Summer camp is about community, connection, and memories—and what everyone wears should reflect that energy. Whether it’s for a weeklong overnight camp or a local day camp, the right t-shirt makes a difference. Campers want to feel comfortable and look cool, while counselors and staff need shirts that are breathable, easy to identify, and durable enough to withstand the elements. At Pacific North Press, we help camps create custom shirts that kids and staff actually want to wear.
1. Campers Love Soft, Stylish Tees
For kids, comfort is king. Scratchy shirts and stiff fabrics get left behind in the cabin. The most popular camper tees are made from soft cotton/poly blends or tri-blends that feel great from the first wear. Styles like vintage-washed crew necks and classic unisex fits are big hits—especially when paired with fun, camp-themed designs or cabin logos.
We recommend offering a few bold color options for each session. Think bright teal, forest green, or sunset orange—colors that feel like summer and help campers remember their group.
2. Staff Need Function and Visibility
Camp counselors and staff need to be instantly recognizable while keeping cool during long outdoor days. Consider screen printing on performance-style moisture-wicking shirts for hot weather. Add “STAFF,” “COUNSELOR,” or even cabin names on the back so parents and campers can spot them quickly.
Bold ink colors like white on navy or yellow on charcoal offer high contrast and work well in sun or shade. Tagless designs or tear-away labels also help avoid skin irritation—an important touch for those in shirts 12+ hours a day.
3. Youth-Sized Options Matter
One-size-fits-all rarely works for kids. Offering youth-specific sizing—not just adult smalls—ensures your campers feel confident and comfortable. Styles with shorter sleeves, smaller necklines, and fun cuts (like raglans or ¾ sleeve baseball tees) give camps the chance to offer a better fit while keeping branding consistent.
4. Add Personality with Custom Designs
Camp shirts should reflect the culture and theme of your program. Whether it’s nature-themed icons, team names, inside jokes, or counselor nicknames, we encourage designs that make kids feel like part of something special. Vintage fonts, playful illustrations, and classic badges work great across age groups and camp styles.
Want something more collaborative? Let each cabin submit a design or vote on themes—they’ll be more excited to wear the final result.
5. Don’t Forget Long Sleeves and Hoodies
Cool nights around the campfire or unexpected rainy days call for layering options. Offer a lightweight hoodie or long-sleeve tee with the same design or badge print. Not only will it keep your campers cozy, but it also extends the life (and visibility) of your camp’s branding well beyond the session.
Need help choosing the right styles for your camp this season?
Pacific North Press can help you create custom apparel that campers love and staff rely on—let’s design something unforgettable.