How Campers Lived Adirondack's Plaques in 2025

Every summer at Adirondack Camp - one of the best sleepaway camps in New York- is guided by our philosophies and values that shape life on the peninsula. Earlier this year we revealed new plaques, and although the words may be different, the philosophies behind them are timeless! Looking back on Summer 2025, we can see these values shining in countless ways, in the big moments and the little everyday ones. With so many memories and photos to share, here’s how each plaque was brought to life this summer:

Compassion

Compassion was woven into our summer in so many ways. Campers showed kindness by supporting friends through homesickness, lending a hand in activities, and showing care for the natural world around us. By celebrating differences and practicing empathy, we built a community where everyone felt seen and valued.

Curiosity

Camp sparks endless opportunities to explore — and this summer, curiosity was everywhere. From trying new foods in the dining hall, to learning new skills like sailing, fencing, or pottery, to discovering traditions unique to Adirondack, campers leaned into their natural wonder. Every day offered something new to ask, try, and experience.

Collaboration

Living in cabins together, working as teams in activities, and cheering each other on in Blue/White events, campers learned that collaboration is what makes the summer thrive. Supporting one another and working together helped every camper have the best experience possible — and reminded us that camp is stronger when we do it side by side.

Creativity

This year, creativity shone everywhere — not just in creative arts. Campers expressed themselves through music, cabin activities, and even themed lunches (the “dress like your water bottle” day was unforgettable!). ADK is a place where imagination has no limits, and 2025 was full of colorful, fun, and unexpected moments of creative joy.

Courage

It takes courage to try new things, and our campers showed it daily. Whether it was a first-time speech at Gathering, a performance at ADKchella, or a daring leap on a wakeboard, courage was everywhere. For many, it was also their first summer away from home — an act of bravery all its own.

Integrity

Living with integrity means doing what’s right — for ourselves, for our peers, and for camp. This summer, we saw campers hold each other accountable whilst also holding each other up, make responsible choices, and uphold Adirondack’s values. Integrity kept our community strong, guiding us like a compass throughout the season.

Respect

Respect was everywhere at camp this year — respect for bunkmates, for counselors, for traditions, and for Lake George itself. Whether it was being attentive during Gathering, keeping bunks tidy, or following safety rules on the waterfront, campers practiced respect in ways big and small that made camp life better for everyone.

Independence

Camp is where kids discover who they are. From keeping their bunks neat and tidy to taking charge in activities, campers learned independence this summer. Big milestones like performing at ADKchella or navigating a new challenge in an activity gave them confidence to grow as individuals while still being part of the larger camp family.

Growth

The growth we witness every summer is remarkable. From nervous first days to confident last goodbyes, campers leave changed. Whether mastering an activity, maturing through their years at camp, or stepping into leadership roles as Rangers & CITs, growth is the gift Adirondack gives each summer — and 2025 was no exception.

Spirit

Adirondack spirit filled the peninsula this summer. From dining hall chants to full Blue/White energy, from campfires to activity fields, our campers went all in. Spirit means embracing everything camp has to offer — and this summer, the enthusiasm was contagious.

Leadership

Leadership took many forms in 2025 — from captains guiding their Blue/White teams to campers being role models in their cabins or encouraging younger kids in activities. Leadership at Adirondack isn’t just about titles; it’s about stepping up, speaking up, and showing others the way. This summer we also started a camper counsel, campers were voted in by their peers and would have regular meetings to discuss ways they thought camp life could be made even better.

Community

Community is the heartbeat of camp. From meals together in the dining hall, to Line Nights, to all-camp Gatherings and Retreats, campers found family here on the peninsula. Friendships spanned cabins, lines, and age groups, creating bonds that will last long after the summer ended.

This summer ADK came alive with our values in action, every single day. More than anything, Summer 2025 was simply a great one: filled with laughter, friendships, growth, and memories that will last a lifetime.

We can’t wait to do it all again in Summer 2026. Early enrollment is now open — secure your spot on the peninsula today!