Digging into Camp

We’ve often remarked that camp really helps girls grow in several important ways in so many important ways. Being away from home in a camp environment, campers benefit from the variety of new activities offered, the positive role models they see, and the new relationships they form with other girls and staff members. This has been particularly clear this week at camp. With the first few day’s jitters now gone, the roar of singing in the dining hall has gotten louder, the confidence riding horses, climbing rocks and hitting tennis serves. Likewise, as skills have been improving the activities are becoming more impressive— bullseyes in archery and riflery, line-straight kayaking, and super complicated crafts. Everyone seems to be really digging into camp.

Down at the lake, the canoeing and kayaking instructors have been working with the girls to prepare them for the upcoming river trips planned. This involves getting geared up, and learning the different strokes to maneuver the boats, as well as knowing a few strategies to follow if your boat were to capsize. For kayakers, this means being able to “wet exit,” pulling the grab loop on your neoprene skirt and sliding out of the boat (while upside down!). It’s challenging at first, of course, but fun for the campers to learn these basic skills, and really exciting when they begin to become second nature.

The Hi-Ups, rising 11th graders, took a trip with Jeff up to Dupont Forest for a waterfall hike. They started at the bottom of Triple Falls and climbed each face of the rocks until they made it almost to the top. It took a little bushwhacking to pull through the last bit, but they enjoyed the high view on the easy trail back down. After talking about it, we decided this was “real adventure,” something that required extra concentration and strength from us. It was amazingly beautiful, but also powerful and just a little bit scary. We had a great time!

Don’t forget to stay in touch as the session continues. You can always give us a call at camp, but please add your comments to these posts and share them with your friends. We always love hearing what you all have to say!