For many families in New York City, summer camp is an opportunity for children to experience something completely different from their everyday environment.
Camp offers the chance to spend time outdoors, build independence, and form friendships that often last for years.
At Camp Lakota, campers trade busy city streets for forests, lakes, and open outdoor spaces in the Catskill Mountains of upstate New York.
The result is a summer experience where kids can explore new activities, develop confidence, and become part of a supportive camp community.
For many NYC families, that combination of independence, adventure, and connection is what makes sleepaway camp such a meaningful part of childhood.
Life in New York City offers incredible opportunities for children throughout the school year.
Sleepaway camp offers something different.
It gives kids the chance to unplug from daily routines, spend time outdoors, and develop independence while surrounded by peers and supportive counselors.
At Camp Lakota, campers participate in a wide variety of activities that help them discover new interests and build confidence.
Some campers gravitate toward athletics or outdoor adventure programs. Others spend time on the lake enjoying swimming, boating, and waterfront activities. Creative arts programs allow campers to explore artistic interests while building new skills.
Parents often say that the most meaningful part of camp is the friendships their children develop. Living together in cabins, sharing daily activities, and participating in camp traditions help campers quickly form strong connections.
One of the most common questions NYC parents ask is how travel to camp works.
Camp Lakota is located in the Catskill Mountains of upstate New York, making it accessible for families throughout the New York City region.
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.
Each day at Camp Lakota is designed to combine fun, exploration, and personal growth.
Campers participate in a variety of activities throughout the day, which may include waterfront programs, athletics, creative arts, outdoor adventure, and skill based activities such as archery.
Throughout the day, campers are encouraged to try new experiences while continuing to build skills in activities they enjoy. Explore our programs on the Activities page.
Evenings often bring some of the most memorable moments at camp. Camp wide games, special events, campfires, and time spent with cabin groups help create traditions and friendships that campers carry with them long after summer ends. Learn more about the daily schedule on A Day at Camp.
For children growing up in New York City, spending time in nature can be a meaningful and refreshing experience.
The Catskill Mountains offer forests, lakes, and open outdoor spaces where campers can explore, play, and connect with the natural environment.
Combined with the welcoming community at Camp Lakota, this setting creates the kind of traditional sleepaway camp experience that many families value.
Campers return home not only with great memories, but also with increased confidence, independence, and friendships that often last for years.
Choosing a sleepaway camp is an important decision for families. Many parents want to learn more about the programs, activities, and community before enrolling.
You can review Dates & Tuition, request information, or begin the process to enroll now.
If your child is new to sleepaway camp, you may also want to explore our Rookie Day program, which helps first time campers prepare for the experience.