Camps in the USA 2025 – How to go to a camp in America?
Why is it worth going to a camp in the United States?
Learning English
A stay at a youth camp in the USA is a great opportunity to immerse yourself in English in a natural way. Daily conversations with peers and staff from around the world make language learning spontaneous and effective. Even those who previously had language barriers quickly start speaking more confidently and fluently.
Getting to know the culture of the USA
A camp in the United States is more than just a vacation – it’s a true immersion in American culture. Participants have the chance to experience daily life, traditions, and customs of Americans from the "inside," not just through the TV screen. It’s an invaluable experience that broadens horizons and changes the way you see the world.
International experience
Youth camps in the USA bring together participants from many different countries. This diversity helps young people learn openness, tolerance, and teamwork. It’s also the first "international" experience that can benefit future endeavors—whether in school, college, or professional life.
New friends from around the world
Camp is a place where friendships are naturally formed, often for life. Shared activities, trips, evening bonfires, and team games create an atmosphere that fosters close relationships. As a result, participants return not only with beautiful memories but also with contacts from various corners of the world.
How to prepare? Everything you need to know before going to a camp in the United States
Knowledge of English
A basic knowledge of English is essential. All activities, instructions, and communication with guides and peers are in English. Participants should be able to communicate comfortably in everyday situations, understand commands, and actively participate in group discussions.
Age of participants
Most programs are aimed at youth aged 13–18. Each camp has a specific age range, so it’s important to check the requirements for the particular trip.
Physical fitness and readiness for activities
Camps are very active – they include rafting, rock climbing, hiking, surfing, and other adventure sports. You don’t need to be a professional athlete, but good physical condition, no health contraindications, and a willingness to put in effort and work outdoors are required.
Accommodation and conditions
Most nights are spent camping in nature, in tents. You should be prepared for limited access to the internet, comforts, and privacy, as well as for preparing meals together, cleaning, and taking care of your place of stay.
Cooperation skills and openness
Programs emphasize teamwork, integration, and shared experiences. Openness to new people and cultures, willingness to work together, and help one another are required.
Passport and visa
Since the camps are held in the United States, a valid passport and a B-2 tourist visa, or participation in the Visa Waiver Program (ESTA) depending on citizenship, are required. The visa process should be started well in advance.
Travel and health insurance
Every participant must have health insurance valid in the USA, covering potential treatment costs, hospitalization, and medical transport. Travel insurance is often also required.
Getting to the meeting point
Participants usually meet at the airport in a major city, such as Portland, San Francisco, Salt Lake City, or Denver. Two options are possible:
Parents drop the child off at the meeting point.
The participant flies alone – in this case, the airline requires the Unaccompanied Minor Service and the organizer should be notified.
Sample camp activities
✅ Hiking in National Parks (Rainier, Zion, Yosemite, Sequoia, Rocky Mountains)
✅ Surfing at Cannon Beach and Stinson Beach
✅ Rock climbing (Smith Rock, Saint George, via ferrata)
✅ Rafting trips (Deschutes River, White Salmon River, Arkansas River)
✅ Exploring San Francisco and Oregon's nature
✅ Community service (planting plants, cleaning parks)
✅ Caves, waterfalls, wildlife, and stargazing nights
Sample camp offers in the United States
Northwest Pacific: From the Coast to the Cascades – an 18-day adventure for youth aged 15–17 in the picturesque Oregon and Washington region. This adventurous, hiking camp will take participants from the Oregon coast’s waves to the peaks of the majestic Rainier National Park. The program includes surfing at the iconic Cannon Beach, rafting on wild rivers (Deschutes and White Salmon), rock climbing in Smith Rock State Park, and hiking through mountains and rainforests. Youth also experience the local nature and engage in community service, with each night spent camping under the stars.
Colorado Bold – an intensive, two-week adventure for youth aged 12–18 in the scenic state of Colorado. The camp combines mountain tourism, rafting, climbing, and community service, creating unforgettable holidays full of excitement. Participants will hike through the Rocky Mountains National Park, climb via ferrata, raft on the raging Arkansas and Colorado rivers, and admire majestic rock arches in Arches National Park. The camp is also a time for reflection and action – youth participate in a community garden project in Moab, learning responsibility and sustainable development.
Ultimate Hawaii Camp – an exceptional adventure for youth aged 16–18, blending outdoor activities, nature exploration, and community involvement. Participants will learn to surf on Kona’s coast, dive with mantas at night, sail on a catamaran with dolphins, and hike active volcanoes, discovering Hawaii’s most spectacular spots. The program also has a strong educational and ecological aspect – youth collaborate with local communities on environmental protection and sustainable agriculture projects, getting to know the island’s culture and learning how to care for its unique ecosystems.
California Bold Camp – an ideal proposition for youth aged 16–18, offering a mix of adventure, outdoor activities, and learning. Participants will surf on Stinson Beach, climb granite peaks in Yosemite National Park, raft on the American River’s rapids, and participate in environmental protection work in Marin County. The camp concludes with an unforgettable tour of San Francisco, visiting Alcatraz, the Golden Gate Bridge, and local attractions, making it a camp full of emotions and unforgettable experiences.
