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Where to Go, What to Bring, What to Expect at a Tennis Camp
Everything you ever wanted to know about tennis camps – As a seasoned traveler, I’ve been to my fair share of tennis camps. I’ve seen the good, the bad, and the ugly. And I’m here to tell you everything you ever wanted to know about tennis camps, from the best time to go, to what to pack.
So whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro, whether you’re dreaming of hitting the courts with some of the best tennis players in the world or just want to improve your game, read on for everything you need to know about tennis camps.
Why I go to Tennis Camps
Attending a tennis camp can be an excellent way to improve your skills on the court and meet like-minded individuals who share a passion for tennis. Tennis camps offer a structured and supportive environment where you can receive expert coaching and guidance from experienced instructors. By participating in drills and practice matches, you can fine-tune your technique, learn new strategies, and build your confidence on the court.
One of my favorite parts of attending tennis camps is the fun and social atmosphere where you can make new friends and form lasting connections with fellow players. It doesn’t matter if you are just starting out in the sport or if you are an experienced tennis player, going to a tennis camp is definitely something worth considering.
What You Gain by Attending Tennis Camps
As a club tennis player, attending a tennis camp can bring a plethora of benefits to help improve your skills and overall game. First, attending a tennis camp allows you to receive professional coaching and guidance from experienced coaches who can help identify areas of strength and areas of opportunity for improvement.
I have found it useful to get advice from different pro tennis players. Sometimes a pro can explain something to me I’ve heard a dozen times, but say it in a different way and I get it. I understand a concept the way they explain it and that allows me to practice and experience that part of the game.
Additionally, tennis camps offer opportunities to play with and against other players. This can help improve your strategy of the game, as well as provide valuable experience playing against different playing styles.
Plus, If you only play at the same club, with the same group of people, you don’t always get the opportunity to see your own improvements. People who play against each other regularly learn each other’s moves and strategies, but when you play against a whole new group of people, you will often be surprised how well your strategies work against people who have never seen them before.
Lastly, and probably my favorite part of attending a tennis camp is that it can be a great way to immerse yourself in tennis and meet other players who share the same passion for the game. If you follow my Instagram, you know that when I travel, I always have my racket with me. One of the reasons I do that is because people will see it who are tennis geeks like I am and strike up a conversation with me. Remember – tennis is not a one player game. Camps allow me to meet new people from all over the world and many of those people remain my friends to this day.
How Much does a Good Tennis Camp Cost?

The price of a tennis camp can vary greatly depending on the location, duration, and amenities offered. On average, you can expect to spend anywhere from $500 to $2000 for a three to five day long camp.
But some high-end camps can cost upwards of $5000. It’s always a good idea to research different camps and read reviews from past attendees to ensure you’re getting the best value for your money.
Remember that not all camps are all-inclusive. I have not found any tennis camps that include airfare and not all of them include housing. Be sure to read the details so you know what your tennis trip includes and what it doesn’t.
What Do You Need to Do to Prepare for a Tennis Camp?
Preparing for an adult tennis camp for club players involves several key steps to ensure that you are ready for the physical demands of the sport.
First, it is important to make sure you have the appropriate gear, including tennis shoes, a racket, and comfortable clothing. I like to take shoes that are already broken in (you are going to spend a lot of time on your feet).
I also take outfits that are comfortable and I like the way that they look. Often, there are pictures taken at tennis camps, so if you care about what you look like in a picture, bring clothing you will be happy about seeing yourself wearing in photos.
Next, it is recommended you show up with at least some base level of fitness built up so you have some stamina and endurance. In my case, I play tennis several times a week, and I recommend that if you haven’t gotten on the court in a while, get on the court a few times per week in the weeks leading up to your camp, just to practice.
Finally, make sure to stay hydrated and well-rested in the days leading up to the camp to maximize your performance on the court and get the most out of your instruction. If you are traveling for a tennis camp it is easy to walk a lot of extra miles sightseeing and forget to hydrate. This can put a damper on your physical readiness leading up to camp.
Also, again, remember that rest and sleep matter a lot when it comes to feeling your best. It is easy to give into temptation and be out late the night before your camp starts. A late dinner and a few glasses of wine are enjoyable, but are not going to help you sleep well. Just something to keep in mind.
With these steps in mind, you will be well-prepared to make the most of your adult tennis camp experience.
How “Good” Do You Need to Be to Attend a Tennis Camp?
This is a question I get a lot. How good do you need to be before you attend tennis camp? The truth is, being a really great tennis player is not required at all. In fact, most tennis camps cater to players of all levels, and have something to offer everyone from beginners to advanced players.
The main aim of attending a tennis camp is to improve your skills and learn new techniques and strategies from experienced coaches. Whether you are just starting out or have been playing for years, there is always something new to learn.
So, don’t worry if you are not a great player yet – attending a tennis camp isn’t about “being” a great player. It is about improving your skill from wherever you are.
What Tennis Camp Would We Suggest For an Adult Beginner Tennis Player?

If you are an adult beginner and looking to learn and improve your tennis skills by attending a tennis camp, there are some good options for you.
My two favorite recommendations would be either going to the USTA National Campus in Orlando, Florida. You can learn about which camps are coming up by visiting their website here: https://www.ustanationalcampus.com/en/home/play/camps.html
Most of their fall camps run in October and November and are three days each. You will find great instructors here, and it is easy to fly in and out of Orlando Florida as it is the home of Disney World. But if you want to attend, make sure you book your reservations and make your travel plans early. It is hot in central Florida in the summer and people often travel there in the fall to avoid the summer sweltering heat.
Or, if Texas is more your style, I suggest attending the John Newcombe Ranch Tennis Camp which is located in New Braunfels Texas, which is about an hour north of San Antonio and about an hour south of Austin Texas, making it easy to fly into either airport.
The thing I love about the John Newcombe Ranch Tennis Clinics is that they are all inclusive. They offer two and three day packages that include accommodations, food, and entertainment right on the ranch. It is a great opportunity to really immerse yourself in your environment and focus on tennis.
If you are interested in the John Newcomb Ranch Tennis Camp, you can get more information here: https://newktennis.com/adult-tennis/
But whichever tennis camp you choose, you can expect to receive expert coaching, engage in fun drills and games, and participate in match play to help you improve your skills and confidence on the court.
Ultimately, the best tennis camp for you will depend on your personal goals, location, and budget, so be sure to do your research and find the program that is right for you.
What Luxury Travel Tennis Camp Would You Suggest?
If you are willing to splurge a little more on the cost of tennis camp, I highly recommend the Cliff Drysdale Tennis Experiences.
The Cliff Drysdale Tennis Experiences give you the opportunity to play tennis and have a truly luxurious travel experience as well. Cliff Drysdale Experience is a world-renowned tennis management company that operates tennis camps, clinics, and resorts across the United States and the Caribbean.
Their tennis experiences are designed to provide players of all levels with expert instruction, personalized coaching, and unforgettable tennis vacations. Oh, did I mention – Luxury Travel?
You can see a list of all of their camps on their website: https://www.experiencecdt.com/
I have also had good luck with tennis camps put on by Play Your Court. Play Your Court is a smaller company that offers tennis lessons and has an app to help you find people in your area to play tennis with – but, this company will sometimes offer tennis trips. They aren’t going to be as polished as The Cliff Drysdale Tennis outfit but camps put on by smaller businesses like Play Your Court are often unique and offer a more customized tennis experience.
If you are interested in finding out what tennis trips are available, the best way is to get on their email list where they will announce opportunities to travel with your tennis racket.
You can do that by visiting the Play Your Court website and scrolling all the way down to the bottom of the home page – they have a email sign up form in the footer: https://www.playyourcourt.com/
What Tennis Camp Should I Attend if I am Brand New to Tennis?
If you are looking for an introduction to tennis, explore day camps that are locally. Many of the USTA offices will offer a “New to Tennis” program as an introduction to the sport. These introduction clinics will offer instruction in the basics of tennis, as well as fun games and activities to keep you engaged and excited about the sport.
But if you are wanting to travel with your tennis racket, there are overnight camps that provide intensive training with top coaches, as well as opportunities to compete against other talented players. Some popular tennis camps include Cliff Drysdale Tennis, USTA National Campus, Rafa Nadal Camps and John Newcombe Tennis Ranch. No matter which camp you choose, you’re sure to have a great time improving your skills and making new friends on the court.
What Tennis Camps Are Best For Winter?

If you are looking for some relief from the cold and want to attend a tennis camp at the same time, my go to has been the Cliff Drysdale Experiences group. My absolute favorite is the “Tennis with the Stars” event that is held at the beginning of the PNB Paribas Tournament that is held in Indian Wells (Palm Springs) in the late winter/early spring. I have had great experiences with the coaching staff and it is so cool to have opportunities to meet players from the ATP and WTA tour.
But South Florida is a pretty safe bet as well. I mentioned the USTA Camps in Orlando Florida – can it occasionally get chilly in Orlando Florida? Yes, but it rarely does. A winter coat in South Florida is a hoodie. So if you are looking to thaw out and improve your tennis, head to the desert of Palm Springs, or fly down to the topics of Florida. Both will be a great time.
What Do You Need to Bring to a Tennis Camp?
If you’re planning to attend a tennis camp, it’s important to pack the right gear for the best experience.
First off, you’ll need comfortable tennis shoes that provide good lateral support and traction on the court. I would not recommend bringing a brand new pair of shoes. So if you plan to buy a new pair of court shoes soon, make sure they see some court time and get broken in before taking them to tennis camp. Whatever shoes you take, make sure they fit well and won’t cause blisters or discomfort during long hours of play.
Next, I like to bring along more than one racket. It is such a bummer to bust a string, and then not have the racket that you are used to hitting with.
I also suggest you bring extra grips. Do yourself a favor and keep a nice overgrip on your racket. They are not that expensive, and make a huge difference to how it feels to hold your racket.
My last suggestion is, make sure you consider packing for day time, night time, dinners, hot weather, cold weather, windy weather, side trips, and anything else you plan to do while you are on your trip. I took a tennis trip to Amelia Island Florida one year, which is the northern part of the state – it was cold and windy and the courts were all outdoors.
Take a minute and review the itinerary. In addition to tennis clothing, you might need clothing for a special event, you might want your bathing suit and in some cases there have been yoga classes offered. I don’t know about you, but I do not want to be the person practicing yoga in a tennis skirt!
You will also want to remember the sunscreen, a water bottle, and maybe a few snacks to keep you energized throughout the day.
When on the court, my favorite court side snacks are fruit like watermelon (especially on a hot day) and I love grapes. I also love fruit leather. Costco sells a brand that is my absolute favorite. Additionally, I like to carry some trail mix or handful of almonds. I feel like it is always smart to carry a bar. I find that there are some good options at Costco.
But if you have concerns about gut health, then Odyssey Bars are definitely worth a look. Much easier on digestion and I think they taste really good as well. You can get 10% off Odyssey Bars by visiting their website here: http://odysseysnacks.com/tennisyellow and using the discount code: TENNISYELLOW
If you are looking for a bit of a caffeine boost, Verb Energy bars have a hit of caffeine for a bit of extra pop. But downside, it is a subscription type company, so you might end up with a whole bunch of bars that were auto shipped to you.
There is nothing more embarrassing than knocking your water bottle over on the court and having it leak water everywhere (plus you have to stop to clean it up). My favorite water bottle is a hydro flask or a Stanley. It has a sleek design. I like it for local matches because it holds more liquid and a Stanley cup is great at keeping the beverages cold and it is not too heavy. I also like using a Stanley flask as well, but it is harder to travel with because it is heavier.
Pro tip, I fill my flask full of ice and then bring a couple of plastic water bottles to pour on top of the ice as needed during a hot match
Pro tip, avoid metal straws. I have chipped a tooth when I was too eager to sip. Stick with plastic straws and even then, be careful of over enthusiasm.
With the right gear, you’ll be ready to take on the challenges of tennis camp and improve your skills on the court.
You Can Purchase Stanley or Hydroflasks Below
What Should You Expect Day to Day at Tennis Camp?

Each camp is a little bit different. It is important to review the itinerary before you arrive. Most camps will have a combination of on-court training and off-court activities.
Each day usually begins with a warm-up session, followed by drilling exercises designed to improve specific aspects of your game such as footwork, groundstrokes, or serves.
After the morning session, you’ll have a break for lunch, during which you can socialize with other players and coaches.
In the afternoon, you’ll typically engage in match play, where you’ll get a chance to put your newly learned skills into practice.
Off-court activities may include fitness training, mental conditioning, or watching videos of professional tennis players to analyze their techniques.
And then there are the after hours activities. I always try to meet new people and put myself out there. It is pretty easy to meet people at tennis camps and get yourself invited to after hours activities. I highly recommend it.
What Kind of Drills Do You Expect to Participate in During Tennis Camps?
Some camps have a theme, like “Doubles BootCamp” or “Tennis With the Stars” but regardless of the theme, there are some elements of your camp experience that you can expect.
During a tennis camp, you can expect to participate in a variety of drills that will help you improve your skills on the court. These drills may include practicing your footwork, working on your serve, improving your backhand and forehand strokes, and developing your volley technique.
Additionally, you may participate in drills that focus on your agility, speed, and reaction time, such as ladder drills or reaction ball drills.
The drills you participate in will depend on your skill level and the focus of the camp, but you can expect to work hard and make significant progress in your game over the course of the camp.
Where Are the Tennis Camp Coaches From?
Tennis coaches at tennis camps come from a variety of backgrounds and locations from all over the world. Some coaches are local to the area where the camp is held, while others may travel from other cities or even other countries to participate.
While the origin of the coaches may be interesting, what is more important is their expertise and experience in coaching tennis. The quality of instruction and guidance they provide is key to the success of the camp and the improvement of the players. So, while it can be fun to learn about where the coaches are from, what really matters is their ability to help the players grow and develop their skills.
How Early Do I Need to Sign Up For a Tennis Camp?
If you find a tennis camp that you are interested in, don’t wait too long to sign up. Many tennis camps have limited availability, and spots can fill up quickly.
In the case of the “Tennis With the Stars” camp held by Cliff Drysdale Experiences, the first week filled up so quickly that they created another camp with slightly different offerings.
So if you find a trip that catches your eye, don’t wait too long. By signing up early for the trip that you want, you’ll have a better chance of securing a spot at your preferred camp.
Additionally, some camps offer early bird discounts for those who sign up well in advance. So not only will you ensure your spot, but you may also be able to save some money.
The thing I would say to anyone is: Don’t think about it too long. If you want to go, just dive in and get signed up. You won’t reget it. What you might regret is waiting too long, finally making a decision to go, getting excited about it, and then going to sign up and finding out all of the spots have been taken. Trust me – I know this from first hand experience. If you want to go – get signed up.
How Have Tennis Camps Improved Your Life and Your Game?

Attending tennis camps has been a great way to explore other tennis clubs, increase my opportunities to play more tennis and have more fun on the court while making new friends. Not only do I get to meet new people who share my passion for the sport, but I also get to learn new skills and techniques from experienced coaches.
The drills and games we play at camp have challenged me to improve my footwork, shot selection, and develop a better overall strategy.
Plus, the friendly competition among campers keeps things exciting and pushes me to play my best. Overall, attending tennis camps has not only helped me become a better player, but has also made the sport more enjoyable and rewarding.
Are Tennis Camps All-Inclusive?
Tennis camps come in all varieties and not all are created equally. Some camps are all-inclusive, meaning that they provide everything you need for a successful week of tennis, including meals, lodging, and sometimes, even equipment to demo. Other camps may require you to bring your own equipment or make your own lodging arrangements.
While all-inclusive camps can be more expensive, they can also be more convenient and provide a more immersive experience. It’s important to do your research and choose a camp that fits your individual needs.
What Are Your Favorite Hotels For Tennis Travel and Tennis Camps?
If the camp that you are attending is all inclusive, then you do not need to worry about finding your own lodging arrangements. But if it is not, then this is what I do: If you’re a frequent traveler, you likely know the importance of finding a good hotel chain that rewards your loyalty.
Hilton Hotels and Marriott Hotels are two such chains that have built a reputation for offering excellent loyalty programs. As a loyal member of either chain, you can enjoy a range of perks, including late checkout and complimentary breakfast. These benefits can make a big difference in the quality of your stay and help you feel valued as a customer. Plus, the more you stay with these chains, the more points you can earn towards free stays, room upgrades, and other rewards.
So whether you prefer the luxurious amenities of Hilton Hotels or the stylish design of Marriott Hotels, their loyalty programs make them a top choice for frequent travelers.
What Airline Do You Fly for Tennis Travel?
When it comes to frequent air travel, it’s essential to figure out which airline hub is closest to you. This will help you save time and money on flights and ensure that you’re able to take advantage of loyalty programs and benefits from that airline.
For instance, if you live near a Delta Airlines hub, it makes sense to be loyal to that airline. By flying with Delta regularly, you can earn status, which comes with perks like priority boarding, upgrades, and lounge access. These benefits can make a big difference in your travel experience and make flying more comfortable and enjoyable.
So, if you want to make the most out of your air travel, consider finding the closest airline hub to you and being loyal to that airline
Also, don’t forget to dig into and understand rewards travel. When I travel to a tennis camp or with the family on vacation, I always travel on Delta Airlines. Because I am loyal to one airline, I receive a lot of perks from Delta Airlines. It also helps that I applied for the AMEX Delta SkyMiles credit card. By spending money on this card, it helps me get to levels in the reward program.
Rewards air travel has become an increasingly popular choice for frequent travelers and for good reason. When I book my flight or spend money on my card, I accrue points for every dollar I spend or miles for every flight I take. These which can later be redeemed for flights, upgrades, or other perks.
Many rewards programs or credit cards offer exclusive access to airport lounges, priority boarding, free checked bags and other amenities like free upgrades that can make the travel experience much more comfortable and enjoyable.
So if you travel, make sure you keep track of those miles, points, perks, and cash back awards. They add up and can be a lot of fun when you are traveling. If nothing else, a lot of travel perks offer you shorter wait times and access to areas and services non-members can’t get. If you’ve ever waited in “the regular line” at Avis for a rental car, you know what I am talking about.
Any Tips For Traveling Solo on a Tennis Camp Trip?

I have attended tennis camps with my team, with friends and by myself. While traveling with friends is so fun, do not discount the fun and adventure that can be found traveling solo. Traveling solo on a tennis camp trip can be an exciting and empowering experience.
However, it can also be intimidating, especially if you are not used to traveling alone. To make the most of your solo adventure, there are a few tips you should keep in mind. Firs, do some research about your destination and get familiar with the area you will be in. Before I get to my new place, I like to save my hotel in my Google map, as well as other places that you know I will want to visit.
Next, before you leave on your trip, make sure that you have Uber or Lift apps on your phone and that you are familiar with how to use them.
I suggest you pack light and bring only what you need. This will make it easier to move around and keep your belongings safe. Plus, if it is just you, having one bag versus three bags makes a huge difference, especially when you are transiting from place to place (like from the baggage claim to the Uber pick up area). Travel light – it makes a huge difference.
When you are traveling solo, put yourself out there. Be open to making new friends and getting to know your fellow tennis players. Stretch your comfort zone a bit. It is not always easy to break out of your shell, but when you are traveling solo, you really need to. You never know who you might meet or what you might learn from them.
I am so glad for the friends that I have made while traveling to tennis destinations. But it is up to you to get out of your comfort zone (and out of your hotel room) and meet people. Remember, they are probably just as unsure and uncomfortable as you are. But at least you know you have something in common already – tennis!
Summary
In conclusion, tennis camps provide a perfect opportunity for players of all levels to sharpen their skills, learn new techniques, and make new friends. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced player, there is always something new to discover and learn at tennis camps.
With top-notch coaches, state-of-the-art facilities, and a supportive environment, tennis camps offer an unforgettable experience for those who love the sport.
So don’t wait any longer to take your game to the next level – sign up for a tennis camp today and start your journey towards becoming the best tennis player you can be!
About The Author

Katri is an avid club player and certified tennis junkie. Katri lives by the tennis mantra of, “Do whatever it takes to keep tennis fun. Sometimes it is playing more, sometimes it is buying a new tennis skirt.” Sportsmanship and fair play are utmost important and promotion of the game of tennis is paramount. Follow along for further tennis fun and friendship while keeping your head in the game.