Start of Summer Camp Showcases Excitement at Camp Lincoln for Boys and Camp Lincoln for Girls

Summer is finally here, and we are excited to welcome campers back to Camp Lincoln for Boys and Camp Lake Hubert for Girls.

As arrival day approaches, many campers are counting down the days until camp begins. Some are excited to see friends from previous summers. Others are preparing for their very first camp experience. No matter where a camper falls on that spectrum, the first few days of summer camp are an important time for settling in, building connections, and getting comfortable in a new environment.

One thing I always remind families is that there is no "right" way to start camp. Some campers jump right into activities and friendships from the moment they arrive. Others take a little more time to get comfortable with new surroundings, new people, and a new daily schedule. Both experiences are completely normal.

Our staff understand that arriving at camp can feel exciting, overwhelming, and sometimes even a little intimidating. That's why so much thought and energy goes into helping every camper feel welcomed from the moment they step out of the car.

Getting Settled Into Camp Life

During the first few days, campers will spend time learning camp routines, meeting other campers, and getting familiar with their new summer home. There are cabins to unpack, names to learn, traditions to discover, and plenty of questions to ask. Campers quickly begin learning where activities take place, where meals are served, how schedules work, and what daily life looks like at camp.

Our Camp counselors and staff are there every step of the way to answer questions, provide encouragement and help campers feel comfortable. Whether it's helping a camper find their next activity, introducing them to a new friend or simply checking in after a busy day, our staff play an important role in helping campers make a successful transition to camp life.

Building Camp Friendships and Cabin Connections

One of the biggest priorities during the first few days is helping campers connect with their cabin group. Cabin mates quickly become teammates, adventure partners, dining hall companions and some of the most important people in a camper's summer experience. Through cabin activities, games, meals and shared experiences, friendships begin to form naturally.

Many campers arrive wondering if they'll make friends. The reality is that almost everyone arrives with similar questions. That's one reason camp is such a special place. Everyone is starting something new together.

Our counselors intentionally create opportunities for campers to get to know one another, participate in group activities and feel like a valued member of their cabin community. Before long, campers are sharing laughs, learning inside jokes and building friendships that often continue long after summer ends.

Learning Their Way Around Camp

For first-time campers especially, camp can feel like a big place when they arrive. That's why one of the first things we do is help campers learn their surroundings. Staff provide tours and guidance to help campers become familiar with activity areas, waterfronts, dining halls, gathering spaces and other important locations around camp.

It doesn't take long before campers know exactly where they are headed and begin navigating camp with confidence. One of the fun things to watch each summer is how quickly campers go from feeling unsure about where everything is to confidently leading the way for someone else.

Exploring Camp Activities and New Opportunities

The first week is also when campers begin exploring the many activities available at camp. Whether a camper is excited about sailing, horseback riding, tennis, arts and crafts, outdoor adventure, waterskiing, archery, or trying something completely new, there is plenty to do.

Campers will have opportunities to meet activity leaders, learn about different programs and begin making activity choices that match their interests. For many campers, summer camp becomes a place where they discover new passions, build confidence and develop skills they never expected to learn.

We encourage campers to try new things, challenge themselves, and take advantage of opportunities they may not find anywhere else.

A Quick Word About Homesickness

It's also important to recognize that homesickness can be a normal part of the camp experience. Many campers experience moments when they miss home, especially during the first few days. Missing family, familiar routines or even a favorite pet doesn't mean a camper isn't having a good experience. In fact, it is often a sign that they are doing something brave by stepping outside of their comfort zone and trying something new.

The good news is that campers are never alone in those feelings. Our staff has plenty of experience helping campers work through those gentle moments. Just as important, campers often discover that many of their cabin mates are experiencing similar feelings as they adjust to camp life.

As campers become more familiar with camp routines, build friendships, and gain confidence in their surroundings, those feelings often begin to fade. Before long, they are focused on activities, adventures and all of the fun that comes with being part of the camp community.

The Adventure Is Just Beginning

The first few days at Camp Lincoln and Camp Lake Hubert, are much more than unpacking a bag or learning a schedule. They are the beginning of friendships, growth, independence, confidence and memories that last a lifetime.

Before long, campers will be heading off to activities, cheering on cabin mates, trying new things, and creating stories they'll be telling long after summer ends. Parents can learn more about our boys and girls camp here.