The first session of HFH Summer Camps wrapped up earlier this week with an energetic celebration at the traditional end-of-session carnival. Campers from Camp Lanowa and families from Camp Wakonda day camp gathered for a day packed with games, music, and classic summertime treats.
With the sun blazing, the water slide quickly became a favorite, offering a refreshing way to beat the heat. Cold treats like shaved ice and Ben & Jerry’s ice cream—with a full lineup of DIY toppings—helped campers stay cool between activities.
There was something for everyone—from the high-energy bounce house and games like giant Jenga to crowd favorites like the ring toss, basketball hoop shoot, and fishing game. Kids lined up for face paint, temporary tattoos, and arts and crafts stations, creating colorful sand jars and beaded jewelry to take back with them as mementos.
A live DJ kept the energy high throughout the afternoon, spinning the kids’ favorite hits that had everyone on their feet. Some campers even stepped behind the booth to try their hand at spinning discs themselves.
Lunch was served BBQ-style, with grilled burgers and hot dogs followed by sweet treats including cotton candy and popcorn.
Adding an educational twist, representatives from the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation set up an interactive table featuring animal pelts and bones, sparking curiosity about the wildlife and ecosystems of Harriman State Park, where HFH Summer Camps is located.
