Lights, Camera, Summer Fun: Your Guide to the Best Summer Camp Movies
Summer is just around the corner, and you know what that means – it's time for summer camp! Whether you're a seasoned camper or a first-timer, there's something magical about spending your days in the great outdoors, making new friends, and creating memories that will last a lifetime. And what better way to get pumped up for your upcoming summer camp adventure than by diving into some of the best summer camp movies?
From hilarious comedies to heartwarming dramas, these films capture the essence of summer camp and are sure to get you excited for the months ahead. So grab your popcorn and get ready to be inspired as we take a look at some of our favourite summer camp movies!
Camp Rock (2008)
If you're a fan of music and dancing, then Camp Rock is the movie for you! This Disney Channel original film stars Demi Lovato and the Jonas Brothers and follows a talented group of young musicians as they attend a summer music camp. Expect catchy (cheesy) tunes, romance, and the importance of pursuing your dreams.
Fun fact: Believe it or not, the movie Camp Rock was filmed at real summer camps in Ontario! So there's a chance you might find yourself working at one of those camps this summer.
The Parent Trap (1998)
A classic summer camp movie. This Disney remake follows identical twins Annie and Hallie who meet at summer camp, Camp Walden and hatch a plan to switch places to reunite with their divorced parents. It's a heartwarming story about friendship, family, and of course, all the fun of camp!
Wet Hot American Summer (2001)
This cult classic takes a hilarious look back at the awkwardness and fun of adolescence at a 1980s Jewish summer camp. Prepare for cringe-worthy moments and laugh-out-loud scenes from a star-studded cast featuring Paul Rudd, Elizabeth Banks, and Bradley Cooper.
Camp Nowhere (1994)
Forget that boring summer camp! In Camp Nowhere, a group of fed-up teenagers take matters into their own hands. With their usual camp shut down, these resourceful kids decide to create their own summer paradise right in their wealthy neighbourhood! Get ready for water balloon warfare, side-splitting shenanigans, and a whole lot of rebellion as they turn their backyards into "Camp Nowhere" and redefine summer fun.
Moonrise Kingdom (2012)
Wes Anderson's quirky romantic comedy tells the story of two young lovers who run away to the wilderness during a summer scout camp. While not a ‘typical’ summer camp movie, it beautifully captures the intensity of first love, the thrill of adventure, and the power of young imaginations.
The Addams Family Values (1993)
Wednesday Addams takes centre stage in this sequel, where her morbid sensibilities hilariously clash with the perky optimism of a summer camp. It's a quirky look at camp rivalries and the challenges (and dark humour) of fitting in, Addams Family style.
Camp Hideout (2023)
Camp Hideout is a heartwarming coming-of-age comedy that throws it back to classic summer camp movies. It follows Noah, a rebellious teen on the run from some shady characters. He stumbles upon a quirky summer camp and decides to hide out amongst the camp counsellors and campers. But his secret is threatened when his pursuers catch up. Noah must team up with his newfound camp friends to build an elaborate hideout and outsmart the bad guys. Camp Hideout is a hilarious movie, filled with summer camp shenanigans and valuable lessons about friendship and belonging.
Crip Camp (2018)
This one will take you on a trip back to the 1970s to a revolutionary summer camp called Camp Jened. This wasn't your average summer camp. Camp Jened provided a life-changing experience for teenagers with disabilities. The documentary dives deep into the camp's impact, showcasing not just fun and friendship, but also self-discovery and a powerful push for change.
Get ready for a rollercoaster of emotions – you'll be laughing, cheering, and maybe even shedding a tear or two. Camp Jened is a must-watch for anyone who believes in equality and the power of the human spirit. It might even inspire you to get involved – perhaps by working at a special needs summer camp.
Summerhood (2008)
This coming-of-age story throws you right into the heart of summer camp with a group of young boys. Brace yourself for epic water balloon fights with neon guns, conquering fears on the rickety climbing wall, and facing the butterflies of first crushes. Through hilarious misadventures and heartfelt moments, Summerhood captures the magic of camp life and the unbreakable bonds of friendship. Get ready for a wave of nostalgia that will have you reminiscing about your own camp days (or wishing you had them!)
Fun fact: This was filmed at a real summer camp in Nova Scotia!
Theater Camp (2023)
This recent mockumentary follows a ramshackle theatre camp in upstate New York. When the founder falls into a coma, his son and the camp's eccentric staff must pull together to keep the show going. Filled with heart and humour, this film is sure to resonate with any camp counsellor who's ever belted out a show tune under the stars at camp.
These are just a few of the many movies out there that capture the magic of summer camp. But the real adventure awaits you this summer! We hope you’re ready for days filled with laughter, unforgettable experiences, and the chance to make a positive impact on the lives of campers. Just like in the movies, summer camp is about building friendships, conquering challenges, and creating memories that will last a lifetime.
Turn your movie marathon dreams into reality by working at a summer camp in Canada. To start an application click ‘Apply Here.’
