Essential Reads for Camp Directors

Running a successful camp requires a blend of leadership, creativity, and operational savvy. To support camp directors in honing these skills, we've compiled a list of essential reads.

These books cover a range of topics from leadership and management to programming and safety, offering insights that can transform your camp experience.

1. The Summer Camp Handbook: Everything You Need to Find, Choose and Get Ready for Overnight Camp—and Skip the Homesickness by Chris Thurber and Jon Malinowski

Why It’s Essential: Thurber and Malinowski offer a comprehensive guide to creating a positive and impactful camp experience. This book provides practical advice on how to design and operate a camp that enriches the lives of its participants.

What You’ll Learn: Techniques for program planning, reducing homesickness, and promoting a culture of inclusivity and growth among campers and staff.

2. Leaders Eat Last: Why Some Teams Pull Together and Others Don’t by Simon Sinek

Why It’s Essential: Although not specifically about camps, Sinek’s exploration of leadership offers invaluable lessons on creating an environment where everyone feels valued and motivated. It’s a must-read for understanding the dynamics of successful team leadership in a camp setting.

What You’ll Learn: The importance of creating a culture of trust and safety, and how it leads to more cohesive and dedicated teams.

3. The 175 Best Camp Games: A Handbook for Leaders by Kathleen Fraser

Why It’s Essential: This book is a comprehensive guide for camp directors and counselors, offering an array of games from ice breakers to energetic activities, aimed at fostering a fun and cohesive camp environment.

What You’ll Learn: Readers will learn to design engaging camp programs across different ages and interests, utilizing a diverse set of games to promote camper bonding and enjoyment.

4. Homesick and Happy: How Time Away from Parents Can Help a Child Grow by Michael Thompson 

Why It’s Essential: This book serves as a vital resource for parents, camp directors, and counselors, offering insights into the benefits and emotional challenges children face at sleepaway camp, and how these experiences contribute to significant personal growth.

What You’ll Learn: Readers will discover strategies for supporting children's development through summer camp experiences, along with guidance for parents on the benefits of lessening their protective hold.

5. Last Child in the Woods: Saving Our Children From Nature-Deficit Disorder by Richard Louv

Why It’s Essential: While not a camp management book per se, Louv’s influential work highlights the critical importance of connecting children with nature. It serves as a powerful reminder of the fundamental purpose of many camps.

What You’ll Learn: Insights into the benefits of nature on child development and strategies for integrating nature-based learning into your camp programs.

For camp directors, continuous learning is key to innovation and excellence. These essential reads offer valuable perspectives and strategies to enhance your camp's operations, leadership, safety, and overall camper experience. By investing time in these resources, you can ensure your camp not only meets but exceeds expectations, creating a nurturing, enjoyable, and transformative environment for all.