Author: Ali Wight

Camp Runoia’s Equestrian Program

Posted on by Ali Wight
  • One-Week Equestrian Camp for Girls in Maine
  • A Unique Equestrian Experience: What Makes Camp Runoia Stand Out 
  • The New Riding Arena: A Modern Facility for Young Riders
  • Activities Beyond Riding: Building Confidence and Teamwork 
  • Camp Runoia’s Equestrian Program Among Top Maine Camps
  • Why Choose Camp Runoia?

At Camp Runoia, an all-girls summer camp set on the stunning shores of Great Pond in Belgrade Lakes, Maine, horseback riding is more than just a fun activity–it’s an opportunity for girls to connect with horses, build confidence, and develop new skills. Whether they’re beginners or seasoned riders, campers enjoy instruction in a supportive, friendly environment. From learning the basics of horsemanship to improving riding techniques, campers gain hands-on experience and learn the importance of care and responsibility. On top of the chance to practice daily as one of their chosen traditional summer camp activities, Camp Runoia’s week-long end-of-summer equestrian program is a great opportunity for young girls to grow, make lifelong memories, and discover their love for horses.

One-Week Equestrian Camp for Girls in Maine

Camp Runoia offers a week-long end-of-summer equestrian camp. This fun-packed week offers an intense, focused experience for junior riders, ideal for those seeking an immersive introduction to horseback riding or looking to sharpen their skills on the saddle. The camp is designed for girls of varying levels, from beginners to more experienced riders. Riders will also get to experience some fun activities with their horses that their home barn might not offer. Activities like swimming in the lake with our horses and playing mounted games are always a hit! Known as one of the top equestrian camps for girls, Camp Runoia’s week-long horseback riding program is the perfect way for girls to end the summer with new skills, friendships and a renewed sense of confidence.

Camp Runoia camper loves horse riding

A Unique Equestrian Experience: What Makes Camp Runoia Stand Out 

Camp Runoia stands out as one of the best horseback riding sleep-away camps for girls in New England, offering a truly unique experience that sets it apart from others. With top-of-the-line equestrian arenas, collegiate-level instructors, and a carefully chosen stable of horses, girls of all skill levels have the perfect environment to grow and excel in horseback riding. The all-girls setting at Camp Runoia fosters a supportive and empowering atmosphere where young riders can build confidence in English riding without the distractions of coed competition. This makes it an ideal space for the girls to focus on their riding skills. 

What truly makes Camp Runoia special is its community-focused approach, where campers can form lasting bonds with their peers and the horses they work with. Runoia’s horses, along with private horse leases, ensure that campers can reconnect with their favorite horses year after year, creating a consistent and meaningful experience. Our horses and ponies, who spend the off-season working in collegiate and interscholastic riding programs, return each summer ready to teach, giving campers the chance to learn from top-tier animals. 

The New Riding Arena: A Modern Facility for Young Riders

The new riding arena at Camp Runoia is a total game-changer, offering a modern, safe space that makes horseback riding even more fun! With a smooth, level surface, it’s designed to help riders practice and grow, so campers can ride with confidence. Camp Runoias has not one, but two amazing arenas, each with its own size and setup to fit everything from beginner lessons to more advanced exercises. Whether you’re learning the basics of horse care, working on your canter, or jumping cross rails, our program is fun, challenging, and suited to all skill levels. At Camp Runoia, every ride is an exciting adventure for our campers!

Activities Beyond Riding: Building Confidence and Teamwork 

At Camp Runoia, being a horseback rider is so much more than just riding – it’s about truly connecting with the horses and learning the ropes of horsemanship. Our equestrian program is all about teamwork, with campers working together to care for the horses and support one another during lessons. Each session, riders get to represent their team in our fun and spirited “Bees vs. Elephants” Horse Show, where everyone–from beginners doing walk-only classes to advanced riders jumping 2’6” courses–earns a ribbon for their hard work. But the fun doesn’t stop there–Runoia also hosts an invitational show and takes part in shows at other camps, giving riders the chance to show off what they’ve learned, challenge themselves, and build confidence. It’s all about learning, growing, and having a blast in the saddle!

Camp Runoia’s Equestrian Program Among Top Maine Camps

Maine is known for its incredible summer camps, and Camp Runoia is a standout when it comes to horseback riding. Set in the heart of Maine’s stunning natural beauty, Runoia offers the perfect backdrop for the girls to connect with nature and develop their equestrian skills. As one of the top equestrian camps in New England, Runoia allows campers to ride daily, participate in horse shows, and hone their skills all while enjoying a traditional camp experience. 

We cap the number of lessons we offer to ensure each rider gets attention from instructors and the horses are not over-worked. Two of our riding instructors teach each lesson, ensuring that every camper receives the individual attention they need to grow. This low rider-to-instructor ratio allows for focused, hands-on learning, while still creating a fun and social atmosphere where girls can bond with other campers. Runoia’s skilled staff are passionate about working with children and ensure that your daughter will thrive in a supportive, empowering environment. 

Camp Runoia equestrian horse rider jumping

Why Choose Camp Runoia?

For generations, Runoia has been empowering girls to grow both as individuals and athletes and is known as one of the best all-girls camps in the country! One of the camp’s standout features is the amazing horseback riding program, perfect for girls of all skill levels. Whether your daughter is just starting to ride or is already an experienced equestrian, she can choose horseback riding as a daily activity during the traditional summer camp or take part in the week-long horseback riding camp at the end of the summer. It’s a fantastic opportunity for her to ride every day, care for horses, and even participate in competitions. Runoia’s equestrian program is a major highlight of our Maine sleepaway camp.

Camp Runoia’s equestrian camp for girls is more than just a place to ride–it’s an opportunity for personal growth, bonding with like-minded peers, and creating lasting memories in one of the most beautiful spots in the country. With state-of-the-art facilities, well-trained horses, and a team of knowledgeable staff, our equestrian program truly stands out. At Camp Runoia, girls have the chance to learn what it takes to be a true horseback rider in a safe, supportive environment, surrounded by empowering staff and fellow campers. Whether it’s one of our lesson packages through our traditional camp programs or our immersive week-long end-of-summer equestrian camp, Camp Runoia’s equestrian program is a must for any girls looking to learn more about horseback riding!

 

Making Friends at Summer Camp

Posted on by Ali Wight
  • The Power of Friendship at Camp
  • Camp Runoia’s Unique Environment for Building Friendships
  • Empowering Girls Through Decision-Making
  • Structure of Camp Runoia: Encouraging Group Cohesion
  • Positive Influences at Camp Runoia
  • Lasting Friendships and Personal Growth Beyond Camp

If you’ve ever gone to a sleepaway summer camp as a kid, you probably remember nights spent around the fire singing songs followed by late night laughs in the cabin with your new friends. For many, summer camp provides a unique environment for girls to make lasting friendships while also fostering personal growth. At Camp Runoia, an all girls summer camp in Maine, we understand the importance of making friends at summer camp and strive to create an empowering and supportive environment for girls to develop lifelong skills and lifelong friendships!

The Power of Friendship at Camp

The friendships we make in our younger years are often the ones that matter the most. Cultivating healthy relationships is extremely valuable for growing girls as they provide emotional support, social development, and build confidence. At Camp Runoia, we create a safe environment for building connections and summer camp friendships. Camp is a place where girls can bond, feel accepted, and open up without judgment. Girls come to Runoia to enjoy experiences with a diverse group of friends with a variety of backgrounds supported by caring counselors. 

Camp Runoia’s Unique Environment for Building Friendships

The all girls environment at Camp Runoia encourages collaboration, trust, and mutual support among campers. The many shared activities such as group hiking trips, cabin life by the lake in Maine, and team-building exercises naturally form bonds between campers, creating memories that will last a lifetime. We have a powerful group of staff who are committed to guiding campers through social dynamics and empowering them by modeling positive relationship-building. Sometimes, the healthy bonds made between staff and campers are the relationships that have the largest impact on the girls here at camp.

making friends at summer camp

Empowering Girls Through Decision-Making

At Camp Runoia, we understand that making decisions can be challenging, especially for young girls. That’s why we create a supportive environment where campers can grow by making choices for themselves and taking responsibility. From selecting their own activities to engaging with different groups during free time, campers develop confidence, communication skills, and independence—valuable life skills that extend far beyond the summer camp experience. Taking initiative in decision-making also helps girls connect with like-minded peers, fostering deeper and more meaningful friendships.

Our campers design their own schedules in three-day cycles, selecting four activity periods per day. After three days, they choose a new schedule, allowing them to explore different interests each week. Over the course of a traditional three-week session, campers experience five unique activity blocks and have the opportunity to participate in at least one optional wilderness trip. This progressive program encourages skill development, level advancement, and achievement in activities of their choosing, empowering each camper to excel at their own pace.

We take great pride in being a community that empowers girls to advocate for themselves, use their voices, and become agents of change in the world. Through the freedom to make choices and take ownership of their camp experience, girls learn the importance of self-expression, leadership, and standing up for what they believe in.

Structure of Camp Runoia: Encouraging Group Cohesion

Making friends at summer camp can feel overwhelming at first, but the supportive structure and welcoming environment of Camp Runoia make it easy to feel at home. From close-knit cabin groups to outdoor adventures and team-based activities, campers have countless opportunities to form meaningful friendships with the guidance of our dedicated staff. Tackling challenges together—whether it’s hiking a tough trail or completing a group scavenger hunt—fosters strong connections and creates unforgettable bonding moments.

With over 30 summer camp activities to choose from in an all-girls setting, campers can explore their interests and meet others who share their passions, free from outside distractions. Campers live in traditional cabins with peers of the same age or grade, while activity choices are based on individual interests and selected daily. Mealtimes bring the community together at mixed-age tables, thoughtfully arranged by our director team, who take the time to know each camper personally. In the evenings, the entire camp comes together for group activities, ensuring that every camper feels included, engaged, and part of the Runoia family.

Positive Influences at Camp Runoia

Having positive influences and role models is extremely important in a girl’s emotional development. Our staff members serve as excellent role models for our campers, and even older campers can step into this role by mentoring younger girls through our counselor-in-training program. The various activities at Camp Runoia emphasize teamwork, listening, and respecting others’ ideas, which build empathy and communication skills. All-camp activities, performances or creative expression gives girls the opportunity to assert themselves and encourage confidence and self-worth, all while making genuine camp friendships.

staff role model

Lasting Friendships and Personal Growth Beyond Camp

Friendships made at Camp Runoia often extend well beyond the summer, with many girls maintaining lifelong bonds with girls from different corners of the U.S. and other parts of the world. These friendships encourage personal growth for girls in many aspects- emotionally, socially, and mentally. Summer camp friendships and the skills learned at camp set the foundation for future success for campers in all aspects of their lives. Our all girls’ sleepaway camp tucked away in the woods in Maine continues to build stronger bonds and deeper friendships year after year amongst campers, staff and the overall community. 

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Camp Runoia’s unique structure and values create an empowering environment where girls can forge lasting friendships and experience meaningful personal growth. By fostering collaboration, trust, and decision-making opportunities, campers not only build strong connections with one another but also develop the confidence and social skills that will serve them long after the summer ends. With a supportive all-girls summer camp atmosphere, dedicated staff, and a variety of activities designed to challenge and inspire, Camp Runoia is the perfect place for girls to grow, learn, and thrive together. 

If you’re looking for a transformative summer camp experience, we invite you to explore more about Camp Runoia and join us for the next session at one of the best girls’ camps in the Northeast. Whether you’re seeking a girls’ camp in Maine or an all-girls summer camp near you, Camp Runoia offers the ideal setting for friendships that last a lifetime and the personal growth that every girl deserves.

 

Exciting Summer Camp Activities for Girls at Camp Runoia

Posted on by Ali Wight
  • Traditional Camp Activities
  • Adventure Camps for Girls
  • Horseback Riding Summer Camp
  • Leadership Development Programs
  • Community and Friendship

Nestled on the shores of Great Pond in Belgrade Lakes, Maine, Camp Runoia is an all-girls’ sleepaway camp that prioritizes safety, connection to nature, and personal development. This nurturing environment allows campers to explore their interests, gain new skills, and learn more about themselves in a supportive setting. Runoia’s commitment to empowering girls to be their best selves keeps them coming back year after year, making it one of the best summer camps for girls. This dedication to fostering a positive and engaging atmosphere makes Camp Runoia one of the best summer camps for girls near New York.

With over 30 camp activities for girls offered in a choice-based structure, campers can explore their interests and focus on skill-building through a variety of different activities. Camp Runoia encourages girls to work toward significant achievements in an inclusive environment where they can truly be themselves. 

Traditional Camp Activities

Camp Runoia offers a wide range of traditional camp activities, including canoeing, high & low ropes, climbing, horseback riding, water skiing, archery, arts & crafts, and much more. With many unique and exciting activities to choose from, Camp Runoia goes far beyond just singing songs around the campfire. 

These traditional activities play a vital role in building community and cultivating self-confidence among campers. For instance, sailing not only teaches skills but requires teamwork as girls navigate the waters together. Similarly, archery encourages focus and precision, finding a sense of accomplishment as campers hit their targets. These experiences encourage a strong sense of self and confidence. 

Adventure Camps for Girls

As one of the best adventure summer camps for girls in the Northeast, Camp Runoia allows campers to explore nature and develop outdoor skills that will last a lifetime. Climb into a canoe for exhilarating paddles along the shoreline of Great Pond, and as confidence grows, sign up for an overnight canoeing trip through Maine or learn teamwork skills by hopping into the 12-person “War Canoe.” Campers connect with nature and experience low-impact camping during overnight wilderness trips. The various summer camp activities at Camp Runoia promote teamwork and resilience that girls carry with them beyond the campgrounds!

Overnight and wilderness trips have long been a cherished tradition at Camp Runoia. Exploring the outdoors in small, guided groups provides campers with opportunities for growth and discovery in a simple yet magical way. Committed to the philosophy of low-impact camping, Camp Runoia encourages campers to develop a deep appreciation for the natural world while fostering a sense of responsibility as stewards of our planet. Trip options vary by age and experience, ranging from one to four nights. Additionally, all campers have the chance to participate in day hikes on local trails and canoeing adventures from our lakefront access to the stunning Great Pond, where 8,000 acres of pristine freshwater await!

A person sits at a wooden table outdoors, smiling at the camera while engaging in art activities, specifically weaving a basket with wooden strips. Clothespins are attached to the basket, securing some of the strips in place. arts and craftssummer camp activities outdoor adventure canoeA child wearing a helmet and gloves kisses a horse's nose outdoors, showcasing the joys of choosing a camp that fosters connections with animals. Another person and a partially visible fence are in the background. riding camp horse

Horseback Riding Summer Camp

What truly sets Camp Runoia apart from other all-girls summer camps in Maine is its advanced Equestrian Program. Here, campers have the unique opportunity to learn English riding techniques from certified instructors. The program caters to all skill levels, from beginners who are just learning the basics to advanced riders interested in jumping and cross-country trail riding. And everyone gets to enjoy our brand new Riding Arena. 

Besides riding lessons, campers engage in horse care and grooming, which helps them form special connections with the horses. These experiences go beyond just learning how to ride; they foster confidence, responsibility, and leadership skills in young girls. By caring for their equine partners, campers learn valuable life lessons about empathy and commitment, making the Equestrian Program an integral part of their summer camp experience

For even more horseback riding at camp, we offer a one-week Equestrian Camp.

Leadership Development Programs

Camp Runoia places a strong emphasis on empowering girls to develop leadership skills that they will carry with them throughout their lives. There are plenty of summer camp activities specifically designed to empower girls to cultivate their leadership skills. Whether it’s going on group camping trips, taking part in a drama production, or scaling the climbing tower, girls are encouraged to step out of their comfort zones and take on new challenges. 

These activities encourage campers to support one another as they navigate various experiences together. The lessons learned in leadership and teamwork at Camp Runoia prepare girls for future challenges, equipping them with the skills necessary to lead with confidence and integrity.

For our oldest campers, the Counselor in Training Program is a great way to continue to develop leadership skills. The Counselor in Training program spans between being a Runoia camper and learning how to teach and counsel youth. As a CIT you help counselors in residential life and activity program to teach and support children to have a successful time learning.CITs will have the opportunity to earn certifications like Red Cross Lifeguarding and identify their program areas in camp. CITs will also perform community service and leadership work.

“Runoia was responsible for shaping my personality, my priorities, my inspirations, and my aspirations.” — Jody, Former Runoia Camper

Community and Friendship

One of the most treasured aspects of Camp Runoia is its welcoming and safe all-girls environment that empowers girls to focus on building friendships and learn about themselves without the distractions they may encounter outside of camp. This nurturing atmosphere creates a space for campers to explore their interests within a supportive sisterhood. Camp Runoia’s emphasis on forging lasting friendships through shared summer camp activities and experiences solidifies its reputation as one of the best summer camps for girls near Boston, New York and other major cities in the Northeast.

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Camp Runoia offers an enriching experience for girls, making it one of the top places to attend summer camp in Maine. Set in a nurturing environment on the shores of Great Pond, Camp Runoia builds a strong sense of community and lifelong friendships among campers. This girl’s overnight camp not only promotes personal growth but also creates unforgettable memories, making it a fantastic choice for any girl seeking adventure and self-discovery this summer.

💙 Valentine’s Day Gift Guide for your Runoia Camper💌

Posted on by Ali Wight

For families and friends looking to share a little extra love this Valentine’s Day, why not gift something that reminds them of their happy place—Camp Runoia?! If you’re scrambling to find the perfect gift tonight, look no further! We’ve curated THE BEST Valentine’s Day Gift Guide for your Runoia Camper! 💙 Whether they’re counting down the days until summer or holding onto those camp memories all year long, these gifts are perfect for any Runoia girl! Here are 10 picks guaranteed to come in handy this summer!

Runoia camper heart

🎁 1. Runoia Merch & Apparel – Stay cozy with a Runoia hoodie, t-shirt, or hat! Check out our camp store for the latest gear and send any suggestions our way of things you’d like to see added!

🏷️ 2. Labels, Labels, Labels – Head over to our fundraiser at Mabel’s Labels (just click on the link and type in Camp Runoia) to get your own custom-made labels to claim dibs on all your camper’s items! Imagine the horror of getting the new water bottle of your dreams only to lose it on the first day of camp because your name isn’t on it (Part 2 below). That’s a nightmare we’re trying to avoid—let’s spread love, not terror!

🥤 3. Colorful Water Bottle with Handle – Arguably the most important item Runoia campers bring! Imagine being 10 again, walking back to your cabin after filling your water bottle at the ice-cold faucet by the dining hall. Your friend shouts, “Hey, wanna play some Gaga?” You toss your water bottle into the ferns and jump into the pit—sounds like an amazing camp memory, until you can’t find that water bottle after your win! Avoid the thirst disaster with a LABLED, colorful bottle that’s easy to spot!

🔥 4. Brightly Colored Crazy Creek Chair – Perfect for campfires, canoe trips, evening programs, and everyday use! Pro tip: The nontraditional colors are much easier to spot if you forget to label it, and your camper is on a hunt to find it! Check out the “original chair.”

📝 5. Camp-Themed Stationery & Stickers – Let your Runoia campers write letters home in style! These fill in the blank letter sheets work GREAT for our younger campers!

💎 6. Friendship Bracelet Kit – Because camp friendships last a lifetime, and nothing says “camp love” like handmade bracelets! Don’t forget the extra string AND extra letter beads! A tried and true Runoia Camper favorite!

💡7. Fun, battery operated portable LED bulbs- Runoia campers can conveniently clip these onto their bunk beds when they need a light for some late-night reading! Hands free and a cute decoration!

🔦8. Headlamp/Flashlight– While the LED bulbs are fun, a traditional headlamp or flashlight cannot be beat! I mean, you can’t play flashlight tag with a light bulb! Ask any Runoia camper to share their favorite lights out memory and I bet flashlight tag is in the top 5!

🎐 9. Small, Portable Fan – For those hot summer days (we promise, they’re coming even if you’re currently shoveling snow). A small fan can make a world of difference! Don’t forget the batteries if it’s not rechargeable!

💌10. Pre-addressed envelopes and lots of stamps- You love that Runoia is tech free but wish you could hear more about what your camper is doing right? I totally get it. I guarantee they will send more letters home (and to Grandma and Titi Laura and Miss Sherman…) if you address the envelopes ahead of time. Feel free to throw on the stamps if you’d like, or pack extra stamps for camp to ensure you’re getting those old school updates from your favorite Runoia camper!

🎟️ 🏕️Bonus! The Ultimate Gift—A Summer at Runoia! – There’s no better Valentine’s gift than the experience of camp! Secure your camper’s spot for an unforgettable summer. Enroll Now!

Love,

Aionur