A vibrant campsite scene at dawn, featuring children joyfully counting colorful tents, surrounded by lush trees and a serene lake reflecting the sunrise

National Camp Counts Day is a celebration dedicated to the importance and impact of summer camps, both overnight and day camps, on children’s lives. Camps provide a unique environment where kids can learn leadership, teamwork, and other life skills while having fun in the great outdoors. This day highlights the lifelong benefits that camp experiences offer to children.

Quick Facts

  • When is it?: June 25
  • Tagged as: Summer Camps, Children’s Activities, Leadership Development
  • What’s the hashtag?: #CampCountsDay
  • When was it founded?: 2019
  • Who founded it?: Camp Ralph S. Mason

History of National Camp Counts Day

National Camp Counts Day was created to recognize the transformative power of summer camps in shaping children’s lives. Founded in 2019 by Camp Ralph S. Mason, this day emphasizes how camp experiences help children develop essential traits like resilience, leadership, and social skills. Whether it’s through outdoor adventures or specialized activities like sports or arts, camps have long been a cornerstone of childhood development.

Timeline

  • 1861: The first organized camping trip in the U.S. takes place.
  • 1910: Boy Scouts of America is founded, promoting outdoor skills and camping.
  • 1912: Girl Scouts of America is established.
  • 2019: National Camp Counts Day is officially founded by Camp Ralph S. Mason.

Dates by Next Year

YearMonthDateDay
2025June25Wednesday
2026June25Thursday
2027June25Friday
2028June25Sunday
2029June25Monday

Observed

National Camp Counts Day is observed by encouraging families to explore the benefits of sending their children to camp. Parents can take virtual tours of camps or sign their kids up for summer programs. Camps themselves often host special events or open houses to promote their programs.

Fun Facts About National Camp Counts Day

  • Summer camps have been around for over a century in the U.S.
  • Camps are known for fostering lifelong friendships and memories.
  • Many camps offer specialized programs such as horseback riding, coding, or even space exploration!

Quiz

  1. When is National Camp Counts Day celebrated?
  2. Who founded National Camp Counts Day?
  3. What year was National Camp Counts Day established?
  4. What is one key benefit of sending kids to camp?
  5. What hashtag is used to celebrate this day?

(Answers: 1. June 25; 2. Camp Ralph S. Mason; 3. 2019; 4. Leadership development; 5. #CampCountsDay)

FAQs

Q: How can I celebrate National Camp Counts Day?
A: You can celebrate by taking a virtual tour of a camp or enrolling your child in a summer camp program.

Q: Is this day only for overnight camps?
A: No, it celebrates both overnight and day camps.

Importance of National Camp Counts Day

This day highlights the critical role that summer camps play in helping children grow into well-rounded individuals. Camps offer an environment where kids can learn new skills, build confidence, and make lifelong friends—all while enjoying fun outdoor activities.

Related Days

  • National Outdoor Adventure Day
  • National Kids’ Day
  • National Leadership Day