90 and Thriving!

This past weekend alumni from all over the United States gathered at Camp Newaygo for a weekend of fun, sun and memories.

Former campers and staff were able to relive their best camp memories including Sing-on-the-Lake, Wishing Boats, and Weldon ceremonies.

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Here’s how Teep, a treasured camp alumni, described the reunion:
“On this special birthday weekend campers were reliving their memories, falling  asleep to the sounds of owls, bullfrogs and crickets, seeing the moon light up the night sky, singing the camp songs at the top of their lungs, and soaking in that wonderfully unique feeling that comes with being at camp.  Their camp.

Despite the many years separating their times at this magical place there exists a strong connectedness forged by their common experiences while there.  Connections born out of traditions. Wishing Boats, Sing on the Lake, reflections at Walden, Serenade….memories of experiences that bridged any difference in age.

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This week, back at their own homes, work, and families, the women from the Reunion are probably still humming camp songs as they go about their lives as judges, doctors, teachers, moms and grandmas.
And smiling.”

Mary Wilner, a 1970’s alumni, rode the zipline for the first time, and said “Camp Newaygo is still giving me the courage and confidence to try things out of my comfort zone.”

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The weekend was celebrated with a banquet titled “Standing on the Shoulders of Those Who Came Before Us.” Bev Cassidy was honored, a former camp director from 1977-1989. The new camp property was named “Cassidy Point” to show appreciation for her years of dedication to Camp Newaygo.

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Our current Camp Newaygo staff are already counting down the years to the 100th Alumni Reunion in 2026.

Remember me Newaygo, I’m coming back someday.