What to Write in Camp Letters to Kids (40+ Ideas) + Care Package Ideas with Free Printables
Summer sleepaway camp is full of friends, fun activities, new adventures and memories your child will talk about all year long. A quick letter from home or a friend or family member is the perfect way to keep that connection strong and give them a little boost of encouragement while they’re away. Whether you’re sending a true piece of mail or an email, campers love to hear from you so here are some ideas for what to write in camp letters
If you’ve ever started a camp letter and hit a little writer’s block thinking, “What should I even say?” you’re definitely not alone. Finding that sweet spot between updates from home and keeping things upbeat and fun can be surprisingly tricky! You don;t want to act like you’re having too much fun without them in case there is a potential for homesickness but you also want to be positive and happy.
Below you’ll find:
- 40+ ideas for what to write in camp letters to kids
- simple, thoughtful message examples
- fun and encouraging note ideas
- plus easy camp care package ideas
And if you want something quick and fun, I’ve included free printable camp letters from home you can playfully “fill in the blank” and send in minutes.
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Table of Contents
What to Write in Camp Letters to Kids
The best letters to kid at camp are:
- Short
- upbeat
- encouraging
- a little funny or playful
- Written in fun stationary
- Include a question or task for them to respond to
You don’t need to write a long update as kids love quick notes they can read easily. They love mail (and email) and really just want to hear from you!
Encouraging Camp Letter Ideas for Kids (Perfect for Sleepaway Camp)
Use these when your child (or grandchild) might be feeling homesick or is newly adjusting.
“I am so proud of you for trying something new.”
“I bet you’ll make a really awesome craft that I can’t wait to see”
“Is the fresh air helping you sleep really well?”
“I have heard smores taste the best at summer camp, is that true?”
“Every new friend and new activity is something to be proud of.”
“You are braver than you think.”
“I love imagining all the fun you’re having each day.”
“I’m so proud of how you’re jumping into this experience.”
“Every day you’re at camp, you’re getting stronger and more confident.”
“Have you set any goals for yourself this summer?”
“It’s okay to miss home as that just means you love it here.”
“I can’t wait to hear all your stories when you get back!”
“You’re making memories right now that you’ll always remember.”
“We are cheering you on from home and can’t wait to hear all about your adventures.”
“Keep trying, keep smiling, and keep being you.”
Funny Camp Letter Ideas Kids Love
Kids enjoy humor in camp letters and this keeps things light.
“Has your cabin discovered your amazing dance moves or singing skills yet?”
“Big news: your room is officially cleaner without you… but not by much.”
“Camp rule: try something new and different (even if it seems boring) every day!”
“Quick survey: best snack so far? Most fun activity? Funniest moment? Most unique thing about camp”
“We gave the dog your list of chores and he’s also asking for your allowance!”
“The house is not the same without your humor! Send us a new joke you learned at camp”
“Don’t forget that you are the official snack inspector.”
“If there’s a talent show, I expect full participation (and photos)!”
“Make sure you teach someone something new this week!”
“What’s the funniest thing that has happened so far in your cabin?
“Important question: have you seen any interesting bugs yet?”
“Camp rule #1: Have fun. Camp rule #2: Eat extra s’mores.”
“How do the camp duties compare to your chores at home ?”
Fill-in-the-Blank Camp Letter Prompts
These prompts work two ways! You can fill them out yourself and include them in your letter, or send a few to your camper and let them fill them in and send them back as it’s a fun and easy way to stay connected.
“The funniest thing that might happen at camp is __________.” “
I bet your cabin mates think you’re the best at __________.”
“Don’t forget to show everyone your amazing talent for __________.”
“Your mission this week (you got this): __________.”
“If I were at camp, I would definitely take first place at __________.”
“The snack I hope you’re eating the most is __________.”
“I can’t wait to hear all about __________ when you get home.”
“Make sure you try __________ at least once!”
“The game I think you’ll love the most is __________.”
“I heard a rumor that campers there are really good at __________.”
“Don’t forget: you are the official champion of __________.”
“If there’s a contest, you should definitely enter __________.”
“Your superpower at camp is __________.”
“Make sure to teach someone how to __________.”
“If you become famous at camp, it will be for __________.”
“The best part of your day will probably be __________.”
Free Printable Camp Letters
Want to make camp letters even easier?
Templates to letters TO campers: Grab my free printable camp letters to kids which are fill-in-the-blank notes that help you send something upbeat, encouraging, and a little silly in just minutes.
Templates to letters FROM campers: You can also download letters from campers, print them out and send with campers to send home! These are designed with simple, positive prompts that help kids write home about their favorite parts of camp from new friends to fun activities and daily highlights.
Unique Camp Care Package Ideas (No Food)
- “Open When” letters bundle
A set of labeled notes like “open when you miss home” or “open when you need a laugh.” These are easy to do and a sweet keepsake they will love! - Photo memories pack
Printed photos of family, pets, or favorite places in little albums they can keep in their bunk. Send different ones on a regualr rotation! As an added bonus this is a great way for them to share things with their bunkmates - Friendship bracelet kit
Embroidery thread or a small bead kit to make and trade bracelets. - Disposable or instant camera
Let them capture their own camp memories. - Mini game pack
Card games, travel-size board games, or brain teaser puzzles. Surprise them with the latest fun travel games! - Mad Libs or fill-in games
Fun, interactive sheets they can do with friends. - Stationery kit
Cute paper, envelopes, and pens to encourage writing home. - Glow sticks or fun accessories
Great for night activities and cabin fun. - Small stuffed animal or comfort item
Something soft from home for bedtime. We know the kids are all loving Jellycat, Warmies, both of which are small enough to send in a package! - Camp journal
A simple notebook where they can write or draw each day. - Mini craft kit
Beads, coloring pages, or simple DIY projects. - Inside joke notes
Little reminders of funny family moments. - Positive affirmation cards
Short encouraging messages they can keep. - Silly challenge cards
“Teach someone a dance,” “Try a new activity,” etc.Outsource on Etsy! If you’re looking for something fin and unique that someone will do for you, there are so many fun care packages to purchase through Etsy.
Final Thoughts on Writing Camp Letters
Camp letters don’t need to be perfect, but they just need to feel personal and encouraging. One big bonus tip is send that note either before your camper leaves or the day you drop them off (preferably from that town) so they get it in their first few days.
A short, thoughtful note can:
- boost confidence in a new environment
- ease homesickness by encouraging them
- make a child feel loved and supported while they are off on a new adventure!
Whether you write your own message or use a printable, the most important thing is sending that connection from home or from a friend.
More Free Printables You’ll Love
Free Printable Teacher Awards
Fun and easy awards students can give to teachers for end of year or appreciation gifts.
Birthday Cards for Teachers
Sweet and simple printable cards kids can personalize for a teacher’s birthday.
Free Printable Teacher Appreciation Notes
Quick thank you notes that make it easy for kids to show gratitude to teachers.
Thank You Coach Letters With Prompts and Covers
Fill in the blank letters and covers that help kids create a thoughtful thank you for their coach.
Fill-In-The-Blank Thank You Notes From Kids
Easy guided prompts that help kids write meaningful thank you notes in minutes.
Letters to Kids at Camp
Fun fill in the blank letters you can send to your camper to keep them encouraged and smiling.
Fill-In-The-Blank Letters From Kids at Camp
Positive prompts that help kids write home about their favorite parts of camp.
Free Chore Chart Printables
Simple and effective charts to help kids stay on track with daily responsibilities.
Free Weekly Cleaning Checklist
A clear, easy to follow checklist to keep your home organized throughout the week.
