People that have never experienced camp always ask me, "Why camp? Why do you believe in something like camp? Why does it mean so much to you?" I am sure every person that has been to camp has been asked these questions or similar ones before.

I have created a list of 22 reasons why everyone should experience camp:

1. There is never a dull moment.
2. It's a place where you can be as crazy as you want.
3. It is simply life changing for everyone.
4. You get to be one of those people that kids talk about for the rest of summer (and some even longer!)
5. You are able to be yourself.
6. Lifetime bonds are formed.
7. You realize how much you are loved not only by your campers, but also by your fellow staff members.
8. There is no judging.
9. You get to have new experiences.
10. You make more memories in one summer than you ever could in a lifetime.
11. Camp makes a difference in a person's life.
12. Love is always in the air.
13. You get to hear the campers and the counselors laugh all the time.
14. People are always smiling.
15. There is always a friend (or many friends) there for you even when you don’t think you need one.
16. It is a safe place.
17. Everyone is able to experience the outdoors.
18. You get to be surrounded by other people that believe in the magic of camp.
19. Happiness is contagious.
20. When seeing campers cry at the end of the week, you know that you made their week the best they have ever experienced.
21. You get to have that bond with all camp people that no one else has.
22. You're able to live your life without doubts or judgements.

These reasons and more are why I think that everyone should experience camp for at least one summer during a person's lifetime, whether it be as a child or as an adult.

Camp is life-changing.