How summer camps are adapting to climate change

illuminem summarises for you the essential news of the day, reviewed by our editorial team. Read the full piece on TIME News or enjoy below:

🗞️ Driving the news: Summer camps across the United States are adapting operations as extreme heat, wildfires and flooding reshape the outdoor experience
• Camp operators are introducing new safety measures, changing schedules and redesigning activities to protect children in a more volatile climate

🔭 The context: Outdoor camps have always prepared for extreme weather, but the frequency and intensity of events are increasing
• Recent incidents, including deadly flooding at Camp Mystic in Texas, have heightened concerns among parents and pushed camps to strengthen evacuation plans, infrastructure checks and emergency procedures

🌍 Why it matters for the planet: Climate change is increasingly affecting everyday life, including childhood experiences traditionally associated with nature and outdoor activities
• The adaptation of summer camps reflects a broader challenge: communities must redesign routines, infrastructure and safety systems to remain resilient as extreme weather becomes more common

⏭️ What’s next: Camps are expected to continue investing in climate adaptation, including heat management, wildfire preparedness and stronger buildings
• Operators are also exploring ways to preserve outdoor learning experiences while reducing exposure to climate risks

💬 One quote: “Camp is about adapting and being flexible. Every summer we’re tweaking and evaluating and finding new ways to beat the heat.” — Anna Ellena-Rosenau, Director of Mountain Meadow Ranch Summer Camp

📈 One stat: The last 11 years have all ranked among the warmest years ever recorded, increasing pressure on outdoor summer programs to adapt.

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