MACY TALLARICO
Camp Coordinator
Our 29 incredible camp counselors have officially hung up their polos as summer camp wrapped up on August 1. What a season it has been. Across eight unique camps, spanning the park district, we welcomed nearly 1,100 campers this season. From learning about native Ohio trees, to trying their hand at outdoor survival skills, our campers had a summer full of adventure, laughs, and nature exploration.
We welcomed some new additions to our camp lineup this summer. We were thrilled to bring back a fan favorite, Preschool Camp! This camp was held at the Highbanks Nature Center for a week full of exploration and fun. We also introduced a new camp experience, Teen Adventure Camp at Quarry Trails. Some campers got the chance to climb to new heights on the Via Ferrata while others learned how to boulder at the Sport Climbing area. Thanks to Outdoor Adventure, our teen campers got to make some yummy meals over the fire.
We also introduced a Facebook parent group, to share photos with families of their campers throughout the week. This was a great way to share camper photos to parents, as well as showcasing how the different camps have different activities and unique aspects.
Our four Traditional Day Camps, held at Blendon Woods, Scioto Grove, Highbanks Dragonfly Day Camp and Highbanks Northern Shelter, remained a favorite for families across central Ohio. Campers at Blendon Woods got to ride the tram and participate in the Annual Mud Day, while campers at Scioto Grove got to meet animal ambassadors from the Ohio Wildlife Center each week. Campers at both of the Highbanks camps got to enjoy a weekly hayride around the park, thanks to park staff.
As always, campers enjoyed their core activities or fishing, archery, kayaking, creeking and weekly cookout. If one thing stole their hearts this year, it was their infatuation with making bead-animal crafts this summer (they are really cute and fun to make).
Our seven-week summer camp season may seem to vanish in the blink of an eye, but the memories made with campers and staff alike will last a lifetime. Though the shelters are empty and trails are quiet, the spirit of camp will stay in our hearts long after the summer sun sets.
Thank you to every person who helped orchestrate this wonderful and whimsical camp experience. I would like to share immense gratitude to the park staff who assisted in camp operations, we could not do it without you. Thanks to all for making my first season as camp coordinator one to remember!
