Daily life — camper-designed schedule, small groups
At CLN, campers are grouped by age and paired with counselors who they'll spend most of their time with. Each group is kept small (8–16 campers), ensuring personalized attention and a close-knit experience. Our sessions begin with campers and counselors collaborating to design a schedule for the week. While every group will enjoy classic camp activities like swimming, boating, and arts and crafts, the rest of the week is filled with activities the group decides together — creating a truly unique experience for each camper.
443-acre Adirondack wilderness property near Lake George, NY, with an 80-acre private lake; about 35 minutes from Lake George
Ages
8–16
Accreditations stated by camp
American Camp Association
Activities
Waterfront
Swimming
Canoeing
Kayaking
Stand-up paddleboarding
Outdoor Adventure
Hiking
More activities
arts and crafts
campfire building and cooking
campfires / Green Cathedrals ceremony
camping / overnight wilderness trips
candle making
capture the flag
compass skills
creek walking
friendship bracelets
GaGa Ball
Leave No Trace
lip sync battle
mountain climbing
scavenger hunts
shelter building
team-building games
tie-dye
twilight swims
Clues to fit
Camper testimonial — coming out of her shell, making friends
"Before my first time in 2012, I was extremely shy, I didn't have many friends, and the one I did have I needed to have in the same school class with me up until 4th grade. I had never spent time away from my home before. Camp brought me out of my shell and taught me about nature and art and making friends."
DEI & belonging — commitment to campers of all backgrounds
We understand that historically people of color have not had access to the camp experience or have not felt welcomed in summer camp spaces. We are committed to ensuring that all girls feel the same sense of belonging and support at summer camp, and recognize that working toward an equitable camp experience will be an ongoing process.
Campers can climb Challenger, our very own mountain, and experience the thrill of reaching the summit. Along the way, they learn and practice Leave No Trace principles. From building shelters and mastering fire-starting and compass skills to wading through cool streams on a creek-walking adventure, campers gain a deeper connection to nature and a lasting sense of accomplishment. A key part of our mission is helping campers build confidence and independence through hands-on wilderness experiences—like paddling across the lake to a primitive site, sleeping under the stars, or hiking through the woods to find the perfect spot for an overnight.
Setting & wilderness environment — 443 acres, 80-acre private lake
Camp Little Notch is a 443-acre Adirondack campground near Lake George, NY, where people of all ages can connect with nature, community, and adventure. Set on 443 acres of unspoiled wilderness and centered around an 80-acre private lake, CLN is a place unlike anywhere else. Breathe in the fresh air, hear the call of loons on the lake, splash in the creek, and gaze up at the clearest night sky—this is the beauty of our pristine wilderness setting.
Carpark Games & GaGa Ball — team-building traditions
One of the most beloved traditions is our Carpark Games, held in the big open field at the heart of camp. While it sometimes serves its original purpose (parking cars) it's usually buzzing with energy, laughter, and play. And now, with the GaGa Ball pit, there's even more space for friendly fun, new friendships, and moments that make camp days unforgettable.
Evening activities & Green Cathedrals campfire tradition
Evenings in camp are filled with laughter, friendship, and unforgettable memories when campers come together for twilight swims, capture the flag, scavenger hunts, and the ever-popular lip sync battle. Campfires are always the highlight each session—especially the final ceremony at Green Cathedrals, one of the most magical places at camp. Surrounded by nature and friends, we take time to reflect, share gratitude, and cherish the moments that make CLN so special.
Parent testimonial — confidence, resourcefulness, work ethic over 20 years
"Our daughter instantly fell in love with Camp Little Notch the first year she went to camp. As she became a teenager, it was increasingly her home away from home. She developed confidence, resourcefulness and an incredible work ethic. We had no idea, that first year that she attended, how important and valuable that decision was. It was (and still is almost 20 years later) wonderful to know what a positive influence Camp Little Notch has been for our daughter."
Mealtime at Camp Little Notch is more than just a time to eat—it's a time to come together. Campers and staff gather in our rustic dining hall to share family-style meals prepared with care by our food service team. There's always plenty to enjoy, from hearty favorites to fresh fruits and veggies, and we're experienced in accommodating a variety of dietary requirements such as vegetarian/vegan, gluten free, and lactose/egg free. Each meal is filled with conversation, laughter, and maybe even a few camp songs!
Mission & values — harmony with nature, each other, and self
Camp Little Notch provides wilderness experiences to children and adults, shaped by fun and friendship, empowering self-discovery, collaboration within a diverse community, and an appreciation of nature. Our three key values are: Harmony with Nature (Environmental Stewardship), Harmony with Each Other (Community Building, Social Consciousness, and Inclusivity), and Harmony with Self (Growth and Wellness).
The American Camp Association (ACA) sets the highest standards for the camping industry, including oversight of health and safety of campers and staff, as well as delivery of high quality programming. Being an ACA-accredited facility means we have agreed to meet standards higher than the NY state department of health requires. We are reaccredited every five years and submit ongoing paperwork annually to maintain our accreditation. Each summer we undergo an inspection by the local department of health, and are required to meet standards for health and risk management, program, personnel, and site safety.
Cabin/lodging — platform tents, units, counselors close by
Campers enjoy a true Adirondack experience—sleeping in large, sturdy canvas tents set on wooden platforms. Each tent fits four cots/mattresses, one for each camper. On warm summer nights, tent flaps can be rolled up to let in the gentle evening breeze, and during rainy weather, they can be lowered to keep everyone snug and dry. Tents are grouped in small clusters called units, each with its own counselors and campers of a similar age. Counselors stay just a few steps away—close enough to hear and help anytime, day or night—and quietly check in during downtime and bedtime to ensure everyone is comfortable, safe, and ready for another day of adventure.
Food allergies & special diets — how CLN handles them
Dietary information is collected on your health history form during registration. We regularly provide vegetarian, gluten-free, nut-free, and dairy-free alternatives. Our food service team ensures each camper with special dietary needs has an adequate substitution or modified meal that meets their needs. If your camper has allergies or special dietary needs, please contact us at any time prior to camp to discuss your requirements. We are often able to provide everything your child needs at camp, but if not, we'll work to find a solution.
Homesickness — staff training and parent notification
All staff receive training on how to support campers who are missing home. We will contact you if your camper is experiencing frequent feelings of missing home or makes frequent trips to the health center for a routine issue that becomes ongoing, such as upset stomach or frequent headaches.
