Lauren’s Letter
The experience at camp unfolds with a gradual crescendo, each phase of the summer building upon the last to create rich memories and growth. It all begins quietly with pre-precamp, where a select few staff members lay the essential groundwork for the season ahead. During these early days, decisions are made on priorities and action items that will shape the entire summer. It’s a period of intense preparation, ensuring that every detail is meticulously planned to provide campers with a safe, fun, and enriching environment.
When pre-camp arrives, the atmosphere shifts dramatically. The arrival of our initial group marks the transition from anticipation to vibrant energy. What was once a handful of staff preparing the stage now expands to a bustling community of sixty, alive with excitement and potential. It’s during this phase that staff undergo extensive training, honing their skills in camper encouragement, expectation setting, and the creation of lasting memories. Each member of the team prepares tirelessly to ensure that the summer ahead exceeds expectations.
The momentum continues to build as we move into Father+Son Weekend, a pivotal moment that serves as a trial run before the main event. Fathers join us, providing additional support and guidance, while our counselors finally put their training into practice. This transition seamlessly leads us into the eagerly awaited first session.
The beginning of the first session is a whirlwind of activity and emotion. New campers are introduced to the unique traditions and values of our camp, while returning campers joyfully reunite with old friends, picking up right where they left off ten months prior. It’s a time of reunions and new beginnings, as the entire camp community comes together to create an atmosphere of camaraderie and excitement. The culmination of this phase is the Kawaga Spectacular, an event that leaves the entire camp immersed in intense competition, spending time with a new mix of campers on their Spectacular team, and everlasting memories of the week of competition.
Following this high-energy peak, we embark on the second session, a period of renewed enthusiasm and exploration. Eight-week campers have settled into their routines and friendships, embodying the spirit of our camp with confidence and joy. They are joined by second session campers, who bring a fresh perspective and energy to our community. For many of these campers, the weeks spent away from camp have only heightened their anticipation, reinforcing the appreciation they feel for their camp experiences.
During open areas (free choice) at camp, the grounds are bustling with activities: softball, basketball, honeyball, soccer, swimming, sailing, skiing, frisbees, and storytelling. The air is charged with enthusiasm, but amidst it all, there’s a bittersweet realization that our time together on the shores is drawing to a close.
As the days wind down, campers begin to cherish the routine of typical days—clubs, open areas, meals, leagues, and evening programs. They know that their opportunities to form honorary tribes are fleeting, urging them to make the most of every free moment, leaving everything they have on the field, ensuring that when they reflect on their summer, there’s no doubt that they gave it their all.
For our Counselors-in-Training (CITs), these events mark the final chapters of their camping careers—their last basketball game on the Omni, their final flickerball game on D2, their ultimate pep rally in the Mess Hall. It’s crucial for everyone to embrace these moments fully, while also staying present in the now.
We are all so grateful for our time in the northwoods and thank you for letting your boys spend the summer with us.
Lauren