SouthFlorida.com | Teen Link South Florida

The popular and superficial view of the traditional summer camp experience is roasting marshmallows in the bonfire, sharing spooky stories in the dark, waking up to the obnoxious ring of a trumpet or loud bell and attending a new event at every breath.

But not all camps offer sickening meals, nor do they all make campers sing pointless campfire songs. Some camps today have made teens second-guess their thoughts on camp and have even erased their stereotypical views of camp.

For those who are not easily amused by nature's wild side, a more musical summer is available. Rock 'N' Roll Fantasy Camp welcomes hardcore rock fans or anyone who has musical talent or wishes they did. No experience is needed for this chance at quick stardom. The campers take their talent to the spotlight after their counselors enhance or teach them important skills for their ultimate challenge: performing live in concert in front of their family and friends. These rockstar camps are held nationwide, including Miami.

"I would love to go to a Rock 'N' Roll Camp," Pembroke Pines Charter junior Frankarlo Juliusburger said. "I have always wanted to learn to play the drums. I practice on Rock Band, but I think it's time I kick it up a notch."

Other teens are taken with fashion. Those who like designing clothes, flipping through fashion magazines, or simply putting together outfit combinations from their own closets are bound to enjoy the FashionCampNYC in the center of Midtown Manhattan.

Campers get a chance to learn from professionals of the fashion industry. The courses include activities like taking a trip to fashion exhibits in NYC and making up their own brands.

"I went to the FashionCampNYC this past summer, and it was amazing," said Sandra Lorena Pineda, a senior at Cypress Bay High. "We got to make sketches and design our own clothes. I learned all about fashion retailing, and I made many friends. I created and presented my own fashion projects that I still have as souvenirs. I would absolutely love to go back again,"

For teens who like to smell the fresh air and enjoy a good challenge, there are camps that teach campers to appreciate nature and survive in the wilderness.

WildernessVenture camps give risk-takers and nature-lovers a chance to enjoy themselves while participating in wild events like climbing up to a partially snow-capped mountain peak and kayaking alongside glaciers in an Alaskan river.

It isn't too late to consider camp as an alternative to your usual summer. The many specialized programs offer choices for almost everyone.