Camp for Grown-Ups

Photos courtesy as noted

Lifestyle If you’re on the hunt for a thrilling reinvention of the vacation experience, look no further than adult camps.

A blend of nostalgic childhood fun and grown-up freedom, these retreats offer the chance to dive into adventure, explore new passions, and forge lasting connections, all in a supportive and playful environment. Among the many available, here are six that cater to diverse interests, inviting you to enjoy a litany of incredible activities and create memories that last a lifetime.

Club Getaway
(Kent, Connecticut)

Whether you want to relive your glory days or embrace traditional camp life for the first time, Club Getaway may be the destination for you. Situated on a 300-acre lakeside oasis in western Connecticut, this is the perfect place to unleash your inner child over a three- or four-day weekend. With activities spanning all skill levels and interests—including zip-lining, sky cycling (riding a bicycle attached to a rope suspended in the air), and rope courses at the onsite adventure park as well as team sports, water activities, and yoga and painting classes—you can be busy from dawn to dusk and even later. Once you’re finally wiped out, settle in for a refreshing rest at the provided lodgings: rustic lakefront cabins with modern amenities like air-conditioning, private baths, and daily housekeeping.

@ Club Getaway

Boot Camps by the Culinary Institute of America (CIA)
(Hyde Park, New York; Napa, California; San Antonio, Texas)

If you consider yourself a foodie, these legendary boot camps will give you a deep dive into the culinary arts like you’ve never experienced before. No matter which theme you pick, you can gain experience with a small group of other enthusiasts through hands-on learning from famed chefs. For example, experience the flavors of international cuisine from countries like Italy, France, and Asia at the Best of Boot Camp, or experiment with shaping bread and creating refined desserts at the Baking Boot Camp. Programs range from three to five days depending on the type.

Camp Halcyon
(Wautoma, Wisconsin)

For a true foray into the wilderness, immerse yourself in the charm of Camp Halcyon in the heart of Wisconsin, where you can unplug in a back-to-basics setting with cozy coed cabin shells. Whether you prefer a swim in the lake, a game of volleyball, a round of archery, a yoga session, or a cooking class, you can decide how to spend your time. Then savor warm summer evenings by sitting around a bonfire, making s’mores, and singing karaoke with your fellow campers. Camp Halcyon has also expanded to new locations for 2024—one in Michigan and another in the Pennsylvania Poconos.

© Camp Halcyon

Adult Space Academy
(Huntsville, Alabama)

It turns out you’re never too old for space camp! Get a chance to feel what traveling outside the earth’s orbit is like at the Adult Space Academy, a three-day camp that immerses attendees in various astronaut training experiences. Simulate the unique sensation of being in space on the Multi-Axis Trainer, go on interactive space missions, build and launch model rockets, and take lessons on designing protective heat shields. While true space travel may yet be lightyears awayyou certainly won’t feel like you’re missing out with the exhilarating experiences at this camp.

Camp Rahh
(Samish Island, Washington)

Trade urban chaos for the unbridled beauty of the Pacific Northwest at Camp Rahh. Nestled on a 47-acre island along Padilla Bay, this four-day, all-inclusive adult summer camp is the perfect place to unplug, unwind, and connect with nature and other attendees. Whatever your preferences, Camp Rahh provides a diverse range of activities to choose from: find serenity through yoga, meditation, or wellness workshops, tap into your creativity via writing sessions or culinary classes, or burn off some energy by dancing to live music or enjoying the organized games. Each of these activities adds to a vibrant community spirit, which is further fostered by communal dining and shared spaces.

© Camp Rahh

Camp No Counselors
(Sanger, California)

Tucked away in the rugged mountains and valleys of Los Angeles awaits an opportunity to digitally detox through a remarkable four-day summer-camp experience. Here you can engage in your choice of traditional camp activities, such as arts and crafts, team games, water sports, kickball, and the all-exciting end-of-camp Olympic games. If you prefer a more laid-back retreat, you can also savor lakefront yoga, sunbathing by the pool, and taking leisurely walks with fellow campers. The evening activities are equally impressive, featuring live bands, DJs, and movies under the stars.

Adult retreats can range from low-cost to luxurious and vary from weekend- to week-long experiences or more. Identify your interests, consider any time constraints, and define your budget—then prepare for the adventure of a lifetime.