We can’t believe that we’re almost halfway through camp this summer, which means time is flying because we are having so much fun! Rain and a few thunderstorms did not slow us down, and Week 5 was filled with skill-building, creativity, and the joy of connecting with nature and each other.

On Monday, Growing Wild campers conquered the climbing hill, making their ascent up one side and taking a different trail down the other. Archer’s Apprentices learned proper archery technique and safety during target practice. The Forest Village Catbirds played “Fishy, Fishy, Cross My Sea”, where campers worked on listening skills, quick thinking and communication to achieve the goal of safely crossing the field without getting tagged. In the afternoon, they enjoyed circle games and explored the insect diversity around camp. Meanwhile, Pathfinders learned the basics of fire building, followed by creating handmade paper using recycled paper and other natural materials.

Afternoon rain and thunder sent everyone into the Pole Barn, where campers interspersed free play with practicing skills such as stone drilling, knife safety, and fire building.

Since rain was forecasted to continue on Tuesday, campers learned how to create simple shelters by hanging tarps. Fun games, free play, fire building, and other hands-on activities continued in the Pole Barn when thunderstorms arrived. We wrapped up the day with a giant closing circle wave, where each camper lifts their arms one after another to create a wave that flows around the circle.

Archer’s Apprentices preparing to release their arrows at targets.

On Wednesday, Growing Wild campers spent the morning collecting pine needles to brew their own delicious tea before cooling off with adventures in the creek and sandbox. Outdoor morning fun was again moved to the Pole Barn as afternoon rain arrived. Forest Village campers worked on arts and crafts and played circle games, while the Pathfinders practiced weaving and made cordage. The hustle and bustle in the barn included hula hooping, stone drilling, knife safety practice, free play, and even campers pitching in to help the counselors keep things clean and tidy. 

On Thursday, campers finally got to stay completely outdoors. They experimented with creating art using homemade charcoal paint, practiced making friction fires, learned to identify trees, played Fox Tail, and built incredibly adorable and cozy slug houses. Archer’s Apprentices played an invigorating game of tag, while the Advanced Wildcrafting campers created beautiful sculptures out of woven cattails. Growing Wild campers set out on an adventure to explore another camp, discovering new places, strengthening friendships, and making more memories together. 

Friday was the perfect way to wrap up another unforgettable week with the sun finally shining in full force. An exciting game of Osprey got everyone’s blood pumping as they ran, chased, and worked together. If a player is tagged, they have to freeze in place until two teammates arrive to unfreeze them together – making teamwork the key to success. 

Forest Village campers laughed and splashed their way through the sprinkler to keep cool, soaking up the beautiful summer weather. It was the perfect ending to a week filled with adventure, learning, and unforgettable memories at Primitive Pursuits!

An Archer’s Apprentice camper crafting a bow out of wood.

Photo Gallery july 27-31 by Greta Sanford & Maddy getty