Summer Camp and Texas Custody Orders: A Parent’s Guide to Planning and Coordination
- Taylor Mohr
- Jul 10
- 4 min read
Summer camp can be one of the most enriching and exciting parts of a child’s summer. The experiences gained during these weeks can leave lasting memories and contribute to personal development. Whether it’s a week at a science camp, a sleepaway camp in the Hill Country, or daily sports sessions at the local rec center, camps offer structure, socialization, and fun. But for divorced or separated parents in Texas, planning for summer camp requires careful attention to the terms of your custody order.
When navigating summer camp arrangements, it is essential to consider how these plans align with existing custody agreements. In Texas, custody orders often outline the specifics of parental responsibilities, including the allocation of time during the summer months. Parents should review their custody documents to determine any stipulations regarding summer activities and vacations. This can include stipulations about how much notice must be given to the other parent regarding summer plans, whether both parents need to agree on the camp selection, and how transportation will be handled. Open dialogue between parents is crucial to ensure that both parties are on the same page and that the child’s best interests are prioritized.
Here’s what you need to know about how summer camp fits into Texas custody arrangements—and how to make it work smoothly for everyone involved.
1. Start the Conversation Early
First, it is beneficial to start discussions about summer camp early in the spring, allowing ample time for both parents to consider options and make decisions collaboratively. This proactive approach can help avoid conflicts that may arise from last-minute arrangements. Additionally, parents should explore a variety of camp options that cater to their child's interests and needs, from arts and crafts to sports and outdoor adventures, ensuring that the selected camp aligns with the child's preferences.
2. Each Parent Pays for Camps During Their Own Time (Unless You Agree Otherwise)
Most standard Texas possession orders don’t obligate one parent to pay for camps or activities that occur during the other parent’s time. That means if you enroll your child in a day camp during your summer possession, you’re typically responsible for covering the cost.
However, parents can agree to split costs or make other arrangements. If you plan to request reimbursement or contribution from the other parent, it’s essential to get that agreement in writing ahead of time. Also, some orders (especially those with 50/50 possession schedules) do require parents to split expenses like summer camps. Be sure to review your order carefully to determine whether a provision like that is included and, if it is, what limitations or requirements apply (for example, the order might require advance notice or might put a cap on the expenses, among other things).
3. You Can’t Require the Other Parent to Take the Child to Camp on Their Time
Even if a camp is scheduled for multiple weeks, no parent can force the other to transport or deliver the child to a camp that occurs during their period of possession—unless your order specifically requires it or both parents agree. That includes transportation to and from camp activities, even if it’s something the child is excited about.
The key takeaway? Communication and agreement are essential before making long-term plans.
4. Sleepaway Camps and Travel Restrictions
Overnight or sleepaway camps may raise additional custody considerations. If your custody order includes a right of first refusal, you may need to notify the other parent and offer them the opportunity to care for the child during extended periods away—especially if the camp covers multiple nights and you won’t be with the child.
Similarly, some custody orders have geographic restrictions or travel notice requirements that apply even within the state of Texas. Before enrolling your child in a camp several hours away or in another state, check your order and provide the appropriate notice.
5. Use Co-Parenting Tools to Communicate and Coordinate
Co-parenting apps like OurFamilyWizard, TalkingParents, and AppClose can make coordinating summer plans easier. These apps allow parents to share calendars, send messages, track expenses, and exchange important documents or forms in a way that keeps communication organized and legally documented.
Using a centralized tool reduces miscommunication and helps avoid disputes about what was discussed or agreed upon.
6. Share All Important Camp Information
Regardless of who enrolls the child in a camp or when it occurs, both parents should share and receive important information, including:
Camp dates and times
Drop-off and pick-up instructions
Camp location and address
Emergency contact information
Medical forms or special instructions
Camp rules, regulations, or packing lists
Transparency isn’t just courteous—it ensures your child is safe and supported by both parents, no matter whose time they’re on.
Final Thoughts
Summer should be a time of joy and growth for your child—not conflict. Whether you’re planning a full summer calendar or one camp at a time, working together with the other parent (and within the terms of your custody order) is the best way to give your child a smooth, memorable experience.
At Mohr Law Group, we help North Texas families navigate the practical realities of custody and co-parenting. If you have questions about your summer schedule, rights of first refusal, or how to enforce your custody order, we’re here to help.
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