2026 Summer Camp AI Census
How Artificial Intelligence Is Changing How Families Discover Camps
Thank you for attending Eric Wittenberg’s session at the Tri-State Camp Conference. In this presentation, we explore one of the biggest shifts happening in the camp industry right now: Families are no longer just searching for camps on Google. They are asking AI. Download the presentation slides to review the insights, strategies, and real-world examples shared during the session.
The Way Families Find Camps Is Changing
The shift from traditional SEO to AI tools like ChatGPT, Gemini, Claude, and Grok means parents are now asking complex, specific questions instead of simple keyword searches.
What Parents Are Asking AI:
"What are the best overnight camps in the Northeast for a 12-year-old girl who loves theater and outdoor adventure?"
"Find me a day camp near Boston that offers robotics and has a strong focus on social-emotional learning."
"Which summer camps in Pennsylvania are tech-free and specialize in helping kids build independence?"
What We Studied
Key areas covered in the presentation.
The Shift from SEO to AI Search
Understanding how traditional search behavior is evolving into conversational AI queries.
Generative Engine Optimization (GEO)
Strategies to ensure your camp is visible and recommended by AI models.
How AI Models Discover Camps
The data sources and content structures AI uses to learn about your programs.
Why Specificity Matters
Focusing on:
- Who you serve
- What makes you unique
- The exact experience you offer
Get the Full Presentation
About Eric Wittenberg
Eric Wittenberg is a digital strategy expert specializing in the summer camp industry. With a deep understanding of how technology intersects with camp marketing, he helps organizations navigate the rapidly changing digital landscape.
As a frequent speaker at industry conferences, Eric focuses on actionable strategies that camps can implement to improve enrollment, communication, and operational efficiency.
About Camper Machine
Camper Machine is a digital agency dedicated to helping summer camps thrive in the modern era. We combine industry knowledge with cutting-edge technology to deliver results.
- AI-driven marketing strategies
- Operational automation
- Advanced search & content optimization (GEO)
- High-conversion enrollment websites
Want Help Preparing Your Camp for the AI Era?
Let’s discuss how we can implement these strategies for your specific program.
