Activities

Keewaydin has a rich variety of activities, taught by a well trained staff. Campers get to have fun in the activities of their choice, whether it is learning a new skill or becoming expert in one or more of them. We believe that it is important for kids to pursue their own interests at camp. At the same time, we guide and encourage the campers to plan their summer and to set goals for themselves.

At the heart of our philosophy towards activities is the Coup System and the idea of "planned freedom." A coup is a sticker that a camper earns when he has reached a certain level of proficiency in an activity. It is possible to earn several coups in any activity. When a boy earns a coup, it is placed next to his name on a board (the "coup board"), which has on it the names of all the boys in the wigwam. If a camper earns a certain number of coups in a variety of different activities, he wins a "Coup K," a special felt "K" with the Keewaydin moose emblem on it. The purpose of the coup system is two-fold. First, it encourages a camper to plan his summer so that he gets a well-rounded experience: in order to earn the Coup K, a camper has to participate in many activities, many of which are new to him. Second, it provides a challenge to a camper: earning a coup represents commitment and mastery of skills and knowledge.

We believe that the "coup system" and the philosophy of planned freedom not only provide a healthy challenge for kids, but also help them become more responsible, self-confident and independent.

While competition is not emphasized, various ways to compete are offered which further enhance the desire for instruction, self-improvement and building of self-esteem. Most importantly, participation is an important part of our philosophy on activities: all campers are given equal time to participate in the activities they choose. Finally, activities are organized to have a balance of learning and fun!

Water Activities:

Canoeing: No question about it, Keewaydin's canoeing expertise is unequaled. We own more than 100 canoes! Passing the tip-over test and 150 yard swim lets you use boats and canoes. Learning the Ojibway canoe stroke before going on extended canoe trips helps you keep a straight course.

Kayaking: Kayaking has become one of Keewaydin's most popular activities. After mastering canoeing skills, campers from all wigwams are allowed to kayak under the instruction of our experienced kayak staff. Experienced kayakers in Wiantinaug and Moosalamoo paddle in the white water of local rivers.

Swimming: Become a stronger swimmer, able to swim a fair distance and take care of yourself in case of a tipover. Earn Red Cross swimming patches. Learn to dive and snorkel. Learn drown proofing and water rescue. Have fun!

Sailing: Learn to rig, crew and captain our fiberglass Capris and Sunfish. Steady breezes on Lake Dunmore provide for excellent sailing!

Windsurfing: This activity is offered to the oldest campers.

Sports:

Baseball: Plenty of baseball action here! There is a team for every boy who wants to play. Everybody plays a lot.

Soccer: Concentrate on your skills with experienced staff, play in organized games, or just kick the ball around on our well-groomed fields.

Tennis: Keewaydin has four perfectly groomed clay courts. Expert one-on-one or very small group instruction is available, along with Sunday camper-staff doubles and plenty of free-time play.

Basketball: Every wigwam has its own hoop and a brand new lighted court is available to all wigwams.

Archery: Always a favorite. Our range offers boys from all wigwams the chance to improve marksmanship and earn certificates.

Riflery: Boys are taught the safe use of a rifle at our range by experienced staff.

Wrestling: A chance to learn the basics and more. Many staff have high school and college wrestling experience.

Boxing: A long tradition at Keewaydin, boxing is carefully instructed and supervised. Boys always wear mouth guards and proper head gear.

Other Activities:

Exploration: A deep concern for the environment is a way of life at Keewaydin. Being aware of our fellow animals, and of plants, creates many opportunities for outdoor adventure, and investigating our place in the natural world.

Rock Climbing: Experienced, trained staff teach campers the fundamentals and lead trips on the nearby climbing rocks on Mt. Moosalamoo.

Dramatics: Costumes, makeup, lighting, scenery and scripts by campers and staff are all part of Keewaydin's Little Theater. A camp favorite every Friday night.

Arts and Crafts: We focus on each boy designing his own particular project, including woodworking, ceramics, and jewelry, among others.

Hiking: Our own 26 hiking trails on Mt. Moosalamoo make exploring lookouts, caves, slides and learning forestry an everyday possibility. Our trails also connect to the U.S. Forest Service's extensive network of nearby trails. Day hikes are a favorite.

Photography: Keewaydin has a completely equipped darkroom and on-going exhibits.

Free Time Activities:

~ Fish
~ Sail
~ Read
~ Go to free swim
~ Take out a canoe
~ Play soccer or tennis
~ Play ping pong or frisbee
~ Work in the Bug House
~ Start up a game of lacrosse, or baseball
~ Play tether ball or basketball

Evening Activities:

~ Campfires with games, stories and songs
~ Capture the Flag
~ Navy Seals
~ "Find the Staffman"
~ Board Game nights
~ Tent or cabin nights
~ Star gazing