Nature and Camper

“I see myself in his eyes, I’m kind of part of his world,” remarks six-year-old James.  His first Discovery activity is horses.  Sitting proudly on his horse Freedom, James joins a caravan of riders plodding slowly down the drive, each horse vigilantly led by a staff member.  The expansive view of camp is a certain attraction of riding horses.  More sublime is the interaction and silent communication between each camper and horse.   

  “Walking up the river is a challenge, but I know I’ll reach the waterfalls eventually.”

Creek Hiking is a favorite sign-up activity.   The resistance of fast flowing cold water crashing over water shoes, rocky surfaces requiring balance adjustments, and perhaps the occasional fall…generate communal excitement in the walking party.  Occasionally, small hands overturn streambed rocks.  A previously unseen world suddenly is apparent…small crustaceans, sessile worms, fleeing minnows.  Two worlds merge, albeit for a brief time, on this nature activity.

The Blacksmith Trail is a favorite among mountain biking groups.  From the periphery, its serpentine path suggests a ride of ease.  Dense trees shelter the path in a canopy of shadows.  A warm glow emits from the Blacksmith’s forge, and staccato hammering fills the air.   But the trail is not easy.  Root, rocks, and uneven curves beguile each rider’s ability.  Today, a bespeckled visitor stood warily on the trail.   Our convoy of seven bikers halted abruptly as a fawn blocked forward movement.  No words were spoken.  Human eyes, and fawn eyes met.  Time seemed to soften, suspend momentarily.   All in the biking group watched this unscripted intersection of camp life and the living creatures who share this pristine place.  For some in our group, this will be an indelible and powerful moment forever embedded in synapses.

 

Adams