History

Our Vision for the Next Century

Every improvement we make is guided by our commitment to our core values—caring, honesty, respect, and responsibility—and by our belief that camp should be a safe, welcoming place for all. As we look ahead, we are deeply grateful to our alumni, families, staff, and supporters who continue to make this vision a reality.

Together, we are building not just a better camp, but a brighter future.

What We’ve Accomplished So Far

• Shade structures were installed at the Lakeside Waterfront, giving children and staff a welcome place to rest out of the sun without leaving the action.

• A new pavilion now stands at the front courts, providing covered space for gatherings, classes, and camp games.

• We completed the Minisink Pavilion, replacing the temporary “tent-vilion” that served the community after the Minisink fire.

• We built new staff housing to better support and retain the talented team members who are at the heart of our programs.

• The Trip Shed was completed, giving our growing Adventure Trips for Challenge (formerly ETC) program the space and structure it needs to thrive.

Unplanned but Essential Improvements

Some of the best parts of camp were never in the original plan—but they became important milestones in our journey to improve the experience for all. These additions are already making an impact:

• We built the Mountain Slide beside the Mountainside Boathouse—a thrilling set of 90-foot slides that quickly became a camper favorite and a new camp classic.

• At Blue Mountain Day Camp, we’ve added a new fishing pavilion and dock, created a pedal cart racetrack, expanded the swim area, built a beach volleyball court, and constructed five new cabins—perfect for day campers and available in spring and fall for groups and families.

• We renovated the kitchen in Wickapeck, our 100+ year-old farmhouse, ensuring that this historic building continues to serve camp for years to come.

• We purchased a home and property on the south end of the lake, allowing for staff housing expansion without the need for construction on site.

In Progress and On the Horizon

• Renovating and expanding the Dining Hall is a top priority. Originally built in 1961, this well-loved space will gain additional seats and modern upgrades while continuing to serve as the heart of camp.

• A new high ropes course and updated climbing wall will give campers even more opportunities for personal growth, confidence-building, and adventure.

• Our vision includes a redesigned camp road system that separates children from vehicles. A new service road and a parking lot closer to cabins will help guests unpack more easily and begin their camp experience safely and smoothly.

• A new unit on the historic site of our original tent-cabins. New cabins are planned to meet the growing demand for camp and school programs.

• A multipurpose pavilion will serve as a sledding hill warming station in the winter and a luggage drop-off area in summer.

• A new administration building will provide adequate workspace and meeting areas, while remaining the welcoming first stop for new arrivals. Nearby, a parking lot for buses and cars will simplify check-in and transportation.

• Improvements to recreation and health facilities will help us better serve our campers year-round.

• The mountainside boathouse will be updated to hold more boats and gear, and continue supporting environmental education classes.

• Lake paths will be designed to give visitors a chance to explore and learn about our natural ecosystem without disturbing the shoreline.