There are certain moments in life that leave an indelible mark on your soul, shaping who you are and how you see the world. For me, the summers I spent at Frost Valley YMCA in the early 1970s are among those defining moments. Those years were a time of growth, adventure, and self-discovery, set against the backdrop of the Catskill Mountains, where nature was both the playground and the teacher.

I put this under "LifeStyle" because I highly recommend this summer camp to anyone and everyone. It has activities all year round. Sun or snow, it's a beautiful place with some of the best people you can find.

Arrival and First Impressions

As a kid, arriving at Frost Valley felt like stepping into a new world. I still remember the first time we drove up the long road that led into the valley. The fresh mountain air hit me as soon as I got out of the car, a stark contrast to the suburban life I knew. There was an excitement in the air, a sense of something bigger and more important waiting to unfold. The towering trees, the stillness of the lake, and the distant sound of campers laughing-all of it created an aura of adventure and possibility.

Every summer began with that same anticipation, the same feeling of nervousness mixed with excitement. Would I make new friends? Would I be able to handle the challenges of camp life? These were the questions running through my young mind, but they were always soon replaced by the wonder and joy that camp life brought.

The Rhythm of Camp Life

Camp life at Frost Valley had its own rhythm, one that quickly became familiar and comforting. Mornings started early, sometimes with the sound of a counselor’s whistle echoing through the cool morning air, calling us to rise and prepare for the day. We’d head to the dining hall for breakfast, surrounded by the laughter and chatter of campers, each day’s activities waiting just ahead.

Every day was filled with outdoor adventures-canoeing on the lake, exploring forest trails, and learning survival skills. We played games that I’ve never forgotten, from capture the flag to camp-wide scavenger hunts. But one of the highlights of every summer was the annual "Olympics" competition. It wasn’t just about winning; it was about the thrill of competing alongside friends, pushing ourselves, and representing our cabins. The intensity and fun of those games brought out a fierce but friendly spirit in all of us.

Though the "Olympics" were thrilling, what I cherished most were the hikes and camping trips in the mountains. Hiking up steep trails, with nothing but the sound of wind in the trees and the crunch of leaves underfoot, made me feel connected to the wilderness in a way I never had before. Camping overnight under the stars, surrounded by the quiet serenity of nature, was an experience that deepened my love for the outdoors.

Outdoor Adventures and Personal Growth

Frost Valley gave me more than just an opportunity to enjoy nature-it was where I learned how to challenge myself. I still remember the exhilaration of reaching the summit of a tough hike, legs aching and lungs burning, but feeling on top of the world when I saw the sprawling Catskill Mountains below me. Each hike was a journey, not just up a trail, but a personal one that showed me I could accomplish more than I realized.

Camping in the wilderness furthered my sense of independence and responsibility. Whether it was setting up a tent, starting a fire, or cooking over an open flame, every task made me feel capable and confident. Being out there, far from the comforts of home, gave me a deeper appreciation for nature and for the simple things in life.

A Special Counselor, Mentor, and still, friend Mark.

One of the most lasting memories from those summers was of a counselor. He was the kind of person who seemed to have everything figured out-calm, confident, and always willing to lend a helping hand or offer advice. He wasn’t just a guide for outdoor activities; he became a mentor and someone I looked up to.

What set him apart was his ability to connect with us on a personal level. He wasn’t just there to enforce rules or organize activities-he genuinely cared about us. He had a way of making every camper feel seen and important, and he pushed us to be our best, not just in camp competitions or outdoor challenges, but in how we treated each other.

One moment I’ll never forget was during one of our hikes. We were nearing the summit, and I was lagging behind, feeling like I couldn’t make it. He noticed and hung back with me, encouraging me every step of the way. He didn’t push too hard, but he knew just what to say to get me to keep going. When we finally reached the top, the view was breathtaking, and the sense of accomplishment was something I’d never forget. Mark taught me that perseverance, even in the face of difficulty, was its own reward.

The Magic of Campfire Nights

As much as I loved the daytime activities, there was something magical about the nights at Frost Valley, especially around the campfire. Gathered with friends under the vast, star-filled sky, the warmth of the fire on our faces, we’d sing songs, share stories, and just enjoy being together. The crackling of the fire and the flicker of flames were a backdrop to some of the most unforgettable moments of my youth.

It wasn’t just the activities that made those nights special-it was the sense of belonging, of being part of something larger than yourself. We all came from different places and backgrounds, but around that fire, we were a family. We laughed, we sang, we sat in comfortable silence, looking up at the stars and dreaming about what life held in store for us.

Building Lifelong Friendships

The friendships I made at Frost Valley were different from any other relationships I’d known. There’s something about sharing adventures in the wilderness, being away from the comforts of home, that brings people together in a unique way. I met kids from all over the country, and although we were only together for a few weeks each summer, the bonds we formed felt deeper because of the experiences we shared.

Some of those friendships faded with time, as childhood friendships often do, but others stayed with me for years. Even now, decades later, I think about the faces and names of those I spent those summers with. The laughter, the shared struggles, and the unforgettable memories are etched into my mind.

Reflecting on the Impact

Looking back on those summers at Frost Valley, I realize how much they shaped me. The lessons I learned weren’t just about survival skills or teamwork-they were lessons about life. I learned how to be independent, how to push myself beyond what I thought I was capable of, and how to find joy in the simple things.

Frost Valley was a place where I could be myself, where I didn’t have to worry about the pressures of school or the expectations of everyday life. It was a place where I could connect with nature, with others, and with myself. Even though those summers were many years ago, the values and memories from Frost Valley continue to influence me today.

In many ways, the time I spent there laid the foundation for how I view the world and my place in it. The appreciation I have for nature, the sense of responsibility to others, and the belief in the importance of community all stem from those summers in the Catskills. Frost Valley wasn’t just a camp-it was a formative experience that helped me grow into the person I am today.