Hey, Camp Fans!

We still have more camp stories to share from the Everything Summer Camp ‘Share Your Camp Story’ Contest! Your camp stories were so great and were such a fun time reading through them all and I’ve been sharing them with all our readers online for the past several months! We’re posting each submission right here on the Blog one by one!

We had ten lucky prize winners for this contest and since then I’ve been publishing the rest of your submissions. The following post is from Ben B. who wrote in to us about his time at Laity Lodge Youth Camp. Here it is:

“A favorite activity of mine at camp, was the ‘one wheel’. It is like a skateboard, but with only one big wheel. It is very hard to do, harder than riding a skateboard. It is more fun! I went fishing in the river and I caught two fish. We used old brisket for bait. The camp had a good view of the cliff wall by the river, especially from the hill top called ‘antenna’. I look forward to camp again next year!”

Hey, Ben. Thanks for writing into us. I think I’ve seen what you’re talking about before—the One Wheel. I bet it’s lots of fun, assuming you’re able to manage your balance. Sounds like you made it happen! Pretty impressive. Nice work! A job well done with your fishing as well. I’ll have to try the old brisket trick next time I’m out casting a line! On top of that, I’m glad you got to take in the view from on top ‘Antenna’. Sounds like a great observation point. Have a great time on your summer camp stays to come, Ben.

To anybody who is interested in attending a summer camp stay at Laity Lodge, you can peruse their website when you click right here to see if it might be the right place for you and your camper. Until next time, thanks for reading. And, as always, Happy Camping!

- John

Hey, Camp Fans!

We received more than 50 entries for our ‘Share Your Camp Story’ Contest here at Everything Summer Camp and I’ve been happily plugging away at publishing each one of them right here on the Blog to share with all our readers!

Today's camp story submission comes from Hilary S., who wrote in tell us about her daughter, Lys, and her second year away at summer camp—Camp Louise.

“Lys loved her first year so much she could hardly wait to go back to overnight camp again this summer. One of my favorite memories is watching her gaze out the window as we drive the winding road up the mountain to camp. The wind blowing her lovely locks of blonde hair in her face, a smile so big and eyes wide with wonder and excitement for all that is yet to come. Oh, to be ten again and carefree living my best camp life...”

Thanks for submitting your camp story into us, Hilary! It’s great to hear that your daughter’s relationship with summer camp is right where you want it to be—hooked! I’m sure that memory of yours—looking over at the wonder in Lys’ eyes while making your way closer and closer to camp—that’s one that will be with you forever. Unfortunately, we can’t return to those carefree, ten-year-old days but seeing the experience through the fresh eyes of your daughter must be the next-best thing. Wishes for many more fun stays at summer camp for your daughter.

For anyone else interested in attending a summer camp stay at Camp Louise, peruse their website for a closer look to see if it might be the right place for you and your camper. Until next time, thanks for reading. And, as always, Happy Camping!

- John

Hey, Camp Fans!

It’s been great to read all the camper submissions we received this year for our ‘Share Your Camp Story’ Contest at Everything Summer Camp. I’m happy to share them with our online community and post each submission right here on the Blog! Besides our ten lucky prize winners, all other entrants received a $20 gift certificate to our online store and get their story published on the Blog, one at a time!

Today’s post is from Cameron B., who wrote in to tell us about the party atmosphere at Laity Lodge Youth Camp. Check out today’s submission right now:

“My favorite part about camp would probably be the rave party. It was so fun and surreal and the flashing lights and loud music definitely made it memorable! I remember how I didn't wear my tennis shoes there and my slides kept sticking to the candy and drinks on the ground and I'd end up barefoot. It was very fun and I know that I will remember it for days to come, and think back on it when I come to camp again in upcoming years.”

Hey, Cameron! Thanks for sending in your submission to our camp story contest. It sounds like that rave party at Laity Lodge was a truly something else! What a night of flashing lights, loud music, and summer fun! I guess the folks at Laity Lodge Youth Camp really know how to show their campers a fun time. I’m glad you have this night that will live on in your memories for many years to come as an unforgettable summer camp memory.

If you think Cameron’s story sounds cool, you can look into Laity Lodge Youth Camp for yourself by checking out their website when you click right here. Thanks for reading, Camp Folks! And, as always, Happy Camping!

- John

Hey, Parents!

Lots of folks know how important summer camp can be for the development of younger children. That’s why they choose to send their own child even when it might pull a little tight at the purse strings. It’s also why camp scholarships, grants, and other opportunities of financial assistance are frequently sought out among families looking to make camp more affordable.

Scholarships for sleepaway camps can provide an excellent opportunity for children to experience the benefits of a residential camp program despite the financial constraints the family faces. Here's what you need to know about scholarships for sleepaway camp—broken down into four different categories:

1. Types of Scholarships:

• Need-Based Scholarships: These scholarships are typically awarded to families who demonstrate financial need. Eligibility criteria may vary from one camp to another, but they often require families to provide financial documentation to determine their level of need.

• Merit-Based Scholarships: Some camps offer scholarships based on a camper's skills, talents, or achievements in a particular area, such as academics, sports, arts, or leadership. Applicants usually need to demonstrate excellence in their chosen field.

• Diversity and Inclusion Scholarships: Many camps are committed to promoting diversity and inclusion and offer scholarships to children from underrepresented backgrounds, ethnicities, or communities.

• Camp-Specific Scholarships: Some individual camps have their own scholarship programs, which may be need-based, merit-based, or tied to specific criteria set by the camp.

2. Finding Scholarships:

• Camp Websites: Start by visiting the websites of the sleepaway camps you are interested in. Many camps provide information about their scholarship programs, eligibility requirements, and application procedures on their websites.

• Nonprofit Organizations: Some nonprofit organizations, foundations, and charities offer scholarships or grants to help children attend sleepaway camps. Organizations like the American Camp Association (ACA) may also provide resources to find camp scholarships.

• Local Community Resources: Check with local community organizations, schools, or religious institutions, as they may offer scholarships or grants for children to attend summer camps.

• Online Scholarship Search Engines: Utilize scholarship search engines and databases that allow you to filter results based on your specific criteria, including location, financial need, and camp type.

3. Application Process:

• Follow the camp's scholarship application guidelines carefully—they can vary widely.

• Prepare any required documentation, such as financial records, transcripts, or letters of recommendation.

• Pay attention to application deadlines, as scholarships often have specific submission timelines.

• Some scholarship programs may require applicants to write essays or answer specific questions, so be prepared to share your child's story and explain why they should receive the scholarship.

4. Tips for Success:

• Apply to multiple scholarship programs to increase your chances of receiving financial assistance.

• Be honest and transparent about your family's financial situation in need-based scholarship applications.

• Highlight your child's achievements, talents, and personal qualities in merit-based scholarship applications.

• Seek advice or assistance from school counselors, community organizations, or camp staff when applying for scholarships.

• Keep track of all scholarship deadlines and requirements to ensure a timely and complete application.

Overall, scholarships for sleepaway camps can open doors for children, allowing them to benefit from the valuable experiences and lifelong memories that camp offers. Be proactive in your search, apply to suitable programs, and explore available resources to make camp a reality for your child! Good luck. Thanks for reading. And, as always, Happy Camping!

When it comes to outdoor adventure gear, Deuter is a name that stands out with a legacy longer than any other backpack brand in the world. Founded in 1898, this German company has been a pioneer in the backpacking industry for over a century, earning the trust and admiration of outdoor enthusiasts worldwide.

Deuter's journey began in a small town in Germany, where the founders shared a passion for creating high-quality bags that could withstand the rigors of outdoor exploration. With a commitment to innovation, durability, and functionality, Deuter quickly gained recognition for its exceptional craftsmanship and design.

Today, the brand is represented in a staggering 45 countries, a testament to its widespread popularity and reputation for excellence. But what about its journey in the United States?

It was nearly two decades ago when Deuter set its sights on the American market. In 2003, they established a location in Longmont, Colorado, and introduced their products to U.S. consumers. Despite the initial challenge of pronouncing the brand's name (it's "doy-ter," by the way), Deuter quickly made a significant impact on the American outdoor gear scene.

One of the key reasons behind Deuter's success is its dedication to quality and innovation. The brand consistently pushes the boundaries of what outdoor gear can achieve, incorporating cutting-edge materials and design techniques into their products. This commitment to excellence has earned Deuter a loyal following of outdoor enthusiasts who appreciate gear that can withstand the toughest conditions.

In the United States, Deuter's popularity soared, thanks to its partnerships with retailers across the country. With more than 600 shops distributing their backpacks, Deuter became a household name for outdoor enthusiasts looking for reliable and high-performance gear.

Here at Everything Summer Camp, we're proud to be one of those retailers carrying Deuter's exceptional products. As a brand known for its durability, functionality, and comfort, Deuter aligns perfectly with our commitment to providing top-quality camping and outdoor gear. With a legacy that spans over a century, this brand remains a trusted and respected name in the backpacking industry.

Enjoy shopping Deuter packs here at our online store. You can browse our Deuter selection when you click right here. Thanks for reading, Everyone. And, as always, Happy Camping!

- John