Philosophy and Mission

The inspiration for Keewaydin is the same now as it was when it began: to provide boys with summers filled with fun, friendship, adventure and challenges through our diverse in-camp activity program, our wilderness trips and simple living in the beautiful outdoors.

While Keewaydin provides boys with new experiences that allow them to develop self-confidence, maturity and character, we never forget that a constant of camping days is to have fun. In addition to the many great activities and trips that we offer, we structure plenty of supervised free-time into each day so that kids can relax and pursue individual interests: playing Frisbee on the ball field, swimming in Lake Dunmore, catching frogs in the lagoon, fishing off the dock, or simply reading a book!

We live by our camp motto “Help the Other Fellow.” Out on trips and back at camp, we adhere to the philosophy of “Leave Your Campsite Better Than You Found It.”

Throughout the summer, we emphasize the values of the candles we light at the end-of-season Candlelight Ceremony:  honesty, loyalty, responsibility, enthusiasm, kindness, perseverance, courage, friendship, initiative, thoughtfulness, commitment and leadership.

Keewaydin has had a tremendous impact on our son’s maturity, independence and ability to confront challenges.  A culture of kindness pervades every aspect of camp life and James feels appreciated and supported by staff and campers alike.  It’s a happy and respectful place and James thrives on the atmosphere of warmth, humor and loyalty.  As parents, we are as excited as James when camp begins every summer because we know how happy he is there.”, Janice Day, Keewaydin Dunmore Parent