Exciting Summer Camp Activities for Girls at Camp Runoia

  • 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.

Summer in Maine: Best Location for an All Girls Sleepaway Camp

  • The Natural Beauty of Maine: A Stunning Setting for Summer Camps
  • Ideal Environment for Immersive Camp Experiences
  • Outdoor Adventure Opportunities in Maine
  • Maine’s Reputation for Exceptional Summer Camps
  • Outdoor Activities and Personal Growth at Girls’ Camps in Maine

With its magical warm summers and proximity to cities in the Northeast and New England, Maine is an ideal destination for summer camps. The many unique attributes that make Maine so special—its natural beauty, peaceful environment, and outdoor opportunities—make it one of the best locations for an all girls’ sleepaway camp. It’s the perfect atmosphere for girls to focus on learning more about themselves and building connections while embracing the magic of camp in pristine nature. 

The Natural Beauty of Maine: A Stunning Setting for Summer Camps

Pristine Lakes and Clear Waters

Maine is known for its many pristine lakes and ponds. And we’re not talking about small ponds! These “Great Ponds” make up nearly half of Maine’s 6,000 lakes and span over 10 acres each. Maine’s lakes are home to many fish and wildlife and provide a picturesque environment for water-based activities like swimming, canoeing, and kayaking. On the southern shores of Maine’s largest body of water in the famed Belgrade Laked Region is Camp Runoia’s all girls sleepaway summer camp. The clear, calm waters the camp is nestled on offer a safe environment for girls to enjoy outdoor activities like canoeing, windsurfing and waterskiing. 

Lush Forests and Diverse Landscapes

Known as the “Pine Tree State,” Maine is full of lush forests and rich landscapes that are home to over 50,000 species of wildlife and provide an ideal backdrop for hiking, ecology, and wilderness trips. Even within our small camp community, we work with a forester on a tree management plan to take care of all of the beautiful old trees on our property. These natural surroundings help campers connect with nature and experience the outdoors in a way that fosters personal growth and inspiration.

The Maine Summer Climate

Maine’s summer climate is comfortable, with average daily temperatures in the 70s Fahrenheit and cool evenings that are perfect for sitting around the campfire. The warm sunny days and cool nights make Maine one of the best summer camp locations for enjoying outdoor activities all day long and getting a cool, restful sleep in the cabin at night. 

The Ideal Environment for Immersive Camp Experiences

Camp Runoia’s peaceful setting is a place for girls to disconnect and reconnect. Maine’s remote location, away from the distractions of city life, creates the perfect atmosphere for an immersive Maine summer camp experience. The sense of tranquility and focus that campers can enjoy, free from the noise of everyday life and technology, is what makes summer camp in Maine truly magical. This kind of natural isolation fosters stronger connections between campers as they immerse themselves in camp life without distractions. 

The Outdoor Adventure Opportunities in Maine

Exploring the Outdoors: Perfect for Girls at Summer Camp

From stunning coastal beaches to dense pine forests and rugged mountains, Maine is an ideal location for outdoor activities and trips at an all girls’ sleepaway camp. Camp Runoia is known for its 30+ traditional camp activities, which include hiking, nature walks, and waterfront sports. Girls can take full advantage of the local geography and learn new outdoor skills within a safe and supportive environment surrounded by natural beauty.

Adventure Trips at Camp Runoia

Among the many exciting and unique opportunities that Camp Runoia offers, campers can choose to partake in excursions to some of the area’s most stunning locations. Some of Runoia’s trips include hiking Maine’s highest peak, Mount Katahdin and exploring one of the country’s most beautiful national parks, Acadia National Park. Another opportunity is exploring Permaquid Beach for a relaxing day at one of Maine’s picturesque coastal beaches, perfect for swimming, beach games, and seaside exploration. 

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!

adventure trips at camp runoia summer camps in maine

Maine’s Reputation for Exceptional Summer Camps

Why Maine is Known for Top-Rated Camps

Maine’s sleepaway camps have earned quite a reputation for being some of the top sleepaway camps in the Northeast, focusing on quality experiences and excellent programs all across the board. Maine has a long history of traditional summer camps, with many summer camps, such as Camp Runoia, established over a hundred years ago. Values like community, nature appreciation, and personal growth run deep through these camps and are what keep campers and staff from all around the world coming back year after year.

Camp Runoia: One of the Best All-Girls Sleepaway Camps

Established in 1907, Camp Runoia is one of the top rated camps in Maine, particularly all girls’ sleepaway camps. With its welcoming environment rooted in tradition, blended with progressive leadership programs and unique activities, it is clear why campers have spent summers on Runoia’s beautiful campus for over a hundred years. The camp shows true its legacy of providing a transformative Maine summer camp experience for girls from all over the world. 

Outdoor Activities and Personal Growth at Girls Camps in Maine

Here at Camp Runoia, we are firm believers that Maine is one of the best places in New England for an all girls summer camp. Being away from the distractions of daily life and immersed in the beauty of nature during a Maine summer camp experience can transform a girl’s life forever. Maine’s natural environment and camp activities provide the perfect setting for self development and personal growth. Maine’s wide selection of summer camp programs like team challenges, leadership workshops, and outdoor adventures teach campers essential life skills.

This combination of empowering activities in nature and the sense of community in a traditional camp setting, help girls build lasting friendships and foster a sense of self and individuality. Spending a summer in Maine can leave a lasting impact on a girl’s confidence, friendships, and love for nature, setting the stage for continued growth and success beyond the camp experience.

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Maine is one of the best locations for an all-girls sleepaway camp, from its natural beauty and ideal summer climate to its sense of peace and adventure. Young girls from all over the world have been coming to Maine to enjoy a traditional summer camp experience like those at Camp Runoia, one of the longest-standing all girls’ sleepover camps in the Northeast. With its stunning surroundings and focus on empowering young girls, Camp Runoia exemplifies why Maine sleepaway camps are among the best summer camps around!