Sleepaway Camp Books – 2024 Update

If you’re someone who cherishes the memories and adventures of sleepaway camp, then you’ll love diving into the world of sleepaway camp books. Whether you’re seeking heartwarming tales of friendship around the campfire or thrilling stories of adventure in the great outdoors, there’s a book on sleepaway camp for everyone. From classic novels to contemporary gems, we’ve curated a list of the 20 best sleepaway camp books that will transport you back to those carefree summer days. Get ready to relive the magic of campfires, bunkmates, and unforgettable adventures with these captivating reads.

20 Best Sleepaway Camp Books

The Secret of the Old Mill

by Franklin W. Dixon

The Secret of the Old Mill is a thrilling mystery novel by Franklin W. Dixon. In this captivating story, the Hardy Boys, Frank and Joe, find themselves embroiled in a perilous adventure while on a camping trip. When their friend, Chet, invites them to join him at a remote old mill, the boys are excited for a fun-filled getaway. However, their plans take a dramatic turn when they stumble upon a secret counterfeiting operation hidden within the mill.

As the Hardy Boys delve deeper into the mystery, they must use their wits and bravery to outsmart the criminals and unravel the truth behind the illicit operation. With suspenseful twists and heart-pounding action, this book is sure to keep readers on the edge of their seats. Perfect for fans of adventure and intrigue, The Secret of the Old Mill is a must-read for anyone craving a thrilling escape from everyday life.

The Camp-Out Mystery

by Gertrude Chandler Warner

The Camp-Out Mystery by Gertrude Chandler Warner is an exciting book about a group of children who embark on a thrilling adventure during their stay at a sleepaway camp. The Alden siblings, along with their friends, are thrilled to spend their summer at Camp Coral, a beautiful campsite nestled in the woods. However, their excitement turns into a mystery when strange things start happening around the camp. From mysterious noises in the night to missing supplies, the children are determined to get to the bottom of it all. With their curiosity piqued, they set out to solve the camp-out mystery and unravel the secrets that lie within the campgrounds. As they work together to crack the case, they also form lasting friendships and create unforgettable memories. This book about a sleepaway camp is filled with suspense, teamwork, and the wonders of nature, making it a perfect read for young adventure-seekers.

The Secret of the Old Clock

by Carolyn Keene

The Secret of the Old Clock by Carolyn Keene is the first book in the Nancy Drew Mystery Stories series. The story follows the adventures of the young detective Nancy Drew as she sets out to solve the mystery of a missing will. The plot revolves around Nancy’s discovery of a hidden clock that holds the key to finding the missing will and uncovering the truth behind the inheritance of the Topham family.

This classic mystery novel is filled with suspense, intrigue, and clever detective work as Nancy Drew unravels the clues and navigates through a web of secrets and deception. The Secret of the Old Clock is a timeless tale that has captivated readers for generations with its engaging storyline and compelling characters. Whether you’re a long-time fan of the series or a newcomer to Nancy Drew’s adventures, this book is sure to keep you on the edge of your seat from start to finish.

The Boxcar Children

by Gertrude Chandler Warner

The Boxcar Children is a beloved children’s book series by Gertrude Chandler Warner that follows the adventures of four resourceful siblings: Henry, Jessie, Violet, and Benny. The first book in the series, The Boxcar Children, introduces the Alden children, who run away and create a home for themselves in an abandoned boxcar. The siblings rely on their wits and teamwork to survive, and they ultimately find a kind and caring grandfather who takes them in.

This timeless classic is filled with themes of independence, family, and resilience. The Boxcar Children is perfect for young readers who enjoy stories of adventure and problem-solving. The book is an ideal choice for kids who love to immerse themselves in captivating tales of self-reliance and exploration. The Boxcar Children is an excellent choice for young readers looking for an exciting read to take with them on a sleepaway camp adventure.

The Summer Camp Mystery

by Gertrude Chandler Warner

The Summer Camp Mystery by Gertrude Chandler Warner is an exciting children’s book about a group of siblings who embark on an unforgettable adventure at a summer camp. The Alden children are thrilled to spend their summer at sleepaway camp, where they meet new friends and explore the great outdoors. However, their excitement turns to mystery and suspense when they discover strange occurrences at the camp. As they work together to unravel the puzzling events, the children find themselves caught up in a thrilling investigation that will keep readers on the edge of their seats.

This captivating book about sleepaway camp is filled with twists and turns, making it a perfect read for young readers who love a good mystery. Gertrude Chandler Warner’s engaging storytelling and relatable characters will transport readers to the heart of the summer camp experience, where friendships are formed, and secrets are uncovered. The Summer Camp Mystery is a must-read for anyone looking for a suspenseful and entertaining sleepaway camp book.

The Secret of the Old Attic

by Carolyn Keene

The Secret of the Old Attic, written by Carolyn Keene, is a thrilling mystery novel that follows the adventures of the famous teenage detective, Nancy Drew. In this captivating story, Nancy finds herself at a mysterious old mansion, where she uncovers a series of puzzling clues hidden in the attic. As she delves deeper into the secrets of the old house, Nancy discovers a long-forgotten mystery that has the potential to change everything.

This book is perfect for readers who enjoy suspenseful and mysterious tales, with a touch of adventure and intrigue. Carolyn Keene’s skillful storytelling and compelling characters will keep readers on the edge of their seats until the very end. Whether you’re a fan of mystery novels or simply love a good old-fashioned whodunit, The Secret of the Old Attic is sure to captivate and entertain. Get ready for a thrilling journey as Nancy Drew unravels the secrets hidden within the old mansion’s attic.

The Secret of the Forgotten City

by Carolyn Keene

The Secret of the Forgotten City by Carolyn Keene is an exciting mystery novel that takes place at a sleepaway camp. The story follows amateur sleuth Nancy Drew as she embarks on a thrilling adventure filled with secret codes, hidden tunnels, and mysterious ancient artifacts. When a valuable artifact goes missing from the camp’s museum, Nancy and her friends must work together to unravel the clues and solve the mystery before it’s too late. As they delve deeper into the secrets of the forgotten city, they encounter unexpected twists and turns that keep readers on the edge of their seats. With its action-packed plot and clever detective work, this book about sleepaway camp is perfect for young readers who love a good mystery. Join Nancy Drew as she uncovers the truth behind the disappearance and unravels the secrets of the forgotten city in this captivating sleepaway camp book.

The Secret of the Wooden Lady

by Carolyn Keene

The Secret of the Wooden Lady is an enthralling mystery novel written by Carolyn Keene. In this captivating adventure, teenage detective Nancy Drew finds herself embroiled in a puzzling case while vacationing at a picturesque lake. The story unfolds as Nancy joins her friends for a relaxing getaway at a charming sleepaway camp. However, their peaceful retreat takes a thrilling turn when a valuable, centuries-old wooden statue goes missing from a nearby museum. Determined to solve the mystery, Nancy and her friends delve into a web of secrets, suspects, and clues, leading them on a daring quest to uncover the truth behind the disappearance of the Wooden Lady. As they navigate through the picturesque campgrounds and the surrounding wilderness, the young sleuths must use their wits and bravery to solve the case before it’s too late. The Secret of the Wooden Lady is a compelling and suspenseful read, perfect for anyone who enjoys a thrilling ‘book about sleepaway camp’ with a touch of adventure.

The Secret of the Golden Pavilion

by Carolyn Keene

The Secret of the Golden Pavilion is an exciting mystery novel by Carolyn Keene that follows the adventures of teenage sleuth Nancy Drew. In this thrilling story, Nancy and her friends find themselves at a sleepaway camp in Hawaii, where they stumble upon a baffling mystery involving a stolen golden statue. As they delve into the case, they encounter suspicious characters, hidden secrets, and cryptic clues that lead them on a suspenseful journey to uncover the truth behind the theft.

This captivating book about sleepaway camp is filled with intrigue, suspense, and clever detective work as Nancy Drew uses her keen observation and deduction skills to solve the perplexing puzzle. The lush Hawaiian setting adds an exotic and enchanting backdrop to the story, making it a delightful and engrossing read for young readers and mystery enthusiasts alike. Join Nancy Drew as she untangles the enigma of The Secret of the Golden Pavilion in this thrilling sleepaway camp book.

The Interestings

by Meg Wolitzer

The Interestings by Meg Wolitzer follows a group of friends who meet at a summer camp for the arts, set in the backdrop of the 1970s. The novel delves into their journey from adolescence to adulthood, capturing the complexities of their relationships, successes, and disappointments. The story explores themes of talent, envy, and the passage of time, as the characters navigate through life’s ups and downs.

This compelling coming-of-age novel is a captivating exploration of friendship, ambition, and the pursuit of artistic fulfillment. The book offers a poignant portrayal of the joys and struggles of growing up, set against the backdrop of a nostalgic sleepaway camp for young artists. It’s a heartwarming and thought-provoking read that will resonate with anyone who has experienced the transformative power of summer camp and the lifelong bonds formed there.

The Names They Gave Us

by Emery Lord

The Names They Gave Us by Emery Lord is a heartwarming coming-of-age novel that follows the story of Lucy, a teenage girl who is grappling with her mother’s cancer diagnosis. Sent to a Christian summer camp as a counselor, Lucy is initially hesitant about spending her summer away from home. However, she soon finds herself immersed in a community of diverse and interesting individuals, each with their own unique stories and struggles.

As Lucy navigates the complexities of her own emotions and relationships, she discovers the power of friendship, love, and faith. The book explores themes of family, friendship, and personal growth, as Lucy learns to cope with her mother’s illness and finds unexpected sources of support and strength in the most unlikely places.

This poignant and uplifting novel is perfect for fans of contemporary young adult fiction and anyone who enjoys a heartfelt story about self-discovery and resilience. The Names They Gave Us is a compelling and beautifully written book about the transformative power of love and community.

The Distance Between Lost and Found

by Kathryn Holmes

The Distance Between Lost and Found by Kathryn Holmes is a captivating book about a group of teenagers who find themselves lost in the wilderness during a church retreat. Told from the perspective of main character Hallelujah, the story follows her as she navigates the challenges of survival, friendship, and faith while lost in the woods.

This compelling book on sleepaway camp delves into the complexities of teenage relationships and the power of inner strength. As Hallelujah and her friends struggle to find their way back to safety, they must also confront their own personal demons and fears. The author expertly weaves themes of forgiveness, redemption, and self-discovery into this gripping tale of resilience and hope.

The Distance Between Lost and Found is a must-read for anyone looking for a heart-wrenching and inspiring story about the power of friendship and the resilience of the human spirit. This sleepaway camp book will keep readers on the edge of their seats until the very end.

Absolutely Truly

by Heather Vogel Frederick

Absolutely Truly by Heather Vogel Frederick is a heartwarming mystery novel that takes place in a small town called Pumpkin Falls. The story follows Truly Lovejoy, a twelve-year-old girl who moves to her family’s bookstore in Pumpkin Falls. As she settles into her new home, Truly discovers a mysterious letter hidden in an old book that leads her on a quest to solve a family mystery. Along the way, she makes new friends, learns about her family’s history, and uncovers surprising secrets about the town.

This charming book is filled with delightful characters, intriguing clues, and heartwarming moments. It’s a perfect read for anyone who loves a good mystery or enjoys stories about small-town life. With its engaging plot and relatable protagonist, Absolutely Truly is sure to captivate readers of all ages. Whether you’re a bookworm, a fan of cozy mysteries, or simply looking for a heartwarming story, this book is a must-read. Join Truly on her adventure as she unravels the mystery of Pumpkin Falls and discovers the true meaning of family and community.

The Lightning Thief

by Rick Riordan

The Lightning Thief, written by Rick Riordan, is an exhilarating adventure novel that follows the story of Percy Jackson, a young boy who discovers that he is a demigod – the son of Poseidon, the Greek god of the sea. As Percy embarks on a journey to uncover the truth about his identity, he finds himself at a summer camp for demigods, a place filled with magical creatures and engaging activities.

However, when Percy’s mother is kidnapped and Zeus’s lightning bolt is stolen, Percy must set out on a dangerous quest to prove his innocence and prevent a catastrophic war among the gods. With the help of his friends, including a satyr and the daughter of Athena, Percy faces numerous challenges and battles against mythical creatures as he travels across the United States.

This thrilling and action-packed novel is perfect for readers who enjoy a mix of mythology, adventure, and friendship. Whether you’re a fan of Greek mythology or simply love a good story about finding courage and facing challenges, The Lightning Thief is a must-read for anyone looking for an exciting escape into a world of gods and monsters.

The Moon and More

by Sarah Dessen

The Moon and More, written by Sarah Dessen, is a captivating coming-of-age novel that follows the story of Emaline, a young woman spending her last summer before college in the small beach town of Colby. This book is about sleepaway camp and the nostalgia and bittersweetness that comes with growing up and leaving behind familiar places and people. As Emaline navigates her relationships with her family, friends, and her first love, she grapples with the idea of change and the uncertainty of the future. The novel beautifully captures the essence of summer, with its warm beach days, late-night bonfires, and the allure of new beginnings. Sarah Dessen’s writing is heartfelt and authentic, drawing readers into Emaline’s world and making them feel like they’re right there with her. The Moon and More is a poignant and relatable story that will resonate with anyone who has experienced the mix of emotions that comes with leaving behind a familiar place, whether it’s a sleepaway camp, a hometown, or anything in between.

Holes

by Louis Sachar

Holes by Louis Sachar is a captivating novel that takes readers on a thrilling journey through the lives of Stanley Yelnats and his fellow inmates at Camp Green Lake, a juvenile detention center. This unique and gripping story is a perfect blend of mystery, adventure, and humor. As Stanley navigates the challenging and bizarre environment of the camp, he uncovers the dark and twisted history of his family and the mysterious curse that seems to haunt them. The novel skillfully weaves together multiple storylines, jumping between past and present, to reveal the interconnected fates of the characters. With its clever plot twists and well-developed characters, Holes is a must-read for anyone looking for a fresh and original story. This book about a sleepaway camp is perfect for readers who enjoy a mix of suspense, humor, and heartwarming moments.

The Hidden Oracle

by Rick Riordan

The Hidden Oracle is an exhilarating adventure novel by Rick Riordan that takes readers on a thrilling journey to Camp Half-Blood, a place where demigods train to become heroes. The story follows the misadventures of Apollo, who has been stripped of his godly powers and banished to Earth as a mortal teenager. As Apollo navigates the challenges of being a mere mortal, he finds himself embroiled in a series of dangerous quests and battles against formidable foes. With the help of his demigod friends, Apollo must unravel a sinister plot that threatens the very existence of the camp and the world itself. This action-packed tale is not just a book about sleepaway camp; it is a gripping and humorous tale of bravery, friendship, and self-discovery. The Hidden Oracle is a must-read for fans of mythology, adventure, and, of course, the beloved sleepaway camp setting.

The Thing About Jellyfish

by Ali Benjamin

The Thing About Jellyfish by Ali Benjamin is a captivating and heartwarming middle-grade novel that follows the story of 12-year-old Suzy as she grapples with the sudden death of her best friend, Franny. Determined to find closure, Suzy becomes fixated on the idea that Franny’s death was caused by a deadly jellyfish sting. As she embarks on a journey of self-discovery and healing, Suzy decides to prove her theory by conducting extensive research on jellyfish and even enlists the help of a renowned jellyfish expert. Set against the backdrop of a sleepaway camp, the novel intricately explores themes of friendship, loss, and the complexities of growing up. Through Suzy’s emotional journey, readers are taken on a poignant and poignant exploration of grief, resilience, and the unbreakable bond of friendship. The Thing About Jellyfish is a beautifully written and emotionally resonant book about the power of love and the enduring impact of loss.

The Summer of Lost and Found

by Rebecca Behrens

The Summer of Lost and Found by Rebecca Behrens is a captivating middle-grade novel that follows Nell Dare as she navigates the challenges of spending her summer at Camp Sweetwater. This heartwarming book on sleepaway camp is filled with adventure, mystery, and friendship. Nell is determined to uncover the truth behind the camp’s ghost story, but she finds herself unraveling more than just the mystery of the lost campers. As she delves deeper into the camp’s history, Nell discovers unexpected connections and learns valuable lessons about bravery, resilience, and the power of friendship.

Behrens’ vivid storytelling and relatable characters make this book about sleepaway camp a delightful read for young readers. The Summer of Lost and Found is a perfect choice for anyone looking for a compelling and heartwarming sleepaway camp book that captures the magic of summer adventures and the importance of embracing new experiences.

The Last Best Days of Summer

by Valerie Hobbs

The Last Best Days of Summer is a heartwarming book about a young girl named Lucy who spends her summer at a lakeside sleepaway camp. As she navigates new friendships and experiences, she learns more about herself and the world around her. The book beautifully captures the nostalgia and bittersweetness of the end of summer, as Lucy and her friends savor their remaining days at camp before returning to their regular lives. Author Valerie Hobbs skillfully weaves together themes of friendship, self-discovery, and the passage of time, creating a poignant and relatable coming-of-age story.

Final Thoughts on Best Sleepaway Camp Books

Exploring the 20 best books about Sleepaway Camp has been an eye-opening journey into the world of adventure, friendship, and self-discovery. These captivating stories capture the essence of the camp experience, from the thrill of outdoor activities to the bonds formed with fellow campers. Whether reliving your own camp memories or seeking a glimpse into this unique setting, these books offer a delightful escape into the world of sleepaway camp.

Which book about Sleepaway Camp is best?

The best book on Sleepaway Camp can vary with personal preference, but three widely recommended titles are:

  1. The Secret of the Old Mill by Franklin W. Dixon,
  2. The Camp-Out Mystery by Gertrude Chandler Warner,
  3. The Secret of the Old Clock by Carolyn Keene.

Each offers valuable insights and could be a great starting point.

What are the best books to learn about Sleepaway Camp?

For those looking to learn about Sleepaway Camp, there is a wealth of literature that can provide a comprehensive understanding of the subject. Some of the most highly recommended books include:

  1. The Secret of the Old Mill by Franklin W. Dixon,
  2. The Camp-Out Mystery by Gertrude Chandler Warner,
  3. The Secret of the Old Clock by Carolyn Keene,
  4. The Boxcar Children by Gertrude Chandler Warner,
  5. The Summer Camp Mystery by Gertrude Chandler Warner,
  6. The Secret of the Old Attic by Carolyn Keene,
  7. The Secret of the Forgotten City by Carolyn Keene,
  8. The Secret of the Wooden Lady by Carolyn Keene,
  9. The Secret of the Golden Pavilion by Carolyn Keene,
  10. The Interestings by Meg Wolitzer

These books offer a range of perspectives on Sleepaway Camp, covering various aspects and approaches to the subject.

What are the best books about Sleepaway Camp?

The best books about Sleepaway Camp are:

  • The Secret of the Old Mill by Franklin W. Dixon,
  • The Camp-Out Mystery by Gertrude Chandler Warner,
  • The Names They Gave Us by Emery Lord,
  • The Distance Between Lost and Found by Kathryn Holmes,
  • The Secret of the Wooden Lady by Carolyn Keene,
  • The Secret of the Old Attic by Carolyn Keene.

Each offers unique insights into the subject. While these books about Sleepaway Camp are highly regarded, it’s important to note that any list of ‘best’ books is subjective and reflects a range of opinions.

What are the best Sleepaway Camp books of all time?

Choosing the best Sleepaway Camp books of all time can vary depending on who you ask, but five titles that are often celebrated include

  • The Secret of the Old Mill by Franklin W. Dixon,
  • The Camp-Out Mystery by Gertrude Chandler Warner,
  • The Summer Camp Mystery by Gertrude Chandler Warner,
  • The Secret of the Wooden Lady by Carolyn Keene,
  • and The Names They Gave Us by Emery Lord.
  • Each of these books has made a significant impact in the field of Sleepaway Camp and continues to be influential today.