Camp is a challenging and transformative experience for everyone involved. You forge friendships, sometimes lose them, and often meet a mix of new faces and old friends you haven't seen in years. Camp changes everyone, typically for the better. Yet, one of the most beautiful aspects of camp lies not just in the friendships formed, but also in the deeper connections that can blossom into love.

1. Don't expect it to last...

Not to start on a low, but it's true. With the people I tend to go on camp with, we tend to follow the rule of "what happens on camp, stays at camp". Relationships formed in this unique environment often don’t extend beyond camp. When camp is over, so is the relationship, usually. However, not always. ECamp can bring people together from different corners of the world, and sometimes those connections can be lasting. It may even turn out you live a few streets away from each other. If you find yourself in such a fortunate situation, cherish that connection; it can blossom into something beautiful and enduring

2. Camp love is the most beautiful...

Respectfully to you. At camp, you aren't wearing makeup or styling your hair, your clothes are dirty and you haven't had a proper wash in ages. So the bottom line is ... you look your worst. Now, this is what I love about camp romances. It is one thing that is the most beautiful, as people see through what you look like and focus on what is the most beautiful about you as a person. Your personality, your aura, enthusiasm. They care about you, your life and your experiences. Not your body or looks. At camp you have your highest of highs and lowest lows, and they see those. And still. They love you though all of that. This is one thing that you should always remember when you bond in this way with people. What makes camp romances so special is their authenticity, this deep understanding and acceptance create a bond that can be profoundly beautiful.

3. Make the experience...

One of my favourite things to do on (sadly very few) camp dates is stargaze. Its a very intimate thing that you can do with your lover. It’s an intimate experience that allows you to share one of nature’s most breathtaking displays. It's a moment that for me I have been able to open up to someone. You're not face to face, it's dark. That makes conversations flow much easier and makes you more open. You will discover many new and wonderful things about your person, and it is always a night you will remember. 

4. Make memories...

One thing that you will regret the most is not taking pictures. capture the moment. It freezes the moment, holding something special for you to keep. You can look back on the pictures and remember those special moments that you had with that person. They will always be special to you, no matter what happens, because camp love is the truest.

5. It's not always a bf/gf

Sometimes you meet your soulmate. Sometimes it's a lover, but for most people it's a friend. Someone that they can confide in, someone who you share your evening hot chocolate with, or the person you share a favourite song with. They're the person you laugh the most with and the person you cry the most with. They will see you at every level emotionally, and they will love you even more for you you are. they won't hate you for sharing, they will thank you for trusting them to hold your secrets and help you out.

Camp love is a unique experience that can lead to friendships, romantic relationships, and lasting memories. Embrace the journey, cherish the connections, and keep an open heart. Whether it’s a fleeting romance or a deep friendship, the bonds formed at camp can be some of the most meaningful of your life.But remember, never forget to say goodbye. No matter how far or close you will be.