I don't let DD8 go to overnight camps but she has been going to day or half day camps since she was six. She is going to a public school and the camps she attends have public school teachers (some from her school) as counselors. This year, I had to cancel two of the three camps because of the rising gas (and grocery) prices. We can't afford so many extra trips to town on top of the camps' tuition right now Anyway, I don't think that you worry too much. The thought is always on my mind as well.

DD8 will still get to go to a two week long half day camp for gifted children at the local university. I also planned for at least one "day trip" per week to a State Park so we can go swimming. Otherwise, it's going to be a "back yard vacation" for us