Day Camp vs. Overnight Camp: Finding the Right Fit for Your Child
As summer gets closer and families start sketching out their plans, one thing rises to the top of the list: finding experiences that actually matter—the kind that help kids grow, build confidence, make friends, and come home with stories they can’t wait to share. For many families, camp checks all those boxes.
But with so many types of camps out there, one question always comes up:
What’s the real difference between a day camp and an overnight (residential) camp—and how do you know which one is right for your camper?
At the simplest level, it comes down to this: day campers head home each evening; residential campers stay overnight. But the experiences behind those two options can look and feel very different.
Here at Camp Anothen, we focus solely on Day Camps. Even so, we have a deep appreciation for both styles—many of our friends lead incredible residential camps that shape kids’ lives in wonderful ways. What matters most isn’t choosing one “better” option, but finding the environment where your child will feel comfortable, supported, and able to thrive. A place where they can build friendships, explore boldly, and grow in faith as they discover who God created them to be.
The Core Difference: Day Camp vs. Residential Camp
Residential camps immerse campers in the full camp environment 24/7. Kids sleep in cabins, eat meals together, and spend several days or even weeks away from home while building a rich community. Oftentimes it can be a good escape to refocus and connect with God in nature. These camps can be a great fit for more experienced campers who are ready for that level of independence and adventure.
Day camps, on the other hand, offer the same spirit of discovery and connection – just in a daily format. Campers enjoy full days of outdoor fun, skill-building, and teamwork, then return home each evening to rest and share their stories with family. For many families, it's the perfect first step into the world of camp life.
Our day camp is designed to capture the best of both worlds. Meaningful adventure, strong friendships, and personal growth, within a Christ centered environment that encourages faith, courage, and confidence. Each day is filled with hands-on activities like archery, Pond Zip adventures, obstacle courses, swimming, team challenges, and creative crafts that can help campers discover their strengths and try new things.
Campers experience the joy of independence during the day, supported by their counselors who model servant leadership and build authentic relationships with each child.
Who is Residential Camp a Great Fit For?
Residential camps can be a wonderful fit for campers who are ready to experience a deeper level of independence and community. Living on-site for several days or weeks allows them to grow through shared routines, new friendships, and the adventure of living camp life 24/7.
These programs can be especially meaningful for kids who enjoy being part of a close-knit group, want to develop leadership and life skills, or are ready for longer stretches away from home. Many residential camps create powerful, faith- filled, experiences that help children mature, connect, and take the next step in their personal growth.
Who is Day Camp a Great Fit For?
Day camp can be a wonderful fit for families who want their children to experience real adventure, meaningful friendships, and personal growth, all within the rhythm of a daily life. It is ideal for kids who love to stay active, explore the outdoors, and challenge themselves in new ways. As our Camp Director, Maui, explains “Day camp can be beneficial in many ways. They help children develop socially while allowing them to stay close to home”. Campers get the chance to build confidence and independence during the day, while still returning home each evening.
He adds that “day camps also provide a valuable break from electronics, giving kids the chance to form real human connections”. In a world where screens often dominate, that opportunity for genuine interaction and teamwork is one of the most meaningful parts of the experience.
At Camp Anothen, we believe that camp should be more than just a place to spend the summer. It should be a place where campers experience real adventure, grow in character and confidence, and discover what it means to live with faith and confidence. They can do all this while being in a safe Christ-centered community.
Questions? We'd love to answer them: hello@campanothen.org
