Our daughter is growing so much through her camp experience!
– SLC Parent
As Your Camper Grows
As young people mature, Surprise Lake Camp evolves with them. Our program—and our expansive campus, divided into Mainside (for current 1st-6th graders) and Teenside (for current 7th-10th graders)—is designed to empower young people to take the reins of their own development. We nurture children’s skills and self-assurance, enabling campers to gain increasing levels of independence in a safe and supportive environment.
Our entire staff is committed to providing exceptional camper care, prioritizing both physical and mental well-being. Our experienced leadership team members collaborate closely with families to ensure a successful summer for each camper, facilitating positive transitions at every stage of their growth.
Here are some of the kinds of transitions we see every summer, and how we approach them:
From Sibling to Camper
Younger siblings may already feel that camp is a familiar place, but they make the transition to camper even more easily when they get an introduction to camp like every new camper. Consider registering this child for one of our two Rookie Days, where future campers can try camp for a day. The five-day Get Your Feet Wet program is another easy introduction to get comfortable for the following summer.
From “Get Your Feet Wet” to Mini Camp
Get Your Feet Wet campers have Surprise Lake Camp to themselves after the regular season campers have gone home. In a subsequent summer, these campers can register for a short Mini-Camp session or for a 4-week session, both of which happen during our regular summer season. Either one can, at first, feel like a leap, with so many more options and people around. Because our Mini-Campers unit contains all first-timers, though, SLC makes it easier for these new campers to experience SLC together.
From a First-Timer Program to a Regular Camp Session
The transition from one of our introductory programs—Get Your Feet Wet or Mini-Camp—into the regular pace of Mainside is one that we carefully manage. Having a session of nearly four weeks allows a camper enough time to get fully past any initial homesickness. If you receive a letter from your camper about homesickness, please don’t panic! Often, by the time that letter reaches your home, your child feels entirely differently.
From Mainside to Teenside
Mainside (current 1st – 6th graders) starts off with more structure, some choice, and lots of close supervision. Teenside (current 7th-10th graders) has a vibe all its own. Our aim is for the campers to experience a greater sense of independence and responsibility. The teenagers have more choice and more free time, with supervision that encourages autonomy and leadership. To bridge the transition, Mainside campers gain more choice and independence as they grow into being a “Senior” on their side of camp. Seniors get to know the Lower Teens by sharing special activities together.
From Camper to Leader
SLC’s Camper Leadership Program (former “work program”) is designed to cultivate the next generation of leaders. It offers a unique opportunity to take on camp responsibilities while embodying SLC’s core values of compassion, community, grit, gratitude, and courage. Participants gain hands-on experience and develop essential leadership skills in a supportive and encouraging environment.
Leadership Program Highlights:
- Immerse in Camp Life: Participate fully in the camp experience alongside peers, enjoying activities like swimming, arts, sports, and evening programs.
- Develop Leadership Skills: Learn to plan and lead engaging activities for younger campers, gaining hands-on experience in program development.
- Gain Professional Development: Benefit from on-the-job training, receive regular feedback, and refine leadership abilities.
- Build Essential Life Skills: Participate in workshops focused on practical skills such as job applications, budgeting, and teamwork.
- Explore Career Paths: Experience various camp roles to discover potential career interests and future placements.
Applicants must have finished 10th grade before the start of camp next summer. Admission is selective, requiring an interview in person or by video chat. The program seeks individuals who demonstrate a strong commitment to the camp community and exhibit the qualities necessary to thrive in a leadership role. Learn more here!
