How to Create An Affordable and Memorable Camp Experience

In my family, overnight summer camp was a luxury that my parents couldn’t afford. However, I was able to go to Olympia Sports Camp at the end of the school year when I was in middle school, through a one-week class trip that was subsidized by my school. 

I had an awesome time at Olympia, and I got to try activities that I would never otherwise be introduced to – like canoeing and kayaking. I enjoyed all the team sports and activities that we played, I loved eating in the mess hall with my classmates, and singing songs over the campfire. Although I had a lot of camping experience with my family I had never been away to camp independently before, and to this day I cherish the memories I made.

If, like my parents, overnight camp is an experience that you’d like to offer your children, but you are worried about the costs then consider these tips before you decide against it:

• Check out local camperships that may send your child to camp at a reduced rate
• Many camps offer sibling discounts
• Consider saving the child tax credit that you receive from the federal or provincial government each month
• You can claim some of the taxes if the camp you choose qualifies for the children’s activity tax credit

If the cost of camp is still out of reach for your family, consider day camp options in your area, which offer the same benefits and awesome camp experiences as overnight camps, but often for less.

Give your kids the best camp experience this year. Meet with top camps across Ontario and Quebec at the Our Kids Camp Expo

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