Author: Camp Laurel South

It felt like this day might never come. After saying our tearful goodbyes to end the 2021 summer, time seemed to crawl. But as we settled back into our routines, the school year helped pass the time. And then it got cooler and colder, and we celebrated the winter holidays. Once the temperatures began to rise and flowers began to bloom, springtime served as a reminder that another incredible Laurel South summer was right around the corner! And finally…the day was here! The day when we were reunited with our old camp friends, made friends and started making memories to last a lifetime!

Once everyone arrived, we had an amazing cookout dinner, after which we all headed to Cove where Roger and Dagni welcomed us to the official start of the 2022 summer. From there, each campus ventured off to their individual evening programs, running and playing and bonding with each other. Then we went back to cabins for some bonding before getting ready to begin this amazing experience we call Laurel South!

Today is Moose Stomp and tomorrow we’ll head right into our first program day! We have so much to look forward to this summer, and we plan on taking in every moment. We don’t plan to waste a second of it!

Stepping off the bus at camp is a special feeling, whether coming from the busy streets of New York City, the beaches of sunny Florida, the hills of Hollywood or anywhere in between. One big reason for that is the crisp, fresh Maine air. We’re big believers in the state of Maine and all the amazing things it has to offer. Here are just a few of our favorites!

The Lakes

Did you know there are about 6,000 lakes in the state of Maine, covering almost a million acres across the state? That’s a lot of lakes, and it just so happens we’re located on one of the very best ones: Crescent Lake!! Not only does it let us get beautiful sunset photos, but it also allows us to run our extensive waterfront program at the highest level. Waterskiing, wake surfing, sailing, canoeing, kayaking, paddleboarding, fishing…oh and don’t forget swimming!

The State and National Parks

For many kids, camp is where they experience their first time sleeping in a tent, sitting by a fire, or even making a S’more. What better location to do all the above than in one of the gorgeous State or National parks located across Maine. Camden, Acadia, Lake St. George, there’s plenty to choose from. Taking our campers on hikes around the state is always a hit!

The Food

Everyone knows about Maine Lobster, but what about Maine blueberries? Or those delicious whoopie pies? Or even the original donut holes? Maine has a rich history when it comes to food, and we take full advantage at Laurel South. It’s no wonder our campers keep coming back for seconds!

Do you remember your first time tasting a S’more…or standing up on Waterskis, scoring a goal, finishing a ceramics project, getting to the top of the climbing wall; the list could go on forever. Venturing into the unknown to tackle a challenge may be scary at first, but the feeling of accomplishment is unmatched. Taking these safe risks is a big part of camp, and campers are encouraged to break out of their comfort zone every day. While the number of “Firsts” experienced in a summer is endless, here are three of our favorites that every camper will experience:

First Time Getting off the Arrival Bus:

Smiling faces, boisterous cheers, welcome tunnels; there’s nothing quite as exciting as getting off the bus on Arrival Day. Being greeted with a mountain of enthusiasm by new and old friends is special. With an entire summer ahead, the opportunities are endless, and a summer of fun awaits!

First Campfire:

What’s the first thing you think of when thinking of camp? Campfires! How often do you get to gather around a beautiful fire with your favorite people singing songs, telling stories, and just enjoying the company? It’s an experience so unique to camp and one that resonates for a lifetime.

First Time Jumping in the Lake:

Canonball!! Whether perfecting your strokes or bouncing on the Aquapark, it’s always a great time in Crescent Lake. Beautiful scenery, crystal-clear water, and friends galore, there’s no better place to be on a hot day!!!

…jump off the bus into welcoming arms.

…give Roger and Dagni a huge hug.

…decorate my area of the Cabin.

…hit a Homerun.

…earn Bullseye Club…maybe both.

…reach the top of the Climbing Wall.

…build, launch and catch a Rocket.

…participate in the Theater Shows.

…sail a Hobie.

…bust a move in Dance.

…cannonball into the Lake.

…cartwheel through Gymnastics.

…score a Touchdown.

…rock Cove with a campus cheer.

…ski in and out of the Wake.

…serve up an ace on the Courts.

…serve up a masterpiece in Culinary

…cheer until my Voice is gone.

…score a goal in Soccer and Lacrosse.

…score a ride on Roger’s sweet, sweet golf cart.

…work the Ceramics Wheel.

…Bumpertube!

…learn the moves for the Dining Hall Dance Parties.

…play in the Moose Bowl or Katahdin Cup.

…make the perfect s’more.

…catch a fish, biggest of the day or smallest of the day.

…win Spirit Days!  Oh, yeah…we’re all winners!

…Make Your Own Sunday.

…sing at a Council Fire.

…hug all my friends.

…thank all my counselors.

…SAVOR EVERY MINUTE.

Thanksgiving is always a time for reflection and appreciation. To celebrate this year we want to share what we’re most thankful for.

Campers and Camp Families

We’re incredibly thankful you value the summer camp experience and your summer home. We’re thankful you carry on long-standing traditions and create new ones of your own. We’re grateful for the shared memories and friendships you’ve forged. We love every summer moment laughing, playing and growing with you!

Our Staff

Camp is about the people, and Laurel South has some of the most amazing staff and counselors in the world. Each summer they come from all over and dedicate themselves to ensuring a safe, fun and incredible experience for our campers. It’s hard work and we’re so grateful for all they do! Our staff are the pillars of our community.

The State of Maine

The scenery in Maine is breathtaking. We love the woodlands, rolling hills and, of course, Crescent Lake. There’s no better backdrop for an amazing camp experience!

Laurel South Traditions

Camps thrive on tradition, and Laurel South’s are on display all summer long! From daily traditions like campus songs and Evening Cove to once-a-summer favorites like the Carnival and Spirit Days. We’re thankful from arrival to departure…and every moment in between. Happy Thanksgiving!

One of the best parts of camp is the combined sense of newness and familiarity. It’s refreshing to have a change of pace and simultaneously comforting to be back at our home away from home. The benefits of camp are endless: community, independence, friendship, learning new skills and personal growth are a few of my favorites. But there’s something unique about spending the summer in Maine.

Fresh air, endless trees and sparkling Crescent Lake: Maine is one of the most beautiful places in the country. Forest views are a welcome substitute to big city skyscrapers and suburban roads. Screen time is replaced with games on green fields. Exploring by canoe, on foot, or even on horseback gives everyone a greater appreciation for the surrounding nature.

Campers and counselors – when reminiscing about their summers – mention the community, the activities, the special events and the beauty of Maine. They picture themselves laughing with friends, paddleboarding on Crescent Lake, and taking in the crisp air. They remember their place in Maine and can instantly be filled with joy, peace and a longing to return. And that’s the way camp should be!