Fancy a bit of mystery mixed with the great outdoors? Here's a curated list of ten detective films where camp counsellors take centre stage. These films blend the thrill of solving crimes with the unique setting of summer camps, offering a fresh twist on the classic whodunit. Whether you're a fan of suspense, character-driven stories, or just love the nostalgia of camp life, this collection is sure to keep you on the edge of your seat.
The Hills Have Eyes (1977)
Description: Although not set at a camp, this film involves a family, including a camp counsellor, who must use detective skills to survive against a group of cannibals.
Fact: The film was remade in 2006 by director Alexandre Aja.
Watch Now
Friday the 13th (1980)
Description: Though primarily a horror film, the original 'Friday the 13th' features camp counsellors who become detectives in their own right, trying to uncover the killer's identity amidst the chaos.
Fact: The film was shot in just 28 days, and its low budget didn't stop it from becoming a massive success.
Watch Now
The Burning (1981)
Description: While not strictly a detective film, this classic slasher flick features camp counsellors trying to solve the mystery of a vengeful burn victim. It's a must-watch for its iconic scenes and the suspense it builds around the camp setting.
Fact: The film was inspired by the urban legend of "Cropsey", a boogeyman-like figure said to haunt summer camps.
Watch Now
The House on Sorority Row (1983)
Description: While not directly about camp counsellors, the film involves a group of sorority sisters, including those with camp experience, who must solve a murder mystery.
Fact: The film was inspired by Agatha Christie's "And Then There Were None."
Watch Now
The Initiation (1984)
Description: This film features a sorority initiation gone wrong, with camp counsellors involved in the mystery surrounding the murders. It's a blend of horror and detective elements.
Fact: The film was one of the first to use the "final girl" trope effectively.
Watch Now
Campfire Tales (1997)
Description: This anthology film includes a segment where camp counsellors share eerie stories, one of which involves a detective-like investigation into a camp legend.
Fact: The film features a young James Marsden in one of his early roles.
Watch Now
The Cabin in the Woods (2012)
Description: While not set in a traditional camp, this film involves a group of friends (including a camp counsellor-like character) who must solve the mystery of their bizarre situation to survive.
Fact: The film was co-written by Joss Whedon, known for his work on "Buffy the Vampire Slayer."
Watch Now
The Final Girls (2015)
Description: A group of friends, including a camp counsellor, are sucked into a '80s slasher film and must solve the mystery to escape. It's a clever mix of comedy, horror, and detective work.
Fact: The film pays homage to classic '80s slasher films, with a particular nod to "Friday the 13th."
Watch Now
The Slumber Party Massacre (1982)
Description: This film involves a group of high school girls, including a camp counsellor, who must solve the mystery of a killer targeting them during a slumber party.
Fact: The screenplay was originally written as a parody of slasher films, but it was produced as a straight horror film.
30 Days Free
Sleepaway Camp (1983)
Description: This cult classic involves a series of murders at a summer camp, with the counsellors at the heart of the investigation. Its shocking twist ending has made it a staple in horror and detective film discussions.
Fact: The film's ending was so controversial that it led to a sequel and a cult following.
30 Days Free
