Camp Laurel South — Hotel in Casco

I’ve been involved in summer camps since I was 4 years old, from camper to counselor; I’ve experienced a variety of camps; horse camps, science camps, sports camps the list goes on, but nothing compares to Laurel South. It incorporates all these camps into one and seamlessly at that. The energy you feel the moment you enter those gates is euphoric. You feel like you’ve entered an alternate universe filled with happiness, excitement, and adventure. You are instantly welcomed by the family that is Laurel South. They strive to build a community that is secure, caring and thought provoking, which will encourage the uniqueness of each individual camper. They ensure to motivate each and every one of them to grow socially, physically, intellectually, and emotionally allowing them develop a respect for themselves and others.

The kids are guided in choosing a 5 period schedule. There is a list of over 60 activities from equestrian, to paddle boarding, waterskiing, ceramics, any team sport imaginable etc. The amenities that Laurel South attains are unlike any other. From our breathtaking waterfront filled with sailboats, master crafts and entertaining inflatables; to the grade A tennis courts and fields, that college athletes are envious of. Laurel South holds no bounds.

I believe that being a camp counselor has prepared me for every aspect of life.

C – Cooperation and creativity. Kids often learn team-building and leadership skills where they have to work together. They are apart of several team sports and other activities where they work together to achieve a common goal.

A- Adaptability or flexibility. Sometimes, it will rain (liquid sunshine we like to call it at Laurel South). During these days, we ensure the kids are busier than ever. What most people view as dreary, movie days, we turn into the most memorable and exciting. Our counselors are the most flexible individuals on the planet. We say jump, not only do they jump, but they jump, dance, hop and skip all at once. They inspire and engage children, never leaving a moment dull.

M – Memories. The memories both the campers and counselors make here are ones that will forever be imprinted on your heart and soul. These memories aren’t something as simple as a photo, it’s much deeper, it’s a feeling. We connect in a way that is inexplicable. “In the end it’s our memories that define who we have become. It’s our memories that we have to hold onto forever and nobody can take those memories away.”

P – Patience, prioritize and problem solver. You will think you know patience, but it’s not as simple as waiting in a long lineup. It’s waking up at 4 in the morning because a camper is homesick and needs to be comforted. It’s encouraging your camper to face their fears to make it to the top of the rock wall. It’s working with a co-counselor ensuring you’ve covered all your kids with sunscreen and THEN remembering to do yourself. It’s about showing up, being present and making everyday count.

This will be my 4th summer at Camp Laurel South and I can’t begin to express the gratitude I have for everyone involved. This place has opened my mind and heart to countless experiences and innumerable...

For the past three years, the highlight of my children’s year has been going to Camp Laurel South! From the moment they arrive, their days are filled with fun, laughter and learning. Every year, I am amazed by the tremendous amount of growth and maturity they acquire during their time at camp.

Roger, Dagni and Laz do a superb job hiring the most nurturing and qualified staff. They are so much more than simply “camp counselors”; they really are family. They are big brothers and sisters who connect with the campers on a very personal level. Because of these wonderful relationships, the staff is able to foster independence and freedom in the campers in a safe and secure environment.

Of course one of the most gratifying part of camp is the friendships the children build. Due to the diverse backgrounds, they are able to make friends from across the country and in some cases around the world. My children enjoy corresponding throughout the year with their bunkmates and eagerly anticipate seeing them in Maine every summer. Over the past year, my children were even able to visit a few of their friends from out of town.

The number of experiences and activities the campers are exposed to at Camp Laurel South is mind-boggling. From sailing to cartooning, rocketry to lacrosse, drama to cartooning and everything in between, there really something for every child to excel in. I appreciate that the counselors encourage the children to pick activities outside of their comfort zone while allowing them to shine in the ones they are already familiar. My daughter has found a love of horseback riding, one of my sons felt a deep accomplishment while climbing and my oldest son never realized how enjoyable fishing could be.

Almost as much fun as their daily activities are the day trips and overnights that are regularly scheduled for the campers. The water park is a special favorite for my children!

I would be remiss if I didn’t mention the food. My children constantly ask me to make a dish “just like they do at camp”. The quality and choices of the food that is offered is amazing. The lobster celebration dinner is absolutely astounding.

I truly believe that my three children are better people for having had the opportunity to experience Camp Laurel South. They are acquiring life skills they might not have gathered otherwise and I am thrilled we still have a number of years to enjoy this...

Roger and Dagni have been family to our children since my son was born, and both of our children still attend camp. Roger & Dagni personally greet them both upon arrival (and they do the same for EVERY camper), and they are 100% involved in camp throughout the summer. The counselors they hire are fantastic... they're good, responsible people who simply enjoy teaching and being role models for children. The directors focus on the family feel of the camp by building a strong community within the staff as well as the campers. It truly is a large family.

The variety of activities is tremendous: waterfront, athletics, theatre, arts, horseback, and more... our kids have the opportunity to choose whatever they want to do, and the level of instruction is excellent. However, I truly appreciate the supportive nature of the instruction -- it's not only about "winning," but more about teamwork, fun and effort. One thing that stands out to me is the quality of the facilities... everything is always in good shape, the grounds are clean and well-maintained, and the fields, courts, waterfront, cabins and specialty areas are beautiful.

Our kids talk about the food menu at Laurel South all year long. Along with picking their favorite meals, they ramble on and on about their favorite desserts as well. We like that the food selections are wide-ranging, and that the camp uses high-quality food and professional chefs to prepare the meals. There are always a lot of healthy choices, so even our picky teenager has plenty to choose from.

Simply put, my children are happier and more outgoing because of Laurel South. Not only do they get to try activities they would otherwise not have the opportunity to experience, but they are more comfortable around other children and adults. They have learned how to acclimate themselves to new surroundings, accept and befriend others, and feel more comfortable in their own skin.

Bottom line: our children are happier, more self-assured, and are more open to experiences and opportunities because of their time at Laurel South. There is no doubt in our minds that Laurel South has been as important to our children's upbringing as their life at home... in fact, it has become (and will always be) their...