When I was growing up, summer camp was something I looked forward to every year. Whether it was a day camp or overnight Girl Scout camp, I got excited as soon as registration opened in the spring just imagining the adventures I would have in the great outdoors.

That time of year is quickly approaching for little campers in Shelby County.

In our March issue of Shelby Living, available the week of March 14, we’ve pulled together a list of the many local summer camps available for your kids this summer.

While putting the list together, I couldn’t help but notice the variety that has emerged in the summer camps offered. Gone are the days when summer camp consisted of only hiking, swimming, sports and campfires.

This year’s camps range from fairy princess camp to laser tag camp, both offered at the Pelham YMCA.

Whether your child is interested in sports, art, cooking, babysitting, marine biology or home decorating, there is a local camp that will most likely keep them entertained for days.

One camp offered at the Pelham YMCA will take students in fifth through eighth grades on a day-long road trip every day, visiting Six Flags, the Tennessee Aquarium and many other regional attractions. That’s one summer camp even I wish I could attend.

The Kanawahala Program Center in Sterrett will be busy this summer hosting Girl Scout camps, boys’ and girls’ day camps and girls-only overnight camps. One session even offers the chance for younger campers to stay overnight with an adult family member to get the camp experience without feeling too far from home.

Registration deadlines are quickly approaching for many camps, so start planning soon. Pick up a copy of Shelby Living in March to help you choose from the wide selection offered in Shelby County.

If you’re feeling nostalgic for your old camp days, like me, you’ll appreciate the Shelby Living cover feature on family camping in Oak Mountain State Park.

If you ask me, you’re never too old to lace up your hiking boots, grab the bug spray and head out for another adventure in the great outdoors.

Katie Hurst is the lifestyles editor for the Shelby County Reporter. She can be reached at 669-3131 ext. 19 or by e-mail at katie.hurst@shelbycountyreporter.com.