A Typical Day - Day Camp

* In 2024 There will be a free bus from Petrova Elementary to Gilpin Bay on June 24-26, making it convenient for some families with scheduling challenges due to early dismissal. All registered campers, whether from Saranac Lake or nearby, can utilize this bus service. The camp day starts when your child boards the bus! On Thursday and Friday, those who took the bus will start their camp day at 8:00 AM. More details will be emailed to registered families.

Morning Boat Ride: 9 a.m. - 9:30 a.m.

Campers start every morning with a 10 minute pontoon boat ride over to the Island. This boat ride allows time for check in’s, ice breakers, and team games to get campers interacting and excited for the new experiences the day will bring.

So with backpacks packed and water bottles full it is time to embrace the day and head to the Island for the adventures that lie ahead!

Interest Tracks: 9:30 a.m. - 1 p.m.

Get ready for a morning full of camper led choices and fun! Activities are varied and include canoeing, sailing, arts and craft (a variety of different projects), nature exploration, and music. Campers will stick with these activities for the week to go deep in an interest area and develop and grow their skills.

Behind the scenes, our program specialists craft the Interest Track menu blending Eagle Island’s resources, staff skills, and camper passions to create the best experience for each camper.

Lunch: 1 p.m. - 1:45 p.m.

At lunch, you can always expect a vegetable and a hot meal like grilled cheese, pasta, soups, and camper favorites like chicken patties. For campers with dietary restrictions and allergies, we always have an appropriate meal available for them. (Please make sure all dietary restrictions are up to date in your camper’s CampDoc Health profile.)

In addition to these daily offerings there is a packed salad bar including fruits and vegetables whose rainbow colors rival those that appear over the Ampersand Mountain Range after an afternoon sun shower. Lunch isn't just about food; it's a perfect moment for campers and counselors to check in and connect. 

 Waterfront: 2 p.m. - 4 p.m.

Get ready for aquatic adventures! At our waterfront, every camper gets to make a splash in swimming lessons tailored to their skill level. Once the lesson wraps up, it's time to continue with free swimming and boating. We have canoes, touring kayaks, sit on top kayaks, and CORCLs (small boats designed specifically for kids ages 7-15 that are small and light and easy to maneuver).

We also have a variety of on-land programming waiting for you if you do not wish to remain in the water after your swim lesson like field games or friendship bracelet making!

Boat Rides to Mainland: 4:30 p.m. - 5 p.m.

Following an afternoon full of waterfront fun, campers are loaded back onto our boats for their second pontoon ride of the day. They return to mainland ready to tell their parents and guardians all about their exciting camp filled day.