Camp Website Redesign Checklist: Build a Homepage That Parents Trust
Your camp website is your digital front door. For many families, it’s their very first impression of your program—and their deciding factor for registration.
Focus the Front Page
Your homepage should speak first to people who aren’t yet registered.
It’s tempting to cover everything, but try to keep your main message and layout focused on welcoming new visitors.
Think of it this way:
New visitors need clarity and invitation.
Returning users need quick access.
Design for the first group, and the rest will find their way easily.
This checklist is written for camp directors and web designers who want a clear, trustworthy homepage that helps parents feel safe and excited to register.
Step 1: Know Your Why
Before you redesign, answer these questions:
1. Who is this for?
Focus on first-time camp parents.
They care most about safety, staff, and communication.
Be specific: Are they parents of 6-year-olds or 16-year-olds? Local or out-of-town? Interested in sports, arts, or classic outdoor camp?
2. What’s the main goal?
Pick one clear action:
Register Now, or
Sign Up for Emails if they’re not ready to register
3. What should parents feel?
Parents: safe and confident in your care
Kids: happy and eager to join
Step 2: Always-Visible Header
This section stays at the top of every page. Include:
Logo – top left
Simple menu (Our Camps, Dates & Rates, FAQs, About Us)
Click-to-call phone number
Search bar (for “packing list,” “allergy policy,” etc.)
Bright “Register Now” button
Step 3: Homepage Building Blocks
Follow this order as parents scroll down:
1. Main Banner
Use a photo or video of happy campers and engaged staff
Avoid empty cabins or plain landscapes
2. Safety & Trust Bar
Show logos like “ACA Accredited” or “CPR Certified”
3. Camp Programs
Use clear boxes like “Day Camp (Ages 6–8)” or “Teen Leaders (Ages 13–15)”
4. Meet the Director(s)
Friendly photo and short message about your passion and focus on safety
5. Parent Testimonials
2–3 short quotes from parents who share real experiences of trust and growth
6. Email Sign-Up
Simple form with a warm headline like “Get Camp Updates and Early Bird Alerts”
7. Top Parent Questions (FAQ)
Include short answers to real concerns:
How do you handle homesickness?
What are your safety rules and staff ratios?
How do you manage allergies?
Can I contact my child?
8. Footer
Include your full address, phone number, and social media links (*that you actually use. Ignore the ones that you have only signed up for for Brand Defence).
Step 4: Notes for Your Web Designer
Design Mobile First
Most parents browse on phones. Start there, then adjust for desktop.
Make It Easy for Everyone
Use high-contrast text and clear, clickable buttons.
Use Colour with Purpose
Your main camp colour should highlight key actions like “Register Now.”
Keep Animations Simple
Gentle fade-ins are fine. Avoid flashy or bouncing effects.
Conclusion
Your homepage should feel like a friendly welcome, not a brochure.
Keep it focused, clear, and parent-centred.
Use this checklist as a shared roadmap with your web designer, and you’ll create a site that builds trust and helps more families take the next step.
Get Your Free Printable Checklist
Make your next website meeting easier.
Sign up below to get a one-page Camp Website Redesign Checklist you can print and share with your designer.
It includes:
✅ Every key section your homepage needs
✅ Simple design reminders for trust and clarity
✅ Space to check off what’s done
📩 Enter your email to get your printable checklist instantly.
