From AI to Accessibility: Sharon Fraess Shares Camp Industry Insights for 2025

What trends are shaping the camp experience? How are camps tackling rising costs? Sharon Fraess, Administrator of Birch Bay Ranch, recently shared her insights on what the camp industry can expect in the 2025 season.

“Enthusiasm from campers and staff continues to increase each year,” Fraess observes. Birch Bay Ranch is on track to reach full capacity again this season, welcoming campers and rental groups. She notes that new cabins, funded by a CFEP provincial grant, will soon provide significant upgrades to Birch Bay Ranch facilities, enhancing the overall experience for campers.

But we asked about challenges facing camps today? Fraess highlights ongoing issues such as rising costs, particularly utility, insurance, and food costs – which require camps to be more resourceful and budget-conscious. She explains how technology, especially AI, has started to play a critical role in easing administrative burdens. “Using AI allows us to spend more time with campers and less time on paperwork,” she says.

Family-focused programs are another notable trend. Fraess points out that more camps are introducing mother/daughter, father/son, and full-family retreats to meet evolving interests.

Alongside these positive developments, camps must also adapt to increasing mental health concerns among both campers and staff that are affecting how camps operate. “It’s vital that we ensure our camps remain a safe space where everyone feels supported.” Fraess stresses.

Additionally, accessibility challenges persist. Many camps were built decades ago and lack the necessary infrastructure to accommodate campers with special needs. “Camps need to consider how they can better serve all participants,” Fraess notes. “This may include infrastructure upgrades to facilities as well as proper training for staff and volunteers.”

Cost control remains top of mind for camps, leading many to explore creative solutions like engaging more volunteers to reduce payroll costs, and collaborating with procurement organizations such as Foodbuy to increase purchasing power.

“Our camp has leveraged Foodbuy’s extensive supplier contracts to secure better pricing on food and other supplies. Additionally, Foodbuy provides access to other non-food cost-saving products and services. Foodbuy has been a game-changer for us,” says Fraess. “Their support has helped us keep our food budget on track while still providing high-quality meals.”

As Fraess notes, food quality and variety are critical aspects of the camper experience. While factors like weather are beyond control, serving high-quality meals ensures that campers are well-nourished and engaged. “We can’t control the weather, but we can control the quality of food we serve,” Fraess emphasizes. “Well-fed, satisfied campers are much more likely to enjoy camp activities and feel at home. There was a time when camp food had a bad reputation, but today, it’s some of the best food around.”

Finally, Fraess underscores the importance of strategic partnerships. Connections with organizations like CCI/Canada have provided invaluable resources, encouragement, and networking opportunities. Plus, the partnership with Foodbuy has improved their purchasing power and helped maintain a balanced food budget while offering access to new recipes and product recommendations. “These partnerships make a real difference and allow us to provide the best possible experience for our campers and keep our operations running smoothly.”

Article as published in Foodbuy’s 2025 Camp Guide.