As the days get longer and the weather turns warmer, we're only excited for the change of seasons for one reason: Summer Shred Camp.

If you've never been to camp before, you're missing out. Imagine the ultimate playground for fun and being surrounded by people who are just as stoked to shred as you are.

Camp atmospheres push progression, boost confidence and always ensure a kick-ass time.

Whether you're looking for a park specific camp, a summer backcountry adventure, or just want to meet a bunch of pros and kick it in the sun, there's camp for you.

Deciding where to go is the difficult part, so to help your decision, here are our 5 favorite Summer Shred Camps of 2011.

North America

Windells:



Best Of Snowboarding from Windells on Vimeo.

For over 12 years, Windells has been delivering as the "Funnest Place on Earth". The Oregon-based ski and snowboard camp is simply the place for the ultimate summer camp experience. Spend your days getting tricks dialed in their private parks and pipes and spend your nights bouncing through the plethora of camp oriented activities. From their newly remodeled concrete jungle, to "BOB" (the building out back), to the daily interactions with your favorite pros, there's never a dull moment at Windells.

Windells is an innovative assortment of snowboard, skateboard, freeski and BMX parks with super pipes, rails and jumps. A place with two private lifts, 7 parks, bag jumps, Olympic trampolines, foam pit and dry slopes. With guidance from the very best counselors, coaches and pros, campers live their dreams in a positive, progressive, encouraging environment.- Tim Windell

Location: Mt. Hood Oregon: Approx. 35 minutes from Portland.

For more info: http://windells.com/

High Cascade Snowboard Camp: HCSC



HCSC Park Tour from High Cascade Snowboard Camp on Vimeo.

HCSC is created by snowboarders, built by snowboarders, and run entirely for snowboarders. The camps prides itself on having the best summer park possible and says,"We pour our hearts into making sure our snowboarding playgrounds are the best parks on Earth to ride a snowboard." They do this because "Our staff/family of 130 snowboarders would have it no other way. Every single aspect of our 2 private parks is built entirely for snowboarders: from the shapes of our jumps, to the way we set-up our rails, HCSC is built for YOU." The Oregon-based shred camp is also known for their Signatures Sessions, which are sessions hosted by groups of mega pros. The Frends Crew, One Life Crew, Jeremy Jones, Chas Guldemond and Spencer O'brien are just a few of the big names that will be sending it along side of you at HCSC this summer. Sessions fill up extremely fast, so jump to their site to get your spot dialed.

Location: Government Camp, Oregon. Timberline Ski Area's Palmer Snowfield. Approx. 50 minuets from Portland.

For more info: http://www.highcascade.com/blog/


Camp of Champions: COC



Camp of Champions 2010 Best of Ski Camp from Camp of Champions on Vimeo.

Camp of Champions is a summer snowboard, ski and mountain bike camp in Whistler, BC for people of all ages. It's been in the game for 23 years and has gained notoriety as the place to be to push your ability in what they call "the best snow park and bike park on earth." Get your skills dialed amongst others who are forward thinking and favor fun. Join them this summer and get after it in the park and even after dark- while meeting new friends and having the time of your life. This camp is also a favorite among skiers and Newschoolers is even hosting their own session.

Location: Whistler, BC, Canada.

For more info: http://campofchampions.com/

South America

South America Snow Sessions: SASS



SASS - South America Snow Sessions 2011 from SASS Global Travel on Vimeo.

If you're looking for an adventure of a lifetime, South America Snow Sessions is the camp for you. Based in the Patagonia mountain region in Bariloche, Argentina, SASS delivers as a destination for shredders and adventurers. SASS has an elite staff that caters to every client, ensuring a unique and personalized shred trip. The camp is held during the North American summer, meaning Argentina's winter, guaranteeing epic conditions filled with deep pow. If your looking for a mind-blowing backcountry and park experience, then SASS is for you. The camp also offers courses for college credits and holds sustainability programs that give back to the surrounding communities. SASS has been a favorite among pro teams for years and remains the destination go-to for catalogue shoots. This year SASS is excited to be based out of SoulMax, a new hotel location, thats only a few steps from the gondola at Cerro Catedral.

Location: Cerro Catedral, the largest resort in South America. Located in Bariloche, Argentina.

For more info: http://www.sassglobaltravel.com/argentina

Evolve Chile



Evolve Chile Summer 2011 Short Promo from daniel on Vimeo.

From Evolve: Evolve Chile is a travel camp for skiers and snowboarders between the ages of 13-18 who want to improve their big mountain, powder and park riding while exploring South America. Evolve Chile visits four different ski and snowboard locations in Chile: Valle Nevado, La Parva, El Colorado and Termas de Chillan. Each mountain offers diverse terrain coupled with a unique feel and cool vibes. Come trade your summer slush for fresh powder turns, winter terrain parks, incredible food, surfing and international travel with super-fun people. That's what our South American Ski and Snowboard camps are all about.

For more info:http://www.evolvechile.com/

With so many awesome opportunities, where are you going to go?