Camp movies have a unique charm, capturing the essence of adventure, friendship, and sometimes, the eerie unknown. This curated list of the top 10 camp movies offers a blend of genres, from horror to comedy, providing viewers with a nostalgic trip or a thrilling escape into the wilderness. Whether you're reminiscing about your own camp experiences or seeking cinematic entertainment, these films are sure to entertain with their memorable settings, characters, and stories.

Friday the 13th (1980)
Description: This iconic slasher film set the standard for camp horror, introducing audiences to the terrifying Jason Voorhees. Its setting at Camp Crystal Lake has become synonymous with summer camp nightmares.
Fact: The film was originally intended to be a straightforward horror movie, but the character of Jason was added later to create a more memorable villain.


Meatballs (1979)
Description: A comedy classic, "Meatballs" showcases Bill Murray's comedic talents in a summer camp setting, highlighting the fun and chaos of camp life.
Fact: This was Bill Murray's first starring role in a feature film, launching his career in comedy.


The Parent Trap (1998)
Description: This heartwarming remake of the 1961 film features Lindsay Lohan in a dual role, with a significant portion set at a summer camp where the twins meet.
Fact: The film was shot at Camp Seely in Crestline, California, which was also used for the original movie.


Heavyweights (1995)
Description: A comedic take on a weight loss camp, "Heavyweights" offers a mix of humor and heart, focusing on the campers' rebellion against their strict camp director.
Fact: The film was inspired by the real-life experiences of one of its writers, Judd Apatow, at a weight loss camp.


Camp Nowhere (1994)
Description: This family comedy follows a group of kids who trick their parents into sending them to a camp of their own design, leading to hilarious results.
Fact: The film was one of the first to use the concept of kids running their own camp, a theme that has since inspired other movies and TV shows.


Sleepaway Camp (1983)
Description: Known for its shocking twist ending, this horror film explores the dark side of camp life, with a killer on the loose at a summer camp.
Fact: The film's ending was so controversial that it was often cut from TV broadcasts.


Moonrise Kingdom (2012)
Description: Wes Anderson's whimsical tale of young love set at a summer camp, where two young scouts run away together, causing a stir among the camp's staff and residents.
Fact: The film features a meticulously crafted set, including a fully functional summer camp built for the movie.


The Burning (1981)
Description: Another camp slasher, "The Burning" was inspired by the urban legend of Cropsey, with a caretaker seeking revenge on the campers who wronged him.
Fact: The film was one of the first to feature practical effects by Tom Savini, who later became famous for his work in horror films.


Addams Family Values (1993)
Description: While not exclusively about camp, a significant portion of the movie involves Wednesday Addams at a summer camp, where she plans to burn down the camp's Thanksgiving play.
Fact: The camp scenes were filmed at Camp Seely, the same location used for "The Parent Trap."


Ernest Goes to Camp (1987)
Description: Jim Varney's beloved character, Ernest P. Worrell, takes on the role of camp counselor, leading to a series of comedic mishaps and adventures.
Fact: The film was shot at Camp Miniwanca in Michigan, which was used as the setting for the fictional Kamp Kikakee.
