Camper Quotes

"In this mass-media culture, people need to see real people making dance music."  —Andy Wilson

"They tell good stories!" —Brandon age 6

 "I liked hiking to the Native American village. And I also liked the Native American village itself."  —Henry age 8

"Being able to dance day and night while knowing that my kids were safe and having fun, made this an incredible vacation!" —Michelle, mom of 2

We were told we were the "dream team" by your camp in 2007 and our reply is that your Contra Family Camp was our "dream group"! We feel we have met 100 new friends!
Looking forward to cooking for and dancing with you all again this summer! —Denise, Chef and Owner, All Natural Catering

It's hard to describe the splendid feeling of Family Week. As a family-of-one (unaccompanied adult), I thought that being among a spectrum of ages would be, at best, neutral.  I was so mistaken.

The young people were fantastic, an essential element that gives a wonderful energy to everything. The games were fun to watch and laugh along with. (Games: yaaayyyy!) The traditions are vibrant from the continuity of many repeating campers and staff members.

I found the dancing interesting and varied, the musicians and callers excellent. There is no mistaking the vast amounts of time, energy, and love poured into every event. This turned out to be a watershed week, as both camp location and managers are changing after fourteen years. But as Jerry reminded all, it's the people who make the camp—and there is plenty of carrying-it-on going on.

The special events are a rare treat as well; I was envious of the Teddy Bears' picnic (my own stuffed animal sadly left at home while other bears waltzed); I wanted to be on the train to Morning Town as the Pied Piper left the main hall every evening with the 9-and-unders; I wish I'd brought sillier costumes for the Grand Parade; but I was very proud of my Medieval Woodworking project—a fine rolling pin.

There were almost magical moments, as when the mystery Morris dancers appeared in the meadow following a brief thunderstorm and the twilight between the worlds under a double rainbow held all of us speechless. Story time that evening was punctuated by a visit from Spiderman, who performed surprising contortions around the hall.

The auction was another surprise. (Auction: yaaayyyy!) --it was so entertaining I was nearly rolling on the floor. It raised a lot of money, but more importantly, was so like a game show (in a good way) that I felt I knew all the participants much better at the end. (And I'll reveal who likes to watch others get foot massages for a $5 donation to BACDS... <grin>)

Can't omit to mention: the food was good! This is almost startling for any camp, but chef Denise and her trusty helpers carried it off; even the kids ate happily. Snacks and hot drinks always available, if you can find time between the seemingly non-stop activities.

In summary: you ought to try it. You'll be glad you did.

—Susan Gere