Have you ever watched Dirty Dancing and thought, wow, I wish I could spend the summer in a delightful mountain resort where I could be with my family but also escape them (with or without a young Patrick Swayze) whenever I want? Lucky for you, the perfect multi-generational resort — aka “family summer camp” — does exist. There are a handful of standout camps across the United States that are truly turning heads — and luring families back, summer after summer.
That’s the true joy of these often retro-inspired resorts: They encourage you to build a tradition with your family, returning again and again — because once you arrive, staying there is just so easy. These gorgeous throwback escapes are heavy on amenities and light on forethought. Whether you’re craving a rustic retreat in the wilds of Montana or a peaceful, simple stay just driving distance from New York City, there’s a family summer camp here for every taste and adventure level. So pick your favorite from this list, book your summer stay and then just…show up. These resorts will take care of the rest.
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Ofland Escalante in Escalante, Utah
Family summer camp meets Wes Anderson desert dreamland at Ofland Escalante. This place is like a time warp — drive-in movies with old-school cars parked in front? Check. Retro-style cabins and luxe outdoor showers? Double check. One time I forgot bug spray and ended up borrowing homemade citronella balm from a stranger I met at the campfire who turned out to be an herbalist from Santa Fe. Classic Ofland moment.
What you really want to do here is explore the wild canyons of Grand Staircase–Escalante National Monument nearby. Slot canyons, ATV rides, and hikes that will leave you sunburnt and happy. Tip: hit the general store early, the portobello burger sells out faster than your patience on a family road trip.
The Graham & Co in Phoenicia, New York
You want that moody, nostalgic family summer camp vibe without sacrificing boutique aesthetics? The Graham & Co in the Catskills is your jam. Think fire pits, s’mores, flannel, and a ‘70s motel glow-up. I went here once solo post-breakup and ended up crashing a family volleyball tournament. 10/10, would emotionally heal here again.
During the day, rent a bike or kayak and float down Esopus Creek, then hit up Phoenicia Diner for biscuits as big as your kid’s head. Fall is absolutely bonkers with foliage, so book way ahead if you’re leaf-peeping.
Canyon Lodge & Cabins in Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming
Alright, hear me out. You want a family summer camp that feels like the wild west but with slightly more bear-proofing? Canyon Lodge inside Yellowstone National Park is your ticket. We stayed here once during a road trip and my 7-year-old legit thought he was on a National Geographic expedition. He kept whispering “we’re being watched” every time a squirrel showed up.
Spend the days geyser-hopping (yes, Old Faithful lives up to the hype), then go wildlife spotting at dawn — bison, elk, even wolves if you’re lucky. Local tip: skip the overpriced snacks and pack your own trail mix. I once paid $8 for a boiled egg. Never again.
Camp Fimfo in New Braunfels, Texas
Family summer camp energy here is off the charts, y’all. Camp Fimfo is Texas-meets-theme-park chaos in the best way. First time I went, I thought “oh, cute little cabins and a lazy river,” and then BAM — there’s a waterpark, gem mining, and a freaking zipline. I lost a flip-flop and half my dignity, but made a lifetime of memories.
Float the Guadalupe River with a drink in hand (in a legal koozie, obvi), grab coffee at their pioneer cart (adorable), then watch your kids conk out at 7 PM from sheer exhaustion. Go in May or early June to dodge peak heat and crowds.
Sandy Pines Campground in Kennebunkport, Maine
If Martha Stewart curated a family summer camp, it’d be Sandy Pines Campground. Right on the salty marshes of Kennebunkport, it’s glamping central with a vintage twist. I once spent a whole afternoon playing Uno with strangers in their lounge while waiting out a thunderstorm — and we still email sometimes, okay?
Rent a glamp tent or retro carriage, hit the heated saltwater pool, then head to Goose Rocks Beach with your tote full of lobster rolls. And yes, they sell wine at the general store — bless. Pro tip: Bring your own bike, rentals can be a bit $$ during peak season.
The Resort at Paws Up in Greenough, Montana
Welcome to Montana’s version of family summer camp, where the campfires are real and so is the glam. Paws Up is where cowboys go to unwind — and maybe also influencer families with matching outfits. My daughter cried when we left because she thought the pony she rode was “part of our family now.” I nearly agreed.
Activities? Everything from hot air balloon rides to full-on cattle drives (no joke). There’s even a kids’ camp where they learn how to build fires and identify animal tracks. Dinner is BBQ heaven under a million stars. It’s not cheap, but man, is it unforgettable.
Sundance Mountain Resort in Sundance, Utah : One of the best Place for Family Summer Camp
Let’s get poetic for a sec. Sundance Mountain Resort is like that wise old friend who lives in the woods, makes pottery, and still skis like a beast. You’re here for the family summer camp that cares about nature and creativity. Think log cabins, roaring fireplaces, and actual art workshops. My hands still smell like clay from a pottery session I completely botched, but loved every minute of.
Hike during the day, zipline if you’re brave (I screamed), and join a twilight painting class at night while your kids chase fireflies. Bonus: The coffee here is weirdly, intensely good. And if you spot Robert Redford? No you didn’t.
Final Thoughts
In the end, that’s what a great family summer camp is all about — ditching screens, ditching shoes (most of the time), and diving headfirst into whatever memory-making chaos the day throws at you. These spots aren’t just resorts, they’re like your nostalgic childhood summer got a Pinterest-worthy upgrade. Whether you’re floating down a river in Texas or eating lobster rolls in Maine, you’ll laugh, probably get sunburnt, and most importantly, come home with a few good stories.
So… ready to have your own Dirty Dancing moment? Your family summer camp fantasy is waiting. Just maybe leave the watermelon at home — they probably already have one.
