2015 Testimonials

He asked me a few days after he left if it was possible to be “homesick” for Kingswood!

 

He told us on the drive home that he wished he’d signed up for all 7 weeks. For a guy who loves to sleep in, that’s the highest possible compliment.

 

I asked Julian how camp was this year, knowing that he may be at an age (14) where camp doesn’t hold the same appeal as when he was younger. He said he had his best year yet; at Kingswood, age doesn’t matter — everyone is so fun, welcoming, and awesome, that it’s all about having a good time just being yourself with friends. We are so thankful to be part of the Kingswood family!

 

The daily updates, the videos and photos allowed us to keep a (jealous) eye on how the kids were doing. We went from helicopter parents to drone parents for a few weeks. And, even the gentle reminders regarding forms, etc. were extremely helpful. Finally as first time camper/parents, the advice on homesickness and how to talk to the kids was extremely valuable.

 

We looked forward to the daily update to get an overall sense of what the day had brought, and responded well to the tone of those messages, videos, photos: seriousness, discipline, lightness, humor, wit, wisdom, no nonsense, and fun — all in evidence and all in balance.

 

The quality and character of the directors, counselors, and of the instruction and teaching was very high, very enjoyable, and most of all, was a great foundation to build a sense of community & longevity of experience.

 

It was one of the best experiences for him ever. He/we felt welcomed, comfortable, and connected. We were immediately disarmed by the great community of kids and counselors and directors who ‘get’ boys and see to it that boys get to be boys in a supportive and fun atmosphere – & build an everlasting experience together. We also liked the support he was given in making choices of how to frame his day, how to attempt go into some things deeper, or seek the unknown, to try something new. The freedom allowed him to be who he is, and become a bit more confident in it. He grew socially. He/we also loved the humor and skits, improvised celebrations, and performances.

 

We also have had the pleasure of reading our son’s 26-page journal from camp. He wrote about each day, primarily outlining what he did or ate and how he felt about that day. It’s personal to him, but also is such a testament to what camp-life is at Kingwood. I wish every
parent thinking about camp could read it, b/c it would put any parent’s mind at ease. Camp is camp — dirty, wild, fun, safe, & all boys all the time. It brought my boys closer together as well.

 

Each year its gets better. The fact that you have counselors who have been there for 10+ years is unbelievable. We absolutely love the Kingswood philosophy and the way Matthew feels after each summer. He can’t wait to go back.

 

There are hundreds of camps in this country that offer the amenities and activities that Kingswood offers. The defining Kingswood difference is the camp’s commitment and attention to the development of campers at every age. Kingswood is an emotionally healthy field on which young boys play- and learn from one another and from their counselors how to become kind and strong young men.

 

I am so impressed by the Kingswood staff; their level of enthusiasm for camp is amazing. There’s not a better place for a boy to spend the summer!

 

I love the family-run aspect of the camp and the fact that the Wipfler family takes the time to really get to know each boy. The small but constructive suggestions created such a huge shift
for Jack and he absolutely loved his time at camp. Thanks for making a camper of my son and for providing him with such an invaluable experience!

 

We love this camp, the directors, counselors and the value placed on helping each boy find his personal bliss, in the midst of an air of camaraderie.

 

It’s not only your family’s years of camp experience that made John’s experience great. It’s also your dedication, understanding and pure love of camp. I’m convinced that Kingswood is a very special place and I’m glad that our family is a part of it.

 

Kingswood is the highlight of my kids’ lives: Not kidding, not exaggerating.