For more than 100 years, Red Arrow Camp has watched boys transform over the course of a single summer—becoming more independent, more responsible, more resilient, and more connected to others. Today’s boys need summer camp more than ever. Research shows that time away from screens, structured independence, outdoor challenge, and friendship-based environments dramatically improve boys’ social, emotional, and physical well-being.
This page explains why camp matters, the benefits of summer camp, and specifically, the benefits of a boys summer camp like Red Arrow Camp.
Modern childhood is dramatically different from the one most parents grew up with. Jonathan Haidt’s recent book, The Anxious Generation reveals that the shift to a phone-based childhood has led to:
Boys today spend more time on screens than outdoors, more time consuming content than creating it, and more time in digital “connection” than real face-to-face friendships.
Camp restores what childhood should be.
Summer camp provides a uniquely powerful environment to help boys grow. Studies from the American Camp Association, Harvard’s Center on the Developing Child, and leading child psychologists highlight several key benefits –
There are many camps—but Red Arrow’s program is uniquely designed for boys aged 7–16.
Depth of growth requires time. Our full-summer model gives boys enough repetition, challenge, and community to see real transformation.
For over a century, Red Arrow has created an environment where boys feel part of something bigger—a brotherhood grounded in character, adventure, and integrity.
Our activities are taught with purpose—not just recreation. Boys progress, earn achievements, and build confidence through mastery.
Boys need role models who demonstrate resilience, kindness, discipline, and humor. Our staff creates a culture where effort and character are celebrated.
At the end of each summer you’ll recognize a change in your son. He will come home:
