Hey there, Tennis Enthusiasts!

Tennis has long been a favorite activity among children at summer camp. Swinging their racquets and chasing after balls, campers not only develop their skills on the court but also learn valuable lessons in teamwork, sportsmanship, and perseverance. Blending fun and fitness, tennis offers campers a chance to enjoy the great outdoors while honing their coordination and agility.

This is a sport that’s captivated players and spectators alike for nearly a thousand years, going all the way back to medieval times. Then it was referred to as Real Tennis. This sport was transformed from a simple ball game played by striking the ball with your bare or gloved hands and became the sophisticated sport we know today that uses racquets, enclosed playing areas, and standardized rules.

The roots of Tennis stretch back to France in the 12^th Century and was popularized throughout all neighboring countries within the next 500 years. It had become adopted by royalty and was played by the kings and nobles of Europe. It’s not surprising, then, to learn of its cultural significance in the years to come.

This sport was referenced, depicted, or otherwise played some role in Shakespearean literature, paintings like the works of Tiepolo, and even in political movements such as the Tennis Court Oath during the French Revolution that inspired social change.

In the modern day, tennis remains a beloved pastime enjoyed by both children and adults from all walks of life. Whether your camper is a seasoned player or a curious novice, the legacy of Tennis continues to inspire a sense of camaraderie and sportsmanship in those who pick it up. So, grab a racquet, hit the court, and experience the thrill of tennis for yourself. You can make it happen at summer camp if not before. Thanks for reading, Tennis Fans. And, as always, Happy Camping!

- John

Namaste, Camp Folks!

Stretching your way into serenity, yoga is like a breath of fresh air. It's more than just bending and twisting; it's about finding your inner balance and connecting with nature in the great outdoors. It’s all about harmony. But how did yoga come to be offered so regularly at summer camp and what makes it such a hit with campers?

Yoga’s roots go back thousands of years to ancient India, where it was developed as a practice to promote physical, mental, and spiritual well-being. Over time, yoga spread its influence the world over, transforming into various styles and practices. It wasn't until the 20th century that yoga found its way into the summer camp scene.

At camp, yoga offers a unique blend of relaxation and adventure. Campers gather in tranquil natural settings—often near a shimmering lake or under the shade of towering trees. They come together, creating a sense of community as they embark on a journey of self-discovery and mindfulness.

Just like in traditional yoga studios, camp yoga instructors guide campers through a series of poses and stretches, promoting flexibility, strength, and mental clarity. The practice emphasizes breathing techniques that help campers stay focused and centered, both on and off the mat.

But it's not just about the physical aspects. Camp yoga taps into the essence of what summer camp is all about—growth, connection, and exploration. It encourages campers to push their boundaries, both mentally and physically, while also providing a safe space to unwind and de-stress.

The popularity of yoga at summer camp continues to soar. Campers relish the opportunity to embrace yoga's holistic benefits, from enhancing physical fitness to nurturing emotional well-being. It's a practice that fosters unity, encourages self-acceptance, and instills a deep appreciation for the natural world.

So, whether you're a seasoned yogi or brand new to the practice, make sure to join in on a rejuvenating yoga session at camp this year. Experience the magic of yoga in the heart of nature, and discover a newfound sense of serenity and balance. Thanks for reading, and, as always, Happy Camping!

- John

Hey, Waterpark Lovers!

It's time to celebrate National Waterpark Day, a day dedicated to the thrilling world of aquatic adventures with water slides, wave pools, and other swimming fun like I'm sure you had at summer camp! This day is all about summer fun and the joy of cooling off in the refreshing waters of a waterpark. Get ready to dive into the history of waterparks, from their humble beginnings to the thrilling attractions we know today.

Back in 1906—a bygone era when water slides were just a dream—the New Zealand International Exhibition introduced the world to a wild ride called ‘The Water Chute’ and it really made a splash. Overdressed riders would hop into specially designed boats and slide down into Victoria Lake, even skipping across the water's surface for a momentary thrill. It was a sight to behold, lettin' folks taste the thrill of sliding through the watery depths.

After the exhibition in New Zealand, the concept of water slides was further developed by Herbert Sellner in Minnesota. A fella named Herbert Sellner took inspiration from the New Zealand extravaganza and concocted his own water toboggans.

These slick contraptions would hurtle down massive slopes, gliding gracefully across bodies of water. These early designs laid the foundation for the water slides we know today. In fact, U.S. Patent Services reported that some of these toboggans reached distances exceeding 100 feet!

As time marched on, theme parks started sproutin' up like mighty oaks in the 1960s. It was ’64 when one George Millay opened the first Sea World. Taken with his aquatic theme park, he took things a step further in the following decade with the world’s first official waterpark in Orlando, Florida. It was only the beginning. Soon, water parks were poppin' up left and right, making its way beyond the United States in Central and South America.

These parks started small but grew bigger and bolder with every passing year, reaching for towering heights and hitting faster and faster speeds. Zero-depth entry pools and splash pools became popular among families with young children, while wave pools and rough water rides attracted thrill-seekers. For those seeking relaxation, lazy rivers became a beloved feature of water parks, letting the current carry them away.

So, on this National Waterpark Day, let's celebrate the incredible water attractions that bring joy to both campers and families alike. Plan your next adventure to a waterpark where you can experience the excitement of swimming and cooling off in the most exhilarating ways. Dive in, make a splash, and cherish the memories of summertime fun!

Thanks for reading, Everybody. Pick up any swimwear and other swim accessories you need from our selection of top brand names like TYR, Under Armour, and more. Happy Swimming!

- John

Hey there, Young Adventurers!

As the sun sets on a breathtaking landscape and casts its warm, golden glow over the campsite, a troop of campers gather around a crackling campfire for the evening. The scent of pine trees and the popping logs fill the air. As the night sky unveils a sparkling ceiling of stars, everybody realizes what a magical moment they’re enjoying on this extraordinary adventure. What an incredible experience, being immersed in the great outdoors!

Overnight camping trips in the great outdoors may just be THE quintessential summer camp activity. These camping excursions offer children a unique opportunity to connect with nature, learn valuable skills, and create unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime. There are a number of things to cover about this classic camp activity, so let’s get into it.

The Proper Gear for Outdoor Excursions

First things first, let's talk gear. Make sure your camper gets the most of their outdoor camping trips at summer camp with the gear they need to maximize their enjoyment of the experience. While you’ll want to get them lots of things for hiking—sun and bug spray, rain gear, trail shoes, a flashlight, compass maybe—here are the top three pieces of gear for your child’s summer camp outdoor trip.

Backpacks

A backpack is a hiker’s life! It holds everything they need for a successful camping trip, from extra clothes and food to essential items like a flashlight, a compass, and a first-aid kit. Find popular brand names like Deuter, Osprey, Kelty, Marmot, and more on our online store. From classic school backpacks to heavy-duty climbing and hiking backpacks, we have it all.

Sleeping Bags

When it comes to overnight camping, a trusty sleeping bag becomes your camper’s cozy cocoon, keeping them warm and snug throughout the night. Make sure to choose a sleeping bag with a temperature rating suitable for the climate and weather conditions your camper can expect to see.

Water Bottles

Staying hydrated is imperative! We carry a wide selection of camp water bottles and hydration packs for your camper to carry along when they’re out in the wilderness. With features like leak-proof or insulated material, angled spouts, and built-in filters, check out these stylish and functional bottles.

What We Learn from the Wilderness

As we venture into the wilderness, we embark on a transformative journey, immersing ourselves in nature's embrace and acquiring invaluable skills that will shape us for a lifetime. From the serene forests to the rugged mountains, summer camp becomes a training ground for our outdoor pursuits.

Outdoor Skills

Wilderness journeys are built on Leave No Trace, first-aid, planning, fire-building, and navigation. We respect nature by leaving no trace behind. First-aid skills prepare us for emergencies. Planning becomes second nature as we navigate using maps and compasses. Through rivers, forests, and peaks, we become skilled explorers. Rain or shine, we master fire-building, bringing warmth and friendship to our campfire stories.

Personal Growth

Trips in the Great Outdoors equip us with opportunity to acquire more than just outdoor skills. They inspire personal growth and boost confidence. Getting out of our comfort zones, overcoming challenges, and embracing the unknown develops kids’ resilience, adaptability, and internal strengths we may have never otherwise known we had.

Spiritual Maturity

The memories forged on these camping trips will stay with us for a lifetime. From sharing stories around the campfire to gazing up at the starlit sky, summer camp is a chain of unforgettable moments. We witness breathtaking sunrises, marvel at the beauty of nature, and find solace in the serenity of the great outdoors. These experiences become a part of who we are and shape our understanding of our place in life. Cherish these moments, embrace the wild, and let the forest guide your heart!

So, Young Adventurers, embrace the challenges when you embark on thrilling overnight camping trips at summer camp. The skills you acquire, the confidence you gain, and the memories you make will be cherished forever. The wilderness awaits, ready to unveil its secrets and reveal the hidden depths within yourselves. There's nothing quite like spending a night under the open sky, surrounded by nature's beauty. The forest beckons! Thanks for reading and, as always, Happy Camping!

- John

Hey, Flag Fans!

An absolute blast, Capture the Flag has long been a staple of summer camp as well as playgrounds and backyard fun for kids of all ages.

Why is Capture the Flag Such a Hit with Kids?

Children love the strategy, teamwork, and physical activity it takes to achieve victory in this game. The history of Capture the Flag goes back hundreds, even thousands of years.

But where did this exciting game come from and how did it become a staple of summer camps?

The History of Capture the Flag

Long ago, flags were more than just a symbol of identity or pride in a nation or group. They were paraded by a flag bearer on the battlefield as a source of moral support. Having the flag flying meant your troop was still putting up a fight. This is why in our national anthem, the lyric proclaims “…gave proof through the night that our flag was still there.” The flag still flying was proof that the war was still on.

We owe the recorded rules of Capture the Flag to one German gymnast named Wilhelm Lübeck who put them down in the 1860 German gymnastic manual. These were the earliest known set of rules for the game. He didn’t call it Capture the Flag, though. He called it Fahnenbarlauf—named after an older European variation of the game called ‘Barlaufen’.

With such an enduring history to it, Capture the Flag is a true testament to the power of play and the importance of tradition in the summer camp experience. Make sure you get involved in a fun game of flag capturing at camp this year.

How to Play Capture the Flag

To play the game Capture the Flag, the playing field is divided into two clearly designated halves, or territories. Everybody splits into two teams—one to each territory. Each territory has a "flag" which is most often a piece of fabric (but can really be anything you want) that they have hidden or otherwise protected within their section of the playing field.

Players then venture into the opposing team's territory, grab the flag and attempt to return with it to their territory without being tagged.

More of Our Favorite Outdoor Camp Games

Frisbee

This game is great because you only need two people to get started, and there's no limit on how many more players can join in. The Nite Ize FlashFlight® Light Up Flying Disc with Disc-O Select™ was made for people who are serious about the sport and satisfies those who just want to have fun with their friends.

Your choice of 6 LED colors; red, purple, blue, teal, green, and white (for in the dark play), and a battery life of 20 hours. No need to worry about water because the Nite Ize FlashFlight® is water-resistant and floats. Add this packable pastime to their trunk and they’ll always have a way to break the ice at camp.

Bocce

Normally, Bocce is limited to the outdoors because the weight of the balls can cause damage if thrown inside. We knew there had to be a way past that limitation, to expand the playing field no matter where boredom struck. At Everything Summer Camp each of our bocce sets is designed for both indoor or outdoor play. Tossing the lighter balls leads to more creative placement of the target ball and allows for easy travel. If you aren’t sure how to play Bocce, the target ball is thrown at random and then the players take turns tossing their throwing balls, aiming as close to the target ball as they can to gain more points.

Our like-a-hacky-sac find, The Outside Inside™ Freestyle Bocce Ball Set includes six, nylon throwing balls and one target ball filled with pellets. They’re stored in a nylon mesh pouch that cinches shut and is the most packable game other than cards.

The Outside Inside™ Backpack Bocce Ball Set has a more traditional look for an indoor/outdoor Bocce game. It includes eight, smaller than standard size (1.75”) low-density balls, one white target ball, a measuring tool for proper scoring, instructions, and a carrying pouch. Start a game anywhere with a pack like this.

Bag Toss

The ENO TrailFlyer™ Outdoor Game weighs in at just over two pounds and is designed to pack down to the size of a 32oz water bottle so it conveniently packs away for all your adventures! The setup uses the stakes provided so there are no knots needed to master this contest. Inspired by beloved games like Bean Bags and Skee-Ball, Eagles Nest Outfitters brought ease to traveling with your favorite games.

Horseshoes

There’s no need to let the weight of a horseshoe hold you back. Travel with this easy-to-pack Outside Inside™ Freestyle Horseshoes set. Weighing in at only 2.82 lbs; it includes four full-size rubber horseshoes, two rubber mats, two indoor stakes, two outdoor stakes, and a carry bag with instructions. This no-risk outdoor game will get your group moving without taking any dangerous hits or bumps. Play with as little as two people or as many as four.

Axe Throwing

Has your kid asked you if they can throw an axe yet? Surprise them with the Outside Inside™ Backpack Axe Throwing set. It includes 4 foam axes in 2 colors, a collapsible target, instructions, and a convenient travel bag.

The axes stick to the target by a gripper strip "blade" ensuring safe and fun gameplay for all ages. Hang it by the loop on a tree or on a window by the suction cup. Get them something new to throw and help them harness the power of focus, hand-eye coordination, and a healthy competitive edge.

Washer Toss

The Outside Inside™ Travel Washer Toss is easy to pack but difficult to master, this game comes with everything included. Sink the washers in the target and earn your bragging rights! Weighing in at less than 2 lbs this four-player game is sure to test everyone’s skill and humble a few people in the process.

Watercolor Kit

An outdoor activity for when they need a little alone time. The Outside Inside™ Backpack Watercolor Kit includes 12 half-pan watercolors, a refillable brush, a 0.5 permanent marker, a 2B pencil, pallets, a sponge, a color sampler, a 30-page watercolor pad with sheets of a 185 g thickness, and a user manual. There are no rules or competition to this game. Give your child the gift of creation and watch them become more confident in themselves. This compact kit is recommended for Ages 12+, comes in its own case, and can fit in any travel bag you choose at 6.4” x 3.4” x .75”.

I hope your time outdoors this summer is packed full of rewarding activities like Capture the Flag and Washer Toss. Thanks for reading and, as always, Happy Camping!

- John