Happy Father's Day!

As the day dawns, families across the country eagerly prepare to honor and celebrate the remarkable fathers in their lives. Children excitedly create handmade cards adorned with colorful drawings and heartfelt messages, expressing their deep appreciation for the extraordinary men who have guided and supported them. Today’s all about Dear ol’ Dad!

With smiles stretching from ear to ear, children present their lovingly crafted gifts accompanied with an exuberant “Happy Father’s Day!!!”, filling fathers' hearts with warmth and joy. Yet, beyond the card lies an opportunity for quality time spent together. Perhaps today offers a chance to discuss upcoming summer plans including thoughts on summer camp.

Did your father go to summer camp when he was your age? Inquiring about his time there is a great way to show interest in his life and would be a great gift on Father’s Day to go down memory lane with him.

How many years ago was it that your dad attended summer camp? What kind of memorable experiences did he have back in the day at summer camp? Did he form lasting friendships or acquire new skills during his time away? Perhaps he fondly recalls evenings spent around the campfire, swimming in the refreshing waters of the lake, or embarking on thrilling wilderness adventures.

For children eagerly anticipating their own summer camp adventures, learning about their father's experiences can offer valuable insights and inspiration. Will they be attending the same camp he did? Imagining themselves following in his footsteps can amplify the excitement and anticipation of their upcoming camp journey, fostering a special bond across generations.

Even if your father didn't attend summer camp, he remains an excellent confidant for discussing any concerns or excitement surrounding the approaching camp season. So, on this Father's Day, cherish the time spent together and revel in the anticipation of the camp season ahead. Thanks for joining us, everyone. And, as always, Happy Camping!

- John

Hey, Flag-Flyin’ Folks!

Flag Day, observed annually on June 14th, holds a special place in the hearts of Americans as a day to commemorate the adoption of the United States flag. While often overlooked compared to other patriotic holidays, Flag Day serves as a reminder of the enduring values and principles symbolized by the Stars and Stripes.

For many, Flag Day coincides with the start of summer camp season, where campers gather to celebrate the spirit of community and unity. At summer camp, the flag becomes a focal point of daily rituals, from raising it at sunrise to lowering it at sunset. Campers proudly recite the Pledge of Allegiance, reinforcing their connection to their country and each other.

Throughout history, the American flag has served as a beacon of hope and resilience, inspiring generations to uphold the ideals of freedom, justice, and equality. At summer camp, campers learn the importance of these values through activities that promote teamwork, leadership, and camaraderie. Whether participating in flag-raising ceremonies, engaging in outdoor adventures, or sharing stories around the campfire, campers forge lasting memories while honoring the symbol of their nation.

Flag Day also offers an opportunity for reflection, reminding us of the sacrifices made by those who have defended our freedom and democracy. At summer camp, campers engage in discussions about patriotism, citizenship, and the importance of standing up for what they believe in. By instilling a sense of pride and respect for the flag, summer camps play a vital role in shaping responsible and engaged citizens.

As we celebrate Flag Day, let us pause to honor the emblem that unites us as Americans and serves as a reminder of our shared heritage and values. Whether at summer camp or in our communities, let us proudly display the flag and pledge our allegiance to the principles it represents. Thanks for reading. Happy Flag Day and, as always, Happy Camping!

- John

Hey, Camp Folks!

There’s a lot going on at summer camp. The days send campers from one activity to the next. The schedule campers select for their camp days can easily become a frenzy of fun. It’s smart for campers to keep their eyes on the time so they don’t miss a minute of the summer fun. Say hello to the new Digital Alarm Clock from the Gear Up brand!

Featuring a sleek square design and a user-friendly interface, this Alarm Clock adds a touch of charm to any nightstand or trunk top. Its LED screen boasts a bold display so it’s super-easy to check the time, even from across the room! It also comes equipped with a handy temperature display, ensuring your camper can dress appropriately for their next outdoor adventure.

With just a tap, our clock switches on a soft white light, casting a comforting glow that banishes any bedtime worries. It's a great solution for campers who have some fear of the dark. And when morning comes, it will gently wake you with a mildly increasing volume and calming musical rhythm.

With the Gear Up Digital Alarm Clock, your camper will be ready to seize the day and make the most of their summer adventures. Don't let them miss out on a single moment of fun – get them geared up with our stylish and reliable alarm clock today!

Everything Summer Camp is thrilled to offer the Gear Up brand to provide summer camp families with effective camping gear like flashlights, lanterns, fans, and more. If you’re unsure how much use your camper will get out of their outdoor equipment when the summer camp season comes to a close, Gear Up products are a great choice—made not just to be practical and durable but very affordable as well!

Make sure your camper is ready for action this summer with excellent camp equipment and…well, GEAR UP! Of course, thank you for reading. And, as always, Happy Camping!

- John

Hey there, Water Skiing Enthusiasts!

Are you ready to hit the waves and experience the thrill of waterskiing? If so, you’re in luck! Many summer camps offer the opportunity to try this exhilarating water sport. While you'll want to double-check that your camp offers waterskiing as an activity, it's a popular choice that's often available at waterfront locations.

Mastering the art of waterskiing offers a multitude of benefits. Engaging in such a physically-demanding sport is an excellent way for campers to enhance their fitness levels, including balance, coordination, flexibility, and strength. But the advantages go beyond just physical fitness. Check out some of the other perks of waterskiing:

Adrenaline Rush

There's nothing quite like the rush of adrenaline you feel when you're skimming across the water's surface behind a speeding boat. Waterskiing provides an electrifying experience that keeps campers coming back for more, fueling their sense of adventure and excitement.

Community and Camaraderie

Waterskiing is often done in a group setting, with campers taking turns behind the boat and cheering each other on. It's a fantastic opportunity for campers to bond with their fellow skiers, share tips and tricks, and celebrate each other's successes. Plus, it's a chance to make lasting friendships and memories on the water.

Sense of Achievement

Learning to waterski and mastering new techniques is a significant accomplishment for campers. As they progress and improve their skills, they'll gain a sense of pride and confidence in their abilities. Waterskiing challenges campers to push themselves out of their comfort zones and achieve new personal bests, fostering a can-do attitude and a growth mindset.

So, will your camper be hitting the water and trying their hand at waterskiing this summer? It's a fantastic way to boost their confidence, build friendships, and create unforgettable memories. Encourage your child to dive in and give waterskiing a try—it's sure to be a highlight of their summer camp experience! Until next time, happy skiing, Camp Folks!

- John

Hey, Camp Lovers!

Getting your child to summer camp can sometimes be a feat in itself. And it’s not just your child you need to transport, but all their packed clothing and gear as well. Do you know what container you’re packing inside? Among the various options available, trunks or footlockers stand out as favorites among campers and camp staff alike.

Summer camp experts Dr. Christopher Thurber and Dr. Jon Malinowski give us a special shout-out in their handy guide, ‘The Summer Camp Handbook’, “The trunks we like best come with a lifetime guarantee and are manufactured in Wisconsin by C&N Footlockers and sold by EverythingSummerCamp.com.”

But is a hard trunk the right choice for you?

These sturdy containers are tough, compact, and easy to organize, making them ideal for the demands of camp life. But there are a few things to take into consideration before you hop on board the hard trunk train.

Summer Camp Says So

First things first, you’ll want to see what your camp has to say about the container in which you pack. The camp's information packet usually specifies the preferred container, but if not, it's always a good idea to give the camp a call and ask. After all, the camp directors know best about the space limitations of the living quarters and whether closets, drawers, or lockers are available on-site.

Tricky Trunk Travel

Just because your camp allows for a hard trunk doesn’t automatically make it the best option. When choosing a container for camp, it's essential to consider how your child will be traveling. For campers going to camp by airplane, a suitcase with wheels may be the most convenient option.

Storage After Camp

Outside the camp season, lots of kids proudly present their trunk at the foot of their bed in their room at home and end up taking it along when they eventually go to college for safekeeping in their dorm room. However, some families may feel their homes are already too full without housing a footlocker trunk. If you don’t have the space for it when your camper gets home, it’s not a good choice for you. 

For whatever reason, if a hard trunk isn’t an option for you, our C&N Pop Up Soft Trunk or one of our many duffel options make great choices. Duffel bags can be easily folded and stored under a bed or in a drawer, keeping clothes and gear neat and organized throughout the summer.

So long as a hard trunk IS a viable option for your summer camp experience, there’s no better choice than our Traditional Steel Camp Trunks. C&N Camp Trunks can serve multiple purposes at camp, doubling as card tables, chairs, and even step-ladders to top bunks. Recommended by more summer camps than any other trunk, C&N Camp Trunks are the best packing container for summer camp! Thanks for reading and Happy Camping!

- John