Why All-Girls Summer Camps Still Matter and How They Shape Confidence for Life

In a world that moves fast and asks a lot from young people, there’s something powerful about giving girls a place where they can breathe, explore, and grow without pressure. That’s what all-girls summer camps continue to offer: room to try, fail, laugh, lead, rest, and discover who they are.

A space where girls take the lead

When girls are surrounded by only girls, something shifts. They speak up more. They try new things without worrying who’s watching. They take on leadership roles because there’s no one stepping in before they get the chance. It’s not about excluding anyone — it’s about creating an environment where confidence builds naturally.

Camp is one of the few places where girls get to experiment with independence in a safe, supportive setting. The result is a level of growth that shows up long after summer ends.

The magic of unplugged time

Phones and screens disappear for a week. At first, kids think it’ll be impossible. Then something happens: they settle in. They connect with friends face-to-face. They focus on the moment instead of the buzz in their pocket. They start to feel present in their own lives again.

That calm focus opens the door for creativity and self-expression — two things that thrive at Camp Oh-Neh-Tah.

Traditions that create belonging

Every summer, campers jump into rituals that make them feel part of something bigger:

• Evening campfires

• Swim days that turn strangers into friends

• Club activities that teach both skills and teamwork

• Cabin chats where girls feel safe to talk and be themselves

These moments weave together into a sense of belonging that many girls don’t find anywhere else during the year.

Growth that parents can feel

Parents often tell us they see a change right away when their child comes home. A clearer voice. More independence. A better understanding of who they are and what they’re capable of. That’s the core of youth development — and why all-girls environments remain so relevant today.

Looking ahead to 2026

We’ve posted our tentative dates for 2026: July 31 – August 8. Planning has already started, and the excitement is building. If you want your daughter to be part of a community that lifts her up, this is a great time to join the early-bird list.

Where confidence takes root

All-girls camps continue to matter because they offer something rare: a place where girls feel safe enough to stretch themselves. A place where they can be bold, be silly, be strong, be unsure — and still feel supported every step of the way.

Camp doesn’t just entertain for a week. It shapes confidence that lasts.