Okay, so here’s the thing—summer camps for adults are a thing. And it might just be the reset your soul didn’t know it needed. If you’re like a lot of us, maybe you’ve been craving a little space. Space to breathe, to be outside, to laugh without checking your phone every five minutes. Because somewhere between growing up and showing up for everything and everyone else, we lost the joy of just being. Let’s find it again.
In this post we’ll talk about what adult camps are, what to expect, and so much more.
What's Inside
Best Adult Summer Camp in Smoky Mountains National Park
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Is Adult Summer Camp a Thing?
Yes—adult summer camp is a very real thing. And no, it’s not weird or woo-woo or only for party people. Summer camps for adults have popped up all over the country in the last decade, and for good reason: people are craving joy, play, and connection more than ever.
What Are Summer Camps for Adults (And Why Is Everyone Talking About Them)?
At its core, adult camp is a mix of nostalgia and intentionality. You get the “remember how fun this used to be?” vibe—paired with the freedom to nap, opt out, or just watch the sunrise with your coffee. It’s like summer camp and a soulful weekend getaway had a really good idea.
Who This Is (and Isn’t) For
Most campers are anywhere from their late 20s to their 60s. Some come with a friend or partner. A lot come solo. What do they have in common? A desire to feel more connected—to themselves, to other good people, to nature. Adult camps are perfect for those who want to loose cell service.
This is for the ones who are busy but craving pause. For the quietly burned out. For anyone who doesn’t want a party or a personal breakthrough—just something that feels real again.
You don’t need to be “outdoorsy.”
So… What’s the Vibe, Really?
Every adult summer camp is a little different, and knowing the vibe can help you pack smarter and show up ready for a good time. Some camps lean into full-on party mode (think themed dance nights, bonfires with drinks, and lots of social energy), while others are more about mindfulness, forest bathing, and early morning yoga.
Before you pack your sequins or your incense, check your camp’s schedule and see how structured or laid-back it is. If there are themes or costumes involved—trust me, you’ll want to know ahead of time so you can bring the goods!
How to Choose the Right Adult Camp for You
The best adult summer camp for you isn’t the fanciest—it’s the one where you feel safe enough to be your full, curious, unplugged self. Ask yourself these questions:
Am I craving rest, adventure, connection—or a mix of all three?
Do I want to be part of a big, buzzing crowd or a smaller, more intentional group?
What’s my ideal pace—go-go-go, slow and steady, or totally self-guided?
Would I feel more at ease somewhere rustic, luxurious, or somewhere in-between?
Am I open to stepping a little outside my comfort zone if I know the space feels safe and welcoming?
Not Just a Camp—A Feeling You Forgot You Needed
Remember those campfire nights? You’re a little sun-tired, holding a sticky s’more, someone’s strumming a guitar in the background—and for a moment, everything feels easy. Not productive, not perfect—just good.
That’s the vibe we’re bringing back. Not bunk beds and cafeteria trays—but the feeling of being present, playful, and free in your own skin.
Here’s what adult camps give back to you:
That version of you who didn’t feel guilty for resting
Laughs that sneak up on you when you’re not trying
Moments where your shoulders drop and your breath gets deeper
Space to just be—without fixing, performing, or rushing
This isn’t about being a kid again.
It’s about giving your adult self the permission to feel light—and remembering that kind of joy is still in you.
Best Adult Summer Camp in Smoky Mountains National Park
What a Day at Camp Actually Looks Like
Each camp be be very different. Here’s what a sample day might look like:
- ☀️ Wake up to mountain air + morning stretch circle
- 🥾 Choose-your-own-adventure: hike, paddle, write, nap, wander
- 🥗 Lunch at the lodge
- 🎨 Optional creative breakout sessions
- 🔥 Evening campfire, s’mores, or stargazing
- 💤 Quiet cabin time (or impromptu board games if you’re feeling it)
Other summer camp activities for adults can include a water park, games and contests, arts and crafts, live music and DJ’s, foam parties, pool parties, talent shows, and so much more.
You can do everything—or nothing. That’s kind of the point.
What Most People Get Wrong About Adult Camps
Myth 1: You need to be in shape or an extrovert.
Nope. There’s zero pressure to “perform” here—physically or socially.
Myth 2: It’s all about drinking or partying.
Some camps are. Ours isn’t. We offer optional dry weekends and all are welcome.
Myth 3: You’ll feel awkward if you come alone.
Most people do. And by day two, they’ve made a friend for life. (No exaggeration.)
Lodging, Food, and Other Comforts
Lodging
Let’s be real—no one wants to show up with a sleeping bag only to find fully made beds… or vice versa. Some camps provide all your bedding, pillows, and linens. Others expect you to BYO everything (yes, even your towel).
💡 Pro tip: Ask if you’re in a shared cabin or solo, if bunk beds are involved, and whether earplugs might come in handy. Cabin charm = rustic, which can sometimes mean creaky floors and enthusiastic snorers.
Food
Food is half the fun of camp, so it’s worth knowing what’s included and what’s not. Some camps serve up three delicious meals a day, others may offer grab-and-go breakfasts or have limited snack options. If you have dietary restrictions (gluten-free, vegetarian, dairy-free, etc.), definitely check ahead to make sure they can accommodate you.
And if you’re wondering about drinks: is it BYOB? Are drinks sold on-site? Is alcohol even allowed? Every camp handles this differently. Some even have mixology workshops or beer tastings—yes please!
What if I don’t drink?
Many don’t. Dry weekends may be available.
Other Comforts
Bring your own wine or skip it altogether—we’re here for whatever helps you unwind.
And no, you don’t need to bring your own linens. We’ve got it covered.
Packing Made Easy: What to Bring
First, let’s talk about the most common things that may or may not be included.
Before you finalize your packing list, check with your camp to confirm what’s included and what you’ll need to bring yourself. Camps can differ widely in what’s provided!
Heads up: WiFi is limited on purpose. Unplugging is part of the experience.
Item / Amenity | Possible Status | Questions to Ask |
|---|---|---|
Bedding (Sheets, pillow, blankets) | May be provided or BYO | Are beds fully made or should I bring my own bedding? |
Towels (Bath, beach, & hand) | Sometimes included | Do I need to bring towels for both showering and swimming? |
Camp Gear (Sleeping bags, mats) | Sometimes included | Are sleeping bags or pads needed for overnights? |
Sports or activity gear | Sometimes supplied | Is gear for activities like kayaking, yoga, or archery provided? |
Costumes / theme night | May be required | Are there theme nights or costume parties to prepare for? |
Now, let’s talk about other things to pack. We’ve compiled a easy packing list chart below to help guide in what to pack.
Clothing | Gear | Toiletries | Other |
|---|---|---|---|
T-shirts / tank tops | Daypack | Toothbrush / paste | Swim towel |
Long sleeves & warm layers | Reusable water bottle | Soap | Bandana / buff |
Lightweight pants / shorts | Flashlight Headlamp | Shampoo | Hat |
Jacket | Sleeping bad | Conditioner | Sunglasses |
Swimsuit | Sleeping pad Air mattress | Deodorant | Sunscreen |
Underwear & socks | Travel pillow | Razor | Bug spray |
Comfortable bras | Earplugs Eye mask | Hairbrush | Medications |
Pajamas / sleepwear | Laundry bag | Feminine hygiene products | Wet wipes |
Sweatshirt / hoodie | Camp chair | ||
Rain jacket / pants Windbreaker | Phone charger Portable power bank | ||
Comfortable hiking shoes / boots | |||
Sandals / camp shoes | |||
Swim shoes | |||
Hat |
Is It Accessible?
Our camp location in the Smokies includes accessible trails and common areas, and we work directly with each camper to accommodate individual needs.
Whether that means navigating mobility challenges, dietary restrictions, or needing quiet space for reflection—we’re here for it.
We believe nature belongs to everyone. So we’re going to do everything we can to make sure this works for you.
Advice From the Guides (A Few Things We’d Tell Our Friends)
- Bring a book—but leave your expectations at home
- You won’t miss your phone as much as you think
- The quiet moments might surprise you the most
- It’s okay if you’re nervous. Most people are.
And if you ever feel unsure, we’re just a walk away.
Frequently Asked Questions About Adults Camp
What is the max age?
There isn’t one. Most campers are 25–65.
Do I need to be fit?
No. Come as you are.
Are laundry facilities available?
Most camps usually don’t have laundry services available so be sure to pack appropriately.
Final Thought on Adult Summer Camp
You don’t have to summit a mountain to have a moment. You just need a quiet trail, a kind group, and some space to breathe.
We created this camp because we needed it, too.
If you’re craving something slower, quieter, and more you—this might be your sign.
Best Adult Summer Camp in Smoky Mountains National Park
Megan Shurites
Megan is Chief Adventure Officer and Founder of GuideR Adventure with extensive experience in adventure travel all over the world. Megan has been to almost all US states and 5 of 7 continents and enjoys off the beaten path experiences. She strives to empower others to collect memories with those you love and conserve our natural spaces.
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