Summer camp, originally started in the USA but has now become popular over in the UK also with summer camp sessions now becoming available in several places around the country. These camps will usually allow the children to participate in a variety of activities including things such as hiking, absailing, BBQ's and canoeing. For example, there are camps for the performing arts, rock music, computers, children with special needs, and weight loss.

In most camps, the adult supervisors are called counsellors. Counsellors are responsible for guiding the campers during activities and ensuring the safety of the campers. In many camps, counsellors are assigned to smaller groups of campers, "huts", or "cabins", which participate in activities as a group, counsellors often share living accommodations with their groups. Most counsellors are in their late teens or early twenties, as it's an ideal job for high school or college students on summer break. Although counsellor jobs don't usually pay well (often times minimum wage or less), counsellors receive free room and board. Many take the job primarily for its enjoyable experience.

Summer camp is also known as "sleepaway camp" when campers spend their nights at camp. At some camps, all campers stay overnight, and at some camps the campers go home each night. Some other camps allow both day and overnight campers. Summer camp is often the first time that children spend an extended period of time away from home.