For many Long Island families, summer camp is more than a fun way to spend a few weeks. It is a chance for kids to build confidence, discover new interests, and form friendships that last long after summer ends.
At Camp Lakota, summer days are filled with lake time, laughter, and the kind of small moments that campers remember for years.
Located in the Catskill Mountains of upstate New York, Camp Lakota has welcomed campers from Long Island and the greater New York region for generations. Families choose Lakota because it offers the perfect balance. It is far enough away to feel like a true sleepaway camp experience, yet still within a manageable travel distance from home.
For many campers, Lakota becomes a place where they feel comfortable being themselves, supported by caring counselors, and excited to come back summer after summer.
Long Island offers many great opportunities for kids during the school year. Sleepaway camp is different. It gives children the chance to unplug from everyday routines, spend time outdoors, and grow more independent in a positive and structured environment.
At Camp Lakota, campers are encouraged to try new things and celebrate their progress, whether they are learning a new skill on the waterfront, joining a team, exploring creative arts, or challenging themselves in outdoor adventure activities.
Parents often tell us the most meaningful part of camp is the community. Campers quickly feel welcomed and included, and friendships form naturally through shared experiences, cabin life, and camp traditions.
That sense of belonging is one of the reasons so many families return to Camp Lakota year after year.
One of the most common questions Long Island parents ask is how travel to camp works.
Camp Lakota is located in the Catskills of upstate New York. Travel time from Long Island varies depending on where you are starting, but many families find the trip manageable and well worth it for the experience their child gains at camp.
All campers coming from the NYC/Long Island/NJ area are required to take the bus. We don’t do parent drop-off on opening day. But it’s an easy drive for people coming up for tours. Learn more on our Bus to Camp page.
Every day at Camp Lakota is designed to blend fun, exploration, and personal growth.
Mornings might begin with time on the lake, where campers swim, boat, or enjoy waterfront activities with friends. During the day, campers rotate through activities that may include athletics, outdoor adventure, creative arts, or skill based programs like archery.
Throughout the day, campers are supported by experienced staff who guide, teach, and cheer them on. When kids feel supported, they thrive, and they often surprise themselves with what they can do. Explore more on our Activities page.
Evenings are when camp memories really shine. Camp wide games, special events, campfires, and time with cabin groups create traditions and friendships that campers carry with them long after summer ends. For a closer look at the rhythm of camp, visit A Day at Camp.
For Long Island families, Camp Lakota offers something many kids do not get during the school year. Wide open outdoor space, fresh air, lake life, and the chance to be part of a community that feels like a summer home.
The Catskills environment creates the setting for a classic sleepaway camp experience, while the camp’s welcoming culture helps campers feel comfortable from day one.
That combination of outdoor adventure and strong community is what makes the Camp Lakota experience so meaningful for so many families.
Choosing a sleepaway camp is an important decision for families. Many parents want to learn about the programs, activities, and community before enrolling.
Families can review Dates & Tuition, request information, or begin the process to enroll now.
Our goal is to create an environment where campers build friendships, grow in confidence, and return home with memories that last well beyond the summer.
For more on what families can expect, visit What to Expect.