The average summer break for students in the United States is roughly 12 weeks. Whether students spend their time hanging out with friends, going on vacations or simply unwinding from the school year, there’s one activity I love most: going to Girl Scout Summer Camp.
Girl Scouts are known for their annual Girl Scout Cookie Program where cookies like Samoas and Thin Mints dominate the dessert market; but there are other programs that support the leadership of girls and young women. Girl Scout Camp is one of them.
I had the privilege over the years of staying at all but one of four Girl Scout Camps across Arizona — my personal favorite being Willow Springs in Prescott. At camp, I gained confidence and friendship surrounded by fellow girls and nature, something I believe everyone should experience.
My mom is one of my troop leaders, thus when my troop and I would go on many of our encampment trips, she was there. I really enjoyed that, but the first time I went to Girl Scout Summer Camp, it was a different story. I was 11 years old, spending a week in a forest, surrounded by a bunch of people I had never met. It was startling at first but as time went on, I realized it was going to be an amazing week. For the first time, I was on my own, and this helped me develop the social skills I needed to feel empowered by my independence.
Now as a 17-year-old with a driver’s license, I often go on shopping errands for myself or my family, feeling like a true adult. I feel comfortable being independent in an environment that is new, which is something that participating in camp taught me.
Another enriching part of summer camp is meeting new people. I see myself as an introvert, but my experience became memorable because I learned a lot about socializing with others. In your youth, you tend to stay with groups that are familiar, and while this might seem like the more comfortable option to pursue, I believe you are missing out on countless opportunities to build new connections and transform an uncomfortable experience into one that is full of adventure and growth. In fact, a 2024 study found that camp participants aged 14 to 17 showed increased empathy, emotional control, optimism and assertiveness within two weeks of camp. They also reported higher self-esteem and a stronger readiness to contribute to their community.
One of my favorite things about camp is sharing a cabin with someone who starts as a stranger then becomes a close friend. It is camp experiences like these that have helped me step out of my comfort zone and encourage others to explore them.
My personal favorite benefit of attending camp something I cannot get living in a city —connecting with nature, glorious nature. Research shows that teens living in cities experience reduced stress, fewer depressive symptoms and improved emotional well-being when they have access to green spaces.
When you need a break from noisy highways, metropolitan areas and concrete jungles, camp is an escape from it all. Being surrounded by forests, mountains and windy breezes boosts my mood for the entire week I am there. Don’t get me wrong; Phoenix has its beauty with unique desert wildlife and scenes, but there is something about being in northern Arizona that feels magical. Immersing myself in nature’s peace helps me disconnect from the rush of life and reminds me of the simple pleasures of being present with those around you. It can do the same for you.
If given the opportunity, I think everyone should attend summer camp at least once in their lives. It is truly an unforgettable experience that all starts with taking a healthy risk for your own benefit. Take the chance to step into something unknown because you might find that it results in the most special memories of your youth.
Editor’s note: Nadia Kharoufeh is a member of Girl Scouts–Arizona Cactus-Pine Council and part of the council’s Girl Scout Media Ambassador Program. Please send your comments to AzOpinions@iniusa.org. We are committed to publishing a wide variety of reader opinions, as long as they meet our Civility Guidelines.
