Kids’ wilderness camp an option for February vacation

Children throughout Maine look forward to February vacation, when they will hop on a sled and be hauled by snowmobile to Big Pine Lodge at Tanglewood in Lincolnville. For two days, they’ll explore the snowy forest, discovering how to track animals and build snow shelters called quinzees. With fellow children, they’ll enjoy art, storytelling and hot chocolate in a cozy wood-heated cabin.

If you would like your children to become a part of this tradition at Tanglewood, the registration deadline is fast approaching – Feb. 3. You can register online or print a registration form to mail.

Children ages 6-8 will be “Winter Wanderers” from 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Feb. 21-22, and children ages 9-13 will be “Winter Survivors” from 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Feb. 23-24. Both camps cost $65 per child. Aftercare will be available until 4 p.m. for an extra $15.

Campers should bring a bag lunch, clothes for winter exploration and play, plus extra socks and mittens. Tanglewood provides snowshoes (no prior experience is necessary).

Last year, I attended a day at the camp to write about the experience for the outdoor pages of the Bangor Daily News. If curious to read about 10-year-old Fyn’s experience at camp, check out the article.

Some kids were return campers. They knew the ropes. But even first-time campers like Fyn quickly adapted to the beautiful forest and homey cabin. Instructors were enthusiastic and knowledgeable, but it was the positive attitudes of the children that left a lasting impression on me. At the beginning of the day, the kids were breaking the ice with their new peers by talking about video games. But by the end of the day, they were sharing stories about woodpeckers and snow hares.

For information, call Patti at 789-5868 or email patricia.chapman@maine.edu.

 

Aislinn Sarnacki

About Aislinn Sarnacki

Aislinn is a Bangor Daily News reporter for the Outdoors pages, focusing on outdoor recreation and Maine wildlife. Visit her main blog at actoutwithaislinn.bangordailynews.com.