Base Camp

Most campers choose the Base Camp program, which combines in-camp activities with time backpacking out on the trail.

While in base camp, campers live as a family in small but diverse groups called “tribes.” Each tribe has at least two counselors who make sure everyone shares in communal tasks like building fires, cooking, and cleaning up. Each morning, campers assemble after breakfast to learn about the activities being offered that day. Possible choices include archery, crafts, swimming, boating, arts, rock-climbing, music, and much more.

Each base-camp session also includes multi-day backpacking trips (one trip for the ten-day introductory program, two trips for the fifteen-day program). The hikes are planned to be compatible with campers’ age, interests and abilities. The three- to four-day long hikes are led by trained, experienced Unalayee staff, equipped with two-way radios and other safety gear. The hikes go out into the surrounding wilderness to visit nearby lakes and creeks. Sometimes a hike is organized around a special theme, such as gourmet trail cooking or natural history. These wilderness adventures are often the highlight of the summer.