Camp Matoaka
Each summer 300 girls join together and experience the Matoaka blend of adventure, spirit, friendship, and of course lots of fun. Campers return home with confidence gained from skills in activities from the arts, athletics, theater, water sports and adventure.Matoaka's program is tailored to fit the individual, allowing each camper to progress at her own skill level. The ultimate goal is preparing each camper for a richer and fuller adult life through the use of leisure sports and creative talents. Our structured daily program includes activities and special events taught under professional supervision by counselors from around the world. All instructional activities are open to every camper, six days per week, five periods per day. No camper will ever find herself closed out of an activity.In addition, our state-of-the-art facilities include a fully equipped indoor gymnasium, a modern Recreation Hall/Dining Room, newly constructed Health Center, as well as recently renovated bathrooms in every cabin. The Matoaka Arts Center houses arts and crafts, photography, sewing, jewelry making, needlecraft and ceramics. We also have a 450 seat theater we use for evening activities, rainy day programs, and plays our campers perform each session.In activities of a competitive nature, a spirit of friendly competition is emphasized rather than winning, so campers of all abilities can participate freely. In every team or individual sport and in every activity, we stress effort, improvement, and achievement through staff encouragement, expert instruction and weekly rewards for accomplishment. Along with our individually scheduled five instructional periods per day, each camper has two elective periods daily, during which time she may participate in the activity where her special interests lie and receive semi- private instruction.Camp Matoaka is a place where girls will enrich their character while developing everlasting friendships. This is what camp is all about!
Winter Address
Camp Matoaka PO BOX 812789
Wellesley, MA 02492
+1.781.449.0222
Camp Reviews — Memories from Real Camp Families
Read these stories from our camp community and
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| Kate said... |
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| I remember on my first year of camp, I didn't know anyone. All the queens were cheering and screaming. I did not know where i was. Little did i know that this place would be my second home. I have made a lot of memories with my summer sisters. Every year i meet new people. I dress up in pink and purple, and get into the spirit,and college league. Cheering at dinner, and at our bunks. Doing many activities! i love this place so much, that i would do anything to go there every day.<3 |
| Robyn said... |
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| I will never forget the first time my husband and I attended visiting day. We had sent our daughters to Camp Matoaka sight unseen. We had met with Jason and a friend's daughter already attended camp there so we did not have the need to visit until visiting day.
We had heard the stories, horror stories, of visiting day at other camps in other states. We heard about the getting on line at the crack of dawn and the rush of people so they would be first to see their child, first to make their stake at an area for their family, if a story was out there we heard it. Visiting Day at Camp Matoaka was nothing like we had heard visiting day to be at Non-Maine camps was. It was organized and special. No crazy parents running. We casually walked to camp line and awaited our daughters emergence from the dining hall. Then they were there. My beautiful girls full of tears in their eyes and huge smiles that proved what we so hoped to see. We made the right decision. Camp in Maine was like no where else. Camp Matoaka was their summer home. The day was filled with activities, amazing food, and an opportunity to leave campus. Not that we were aching to leave. The counselors were so eager to tell us how amazing our girls were doing and my husband and I, who never had the desire to go to sleep away ourselves, were running to register our girls for the next summer. The skills they have learned, the new hobbies they enjoy, the positive gains they have made are endless. We count the days, as they do, until they leave. Not because we are excited for them to leave us but for the reason that the experience they indulge in is not like anything we can provide them at home. The true joy of being at camp is worth every bit of the 7 weeks we are not with them. I mean it when I say " Sleep away camp for our girls was not what we ever planned on doing", but at this time I can not imagine them anywhere but in camp at Matoaka in Maine. |
| Tracy said... |
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| As a parent, seeing your child try new things everyday all summer long is priceless. Receiving letters from our daughter, telling us how happy she is and how excited she is for the next day. Her wolrd is Camp Matoaka 365 days of the year. |
| Torrie said... |
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| My daughter went to Camp Matoaka without knowing another camper. She watched the website and fell in love with the many different activities like water skiing, rock wall climbing, ropes courses and sewing. Since being at camp, she has made MANY friends from all over the US and different countries. It was a great place for her to try new things and make new friends. |
| Steph said... |
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| I spent seven fabulous summers at camp in Maine as a kid, and it so amazing to share with my daughters as they now attend Camp Matoaka as second-generation campers. The pink bunks are the same, and all the love and Matoaka Magic is the same! It warms my heart to hear my 8-year-old talk about her "home away from home", as I have thought of Matoaka since my first summer as a 10 year old! |
| Mandy said... |
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| Camp Matoaka is truly a remarkable camp. No words can describe how appreciative that i was able to attend such an amazing place. I started going to camp when i was 8 and loved every moment of it. The friendships you make are ones that last forever. I started camp in bunk 8 and went through my queen summer with my summer sisters and best friends. My camp sisters are there for me at any time and I wouldn't have been able to go through the pain of not being able to go back to camp without them. I still talk to all 60 of my queen sister everyday and they are there whenever i need anything at all. Camp Matoaka is my home away from home, my second home, and where i met all my summer sisters. Camp Matoaka has become a part of me and not being able to return after my queen summer was the worst feeling in the world. I have a bulletin board hanging in room filled with camp pictures, friendship bracelets, awards and the camp calendar from 2011 (my queen summer) and my crowns placed on their own special shelf. I dream of going back to camp every day because nothing is like it. Camp Matoaka is heaven on earth and has made me who i am today. Yes, saying bye to being a camper at the most amazing place on earth was devastating, but I am so thankful to have spent as much time as possible at Camp Matoaka. It will always be a part of me and I am counting down the days until I can become a counselor. Only 785 days left until i return home. |
| Ilana said... |
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| The second year of camp, stepping off the bus after arriving at camp, with such excitement. Knowing it was going to be best month of my life. With friends I only get to see in the summer. I love the anticipation before arriving at One Great Place! |
| Alisa said... |
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| Matoaka is my daughters home away from home and a place where they can be themselves, unwind', and share special memories with their Matoaka "sisters." Their favorite camp memory each year is College League where they compete in summer long challenges and share special bonds. Crazy dress-up, competitive sports, scavenger hunts and the emotional culmination with "the sing" make memories forever. |
| Scott said... |
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| The huge smiles on our girls when we arrive for visiting day that not only reflects the happiness to see their parents, but the smile that they are having the best summer ever and want to show us everything that they are doing and experiencing. It's priceless, but confirms to us that they are are in the the perfect environment to foster growth, experiences, friendships and accomplishments. Would not send my girls outside of Maine for sleep away camp. |
| Carrie said... |
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| the first phone call. we waited an entire week without speaking to our daughter and then we called Matoaka, One Great Place. And waited. And waited for her to come on the line certain there would be some tears and to our wonder and welcome amazement she said "i am so happy and have much to talk about and little time so let's get to it!" Zoe certainly lives 10 for 2 and spends much of the 10 keeping in touch with the friends she calls sisters--sisters for life. Maine is a breath of fresh air recharging her at the end of a school year and Matoaka is truly the Greatest Place on Earth. |
| Kate said... |
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| Camp Matoaka is a great camp.I can't wait to go back to camp it is so fun i never want to leave i know camp is right around the corner I have a girl in my bunk and her name is Morgan.My mom told me that camp isn't easy and it's not but it is fun.I feel so bad that Queens left this year, it's sad seeing them cry but I know that same thing will happen to me in some years when im 15. |
| Jessica said... |
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| Camp Matoaka is fantastic beyond words. Every day I wake up thinking "Why can't I just skip past the school year and go back to my home away from home?" If you asked me the best part of camp, Id have to say everthing. The fourth of July carnival, college league, sing, banquet, Friday night services, campfires, smores, my friends, my bunk, all the crazy rainy day activities, sneaking in a bag of dum dums on the bus, but my favorite part is the Matoaka Magic. |
| Brianna said... |
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| One of the hardest things I've ever had to do was check off "alumni" instead of "camper". This past week, my mom came into my room and told me that they had updated the 'Matoaka Pink' newsletter. As usual, I look through every tab. Seeing what people "heard on the bunkline," and what Brett and Carly have been up to. Having a January birthday, I had been looking forward to seeing my name under the "Kings and Queens and Bishops to..." I clicked the link and noticed that my name wasn't there. I thought to myself, "there must be a mistake." I reread the page and something I hadn't noticed before caught my eye. "(Campers enrolled for 2013)." At the sight of this, I broke down. With tears streaming down my face, I went on facebook to see who was on that I could vent to. That's when I remembered, why just one person? I have almost 50 other girl I could share my reaction with. 50 girls I am comfortable with, 50 girls who I trust, and 50 girls that I consider my best friends. It's not one camp memory singled out. It's all of them. From my first day in 2006, all the way until sing, banquet, and even departure day of 2012. The past 7 summers have been the most incredible experiences. I have made friends who will be there for me, not just today, but for a lifetime. I was taught what it was like to have serious responsibilities, and how to be a leader. There are hundreds of things I did at camp that I would never have done if I didn't go to Matoaka. I was in my first-and probably last-play, I wrote three songs (with the help of many others of course), I swam 2 miles just for fun, I accomplished a stepover on trick skis, and I walked around with a crown on my head like it was something I do everyday at home. I look forward to all of the cool things my parents have planned for me to do in the summer of 2013, but all i can think about is how this is my first time in 7 years celebrating the 4th of july at home. This is my first time in 7 years that I wont be able to see my best friends every day for 7 and a half weeks. Camp Matoaka has taken up my life. I don't remember a world without it and I don't know how I plan on creating one. I'm counting down the days until I can visit but even that will be nothing compared to spending every day at one great place. Being a queen was the greatest time of my life. Living with 50 girls under one roof was such an amazing experience. Leading a team of 80 girls was the most fun I've ever had. And the memories made from 2006-2012 were definitely the best part. |
| Elana said... |
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| When the Greyhound bus finds its way to Camp Matoaka everyone on the bus knows that the summer has officially begun! I live ten months for two, and every time I get to camp I know that there will be so many new memories that last forever. The friends I've made at camp have been the friends that I can tell anything to! Camp Matoaka is definitely the official camp of summer! |
| Jenny said... |
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| It would be impossible for me to pick just one memory that stands out for me from my experiences at Matoaka. It is truly the most amazing, magical, and wonderful place in the world. I really do not know what my life would be like had i not been able to spend five wonderful summers at Matoaka. I have made friends that i know will last a lifetime and achieved more things than i ever thought would be possible. Camp Matoaka is a place where girls go to have fun, make everlasting friendships, and get to learn valuable lessons in responsibility and leadership. I love Matoaka so much and ever since my queen summer ended in 2011 i've been looking forward to visiting and the day when i can come back as a counselor! |
| Nikki said... |
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| the first time i drove down that long dirt road, i was nervous. i didn't know anyone really, and i was nervous. turns out, i had no need to be. my first day, i felt like i had been there forever. every year, i plan reunions, video chat, and text my camp friends practically nonstop. we even have a facebook group forever! every year i beg my parents to go back, no matter what. right now, nostalgia is filling me for the campfires with bunk costumes, reflections at friday night services, breaking out all the spirit we have for college league and color war, it is truly a unique and amazing place. when i started going, i thought it was just an escape from my normal life. but now that i have been there for five years, i realize it is another life of mine that i love and live not just in the summer, but year round as well, and I wouldn't want it any other way. the name truly sums up the camp in three words: One. Great. Place. |
| Holly said... |
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| The second the bus pulls on to the dirt road you can clearly see everyone's face light up. All of your friends are there waiting and its the greatest feeling. Camp Matoaka is my second home and i love it. There is a reason it is on the road One Great Place. |
| Joanna said... |
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| As I sit here and try to come up with a witty way to start out my reflection about camp, I think about what I am up to in my life today. I open my door and see that my CBFF is my roommate in college. I open my Facebook and my inbox is blowing up with messages from my camp best friends filling me in on their lives. I look around my room and see collages of my camp pictures from my Queen Summer. I check my phone and look at the beautiful Camp Matoaka One Great Place sign as my background. There is no place in the world where I feel more comfortable, happy and independent. The people that are so close to me in my life I have met through this amazing place. I have so many memories at Camp it would be impossible for me to choose one. Camp has and always will be my favorite part of my life. I am sad that my summers as a camper have been over since 2009, but I know that Matoaka has not seen the last of me. There's a place too big in my heart for me to ever give it up and I know that so many other girls feel the same way I do. Jason & Leslie have made Matoaka the best second home I could have ever asked for. I feel so lucky that I got to spend so many summers on East Pond. Being at camp is like another world and I wouldn't change anything about it. I don't know where I would be without the girls in my life I have met at camp, and the experiences Matoaka has let me endure. |
| Mimi said... |
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| Camp Matoaka is the best place in the entire world. i would not be the same person i am today if i didn't go to camp. it is my home. each summer i go back for that amazing experience of being with my favorite people in the world. these people stay with you throughout your entire lives. there is honestly no place like Camp Matoaka. I truly love that place with all my heart. Each person there is so happy and joyful. I feel so proud to go to such a beautiful camp like Matoaka. If I could be there everyday of my life. I would be. Each camper waits 10 months for 2. I live for camp. It is all I can ever think about. Everything I learn at camp is taken with me throughout my entire life. I could not live without Matoaka existing. People ask, "What's so special about camp? How could you go for 7 whole weeks?" I say "Go there and you will find out." Camp is the best aspect in my life. |
| Jenna said... |
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| Each summer, Camp Matoaka exceeds all my expectations. Unbreakable bonds are formed, new traditions are introduced and countless memories are made. Summer after Summer, I leave camp looking back on one of the most amazing summers of my life with the best memories to show for it. I see a lot of my friends try multiple camps, meet a few friends and like a few actives. But i can honestly say only Camp Matoaka creates strangers that turn into sisters, a scary activity that turns into a hobbie or a counselor from another continent that turns into a best friend. Some of my best friends are three years older than me, two years younger than me, from a different continent or someone who lives in my town that I had just never met before My camp friends that i made at Matoaka are the girls I call when i have a problem, exciting news or i just miss them. I credit that all too the tight-knit, fun-loving culture Matoaka creates each summer. I cannot begin to imagine not going back each summer! |
| Sophia said... |
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| I'm not even sure how to put it in words. Matoaka is my home away from home. It is were all my best friends are. It is were all my sisters are. It is were my second, third, fourth and even fifth sets of parents are. it is were i am the happiest person ever. it is truthfully the best thing that has ever happened to me in my life. i have had the most amazing memories there. I LOVE MATOAKA. I WISH I WAS THERE RIGHT NOW. i try to explain to my friends why I love Matoaka so much.. they just do not get it. My aunt went here for 8 years and she wanted her daughters to go and all her nieces to go. I am the oldest.. and when I was 6 i started begging my parents to go... and when I say begging I mean getting on my knees everyday. Then the first day of camp came.. when I finally was old enough... and I was a little nervous.. but then I got there and I never wanted to leave. I just love Matoaka and everything about it.
If you are trying to decide if you should go to Matoaka or not... DO IT! You will not regret it ONE BIT! YOU WILL BEG YOUR PARENTS TO GO BACK YEAR AFTER YEAR. YOU AND EVERY OTHER GIRL THAT ATTENDS MATOAKA WILL BE THE HAPPIEST GIRL IN THE WORLD. |
| Shaina said... |
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| From the time my daughter Jordan was born, I looked forward to the day I could send her to my own alma mater, Camp Matoaka. I often rocked her to sleep singing campfire songs and made sure she knew all about our traditions and what a special place Matoaka is.
Finally, she was about to embark on her first summer at "One Great Place." I was filled with emotional nostalgia– so grateful that my daughter and I would now share yet another bond. I sent her on her way with a plane letter. I wrote "Jordan, you are so lucky! Today you get to go to the greatest place on earth!"
In those first days she was gone, I scoured bunkone.com searching for her face and ran to the mailbox daily. After a few days, her first letter arrived. I anxiously tore open the envelope, desperately hoping she loved Matoaka as much as I had 25 years earlier. Her first sentence said it all- "Mommy, you were right! Camp Matoaka really IS the greatest place on earth!"
And I knew I had made the right choice. |
| Belle said... |
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| During my first summer two years ago at Camp Matoaka in Maine, I was really looking forward to learning to water-ski. After many futile attempts to do so much as get up, a simple skill that nearly every girl at camp had mastered, I came to a conclusion- I was simply not good at water-skiing. Two weeks had gone by, and I decided to put down the water-skis and focus on activities that did not require such an immense amount of precision, skill, and balance. Still, I would watch my friends as they flew across the water and wonder to myself, “Why can’t I do that?†This thought resonated with me throughout the fall, winter and spring. In the weeks leading up to camp, I made a resolution to attempt water-skiing again.
The day before camp started, I was so excited about my decision; it was all I could think about. That afternoon, I went out rollerblading with my younger sister. As I was flying down the driveway, I imagined I was skimming across the lake on water-skis. I had hoped that by visualizing I would get somewhere closer to my goal.
My rollerblading that afternoon certainly did get me somewhere- the hospital with a broken wrist. I felt frustration and anger as I sat in my hospital bed, wondering why I would break my wrist the day before camp began. I would have shaken my fist at the sky, but it hurt too much to bend my fingers.
Thankfully, I received a waterproof cast so that I could go swimming. Despite the cast from my knuckles to my elbow, I was still determined to get up on water-skis. Sitting on the dock with my cast, I caught many confused glances from other campers and counselors, curious as to why I was attempting water-skiing with an injury.
Originally a difficult obstacle for me, water-skiing quickly became my favorite activity. When I left camp last summer, I was working on crossing 7 wakes in 45 seconds on one ski. I won the water-skiing award at the end of camp, an award that has more than one special meaning to me.
Throughout this experience, I felt challenged, overwhelmed and successful. Whenever I would execute a perfect run, I was so proud of myself. Neither my cast nor my fears inhibited me from achieving my goal, and I can’t wait to water-ski next summer at camp. |
| Sarah said... |
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| Each summer at camp matoaka is full of new and exciting memories that i will never forget. All the memories created from bunk 8 and now to bunk 15 have shaped me as a person and have filled my childhood summers with amazing memories. The friendships i have made at Matoaka will last forever and my camp friends are the best friends in the world. My favorite camp memories range from just haning out in my bunk, dressing up insanely for campfires, singing cheers in the rec halls, to getting up on waterskiis for the first time. One of my favorite camp memories was the moment that i learned to waterski. The moment that the boat pulled me up on my skiis i still remember the excitement i felt. I couldnt wait to go back to ski everyday to learn more and improve my skiing. Matoaka is truly my second home and it is constantly in my mind. The memories made at matoaka will last forever. |
| Emily said... |
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| My favorite camp memory was when I got up on my waterskis for the first time. It felt so amazing!! I made so many friends like Ruby, Kelela, Sarah, Francesca, Caroline, and many others. I can't wait for this summer when I get to my favorite place and second home, Camp Matoaka!
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| Becca said... |
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| OH MY GOD! CAMP MATOAKA IS HEAVEN ON EARTH!! EVERYDAY GOES BY AND ALL I CAN THINK ABOUT IT I CANNOT WAIT FOR SUMMER AND TO BE AT ONE GREAT PLACE AGAIN!! EVERYTHING IS SO SPECIAL THERE!! MY FRIENDS ARE AMAZING AND MY BEST FRIENDS IN THE ENTIRE WORLD!! I AM ALSO FARTHER AWAY FROM MY HOME, THEN SOME, BUT NO ALL OF MY FRIENDS, BUT I DONT NOTICE AT ALL BECAUSE I AM TOO BUSY HAVING THE TIME OF MY LIFE! THERE IS NO DOUBT CAMP MATOAKA IS MY FAVORITE PLACE!! THE STREET NAME ONE GREAT PLACE IS NOT AND EXAGGERATION!! EVERYTHING IS SO MUCH FUN NO MATTER WHAT WE ARE DOING!! WATERSKIING, CLIMBING, EVENING ACTIVITIES, COLLEGE LEAGE(WHICH MIGHT BE MY FAVORITE PART BESIDE MY FRIENDS), AND EVERYTHING ELSE THAT WE DO IS INSANELY FUN!! I CANT EVEN EXPRESS IT IN WORDS!! CAMP MATOKA IS TRUELY THE BEST PLACE ON EARTH AND I LOVE IT SO MUCH!! SEE YOU IN 116 DAYS!! AYAYYAY!!<3 |
| Julia said... |
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| Even though I just started camp 2 years ago it has been the best experience ever.I went to camp only knowing 1 person but soon I met a bunch of girls who soon became my best friends. Every summer now I can't wait to go back. My favorite memory of camp was probabley getting up on water skis for the first time. I was kind of scared but with all the encouragment I got up fine. I love Matoka and can't wait to go back this summer. |
| Sarah said... |
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| My favorite memories from Camp Matoaka are definitely the ones I shared with my friends. Last year (my first year), I met so many new people and we instantly 'clicked'. It just made my experience even more enjoyable! I loved doing activities like gymnastics, waterskiing, banana boating, and tubing with my new friends. Camp Matoaka is amazing and I loved it!!!!!!!! I can't wait to go back this year!!!!!!!! |
| Ashley said... |
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| Camp Matoaka has formed me to become the person that I am today. There are not enough words in the English language to describe my feelings towards camp. It is an indescribable feeling that we like to call "Matoaka Magic." My first summer at camp was five years ago. I was eleven years old and was joining a bunk of all returning campers. I was excited and nervous all at once. But when i arrived, the smiles and hugs surrounded me and I was hooked. I will never forget that day. After returning summer after summer, I now find myself a queen, the summer that every camper dreams of. My favorite memory of camp has to be August 12, 2011. That is the day we were crowned, and in our little pink and purple bubble called Matoaka, that moment was all that mattered to us Bunk 14 girls. My best friends I met at camp. We talk to each other literally everyday and without them camp just would not be the same. So let your daughter experience the friendships, the outstanding activities, the pink cabins, the amazing councelors, the magic! Matoaka is our home. Not a day goes by where we don't think about our unforgettable summers and sisters. Just 131 days to go! |
| Brianna said... |
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| Every day at Matoaka is a memory. Every day at my favorite place in the world is a memory. Everyday at my home is a memory. Water Skiing, College League, The Rock, Cheering, Sports Bars, Campfire, Activities, Matoaka Monday, the day I step off of the greyhound bus, falling asleep with my best friends, and waking up to their beautiful (...morning) faces. I can never forget the insane amount of joy that Matoaka brings to me. I'm in highschool, and this transition year is all about time management and dealing with stress. Last week, my teacher insisted we take a break and do some relaxation techniques. "Go to your favorite place in the world. Something peaceful. Something wonderful." she said. "Matoaka," I thought. And i was instantly at camp. It was the best feeling. Sitting next to my best friends on the floor alternating lines of "The Climb" by Miley Cyrus. I was teleported into that spot. It was then when I knew that these girls would have my back through it all. Who cares if I couldn't sing? (I barely had a voice from all of the cheering!) We listened to eachother as if each line told it's own story. And now, whenever one of us has problems, we do tell our stories. And I was right, everyone does listen. Matoaka means so much to me and to everyone else who attends. Without it, I would be nothing. |
| Rachel said... |
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| I decided to go to camp Matoaka as a nine-year old little girl. One decision about summer camp changed my life forever. As I stepped off of the bus for the first time, little did I know that I would eagerly return to this home away from home for the next seven summers of my life. My memories are unforgettable. I can still feel the Matoaka magic of the loud cheers in the rec hall, the excitement of college league breaking, and the accomplishment of becoming a Matoaka skier. Matoaka magic isn’t something that you can feel every day, but at Matoaka it is almost natural to feel it. I made life long best friends and summer sisters who I can always count on, and who I will never forget. The friendships I have formed at Matoaka will last forever. People wonder why I would want to spend seven weeks of my summer at a sleep away camp, but without camp I would not be the person I am today. Matoaka has changed me for the better. It has turned me from a shy and timid little nine-year old, to a strong, confident, and outgoing fifteen-year old women. Last summer I was a queen. Words cannot describe how passionate I am about Matoaka. I would trade anything to be at camp just one more day. I will never forget the countless memories I have made at Matoaka. Matoaka will be in my heart forever. |
| Alexis said... |
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| As I pulled up to Camp Matoaka for the first time, I was beyond terrified. I couldn't help but wonder, who would be in my bunk, would the girls like me, would I miss home, but when I stepped off the greyhound bus, and was instantly hugged by many girls I did not know, I knew Camp Matoaka was where I belonged. I bonded instantly with all of the amazing girls in my bunk, and returning back to camp every summer is like seeing not just my best friends, but my summer sisters. There is not a day that goes by, when I do not yearn to be back at Matoaka, and every day that I am at camp, I cherish so much! It is so hard for me to pick my favorite memory of camp, but if I had to choose just one, it would be when I water skied for the first time in my life! I was so scared the first time i water skied, but the AMAZING ski staff helped me to accomplish my goal throughout the whole process! I LOVE Camp Matoaka so much, and I can't wait to return each summer, to make even more memories with the amazing group of girls that surround me everyday. Camp Matoaka really is "One Great Place". |
| Jami said... |
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| When I first arrived at Camp Matoaka, I knew no one and was eager to find out who was going to be in my bunk for the summer. The bunkmates I met were so welcoming and friendly. We all became friends within minutes of meeting each other. Little did I know at the time, these would be my lifelong friends, who I would share the most amazing memories with. There is not a day that goes by when I do not think about Camp Matoaka and look forward to my queen summer to come. Although it is hard to pick just one memory from the hundreds I have experienced at camp, one stands out in my mind. The first time I was able to get up on water-skis was such a proud moment for me. I had been working to accomplish my goal all summer and when I finally did, I was overjoyed. When I told my bunkmates, they were all so happy for me. It is so amazing to be able to come back to a place every summer I call home and have great friends who are always supporting you. Camp Matoaka is the greatest place ever!! |
| Charlotte said... |
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| When I came to camp on the first day, I was terrified of what was to come. I spent the eight hour bus ride fretting, worrying, and reading. Who was going to be in my bunk? How was I going to make friends? These are two of the many worries I had. When I got off the bus and into my assigned cabin, I met some of the best friends I have. I can remember being so relieved and happy. It was one of those moments when you know that no matter what happens, everything is going to be alright. This is something that is true to the entire camp. Bad things can happen. I have friends who got swine flu during the summer and spent a good two weeks in the infirmary. They were sick and obviously not having the best time, but just being at camp makes it better. During the summer, lots can go wrong, but I know that because of Matoaka and the first day of camp that everything is going to be alright. |
| Nancy said... |
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| During my daughter's second summer at Camp Matoaka, she received a fantastic part in the camp play, her first big part. She was so excited to tell me - which meant lots of letters home with the play's progress. And just last week - in February - we received the DVD and got to watch her wonderful experience. Just one of the many things she loves about camp. |
| Lynn said... |
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| This will be Anna's 4th or 5th year! All I can say is Anna looks forward to the summer with such enthusiasm and zest. She begs us to send her full sessions each time and each time I have to say only one! She loves the camp, the girls, the food, the activities. Not once has she ever said anything but glowing remarks. I only wish I could have gone to Matoaka during my childhood! I am happy to experience through Anna and the joy and lasting friendships Matoaka has given her!
Lynn |
| Mimi said... |
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| Camp Matoaka is the most incredible, fun, happy, place in the entire world. You feel so connected with everyone around you. It is impossible not to make friends there. I have friends that I made there that I talk to EVERY DAY. I couldn't imagine my life without all of these phenomenal people. The directors have the best job in the world. They bring happiness to 300 girls every summer and the staff! Anyone who goes to Matoaka feels the spirit, love, and passion. I love that place with all my heart. I feel like I grew up at Matoaka. My life would be incomplete without it. My camp friends are my life. Camp Matoaka is my life. Anything that involves Matoaka I am obsessed with. I save every picture, award, art project, and anything else you could think of. I have learned so many new things there that I couldn't have learned anywhere else. All of the traditions make camp that much more special. When I leave camp I cry for days and days. Once I leave all I think about is going back. Matoaka is the best place in the entire world. I travel across the whole country just to spend 7 weeks with my camp friends in our favorite place in the world. I could write pages and pages about how much I love Camp Matoaka. There is simply no place like it. I know that I will send my daughters there, and their daughters will go there and so on. I love Camp Matoaka more than anyone could ever imagine. It is the best place in the entire universe. The night before camp starts I can't sleep because I can barely contain my excitement. Not a day goes by that I don't think about Camp. It is an extremely special place. I count down the days until I go back to my favorite place in the world. Camp takes us away from all of the negative things in the world. It gives us a break from all the craziness and lets us relax with all of our favorite people in our favorite place. Only 139 days, 7 hours, and 56 minutes to go! |
| Meredith said... |
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| My best memory at Camp Matoaka was meeting all my great friends. I was almost 10 years old and went to camp by myself, leaving every person I knew back in New York. Camp Matoaka is 8 hours away from my home. I will never forget getting off that bus, many states away from home, and looking at all these new people. They ALL knew my name! I couldn't believe it. They welcomed me with open arms from the minute I got there. Funny thing is that I did not know any of them! I was never homesick. I had a new home for the summer. The friends I made in the short time I was there will always be my best friends. I am looking forward to reuniting with my CBFF's (camp best friends forever) in June. I have 5 more summers at Camp Matoaka and will cherish every one! |
| Beth said... |
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| Our daughter looks forward to returning to Matoaka all year long, and this summer, she will return for her fifth and final summer.
My husband and I were not Maine campers ourselves, but we thoroughly researched summer camps, and we chose Maine(as opposed to a more local camp) for our daughter for several important reasons. While the expense is about the same as the camps more local to our home, the scenery, facilities, and relationships that she has had, living with people from all over our country and the world have made this an especially unique and valuable experience . There is something so special about leaving one's familiar stomping grounds and old friends for the beauty and countryside of Maine, and bunking up with new kids from all over the country and world, rather than those of just one's local community. This has been a welcome and wonderful growning experience for our daughter.
This summer, we will send our 10 year old son as well for his first summer in Maine(Camp Manitou). We know that we are very fortunate to be able to provide this unique and incredible experience for our children! |
| Jamie said... |
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| I was fortunate enough to spend 9 summers of my childhood at an amazing camp in Maine. I genuinely believe that my experiences there have influenced who I am today. There have been so many times in my life where I've thought, "Where did I learn that? Gosh, I still remember that from Camp." There are so many things I can't remember from my childhood but I can't seem to forget the first time I got up on skis, my first bulls-eye, my first solo-sail, and my first dance. I hold these memories so dear that I feel so grateful to be able to offer my two daughters this same experience. My oldest went for the first time last summer and had the time of her life. In fact, when she stepped off the airplane I couldn't help but say, "Oh how I missed you. I bet you didn't miss me as much as I missed you." She immediately responded in a somber tone, "Mom, I don't want to hurt your feelings but I didn't miss you at all!" It seems weird but those were amazing words to hear. She came home a more confident and independent child. And these new attributes have carried her through the school year. She is so ecstatic to return this summer that her 8 year-old younger sister will also join her. My youngest told me, "There's no way I'm missing out on something this fun!" I don't blame her. Wish there was a camp for me! |
| Alisa said... |
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| Sending out children to Camp Matoaka in Maine was one of the best decisions (and investments) we have made as parents. Our girls leave the heat of the Florida summer and instead enjoy the fresh New England weather; swim in one of the most magnificant lakes we have ever seen; learn a myriad of new sports and activities; embrace competition and the beauty of team spirit; and make friendships that last a lifetime. Their friends are their "Matoaka Sisters" and these experiences and relationships gained in just a few short weeks are truly "priceless."
The Camp Matoaka spirit of friendship and commraderie has become part of their moral fabric and everyday we see a part of the "Matoaka Magic" shine through in their everyday life. They have become more independent, more apt to try new sports (and foods); and reach out to potential friends that they may have never even thought of before. They are confident, motivated, and love to act silly (a major feat for the oh so self conscious tween/teen).
The other best part about sending our girls to camp in Maine is that we get to come for visiting day and spend some time on vacation. We anticipate all year long our Maine getaway, and have spent time at some of the most beautiful resorts, hotels, B&Bs and Inns. Lobster Rolls, fried clams (with the bellies and tartar or should we say "tata" sauce) and fresh blueberries are some of our favorites.
We truly believe that the Maine, summer camp experience is the greatest gift we have ever given our 13 and 11 year-old daughters. Our girls are counting down the days until they return to their summer home, Camp Matoaka. |
| Karen said... |
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| As a child, camp was the best time of year. Now with 2 girls, I am so pleased to pass this special time on to them. I love singing favorite camp songs with them and sharing stories of what we did all summer. I tell them how my bunk and I snuck into the kitchen late one night and brought all the giant tubs of icecream back to our cabin. And, they tell me all out the games, trips and activities that have be added since I was a camper. So much has changed, yet so much has stayed the same. We are all lucky girls to have gotten to experience Matoaka.
Karen |
| Alison said... |
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| For me the most beautiful thing about Camp is that my girls are creating fabulous memories at Camp Matoaka with children of women I went to Camp in Maine with (sadly our camp is no longer open). To see the friendships forming in this next generation is wonderful. And for the children to be able to enjoy the outdoors, learn new sports, bond like sisters, laugh and giggle and just plain have good old fashioned fun is what Camp in Maine is all about! |
| Stephanie said... |
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| I spent many wonderful summers at Camp Matoaka as a child. The friends I made at camp are still among my closest friends. It is so wonderful to now share the same traditions with my two daughters as they experience "Matoaka Magic" and form their own lifelong friendships and create their own Matoaka memories to cherish. |
| Carol said... |
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| There is nothing like spending the summer at camp in Maine! I did it myself for years, and it's a joy to see our daughter enjoying herself at Camp Matoaka! What a wonderful opportunity to bond with other girls, learn new sports, enjoy the beautiful Maine summers and embrace the team spirt and values of Camp Matoaka! It really is "one great place"! YEAH Maine, YEAH Matoaka!! |
| Caroline said... |
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| Matoaka is the best thing that's ever happened to me. There is not a day that goes by that I don't think about camp and how different my life would be had I not been a Matoaka camper. I am so thankful for everything Matoaka has done for me and all of the opportunities I've had at camp. My camp friends are my best friends in the whole world and I talk to them every day. Matoaka is the best place in the world and I am so sad that I can' t go back this summer! CMQ '11 |
| Mandy said... |
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| Being a camper at matoaka I have created soo many amazing memories. I could never just pick one moment because every minute I spent at matoaka was amazing. I made the best summer sisters that will be my best friends forever. Not being able to go back to camp this summer is so hard because matoaka is my home away from home. I have already started a countdown until the summer I can return. Matoaka is where I grew up and experienced the most outstanding memories. Take me home greyhound bus
QUEENS 2011 FOREVER. BEST SUMMER OF MY LIFE |
| Chelsea said... |
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| CAMP MATOAKA IS THE BEST CAMP EVER. every single memory i have at camp brings tears to my eyes to remember. i miss camp so much and am counting down every single day of the four years I have to wait to become a counselor at one great place. every single person i have met at camp matoaka has a special place in my heart. I thank camp matoaka for making me the best friendships I will ever have and giving me the most memorable summers of my life. take me back to camp. now. QUEENS2011RULE. |
| Carol said... |
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| Every child who has a chance to spend their summer at camp in Maine is very LUCKY! Matoaka is a wonderful camp on a pretty lake. What a "great place" to make new friends, waterski,climb the pamper pole and have fun all day and night long! |
| Vanessa said... |
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| There are too many amazing memories I have made at Matoaka to just pick one. Matoaka is the best camp you could ever send your daughter to. I have made friends there that I talk to every single day and tell everything to. It is a home to me where I have learned to do so much and have had the best time in the entire world. |
| Sophia said... |
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| i do not think i could ever pick a favorite memory from camp matoaka. asking for my favorite memory, is like asking my favorite memory from childhood. i could never pick just one. matoaka is another home to me. i guess one of my favorite memories would have to be stepping off that greyhound bus every year and seeing all my summer sisters and running into their arms. it is just the best feeling ever. |
| Jordan said... |
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| My favorite camp memory is hanging out with my bunk! I have sooo many amazing friends that i miss soooo much when im not with them. I'm so excited to go back to camp this summer and have more of those amazing moments! |
| Cynthia said... |
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| My daughter is having another WONDERFUL summer at Matoaka! What an outstanding program, well suited and contemporary for today's girls, with some "old school" components that keep a consistent experience for multiple generations!!! |
| Myra said... |
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| Meeting new friends and having friendships that will last forever oh yeah and raiding the canteen and kitchen...shhhh |
| Jeff said... |
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| As a former camper myself (C-E-D-A-R, you're the best, cheer Camp Cedar, 2-3-4!), I was so excited that the time had come for my own daughter to experience the joy of overnight camp in Maine herself. Well, joy is most certainly a great word to encapsulate her first summer. In only three short weeks, she has learned to waterski, picked up new sports, starred in the camp musical, learned a new level of responsibility and accountability, formed strong relationships with new friends and caring staff, and asked us to sign her up for next summer! I can't wait to hear what the second half of her first summer is like! |
| Debbie said... |
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| One of the best memories I have of Camp Matoaka is the excitment on my daughter's face when I arrive to visit.
The traditions of the camp are a part of the camp's highlights. It is those links from year to year that create lasting memories. |
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