If you’re too old for bunk raids and color wars, you’re in luck — you can relive your old camp days on TV.
As July Fourth approaches, streaming platforms are teeming with camp-themed movies, which will make you feel like you’re roasting marshmallows over a fire, or sunbathing by the lake — all without the bullies and the bug bites.
Here, the best camp-themed movies to watch this weekend, while you stay cool on the couch.
“Wet Hot American Summer: First Day of Camp”
A prequel to the 2001 cult classic comedy, “First Day of Camp” sees the original cast return to play younger versions of their characters —despite undeniably looking older in real life. The stacked cast includes Paul Rudd, Elizabeth Banks, Bradley Cooper, Christopher Meloni, among others, plus some new cast members such as Chris Pine.
Meanwhile, the original “Wet Hot” movie is also streaming on Hulu. Double feature time!
Where to stream it: Netflix
“The Parent Trap”
The 1998 film that made Lindsay Lohan a star follows separated twins Hallie and Annie (both played winningly by Lohan) as they meet at camp and are shocked to learn about the other’s existence, since they’ve been raised by their very different, and secretive, divorced parents, Nick (Dennis Quaid) and Liz (Natasha Richardson). This movie has it all, from camp pranks to sister bonding to an aspiring evil stepmom to a satisfying twin-switch.
Where to stream it: Disney+
“Sleepaway Camp”
The original “Sleepaway Camp” is campy in more ways than one. The 1983 slasher flick — whose cast has not exactly gone on to stardom — features a series of murders at a sleepaway camp. Mayhem ensues, and its infamous final twist makes it the stuff of over-the-top horror legend.
Where to stream it: Peacock
“Moonrise Kingdom”
The 2012 Wes Anderson flick follows a 12-year-old orphan boy Sam (Jared Gilman) who escapes from Camp Ivanhoe to meet his pen pal, setting off a chain reaction as local Khaki Scouts search for them. As usual, Anderson wrangles a cast of screen-stealing stars, including Bruce Willis, Frances McDormand, Edward Norton, Tilda Swinton and more.
Where to stream it: Showtime or Amazon Prime
“Camp Rock”
In the mood for a family friendly musical? Look no further. This 2008 movie is about Mitchie (Demi Lovato), an aspiring singer who is attending a camp for musicians. The Jonas Brothers — Joe, Nick and Kevin — co-star as members of an adorable music trio (big stretch).
Where to stream it: Disney+
“Friday the 13th”
What’s summer without the classic 1980 slasher flick? Go back to Camp Crystal Lake where the original franchise (currently a whopping 12 movies and counting) all began with the death of Jason Voorhees — and unleashed his inescapable wrath on unsuspecting teens.
Where to stream it: Hulu
