul Camp is an ideal choice, presenting three-day sessions in New York and California. You’ll find communal or private cabins, wellness workshops, pool parties, and various water activities.
At Soul Camp, you can take part in intensive yoga sessions and other healing experiences, including astrology, tarot, life and health coaching, and meditation. Excursions to Kings Canyon National Park and Pine Flat Lake in California, as well as the Adirondack Mountains in New York, provide ample chance for exploration. Meals consist of “healthified camp food” alongside traditional camp activities like dance parties and bonfires.
Prices are a little higher here—starting at $899 for the New York location before April 1—but occasional $200 limited-time discounts and monthly payment plans are available. Continuous early-bird pricing throughout spring and summer can save you up to $1,000 on a weekend.
4. Camp Bonfire
Camp Bonfire has only one scheduled weekend each year—this year’s event took place in mid-June at Lake Owego in the Poconos. I feel it’s unique enough to merit inclusion as it offers a different experience compared to other adult camps.
The regular registration fee is $475, which includes all traditional and innovative activities (think Quidditch, terrarium crafting, and “lemon jousting”), plus six meals from Friday dinner to Sunday lunch (along with drinks and snacks throughout the weekend). If you’re able to contribute more, the Benefactor Registration is available for $550, which helps offset costs for a less fortunate camper; alternatively, a Campership Registration lowers fees to $400 for those in need. There’s also a Super Benefactor Registration option at $950 to fully sponsor another camper.
This initiative is not just a pleasant concept—it’s a meaningful way to spread kindness. Additionally, a portion of every registration goes to Camp Sojourner in Philadelphia, which empowers girls to become leaders and positive change-makers in their communities.
5. Zombie Survival Camp
If you’re anxious about a potential zombie apocalypse (and who isn’t?), Zombie Survival Camp might be right up your alley. Based in the New Jersey Pine Barrens, it offers both day and weekend options focusing on survival skills needed during a zombie invasion, taught in an immersive environment at a 60-acre facility with a rustic farmhouse, outbuildings, and a shooting range. Day camps accept ages 15 and older (up to 24 participants), while weekend camps cater to adults aged 21 and up (up to 15 participants). You’ll learn Zombitsu, a unique fighting style, alongside first-aid techniques, knife throwing, crossbow skills, and survival strategies.
All-inclusive weekend packages cover lodging, meals, activities, and evening entertainment like drinks, games, and bonfires. Day camp costs $179 per person, and full weekends are priced at $450, both with installment plans available for payment.
6. Space Camp
If you never fulfilled your dream of becoming an astronaut, it’s not too late! The Adult Space Academy at the U.S. Space and Rocket Center in Huntsville, Alabama, invites those aged 18 and older to spend a few days in an astronaut’s shoes. Participants train on a Multi-Axis Trainer, construct and launch rockets, take part in team-building exercises, design protective heat shields, and engage in an extended-duration simulated mission. Three-day sessions are priced at $549 and include meals served at the Space Camp Crew Galley, with accommodations in their Habitat facilities.
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