Camps keep it all in the family

Sun., April 16, 2006

Bethany Monroe Staff writer

Family camps increase in popularity

» The number of family camps in the United States has more than tripled in 15 years, from 192 in 1991 to 582 this year, according to the American Camp Association.

» Don Cheley, chairman of the American Camp Foundation and owner of a summer camp in Estes Park, Colo., says family camp is another way for parents to connect with their kids at a time when that has become pretty hard to do.

» "A resort vacation is wonderful, and maybe Mom and the kids hang around the pool and Dad plays golf, and they all go out to dinner together at night," Cheley says. "But when it's family camp, it's time with your children almost 24 hours a day. Parents love that time when there aren't any distractions, when other things don't need to get done."

The Arizona Republic

Instead of sending the kids away, some parents choose to make summer camp a family affair.

Several local camps offer programs designed for adults and children to attend together, allowing everyone to enjoy camp activities without having to bother with setting up tents and preparing meals.

Camp Sweyolakan, a Camp Fire USA camp located in Coeur d’Alene offers “You and Me, Kid,” a weekend camp July 7-9. The camp is designed for parents, grandparents, aunts, uncles and other adults to bring the children in their lives for a fun, bonding experience, said Peggy Clark, camp director.

“It’s a time for the parents or the adults and the kids to have a new experience together and enjoy the great outdoors,” Clark said.

The camp provides food, lodging and a selection of activities, so adults and children can choose how to spend their day. Attending a summer camp allows adults to get away from the daily distractions of life and focus on having fun with their children, Clark said.

“It’s like going camping, only we do all the work,” Clark said. “You really feel like you’re away.”

Older children may enjoy hiking, kayaking, archery and the camp’s giant swing. If a lazy day is desired, families can spend their time relaxing on the beach and playing in the sand. The activities are optional.

“It’s kind of a relaxed atmosphere,” Clark said. “You have some real quality time to enjoy your youngster.”

North of Spokane on Deer Lake, Pinelow Park and Conference Center also offers a family camp, set for June 30 through July 2 this year.

“We’ve had family camp up here for at least a couple decades,” said executive director Mark Sterk.

Accommodations vary according to family preference. Lodging is available, but families also can choose to camp in their own RV.

“We have discounted meals and family rates for the weekend,” program and marketing director Nancy Sterk said.

The Christian camp offers water skiing, golf, Bible classes, games and other activities for all ages.

“The activities are built so that kids and adults can do them together,” Mark Sterk said. “It builds a sense of family.”