Camp Subpage (Layout Builder)

The Camp Subpage (Layout Builder) content type allows you to build comprehensive camp microsites with flexible, drag-and-drop pages for activities, schedules, packing lists, registration, and more.

Machine name: camp_lp

Designs: Mobile | Desktop

When to Use Camp Subpage (Layout Builder)

Use Camp Subpage (LB) for:

• ✅ Activity pages - Detailed descriptions of camp activities (swimming, archery, hiking)
• ✅ Schedule pages - Daily schedules, weekly calendars, session timelines
• ✅ Packing lists - What to bring, what not to bring, gear recommendations
• ✅ Registration pages - How to register, deadlines, forms, pricing details
• ✅ FAQ pages - Common questions about safety, health, policies, refunds
• ✅ Staff pages - Meet the counselors, director bios, staff qualifications
• ✅ Policies pages - Rules, safety protocols, medical procedures, cancellation policies

Do NOT Use Camp Subpage (LB) for:

• ❌ Main camp location page - Use Camp content type for the primary camp landing page
• ❌ Branch day camps - Use Program Subcategory or Landing Page (LB) instead
• ❌ Event-specific pages - Use Event (Layout Builder) for time-specific camp events

Camp Subpage vs. Other Content Types

Simple rule: Camp Subpage is for additional pages within a camp microsite. Camp is the main landing page. Program Subcategory is for branch-based day camps.

Creating a Camp Subpage

Prerequisites

Before creating Camp Subpages, you must:

1. Create a parent Camp page - Navigate to Admin > Content > Add Content > Camp
2. Set up Camp menus - Configure Camp Menu and Camp Quick Links on the parent Camp page
3. Enable Layout Builder on Camp page - Check “Use Layout Builder” on the Camp page

→ See Camp content type documentation

Step 1: Add New Camp Subpage

1. Navigate to Admin > Content > Add Content
2. Select Camp Subpage (or Camp Landing Page in older versions)
3. You’ll see the Camp Subpage creation form

Step 2: Fill in Required Fields

Title (Required)

The page headline that appears at the top and in navigation menus.

Best practices:

• Be specific and descriptive (“Daily Schedule” not “Schedule”)
• Use terminology parents/campers understand
• Keep under 60 characters for menu display
• Match menu link text exactly

Examples:

• ✅ “What to Pack for Camp”
• ✅ “Daily Schedule & Activities”
• ✅ “How to Register”
• ✅ “Meet Our Camp Staff”
• ❌ “Info” (too vague)
• ❌ “Everything You Need to Know About What to Bring to Camp Coleman This Summer” (too long)

Camp (Required)

The parent Camp page this subpage belongs to.

How to select:

1. Click in the Camp field
2. Start typing the name of your Camp page (e.g., “Camp Coleman”)
3. Select from autocomplete dropdown

Important: This creates the parent-child relationship and ensures camp menus appear on this subpage.

Step 3: Configure Layout

After clicking Save and edit layout, you’ll see the Layout Builder interface with camp menus pre-populated.

What’s pre-populated:

• ✅ Camp Quick Links (utility menu)
• ✅ Camp Menu (main navigation)
• ✅ Site logo and branding
• ✅ Camp Header layout

You now add:

• Content sections (1 column, 2 column, etc.)
• Layout Builder blocks (Text, Cards, Images, etc.)
• Camp-specific content

→ See Layout Builder documentation

Step 4: Add Content Blocks

Common block patterns for Camp Subpages:

Activity Page Example

[Banner Block] - Hero image of activity
[Simple Content Block] - Overview paragraph
[Cards Block] - Skill levels (Beginner, Intermediate, Advanced)
[Accordion Block] - FAQ about the activity
[Gallery Block] - Photos from past sessions

Schedule Page Example

[Simple Content Block] - Introduction to daily flow
[Table Block] - Daily schedule table
[Accordion Block] - Schedule variations by age group
[Simple Content Block] - Special event callouts

Packing List Page Example

[Banner Block] - Header image
[Simple Content Block] - Introduction
[2-Column Section]
  - Left: "What to Bring" (bulleted list)
  - Right: "What NOT to Bring" (bulleted list)
[Accordion Block] - Optional items by activity
[Cards Block] - Gear recommendations with links

Registration Page Example

[Banner Block] - Registration header
[Simple Content Block] - Key dates and deadlines
[Cards Block] - Pricing tiers (week 1, week 2, full summer)
[Webform Block] - Registration interest form
[Accordion Block] - Payment FAQ
[Simple Content Block] - Contact information

Step 5: Add to Camp Menu

Camp Subpages are not automatically added to camp navigation.

To add your new subpage to the Camp Menu:

1. Go to your parent Camp page → Layout tab
2. Find the Camp Menu block → Click Configure
3. Click Edit links
4. Click Add new link
5. Fill in:
   • Menu link title: Display name (e.g., “Daily Schedule”)
   • Link: Internal path (e.g., /camp-subpage/daily-schedule) or start typing page title
   • Enabled: Checked
   • Show as expanded: Checked (if it has child items)
6. Save the link
7. Save the menu configuration
8. Update the block
9. Save layout on the Camp page

Pro Tip: Menu changes on the Camp page will reflect on all Camp Subpages since menus are copied when subpages are created.

Step 6: Preview and Publish

1. Click Save layout to create draft
2. Click Preview to see how page looks
3. Check that camp menus display correctly
4. Verify navigation between camp pages works
5. Test mobile responsive display
6. Check Published checkbox
7. Click Save to publish live

Camp Subpage Best Practices

Microsite Structure

Recommended camp microsite structure:

Camp Coleman (Camp page)
├── About Camp Coleman (Camp Subpage)
├── Daily Schedule (Camp Subpage)
├── Activities (Camp Subpage)
│   ├── Swimming (Camp Subpage - child)
│   ├── Archery (Camp Subpage - child)
│   └── Hiking (Camp Subpage - child)
├── What to Pack (Camp Subpage)
├── Registration (Camp Subpage)
├── Staff (Camp Subpage)
└── FAQ (Camp Subpage)

Menu organization tips:

• Group related pages (all activities under “Activities” parent)
• Limit top-level menu items to 5-7 (avoid overwhelming parents)
• Use child menu items for detailed sub-topics
• Order by user journey (About → Schedule → Activities → Registration)

Seasonal Content Planning

Content planning timeline:

Why timing matters:

• SEO: Google needs 1-2 months to crawl and rank seasonal content
• Parents: Research and compare camps 2-3 months in advance
• Planning: Staff needs lead time to prepare content

Content Freshness

Update frequency by page type:

• Registration pages: Update 3-4 months before each season (dates, pricing, deadlines)
• Activity pages: Annual review (new activities, updated descriptions)
• Packing lists: Annual review + weather-based updates
• FAQ pages: Update as questions arise (rolling updates)
• Staff pages: Update when staff changes (usually annually)
• Photo galleries: Update during/after each camp session

Parent-Focused Writing

Write for your audience - parents and guardians:

• Safety first: Address safety concerns upfront (certified staff, medical procedures, supervision ratios)
• Clear logistics: Dates, times, drop-off/pick-up, what to bring
• Authenticity: Use real photos, real camper testimonials, real staff bios
• Scannable: Use bullet points, headings, short paragraphs (2-3 sentences)
• Action-oriented: Clear calls to action (Register Now, Download Packing List, Contact Us)

Example - Good vs. Bad:

❌ Bad (vague, jargon):

“Camp Coleman offers a comprehensive aquatics program with certified instruction in a supervised environment.”

✅ Good (specific, parent-focused):

Swimming Program

All campers swim daily with Red Cross certified lifeguards. We offer:

• Beginner lessons (learn to swim)
• Intermediate skills (stroke improvement)
• Advanced training (diving, water safety)
• Free swim periods (supervised fun)

Safety: 1 lifeguard per 10 swimmers. All campers take swim test on Day 1.

Accessibility

Make content accessible:

• Alt text: Describe all images (especially activity photos)
• Headings: Use H2, H3 structure for screen readers
• Links: Descriptive link text (“Download packing list PDF” not “click here”)
• Color contrast: Ensure text readable on backgrounds
• Tables: Use proper table headers for schedules

Mobile Optimization

70% of parents browse camp info on mobile:

• Test all pages on phone/tablet before publishing
• Use responsive images (compress to under 500KB)
• Avoid wide tables (use accordion blocks for schedules on mobile)
• Keep forms short (only essential fields)
• Make buttons large and tappable (minimum 44x44px)

Common Patterns by Page Type

Activity Page

Purpose: Detailed description of single camp activity

Recommended blocks:

1. Banner - Activity hero image
2. Simple Content - What is this activity? (2-3 paragraphs)
3. Cards - Skill levels or age groups
4. Gallery - Photos from past sessions
5. Accordion - FAQs (equipment, safety, experience level)
6. Simple Content - Staff qualifications for this activity

SEO tip: Include keywords like “camp [activity] for kids” in title and first paragraph

Daily Schedule Page

Purpose: Show typical day at camp

Recommended blocks:

1. Simple Content - Overview of daily flow
2. Table or Accordion - Hour-by-hour schedule
3. Cards - Highlight special activities (campfire, talent show)
4. Accordion - Schedule variations by age group
5. Simple Content - Evening activities and lights-out

Pro Tip: Use Accordion blocks for schedules on mobile (better than wide tables)

Packing List Page

Purpose: Help parents pack appropriately

Recommended blocks:

1. Banner - Packing theme image
2. Simple Content - General packing guidance
3. Two-column section:
   • Left: What to Bring (bulleted list in Simple Content)
   • Right: What NOT to Bring (bulleted list in Simple Content)
4. Accordion - Optional items by activity (horseback riding gear, etc.)
5. Cards - Recommended gear with purchase links
6. Download - Printable packing list PDF

Content tips:

• Group by category (clothing, toiletries, bedding, personal items)
• Specify quantities (“3-5 t-shirts” not just “shirts”)
• Explain WHY for restricted items (“No electronics - we focus on outdoor connection”)

Registration Page

Purpose: Guide parents through registration process

Recommended blocks:

1. Banner - Registration header
2. Alert - Key deadlines and dates (use alert block if available)
3. Simple Content - How to register (step-by-step)
4. Cards - Pricing options (early bird, regular, late)
5. Webform - Registration interest form
6. Accordion - Payment FAQs (deposits, refunds, financial aid)
7. Button - Link to external registration system (Daxko, CampMinder, etc.)
8. Simple Content - Contact info for questions

Conversion tips:

• Show total cost upfront (no hidden fees)
• Offer multiple payment options (deposit + installments)
• Address objections in FAQ (cancellation policy, refunds)
• Create urgency (early bird deadline, limited spots)

FAQ Page

Purpose: Answer common parent concerns

Recommended blocks:

1. Simple Content - FAQ introduction
2. Accordion - Questions grouped by category:
   • Safety & Supervision
   • Health & Medication
   • Daily Activities
   • What to Bring
   • Communication & Visits
   • Refunds & Cancellations
3. Simple Content - Contact info for unlisted questions

FAQ best practices:

• Group questions by topic (use accordion sections)
• Write conversationally (“What if my child gets homesick?” not “Homesickness policy”)
• Link to related pages (packing list, schedule, activities)
• Update seasonally based on actual parent questions

Staff Page

Purpose: Build trust by introducing camp team

Recommended blocks:

1. Banner - Staff team photo
2. Simple Content - Staff philosophy and qualifications
3. Cards - Staff bios with photos (Director, Program Director, Head Counselor)
4. Simple Content - Counselor training and certifications
5. Testimonials - Parent/camper quotes about staff (if testimonial block available)

Bio tips:

• Include photo, name, role, certifications
• Add personal touch (years at camp, favorite activity)
• Highlight safety credentials (CPR, First Aid, lifeguard)
• Show diversity of staff (age, background, skills)

Camp Menu Strategy

Menu Types

Camp Quick Links (utility menu in header):

• Contact
• Register
• Dates & Pricing
• FAQ
• Packing List

Camp Menu (main navigation):

• About
• Schedule
• Activities (with child items)
• Staff
• Registration

Menu Best Practices

Navigation principles:

• Limit top-level items: 5-7 maximum
• Logical order: Follow parent journey (About → What We Do → How to Register)
• Descriptive labels: “Daily Schedule” not “Schedule”
• Consistent naming: Use same terminology across site

Example menu structure:

Camp Quick Links (utility):
- Register Now
- Dates & Pricing
- Contact Us
- FAQ

Camp Menu (main):
- About Camp Coleman
- Daily Schedule
- Activities ▼
  - Swimming
  - Archery
  - Hiking & Nature
  - Arts & Crafts
- What to Pack
- Registration

SEO Best Practices for Camp Subpages

Page Titles

• Format: [Topic] | [Camp Name] (e.g., “Daily Schedule | Camp Coleman”)
• Length: 50-60 characters
• Keywords: Include primary search term (activity name, “camp schedule”, “packing list”)

Meta Descriptions

• Length: 150-160 characters
• Include: Camp name, key benefit, call to action
• Example: “Camp Coleman’s daily schedule balances outdoor activities, skill-building, and fun. View our hour-by-hour schedule for ages 7-15. Register today!”

Image Optimization

• File names: Descriptive (camp-coleman-archery.jpg not IMG_1234.jpg)
• Alt text: Describe image for accessibility and SEO (“Campers practicing archery with certified instructor”)
• Compression: Keep under 500KB (use TinyPNG or similar)
• Dimensions: 1920x1080px for banners, 800x600px for content images

Internal Linking

• Link between camp subpages (“See our Daily Schedule for activity times”)
• Link to registration from all pages (sticky CTA, footer button)
• Link to Camp homepage for location/contact
• 2-5 internal links per page

Content Freshness

• Update dates annually (schedule, registration, pricing)
• Add new photos each season (galleries, staff, activities)
• Refresh FAQ based on real parent questions
• Google favors recently updated seasonal content

Common Mistakes to Avoid

❌ Mistake 1: Not Adding Subpages to Menu

Problem: New pages invisible to users Solution: Always add new Camp Subpages to Camp Menu after creation

❌ Mistake 2: Outdated Dates/Pricing

Problem: Parents see old information, lose trust Solution: Calendar reminder to update registration pages 3 months before season

❌ Mistake 3: Walls of Text

Problem: Parents don’t read long paragraphs Solution: Use bullets, accordions, cards for scannable content

❌ Mistake 4: Missing Parent Concerns

Problem: FAQ doesn’t address real questions Solution: Track actual parent questions, update FAQ quarterly

❌ Mistake 5: Stock Photos Only

Problem: Looks generic, not authentic Solution: Use real photos from your camp (with parent permission)

❌ Mistake 6: No Clear Call to Action

Problem: Parents browse but don’t register Solution: Registration CTA on every page (button, sticky header, footer)

❌ Mistake 7: Buried Registration Info

Problem: Parents can’t find how to sign up Solution: Registration link in Camp Quick Links + CTA on every subpage

Use Cases & Examples

Use Case 1: Summer Camp Activity Microsite

Goal: Showcase 8 core camp activities with detailed pages

Structure:

• Camp page: Camp Pinewood
• Camp Subpage: Activities (overview)
  • Camp Subpage: Swimming & Waterfront
  • Camp Subpage: Archery & Shooting Sports
  • Camp Subpage: Hiking & Nature
  • Camp Subpage: Arts & Crafts
  • Camp Subpage: Team Sports
  • Camp Subpage: Campfire & Songs
  • Camp Subpage: STEM & Robotics
  • Camp Subpage: Leadership Training

Menu setup:

Activities ▼
├── Swimming & Waterfront
├── Archery & Shooting Sports
├── Hiking & Nature
├── Arts & Crafts
├── Team Sports
├── Campfire & Songs
├── STEM & Robotics
└── Leadership Training

Use Case 2: Session-Based Schedule Pages

Goal: Different schedules for different age groups

Structure:

• Camp Subpage: Daily Schedule (overview)
  • Camp Subpage: Tadpoles Schedule (ages 6-8)
  • Camp Subpage: Campers Schedule (ages 9-11)
  • Camp Subpage: Explorers Schedule (ages 12-14)
  • Camp Subpage: Leaders Schedule (ages 15-17)

Each schedule page includes:

• Hour-by-hour table
• Activity rotation explanation
• Special events callout
• Free time details

Use Case 3: Registration Information Hub

Goal: One-stop registration resource

Structure:

• Camp Subpage: Registration (main)
  • Camp Subpage: Dates & Pricing
  • Camp Subpage: How to Register (step-by-step)
  • Camp Subpage: Payment Options
  • Camp Subpage: Financial Aid
  • Camp Subpage: Cancellation Policy
  • Camp Subpage: Registration FAQ

Registration page includes:

• Webform: Interest/waitlist signup
• Cards: Pricing tiers (early bird, regular, sibling discount)
• Button: Link to external registration system
• Accordion: Payment FAQ

Troubleshooting

Camp Menus Not Appearing on Subpage

Problem: Camp Subpage missing navigation menus

Solutions:

• Verify Camp field is filled in (must select parent Camp page)
• Check parent Camp page has menus configured
• Camp menus are copied when subpage is created - if Camp page menus were added later, you may need to manually add menu blocks to subpage layout
• Compare subpage Layout with parent Camp page Layout

Menu Updates Not Reflecting on Subpages

Problem: Changed menu items on Camp page but subpages unchanged

Solution:

• Menu content (links, items) updates automatically across all pages
• Menu block configuration (which menu is selected) does NOT update automatically
• If you changed which menu is linked to the block, update each Camp Subpage layout individually

Cannot Find Parent Camp in Dropdown

Problem: Camp field autocomplete doesn’t show Camp page

Solutions:

• Verify Camp page is published
• Check Camp page is content type “Camp” (not Landing Page or other)
• Try typing exact camp title
• Clear cache (drush cr)

Broken Links in Camp Menu

Problem: Menu links return 404 errors

Solutions:

• Verify linked Camp Subpage is published
• Check URL path is correct (use autocomplete when adding menu links)
• If page was deleted, remove menu link
• Clear cache

Related Resources

• Camp Content Type Documentation - Create parent Camp pages
• Layout Builder Documentation - Build flexible layouts
• Block Library - 30+ Layout Builder blocks
• Content Editor Getting Started - Learn Layout Builder basics
• Migrate to Layout Builder - Migrate legacy camp pages

Need Help?

• YMCA Community Slack - #content-editors channel
• Monthly Community Calls - Ask questions live
• Troubleshooting Guide - Common solutions
• Quick Reference - Fast answers

Happy camping! Camp Subpages help you create rich, informative microsites that give parents confidence and get campers excited. 🏕️