Ancient Traditions Summer Camp

Why do we keep our counselor-to-camper ratio low? ❤️

It’s about so much more than safety.

It’s about moments like this.

This little guy was completely worn out after a morning of adventure, crawled into a counselor’s lap, and slept peacefully for over an hour.

Because we keep our ratios low, we have the time, presence, and capacity to truly know, support, and care for every child.

Some days they’re running through the forest like little wild adventurers. Other days they’re curled up in the tipi reading books or taking a much-needed nap. Every day is different, and we let the needs of the children guide the rhythm.

We always have a plan. We always have a purpose. But nothing is rigid.

We adapt. We pivot. We meet kids where they are.

Today the rain poured, so we shifted gears, gathered in the big tent, and spent the afternoon creating art, making crafts, laughing, and enjoying every minute together.

Because camp isn’t about sticking to a schedule.

It’s about creating the best possible experience for the children in front of us. ❤️

Today was all about adventure. 🌲

We started the morning gathered around the fire for our gratitude circle before jumping into an epic game of Capture the Flag. Then campers split into age groups and explored the property to create brand-new trails. One group even discovered a whitetail deer path and proudly named it Whitetail Trail. 🦌

In the afternoon, each group worked together to design their own camp flag, choosing a team name, mascot, symbols, and values that represented who they are. It was incredible watching every child contribute ideas and create something together.

Of course, there was plenty of time for forts, slacklining, coloring, hammocks, the bounce house, and all the imaginative free play that makes camp so special.

Another day filled with curiosity, teamwork, creativity, and a whole lot of fun. ❤️🏕️

🌲 Camp 2026: What a Difference a Day Makes 🌲

Day 1: Absolute chaos. 😅

We violated some of our own policies, fell into people-pleasing mode, and learned a lot in the process.

Day 2: Camp core activated. 💪

Smooth drop-off. Clear expectations. Strong programming. Happy kids. Staff in rhythm. More fun, more ease, and a much safer, more successful day.

Sometimes people don’t realize how incredibly challenging it is to run a seasonal day camp.

Every summer feels a little like launching an entirely new business from scratch—new staff, new families, new children, new dynamics, new programming, and countless moving pieces. All while keeping safety, connection, and meaningful experiences at the center of everything we do.

It’s one of the most rewarding things I’ve ever done.

It’s also one of the hardest.

Every year, somewhere during those first few days, I find myself asking, “Are we really doing this again?” 😂

And then I watch a child make a new friend, overcome a fear, learn a new skill, or leave camp feeling more confident than when they arrived… and I remember exactly why we do it.

If you’ve ever participated in camp, supported our mission, volunteered, donated, or simply cheered us on from the sidelines—thank you. ❤️

And if you’ve ever wanted to be part of what we’re building, we’d love to hear from you.

📣 We are currently expanding our staffing team and looking for great people who love kids, adventure, personal growth, and making a real impact.

Because building something meaningful takes a village. 🌲✨