Licensing and Regulations
Summer camps in California must have licenses to operate. Requirements vary by state. The American Camp Association provides information on licenses, background checks, pay, rest periods, and other regulations that camps must follow.
Cost and Profit
- Overnight camps cost $680-$2000 per week.
- Day camps cost $199-$800 weekly.
Campground owners can earn around $30 per camper daily. With 25 campers daily for a year, total revenue is $273,750. After costs, profit is approximately $23,750. Campgrounds can be profitable businesses while providing rewarding experiences.
Camp Operations
- Popular summer camping locations in California include: Tuolumne Meadows Campground.
- California regulations require a full-time health supervisor when campers are present.
- Counselors in California must be at least 19 years old, have a year of college, and be CPR and First Aid certified.
Licensing in Different States
- Day camps in California don’t need licenses but can choose to get them.
- Camps meeting the definition of a camp in New York must follow State Sanitary Code.
- Ohio day camps must register with the Department of Job and Family Services.
Funding and Setup
- Grants are available to help fund summer camps.
- Important elements in starting a camp include staff, programming, marketing, and more.
- Following state policies and procedures is key.