YMCA unveils new sleepaway camps

STILLWATER — Families are invited to the scenic, 600-acre Fairview Lake YMCA Camps on Feb. 21 to check out more than two dozen camps and trips — from the traditional to the creative, to the adventurous — offered this summer for children ages 6 to 16.

The Fairview Lake Y has added three new camps.

The two-week co-ed Tupelo camp for children entering grades 2 through 10 is the newest traditional camp, with a twist. Campers sample various activities the first week, and then during the second week, they focus on two specialty programs, such as horseback riding, target sports and boating, in which to advance their skills.

Minisink Explorers introduces first-timers entering grades 2 to 4 to the traditional sleepaway experience with a four-day, three night session that has a low camper-to-counselor ratio.

Pioneers, the newest speciality camp, offers children in grades 4 through 10 the chance to experience the great outdoors as Fairview Lake Y campers did in 1915. They’ll try horseback riding, cooking over a fire, boating, and archery, and learn woodsman’s skills, including identifying animals and plants.

“The Fairview Lake YMCA has camps to suit most children’s interests and abilities in a fun, safe and enriching setting that encourages each one of them to stretch beyond their normal comfort zone," Executive Director Bob Kahle said.

All Fairview Lake YMCA camps build kids’ self-esteem, confidence and social skills, and are accredited by the American Camp Association. Located along the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, the Fairview Lake Y features an 8,000-square-foot lodge complete with a three-story indoor climbing wall.

Parents can meet the camp directors at a Camp Open House on Sunday, Feb. 21, from 2 to 4 p.m. To learn more, visit fairviewlakeymca.org or call 1(800)686-1166.