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Sleepaway Camp (film)

Sleepaway Camp is a 1983 American slasher film written and directed by Robert Hiltzik.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 27, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

Sleepaway Camp is a 1983 American slasher film written and directed by Robert Hiltzik. Set at a summer camp, it follows a series of killings after teenage campers arrive at Camp Arawak. The film became known for its twist ending and later developed a cult following.

Plot

The film follows Angela Baker, who is sent to summer camp with her cousin Ricky after a family tragedy. After her arrival, campers begin dying in violent incidents, and the mystery builds toward a final twist.

Production and release

Sleepaway Camp was written and directed by Robert Hiltzik and released in 1983. It runs 84 minutes and was released in the United States as an English-language horror film.

Reception and legacy

The film gained attention for its ending and later became a cult horror title. It was followed by several sequels that expanded the franchise.

Series

Sleepaway Camp was followed by Sleepaway Camp II: Unhappy Campers, Sleepaway Camp III: Teenage Wasteland, Sleepaway Camp IV: The Survivor, and Return to Sleepaway Camp.

Key facts

  • Sleepaway Camp is the first film in the Sleepaway Camp series.
  • The story is set primarily at Camp Arawak, a summer camp for teenagers.
  • It stars Felissa Rose as Angela Baker.
  • Mike Kellin’s appearance in the film was his last on-screen role.
  • The film is noted for its controversial and widely discussed ending.

Frequently asked questions

What is Sleepaway Camp?
Sleepaway Camp is a 1983 American slasher film about a series of murders at a summer camp.
Who directed Sleepaway Camp?
It was written and directed by Robert Hiltzik.
Who stars in the film?
The cast includes Felissa Rose, Jonathan Tiersten, Katherine Kamhi, Paul DeAngelo, Christopher Collet, Karen Fields, and Mike Kellin.
What is the setting of the film?
The story takes place at Camp Arawak, a summer camp for teenagers.
Why is the film remembered?
It is especially known for its twist ending and its later cult reputation.
Is Sleepaway Camp part of a series?
Yes. It is the first film in the Sleepaway Camp franchise, which includes multiple sequels.

References

  1. Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sleepaway_Camp
    Supports: Basic film identification, year, director, cast, plot premise, and sequel information.
  2. IMDb — https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0086320/
    Supports: Release year, runtime, MPAA rating, and plot summary.
  3. American Film Institute — https://catalog.afi.com/Catalog/moviedetails/57196
    Supports: Film details and plot context.
  4. Rotten Tomatoes — https://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/sleepaway_camp
    Supports: Director, screenwriter, distributor, rating, genre, runtime, and release date.
  5. Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sleepaway_Camp_(film_series)
    Supports: Franchise and sequel listing.