Earlier this summer, after needing to make the decision to cancel our traditional camp programming for the safety of our staff, campers, and communities, we wondered: how can we share the peaceful woods of Camp Friedenswald with others in the midst of a global pandemic? How can we be a place where people can find true rest and retreat? How can we offer an opportunity to unplug from our screens, the buzz of constant notifications, and to reconnect with the life within and all around? How can we be a part of the renewal that our bodies, communities, and Earth are yearning for?
Sounds lofty, I know.
But, upon reflection, it’s been happening in ever-so-small ways. People (over 100 families!) took time to getaway to Camp this summer. And they told us what it meant to them:
We were very glad our kids, who would usually get to be at Camp for a week of summer camp, were able to spend time at Camp. We also very much appreciated the family time, spent in nature. And, so many days into the pandemic, with a lot of time together in the house, it was good to have a different environment and different activities.
This was amazing. It was just what we all needed: quiet and relaxing, but also a good amount of things to do. It was nice to be there with fewer people and to be able to recharge during such an anxiety-provoking time.
We were so happy to have come. Our family VERY MUCH needed this!
And you urged us to keep offering this experience – one that provided a safe, outdoor option for your extended family to gather; one that provided a relief from constant cooking; one that gave space to roam in wide open green space; one that gave you some breathing room. We’re so glad it struck a chord and a need in your life right now.
With that as a backdrop, we’re looking to the coming months and want to continue to provide opportunities for you to retreat at Camp Friedenswald. We’ve tweaked the Camp Getaway a bit based on your feedback, but overall the experience will be similar. This fall, in addition the the many self-guided activities, we will be offering activities led by camp staff like archery and a wild edibles hike (done with ample physical distance and masks); and we’re offering a Friday evening pizza meal, so that you can settle in sooner.
We hope to see some familiar faces this fall while also hoping we’ll see new people, who find themselves in need of retreat, renewal, and reconnection. If you know someone who has had an especially challenging year, perhaps you might consider giving the gift of a Camp Getaway.
Thanks, as always, for following along and for being part of this special Camp community.
You can read all about the Camp Getaway here including newly released fall dates.
To inquire (and to reserve your spot), please fill out this form.