I loved sleepaway camps as a child. Every summer I’d attend a church camp, Girl Scout camp, and a hobby-type camp. Camp Singing Waters in Holden and Camp Marydale in St. Francisville were two of my favorites. 

 

There’s something magical about bunking in tents and cabins with other kids your age, participating in days and nights of events created solely for your pleasure. 

 

There’s something for everyone at camp. 

 

I’d hoped to fulfill my long-held dream of being a “Marva” this summer. That’s the name of the mother-daughter summer camp counselor duo in the Lindsay Lohan Parent Trap remake. Fun fact: one of the Marva’s was played by “Kiss My Grits” actress Polly Holliday (Flo, Alice) and the other was “Oh my God” actress Maggie Wheeler (Janice, Friends). But my schedule didn’t work out so I settled for covering lots of summer day camps instead. 

 

But I hate having to leave them, always staying longer than planned while wishing I could blow off the rest of my day and just hang out at camp. I begrudgingly wave goodbye every time I have to bid adieu. 

 

The other day I was scrolling when something caught my eye. A five-day sleepaway camp at Ol’ Mel’s farm in Deville. I’d just been out there. It was one of my favorite camps and I’d seen the airbnb accommodations one of the groups will be staying in. (Boys and girls will be housed in different cabins.)

 

“Can I go, Mom?” I begged my mother. I showed her the post. 

 

Horseback riding, fishing, campfires, games, crafts….not to mention the (non)slumbering fun that takes place after lights out. 

 

“Um, I think you missed something,” Mom pointed to the age limit. “Ages 8-12. You can add each of those together and you’re still too old!” 

 

Moms have such a way of bursting your bubble!

 

But it does seem like a lot of fun. Camp is July 28-August 2. Space is limited to the first 5 boys and 5 girls to sign up. Call 318-794-9533 for questions or to register. 

 

Ol Mel’s Farm is located at 50 Chevallier Rd, Deville.