Easy Summer Camp Hairstyles for Wild, Wonderful Days 🌞
Summer camp days are made for muddy trails, lake swims, laughing with friends, and soaking in every drop of sunshine. But let’s be honest—between all the action-packed moments and unexpected adventures, the last thing you want to deal with is complicated hair.
That’s where these easy summer camp hairstyles come in. Whether you’re packing for your first campout or you’re a seasoned camp counselor, these styles are quick, cute, and built to last from sunrise canoe trips to late-night campfires. No mirror? No problem.
Keep scrolling for fresh hair ideas that stay fun—even when the weather doesn’t.
Summer Camp Hair Essentials
Before we jump into the hairstyles, let’s talk essentials. Camp life isn’t always hairbrush-friendly, but these small items go a long way in keeping your hair happy all week.
- Microfiber towel – dries hair fast and frizz-free after lake swims
- No-snag elastics – gentle on your hair and easy to carry in your pocket
- Leave-in conditioner spray – detangles and hydrates in one go
- Wide-tooth comb – works on wet hair without breakage
- Dry shampoo powder or spray – lifesaver between showers
- Headbands or bandanas – keeps hair off your face on hot or windy days
- Small claw clips – perfect for quick twists or half-up styles
Pack light, but pack smart. These basics turn any camp hairstyle into a breeze—even when there’s no mirror in sight.
Summer Camp Hairstyles
These are the ultimate camp-proof hairstyles: no fuss, no frizz, and ready for a full day of exploring, playing, and making memories outdoors.
1. Braided Pigtails That Stay Put
There’s a reason braided pigtails are a camp classic. They keep your hair secure all day, work on wet or dry strands, and take under five minutes to do. Start by parting your hair down the middle and creating two low braids on each side. For extra hold, use no-snag elastics at the ends and a dab of styling balm on flyaways.
Want a fun twist? Try fishtail or rope braids if you’ve got a few extra minutes.
Great for: hikes, canoeing, sports, or messy arts & crafts days.
2. High Top Knot for Hot Days
When temps rise and your hair just won’t cooperate, a high top knot saves the day. Pull your hair into a high ponytail, twist it into a loose bun, and secure it with a spiral hair tie or strong scrunchie. Let a few pieces fall for a casual vibe or slick it back with leave-in conditioner for extra polish.
This is the go-to style when you want your neck free and your hair off your face during high-energy camp fun.
3. Side Dutch Braid for Adventure Days
The Dutch braid gives a sporty look and keeps hair locked in for even the wildest outdoor games. Start with a deep side part and braid along the scalp, keeping it tight as you go. It looks great on both straight and wavy hair and gives you that I-woke-up-ready energy.
Add a colorful headband or snap clips to keep things extra secure.
4. Bandana-Wrapped Ponytail
Camp mornings can be rushed. If your hair feels flat or greasy, throw it into a mid or low ponytail and wrap a cotton bandana around the base for instant style. You can match it to your outfit or go bold with prints—either way, it adds charm while hiding second-day hair.
This style says: “I’m practical, but still fabulous.”
5. Claw Clip Half-Up Style
For a look that’s casual and cool, twist back the top half of your hair and clip it with a medium claw clip. This style works great for campers with thick or long hair—it keeps things light without a full updo. It’s comfy, quick, and can be refreshed in seconds.
Ideal for moments between kayaking, snack time, and writing postcards home.
Camp Counselor Hairstyles
As a camp counselor, you’re the first one up and often the last one to crash. You need styles that are practical, quick, and still feel like you. Whether you’re leading a nature hike, organizing campfire songs, or untangling fishing lines, these hairstyles work just as hard as you do—and stay cute through it all.
6. Braided Crown for All-Day Hold
This hairstyle looks way more polished than the effort it takes. Start by braiding two small sections from behind each ear and wrap them over the top of your head like a headband. Pin them in place with grip-friendly bobby pins, and smooth everything down with a touch of anti-frizz cream.
It’s lightweight, holds up in heat, and keeps your face totally clear—no readjusting needed.
Perfect for: guiding campers, teaching crafts, or dance-offs under the stars.
7. Messy Bun (With Headband)
Counselor mornings are fast, and this style is even faster. Toss your hair into a messy mid bun, and pull on a wide stretchy headband to keep flyaways down and absorb sweat. The headband gives it structure, while the bun keeps things airy.
You can freshen it up mid-day with a spritz of travel-size dry shampoo for extra lift.
Ideal for: sports day, camp kitchen shifts, or cabin cleanup duty.
8. Rope Braids Into Low Bun
Start by making two rope braids on each side of your head—twist the hair and then twist the two sections together. Pull both braids to the back and wrap them into a low bun, securing with a spiral hair tie or pins.
This style feels secure, stylish, and won’t budge even during the wildest capture-the-flag games.
Great for: long days on your feet, especially when paired with a smile and some bug spray.
9. Slick Ponytail With a Twist
Add a sleek twist to a basic ponytail by brushing your hair back with leave-in styling cream, securing it with a matte claw clip or invisible elastic, and wrapping a small section of hair around the band to hide it. This gives you that put-together-without-trying-too-hard energy that every counselor needs.
You’ll look fresh and calm—even if you just wrangled ten campers and a kayak.
Perfect for: counselor meetings, leading songs, or badge ceremonies.
10. Top Braid With Bun Combo
Start with a small braid running down the center top of your head, then gather the rest of your hair into a bun. It’s secure, creative, and keeps everything off your neck. Plus, it adds a bit of flair without sacrificing practicality.
Use a texturizing spray for grip and hold, especially if your hair tends to slip.
Ideal for: creative campers who look up to you—and want to copy your style.
Cute Summer Hairstyles for Teens
Summer camp is all about self-expression, inside jokes, and trying new things—including hair. These teen-approved styles are equal parts fun and functional. They’re cute enough for group photos, chill enough for lake dips, and easy enough to do with a friend in five minutes flat.
11. Bubble Braids With Colorful Elastics
This playful hairstyle is trending for a reason. Start with two ponytails (low or high), then add mini colorful elastics every couple of inches down the length of each one. Gently tug each section to create the “bubble” effect.
You can mix and match elastic colors, add glitter gel between sections, or finish with ribbon for extra personality.
Perfect for: talent shows, themed days, or any moment that deserves a photo.
12. Double Dutch Braids Into Space Buns
Split your hair into two sections and Dutch braid each side down to your ears. Instead of continuing the braid, twist the rest of the hair into two cute buns and pin them in place. This hybrid style keeps your hair locked in and looks awesome from every angle.
Add shimmer spray or temporary color chalk for an extra pop of camp magic.
Best for: dance parties, team challenges, or just being your bold, confident self.
13. Half-Up Pony With Hair Wrap
The half-up pony is a forever fave—but give it a summer camp upgrade by tying a patterned scarf or bright ribbon around the base. It keeps your face cool while letting the rest of your hair flow. Bonus: It works on straight, curly, or wavy hair.
Want more hold? Use a light spritz of sea salt spray for texture that lasts all day.
Great for: campfire hangouts, arts & crafts selfies, and chasing your camp crush.
14. Loose Waves With Flower Clips
Go full summer fairy with loose natural waves and a few tiny flower clips scattered throughout. If your hair is naturally straight, braid it the night before and undo it in the morning. Clip in tiny blooms near the temples, or across the back for a carefree vibe.
The look is sweet, simple, and so easy to personalize.
Ideal for: friendship bracelet swaps, talent show nights, or free time under the trees.
15. Messy Low Pony With Side Braid Accent
This one’s for the effortlessly cool teen. Create a side braid just above one ear, then pull all your hair into a loose low ponytail. It adds detail without trying too hard. Use a soft scrunchie or ribbon to tie it off, and let the braid peek through.
Add in a little face glitter or color clip-in extensions to level it up.
Best for: late-night storytelling, singing in circles, or journaling by the lake.
