What are your fondest summer memories from childhood? For the lucky among us, they include discovery, adventure, and having a blast with a best friend by our side. Cultivating idyllic experiences like these for area youth has been the beating heart of Camp Knickerbocker programming since its inception in July of 1984. For 40 consecutive years at Camp K, kids have had the unique opportunity to be immersed in nature while surrounded by peers and trusted adult mentors.  

Maine has long been the destination for camps because of its bountiful fresh air, great woods, and generous waters. Teddy Roosevelt believed camp experiences were essential for youth to build skill and strength in the early 1900s. For decades, camps played a vital role for helping newly-arrived children feel part of American culture during the European immigration boom that lasted into the 1950s. Because of the health benefits of outdoor experiences, camps were essential for youth escaping cities during the polio epidemic.  

Boothbay area residents knew the health benefits inherent in a deep connection to nature, and established Camp K at the Buzzell Property on Back Narrows Road and Fort Island in the mid-1950s. Later, area visionaries expanded opportunities for Camp K youth by moving the summer camp to Barters Island Road, where it sits today.  

Engagement. Inclusion. Healthy pursuits. These programming goals persist today. In recent years, Camp K has blossomed into a summer destination that offers expanded, vibrant experiential learning for youth under the keen direction of Erin Gray. As senior director of programming, Gray knows working families depend on the carefree days children spend at Camp K as a form of childcare. Gray also understands that camp experiences can help mitigate learning loss for kids during out-of-school time. It’s the reason why she offers innovative programs that welcomes kids starting at five years old and serves them all the way into their teen years. One glance at a Camp K program guide will make you wish you were young again. Aqua adventures; gaming; outdoor cooking; performing arts; fort building; foraging; gardening; team sports; crafts, and nature exploration are just a sampling of the wide array of programs offered. If that isn’t enough, kids can enroll in “Myth Busters” and “Ninja Warrior” and “Robin Hood” camps. There is truly a space for all to learn, grow, and thrive.   

Gray’s work is bolstered by the dedication and compassion of Lindsay Senecal, program director. Gray and Senecal recently carved time out of their jam-packed summer schedules to honor Camp K’s 40th anniversary—or its “birthday” if you ask the kids—on the 40th day of camp. Cupcakes, face painting, and general celebration was afoot at McEvoy Lodge, situated at the forefront of Camp K. Senecal worked with youth to make piñatas and create shark-themed crafts. Kids and adults decorated their own cupcakes and indulged in fun, camp inspired snacks.  

Families, donors, trustees and kids all have a reason to celebrate Camp K. As a community there is a lot to celebrate as well. Kids on the peninsula have a rare experience that is cultivated from kindness, acceptance, and creativity. As our future leaders expand their minds and lived experiences, mentors like Gray, Senecal and the 41 direct-service counselors, six maintenance staff, and one 3-week volunteer at Camp K in 2024 continue to make this spot one of Maine’s most unique, magical settings for youth development.