Why William Lawrence

The Benefits of Overnight Summer Camp for Boys

Overnight camp gives boys a chance to reset from the routines and pressures of everyday life, with room to try new things, build friendships, make their own choices, and grow more confident along the way.

First, it should feel like summer

He Comes for the Fun.

A game with new friends. An afternoon on the water. A story that gets funnier every time it is told. Those are good reasons to love camp.

Within that everyday fun are opportunities to make choices, work through challenges, and discover what he can do. Growth happens through taking part. Explore our programs and activities to see what he can try.

Small moments. Meaningful practice.

What He Gets to Practice.

Making a choice

Choosing what to try helps him discover his interests and practice making decisions.

Trying again

Returning to a challenge—with encouragement—helps him learn that progress takes practice.

Doing his part

Looking after his space and taking a role in shared activities gives him practice in responsibility.

Finding connection

Joining a game, listening, and asking for help give friendships room to grow.

For you, too

Giving Him Space Gives Him Room to Grow

You can be excited for your son and still find the idea of time apart difficult. Choosing camp means trusting other adults with something deeply important to you.

That time can offer room to rest, reconnect with people you care about, or focus on other responsibilities. It can also give you a fresh view of what your son is learning to handle for himself.

When you come back together, there are new stories to hear—and opportunities to notice the small ways he is growing.

A wider circle of support

His Circle of Support Gets Bigger

Camp adds counselors, cabinmates, and a community to his world. Before choosing a session, get to know the people and the approach that will support him.

A broader perspective

What the Research Says About Camp

The American Camp Association’s National Camp Impact Study identifies belonging, supportive relationships with staff, engaging activities, and learning through experience as qualities of strong camp experiences. Its findings suggest these experiences can support social and emotional learning beyond camp.

This research looks at camp broadly and does not guarantee a particular outcome for every child.

Read the ACA’s National Camp Impact Study

A family of five smiling together at camp with wooded mountains behind them

A decision for your family

Is Overnight Camp Right for Your Family?

Camp is an investment of time, money, and trust. It also gives your son something that can be hard to find at home: the space to reset, become more independent, build real friendships, and discover what he can do.

William Lawrence is an independent nonprofit camp, and we want families to feel confident in the decision to come here. Explore our session options and rates, then talk with us about whether William Lawrence Camp is the right fit for your son and your family.

Thinking It Through Together.

What if this would be his first time away from home?

Start with a conversation about your son, his experience away from home, and what he thinks about camp. We can talk through readiness and the support available. There is no need to have every answer before getting in touch. Our guide to preparing for camp can help you start the conversation at home.

What if he is quiet or new to the activities?

He does not need to arrive as the loudest boy or the most experienced. Talk with us about his interests and how he settles into new groups. Read about our approach to camper care.

How does camp fit alongside sports and family time?

Every family’s summer looks different. Consider the experience your son wants, the time you want together, and what is practical. Explore session options and current fees.

What if he misses home?

Missing home is something families often wonder about. Ask us how staff support boys as they settle in, and how camp communicates with families. Our Camper Care page explains more.

How should I involve my son in the decision?

Look through photos and activities together. Ask what sounds fun, what feels unfamiliar, and what he wants to know. Share those questions with camp so the conversation includes his perspective.

Keep Exploring the Possibilities.

Why Kids Need Summer Camp

When William Lawrence alumni, young and old, come back to the Knoll, they seem instantly transported back to their days at Camp. Countless William Lawrence traditions bind together a shared experience across all ages.

Read Post →

Grit Factor

Psychologist Angela Duckworth describes the term grit using words and phrases such as perseverance, passion, stamina, dedication, courage, resolve, sticking to it, working hard towards a goal. If you’re looking for ways to instill