Top 16 Summer Camps From Movies and TV
Have you seen TV shows or movies that have had Summer Camps feature?
From heart warming stories to innocent fun and some rather scary, here are the top Summer Camps From Movies and TV for your viewing pleasure! We wouldn’t want to visit the Summer Camp at number 12 though… here are the top 16 Summer Camps from Movies and TV
1. Camp Walden – The Parent Trap
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Fencing matches and not ONE but TWO Lindsay Lohans? Tell us which Camp Walden cabin to drop our bags in…
“Camp Walden for Girls” was a summer camp featured in the 1998 film “The Parent Trap,” a remake of the 1961 film of the same name. The movie was directed by Nancy Meyers and starred Lindsay Lohan in a dual role as identical twins Annie James and Hallie Parker.
In the film, Annie and Hallie, who were separated at birth when their parents sadly divorced, unexpectedly met at Camp Walden. The camp is depicted as a picturesque summer camp for girls, complete with cabins, outdoor activities, and a beautiful lake. The girls initially dislike each other, but as they spend time together, they discover that they are sisters and it shows the effect that Summer Camp can have on everyone in bringing people together through difficult circumstances.
The story revolves around the twins’ plot to reunite their long-lost parents, Elizabeth James (played by Natasha Richardson) and Nick Parker (played by Dennis Quaid). The film is known for its heartwarming and comedic moments as the twins switch places to bring their parents back together.
Plus did you know there really is a Camp Walden… and we work with them! We just can’t promise that Lindsay Lohan will be there…
2. Camp Firewood – Wet Hot American Summer
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Remember, whether it’s the last day of Summer Camp or the First Day of Camp, a true hit that always wanted you wanting more
Camp Firewood is a summer camp featured in the 2001 cult classic film “Wet Hot American Summer.” Directed by David Wain, the movie is a satirical comedy that parodies and celebrates the teen sex comedies and camp movies of the late 1970s and early 1980s. The film is inspired by their own Summer Camp experiences with David going to Camp Modin in 1979.
The film boasts an ensemble cast of comedic talent, including Janeane Garofalo, David Hyde Pierce, Michael Showalter, Michael Ian Black, Paul Rudd, Amy Poehler, Bradley Cooper, and many others. It’s known for its absurd and silly humour, exaggerated characters, and over-the-top scenarios. There is always a bad boy of camp that came down to Paul Rudd playing Andy. All of the cast even lived at the camp whilst filming. The camp in question was Camp Towanda another camp we work with at Camp New York. In fact Hank Azaria, the actor and voice from the Simpsons is even a Camp Towanda alumni!
The story itself takes place on the last day of Summer camp in the summer of 1981, with the counsellors trying to wrap up their unfinished business and make the most of their remaining time together. Despite its initial release receiving mixed reviews, “Wet Hot American Summer” has since gained a dedicated cult following.
The success of the film led to the creation of a prequel television series, “Wet Hot American Summer: First Day of Camp,” released on Netflix in 2015, followed by a sequel series, “Wet Hot American Summer: Ten Years Later,” in 2017. Both the film and the series maintain a style that resonates with fans of offbeat comedy. For us it just makes us want to do Summer Camp in America and head to Camp Towanda! Just like the cast who became obsessed with the local Walmart we are sure that you would also do the same.
3. Camp Anawanna – Salute Your Shorts
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Just imagine waking up and singing this incredible theme song every morning — however, as Ug says, “Get it right or pay the price!”
“Camp Anawanna” is the fictional setting for the popular 1990s Nickelodeon television series “Salute Your Shorts.” The show, created by Steve Slavkin, aired from 1991 to 1992 and followed the comedic experiences of a group of kids spending their summer at the fictional Camp Anawanna.
The main characters, including campers and summer camp counselors, navigated the typical challenges of camp life, forming friendships and dealing with various humorous situations. The series is best remembered for its catchy theme song and the camaraderie among the diverse group of characters.
The title “Salute Your Shorts” refers to a running gag in the show where campers would play pranks on each other, often stealing each other’s shorts and hoisting them up the camp flagpole. The show is a nostalgic favourite for many who grew up watching Nickelodeon in the early 1990s.
4. Camp Hope – Heavyweights
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“Fat camp” or not, any camp owned by Jerry Stiller and Anne Meara (and then Ben Stiller) is one we’d want to go to. In fact just imagine if any of them were fellow Summer Camp co-counsellors!
Camp Hope is the fictional weight-loss camp featured in the 1995 comedy film “Heavyweights.” Directed by Steven Brill and produced by Judd Apatow, the movie is a coming-of-age comedy that revolves around a group of overweight boys attending the camp.
The film’s main character is Gerry Garner, played by Aaron Schwartz, who is sent to Camp Hope by his parents in an attempt to lose weight and adopt a healthier lifestyle. However, the camp undergoes a dramatic change when a new owner, fitness guru Tony Perkis (played by Ben Stiller), takes over. Perkis turns the camp into an extreme and militaristic weight-loss program, much to the dismay of the campers and the original Summer camp counsellors.
As the story unfolds, the boys rebel against Perkis’s harsh methods and work together to take back control of their camp. “Heavyweights” is known for its blend of humour, heart, and positive messages about self-acceptance and friendship. The film has become a cult classic over the years, appreciated for its entertaining storyline and memorable characters. With that said we don’t work with any “fat camps” at Camp New York!
5. Camp North Star – Meatballs
Come for the Summer camp activities, stay for the Bill Murray motivational speeches. Obviously!
Camp North Star is the summer camp featured in the 1979 comedy film “Meatballs.” Directed by Ivan Reitman also of Ghostbusters fame, the movie stars Bill Murray as Tripper Harrison, a Summer Camp Counsellor at the camp. “Meatballs” is considered a classic summer camp comedy and was one of Bill Murray’s early breakout roles. It was filmed at Camp White Pine and all of the actors did their own stunts!
The story centres around the interactions and adventures of the campers and Summer Camp counsellors at Camp North Star, with a focus on the bond that develops between Tripper and a shy camper named Rudy Gerner. Throughout the film, Tripper provides comedic guidance to the campers, imparting life lessons and fostering a sense of camaraderie. The ongoing joke of calling Camp Northstar’s director, Morty, by the name of Mickey is in reference to Mickey Mouse’s original name, Mortimer Mouse.
“Meatballs” is known for its humour, particularly Bill Murray’s improvisational style, and its feel-good atmosphere. The film’s tagline, “It just doesn’t matter,” became iconic and is associated with the film’s underlying message of embracing life and not taking oneself too seriously. The success of “Meatballs” contributed to Bill Murray’s rise to stardom, with this being his first film as the lead actor. An established Summer Camp film that has become a beloved classic in the summer camp comedy genre.
All we know is it makes us want to go to camp with Bill Murray and in fact there is indeed a camp called Camp North Star!
6. Camp Ivanhoe – Moonrise Kingdom
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For those who want to be one with nature and to eat corn, Wes Anderson-style. This was the first romance film that accurately captured the feelings of childhood and rebellion!
Sam Shakusky is a Khaki Scout at Camp Ivanhoe, and the camp plays a significant role in the narrative. The film captures the whimsical and distinctive visual style that is characteristic of Wes Anderson’s work. Camp Ivanhoe is portrayed as a picturesque and orderly place, reflecting Anderson’s meticulous attention to detail in set design and cinematography.
While the camp is not the central focus of the story, it contributes to the overall nostalgic and quirky atmosphere of “Moonrise Kingdom.” The film received critical acclaim for its unique storytelling, character development, and visual aesthetics, and it has become a fan favourite among Wes Anderson enthusiasts and of course all of us here at Camp New York!
7. Camp Ovation – Camp
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If archery or Capture the Flag don’t get you going, head to this performing arts camp and have a good ol’ fashioned singalong with Anna Kendrick!
The film explores various themes such as self-discovery, friendship, and the pursuit of artistic passions. The camp is a place where young performers can hone their skills in acting, singing, and dancing while navigating the challenges of adolescence.
“Camp” features an ensemble cast of talented young actors, including Anna Kendrick in one of her early roles. The characters deal with issues such as competition, identity, and acceptance while preparing for a showcase at the end of the summer.
The film is notable for its musical numbers and the exploration of the emotional lives of its characters. “Camp Ovation” serves as the backdrop for the characters’ artistic journeys and personal growth, making it a central element in the film’s narrative. If you’re looking for a performing arts camp then this is the film for you!
8. The Camp in The Baby-Sitters Club Movie
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We will give you bonus points if you bring some Baby-Sitters Club books in your camp backpack while attending this day camp run by Mary Anne Kristy, and of course the rest of the Baby-Sitters Club – the BSC!
Camp Mohawk is where the characters attend a summer camp, and it becomes a significant part of the plot. The camp scenes showcase the girls’ friendships, challenges, and personal growth as they navigate the ups and downs of camp life.
The movie captures the spirit of the book series, focusing on themes of friendship, responsibility, and the experiences of adolescence. The camp setting adds a new dimension to the characters’ relationships and provides a backdrop for memorable moments in the film. “The Baby-Sitters Club” movie remains a nostalgic favourite for fans of the book series and those who grew up watching it in the mid-1990s. If BSC is anything to go by then just imagine your own adventures during Summer Camp at Camp New York!
9. Camp Callaway (It Takes Two)
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Like Lohan and The Parent Trap, Camp Callaway features twins, so double the Olsens, double the fun!
In the film, Amanda is a street-smart orphan, and Alyssa is a wealthy girl who attends Camp Callaway for the summer. The camp becomes a significant setting in the storyline, providing a backdrop for various comedic and heartwarming moments as the two girls navigate each other’s lives.
The camp scenes showcase the stark contrast in the girls’ backgrounds and highlight the challenges they face while trying to bring their respective father figures together. “It Takes Two” is known for its lighthearted humour and the charming performances of Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen, who were popular child stars in the 1990s. Camp Callaway serves as an essential element in the film, contributing to the overall theme of friendship and family.
10. Beaver Falls
“Beaver Falls” is a British comedy-drama television series that aired from 2011 to 2012. The first episode aired on E4 in the UK on 27 July 2011. The show was renewed for a second and final series. Beaver Falls is set in the fictional American summer camp, Beaver Falls, and revolves around three English university graduates who work as Summer Camp counsellors at the camp. The main characters are Flynn, A-Rab, and Barry all from Oxford Brookes Univerisity, and the series follows their adventures and misadventures in the camp setting.
Beaver Falls, depicted as a traditional American summer camp, becomes the backdrop for the humorous and sometimes outrageous situations the characters find themselves in. The camp is an essential element in the show’s narrative, providing a setting for various camp activities, relationships, and coming-of-age experiences.
While “Beaver Falls” is not as widely known as some other camp-themed productions, it gained a following for its blend of comedy and drama as it followed those that looked after kids from California. The camp setting serves as a catalyst for the characters’ personal growth and the development of their relationships, making it a central aspect of the series. What you might not know is that Beaver Falls filmed in South Africa!
11. Camp Little Wolf (Little Darlings)
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Where Tatum O’Neal and Kristy McNichol took on a competition just slightly different than Color War. For Summer Camp novices there is nothing quite like Color War… anyway back to what we were saying!
In the 1980 film “Little Darlings,” the summer camp is called “Camp Little Wolf.” Directed by Ronald F. Maxwell, the movie is a teen comedy-drama that revolves around two teenage girls, Ferris Whitney (played by Tatum O’Neal) and Angel Bright (played by Kristy McNichol), who make a bet over who can lose their virginity first during their time at Camp Little Wolf.
The film explores themes of friendship, rivalry, and coming of age as the two girls navigate their way through the challenges and experiences of adolescence. Set against the backdrop of the summer camp environment, “Little Darlings” portrays the dynamics and relationships among the campers.
Camp Little Wolf becomes the setting for the girls’ interactions, friendships, and romantic pursuits. The film is notable for its candid approach to the subject matter and its exploration of the complexities of teenage relationships. While it received mixed reviews upon its release, “Little Darlings” has become a cult classic over the years and is remembered for its portrayal of the teenage experience in a summer camp setting.
12. Camp Crystal Lake (Friday the 13th)
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In fact…on second thought, maybe we shouldn’t bunk up at this one. We told you from the outset that we didn’t want to come to this one!
Camp Crystal Lake, which was then renamed as Camp Forest Green for a short time, and colloquially known as Camp Blood, was a summer camp for children and the central location in Friday the 13th. Located in Crystal Lake, Cunningham County, New Jersey, it was previously Forrest Green County and Wessex County. Camp Crystal Lake is most famous for being the home ground for the serial killer Jason Voorhees.
The story begins with a group of summer camp counsellors attempting to reopen Camp Crystal Lake, which had been closed for many years due to a series of tragic events. As the summer camp counselors arrive to prepare for the summer season, they become the targets of a relentless killer. The identity of the murderer is revealed later in the film as Pamela Voorhees, seeking revenge for the drowning death of her son Jason at the camp years earlier.
The success of the first film led to numerous sequels, and the “Friday the 13th” franchise became iconic in the horror genre. Camp Crystal Lake became synonymous with the series, and the eerie atmosphere of the Summer camp has left a lasting impression on horror movie fans. The character of Jason Voorhees, Pamela’s son, also became an iconic figure in the horror genre and is often associated with the camp setting.
We weren’t lying in that we wouldn’t want to be going to Camp Crystal Lake for the Summer… and you’ll be pleased to know that it’s not one that we work with!
13. Camp Chippewa – Addams Family Values
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Because who wouldn’t want Wednesday Addams and Pugsley as their fellow Summer Camp campers?
At Camp Chippewa, Wednesday and Pugsley find themselves in an environment that starkly contrasts with their dark and eccentric upbringing. The camp is portrayed as a typical, upbeat, and sunny summer camp with a focus on conformity, cheerfulness, and traditional values. The Addams siblings, however, struggle to fit in and adapt to the camp’s norms.
The film satirises the culture clash between the Addams family’s gothic, macabre lifestyle and the cheerful, wholesome atmosphere of Camp Chippewa. The scenes at the camp provide humour and social commentary as Wednesday and Pugsley Addams navigate their way through the camp’s activities and interact with the other campers.
“Addams Family Values” is known for its dark humour and satirical take on American family values. Camp Chippewa plays a crucial role in highlighting the film’s themes and providing a comedic contrast to the unique world of the Addams family. Who knows maybe you will live out a dream Summer at Camp Chippewa!
14. The Camp From Camp Nowhere
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Christopher Lloyd as a Summer Camp Counselor = greatest summer of your life, surely? Worse case go back in the Delorean and re-live it out!
In the wacky world of the 1994 family comedy “Camp Nowhere,” the camp is like Hogwarts for mischievous munchkins but without the spells and with a dash of Christopher Lloyd charm. It’s so legendary that even Google Maps can’t find it!
Picture this: a bunch of kids, desperate to dodge their less-than-stellar summer plans (we’re talking about you, Camp New York rejectees), decide to pull off the ultimate switcheroo. Led by the whimsically irresponsible Dennis Van Welker (played by the one and only Christopher Lloyd), they rent a campground and craftily persuade Dennis to be the puppet master of their summer charade.
Now, the genius twist? No adults telling them what to do! It’s like Lord of the Flies, but with less chaos and more marshmallow roasts. These pint-sized masterminds design the summer camp of their dreams, breaking all the rules in the process. Can you say ‘no bedtimes’ and ‘unlimited candy’? The kids sure can!
While the camp’s location remains a mystery (probably nestled between Narnia and Neverland), “Camp Nowhere” showcases the kids’ shenanigans as they dive headfirst into a summer of epic proportions. Friendship, creativity, and a pinch of mischief—what could possibly go wrong? Spoiler alert: absolutely everything, but in the most hilarious way possible!
So, buckle up for a cinematic joyride that proves kids can run the show, and who needs adults when you’ve got a campfire and a master plan that’s more foolproof than a rubber pencil!
15. Interlochen Fine Arts Camp – American Pie Presents: Band Camp
We all know that in American Pie, the running “one time at band camp” gag takes place at what is essentially a full time, residential music summer camp, Interlochen Fine Arts Camp, but what we all know is that it is The Ultimate Band Camp!
“American Pie Presents: Band Camp” is like the rebellious little cousin of the original “American Pie” films. It burst onto the scene in 2005, not quite making it to the big screen but instead opting for the VIP treatment of direct-to-video glory.
Picture this: Matt Stifler, the prodigious sibling of Steve Stifler, finds himself banished to band camp as punishment for unleashing a school prank of epic proportions. But fear not, Matt’s not about to let a little tuba-playing exile cramp his style. No, sir. Instead, he hatches a plan to create a covert adult film masterpiece using the camp as his unconventional film studio. It’s like Hollywood, but with more trombones.
But, hold the saxophone solo! This teenage auteur soon discovers that band camp has more in store for him than just marching to the beat of a different drum. Amidst the chaos of awkward encounters and musical mishaps, Matt learns the true meaning of friendship and responsibility. Who knew band camp could be so, well, band-tastic?
Now, while “American Pie Presents: Band Camp” might not have scored the same critical touchdown as its predecessors, it proudly carries the torch of raunchy hilarity that the series is famed for. So, grab your popcorn, your instrument of choice, and get ready for a symphony of laughter in this spin-off that proves even the strangest settings can teach you the sweet notes of life
16. Camp Rock
“Camp Rock” is Disney’s answer to the age-old question: What happens when you mix teenage dreams, catchy tunes, and the Jonas Brothers? Spoiler alert: you get a musical explosion that’s more entertaining than a monkey with a maraca!
Meet Mitchie Torres, the girl with a voice that could make angels weep. She scores a golden ticket to Camp Rock, a place where kids learn to hit high notes instead of high-fives. It’s like Willy Wonka’s factory, but instead of chocolate rivers, there are rivers of harmonies and guitar riffs.
But hold on to your hair gel! Mitchie’s secret identity is hanging by a thread, and it’s not just because of a wicked stepmother. At Camp Rock, where everyone’s chasing their musical dreams, Mitchie is keeping her true background under wraps. It’s like a pop-music soap opera, complete with glitter and perfectly coiffed hair.
Of course, it wouldn’t be a Disney musical without a sprinkle of magic. There’s rivalry, there’s friendship, and there’s music that’s catchier than the common cold. The Jonas Brothers bring their rockstar charm, and Demi Lovato belts out notes that make dolphins jealous.
“Camp Rock” is the kind of movie that makes you want to break into spontaneous song and dance, even if you’re just buying groceries. So, grab your microphone, put on your sparkliest outfit, and get ready for a summer camp experience that’s more fabulous than a unicorn playing a guitar solo!
Which Summer Camp would you choose?
With so many amazing summer camp memories from movies and TV if you could go to any, where would it be and why? One thing for sure is that an adventure awaits if you want it! Here at Camp New York we would love to make your own Summer Camp adventures become a reality. We really do promise to not send you to Crystal Lake! Have we missed out any Summer Camps From Movies and TV? We hope you enjoyed our top 16 Summer Camps from Movies and TV! Let us know if we need to add any in.
