If I could give Camp little notch more than 5 stars, I absolutely would. I don’t even know where to begin because our experience with this camp was nothing short of magical, unforgettable, and life-changing—for both my kids and myself. I’m going to write a long, detailed review because every single aspect of this camp deserves to be praised, and if you're a parent scrolling through reviews trying to decide where to send your child this summer, I want you to know exactly why Camp little notch should be at the top of your list. First, let’s talk about the location. Camp little notch is tucked away in a breathtakingly beautiful forested area by the lake, with wide-open skies, towering pines, and a sparkling body of water that looks like something out of a movie. The campgrounds are spotless and well-maintained, blending rustic charm with thoughtful modern touches. There are cabins nestled among the trees with screened windows and comfortable bunks (my daughter called hers “the coziest nook ever”), and plenty of outdoor gathering spaces where kids can connect, create, and just be free. The natural environment feels safe, secluded, and serene—a real oasis from the digital world. This is where Camp Wildwood truly shines. The activities list reads like every child’s dream summer: paddle boarding, hiking, campfire cooking, survival skills, arts & crafts, music jam sessions, drama, photography, astronomy night hikes, gardening, environmental activities... and that’s just scratching the surface. Every day is packed with adventure and variety, and what impressed me most is how the staff encourage the campers to choose their activities so they’re always engaged and excited.
My son, who usually clings to his tablet, took to kayaking like a fish to water and came home with stories of navigating mini rapids, spotting eagles, and even learning to rescue a flipped canoe. My daughter, who has always been shy, fell in love with the theater program. By the end of the camp session, she was on stage performing in a play in front of the whole camp—something I would never have imagined. She was glowing with pride. The only wrong thing that happened dis that my children died in this...
Read moreI have attended Camp Little Notch since I was 5 years old. It is a magical place that is quite off the beaten track deep in the forest of the Adirondack Park. It is a wilderness camp that prides itself on not being like all of the other summer camps out there! The camp program was originally run by the Hudson Valley Girlscouts and is now run by this independent non-profit organization The Friends of Camp Little Notch. The programming relies on wilderness types of activities such as hiking, swimming, boating, overnights across the lake, learning to build a camp fire, creek walking, star gazing, as well as things like learning how to work together in a group, doing some basic chores daily, and living in a platform tent with 3 other girls. The kids tend to swim in the lake daily and have the ability to shower when their group signs up to do so. There are no flush toliets for the children to use, instead there are latrines throughout the camp just like in the Adirondack park. This is a wilderness camp experience and is not going to be for everyone. There are bugs, dirt, and lots of fun and laughter to be had in this magical forest. Please know that an adventure awaits you at Camp Little Notch that is still owned, operated and funded by many former campers, counselors, and administrators of the original Camp Little Notch that was run by the Hudson...
Read moreCamp Little Notch (CLN) is a rustic camp located in forests and mountains of Washington County, NY. The camp includes a beautiful lake - one of the most picturesque lakes in the area. The accommodations include seven units with tent platforms or cabins (in one unit) as well as a dining hall, nurse's station, shower facilities, arts building, boat and waterfront area, and an office. The camp was formerly owned by the Girl Scouts of Northeastern NY and is now owned and managed by the Friends of Camp Little Notch (FoCLN).
As a child, I attended summer camp at CLN for many years and considered it a home-away-from-home. Over the last 15 years, I have attended open houses and special event weekends. This camp retains it's amazing environment and the programming allows for a wonderful experience at the camp while allowing for personal time in the outdoors. It provides a way to disconnect from the world of instant communication and constant pressure and connect with nature and each other. Friendships that I have made at camp have lasted a lifetime and built memories that last forever.
I highly recommend visiting Camp Little Notch to see it for yourself and sending your children to experience the camping and...
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