Hi!
I'm going to summer camp in exactly 43 days! I originally applied with Camp America but cancelled that application and went with Camp Leaders instead. I'm sure Camp America is a fantastic company but I personally was drawn towards Camp Leaders for various reasons.
I honestly couldn't fault the service that Camp Leaders has provided. In terms of help and support with the application process, they were nothing short of amazing. HOWEVER, there are a LOT of costs you incur that I wouldn't describe as 'hidden' but do add up. If you are on a tight budget, you may want to add up every cost you could possibly incur during the process. That includes your actual application to Camp Leaders (which includes insurance, visa, flights etc), medical form charges, travel to interviews/visa appointments, any clothes equipment you may need, costs of travel after camp etc. Another thing worth mentioning is that even if you pay every fee required and get your visa, you aren't technically guaranteed a place at camp. As far as I'm aware, it's a minute percentage of people who aren't placed and you get (almost?) all your fees reimbursed but that's something to bear in mind.
In terms of dates, people start going to camp from 1st May onwards though from the people I've spoken to, it's more commonly around June. You can change your availability really easily on the website so maybe use an approximate until you have your summer exam timetable for next year.
If you have any other questions about the application process or camp in general, I'd be happy to answer!