Sign up for playfulness at these multi-generational camps that have activities geared for all ages and abilities. "The camp experience benefits everyone, from the very young to the young at heart," says Peg Smith, CEO of the American Camp Association (CampParents.org). She shares her list of great places to go to camp with the kids with Kathy Baruffi for USA TODAY.
Medomak Camp
Washington, Maine
"Unplug, relax and reconnect with what's important: family, community and the environment" at this camp on coastal Maine, Smith says. Adults and children enjoy counselor-led activities such as archery, sailing, sculling, arts and crafts, tennis and photography. Adults can enjoy massage, yoga, local Maine beer and cheese tastings. 866-633-6625; medomakcamp.com
Camp Motorsport Adult/Child Sampler Weekends
Alton, Va.
"Enjoy the excitement of driving or riding together in the cars and carts here," Smith says of this camp at the Virginia International Raceway. No experience is required, as half the participants, from grandparents to kids, have never done it before. Stay in traditional camp dorms or opt for the resort hotel on property. 434-822-2999; campmotorsport.com
Cheley Colorado Camps
Estes Park, Colo.
"Families stay in covered wagons that sleep four people per wagon," Smith says of this camp near Rocky Mountain National Park. "Activities include a moviemaking day with camper screenings in the evening, technical climbing, riflery, crafts, horseback riding, day hiking and a "cinnamon roll hike to a general store about 1 mile away in town." 970-586-4244; cheley.com
Camp Tecumseh YMCA
Brookston, Ind.
"In addition to Family Camp, Tecumseh offers Grand Camp, a weekend just for grandparents and their grandchildren," Smith says. Soar into the lake on a Huck Finn-style rope swing, learn to play the popular ga-ga game or visit three-house treehouse, a hiking destination for an away lunch or overnight stays. The camp's private cabins have carpeting, a bathroom and built-in bunks. 800-382-2267; camptecumseh.org
Fairview Lake YMCA Camps
Newton, N.J.
"From hiking the Appalachian Trail and boating on the 110-acre lake to making candles and pressing apple cider, there's something for the entire family here," Smith says. "Join other families who want to develop or renew an appreciation for each other, while enjoying the peace and tranquility of beautiful Fairview Lake." The head chef is sensitive to vegetarian preferences as well as campers with special food needs. 800-686-1166; fairviewlakeymca.org
Bishop Stoney Camp & Conference Center
Santa Fe
"Located on 216 acres in the majestic forested countryside east of Santa Fe, Camp Stoney offers a variety of options in an enchanting setting," Smith says. Plan a mini family reunion and stay in cabins, which are divided into two rooms, or teepees, which are popular with the kids. You don't have to be religious to enjoy this Christian camp, as morning prayers and evening devotions are optional and mostly singing. 505-983-5610; campstoney.org
Camp Lakamaga
Scandia, Minn.
"Accommodations are in troop houses, cabins, yurts or platform tents" at this camp owned by the Girl Scouts, Smith says. Take the grandkids geo-caching, an outdoor treasure hunt using GPS co-ordinates, or go with your mate. Get in touch with your inner child and play relay games and obstacle courses on the lawn. Sign up for horseback riding, archery, biking and boating. 651-433-4580; girlscoutsrv.org
Big Lake Youth Camp
Sisters, Ore.
"Enjoy the natural beauty of Central Oregon while mountain biking through hemlock and fir trees" at the family camp sessions here, Smith says. "Do a hike on the Pacific Crest Trail, canoe and wakeboard on the clear, clean lake, then eat delicious meals." Campers young and old rave about the homemade bread and pasta sauces served here. 503-850-3583; biglake.org
Lake of the Woods Camp for Girls and Greenwoods Camp for Boys
Decatur, Mich.
"Every night there's a different evening program here, from singing around the campfire to family talent shows, " Smith says. "It's about spending quality time together." Adults have as much fun as the kids with golf, waterskiing, fishing, climbing, windsurfing, archery, riflery, tennis and sailing — together or solo. 888-459-2492; lakeofthewoodscamp.com
Camp Alleghany
Lewisburg, W.Va.
"This is an affordable, fun family camp in the Alleghany Mountains," Smith says. "Registration includes a three- or four-day stay, a platform tent with cots for each family, and three buffet meals each day." Swim and canoe on the Greenbrier River, or bring bikes and ride along the Greenbrier River Trail. The nearby town of Lewisburg has antique stores and there's live, professional theater at the Greenbrier Valley Theatre. 304-645-1316; campalleghany.com
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