Overnight Camp Pinecrest Lake

Where Camp Magic Comes to Life

Each Summer at Pinecrest Lake Overnight Camp new campers and many returning campers arrive feeling the excitement and a bit of nervousness of a new adventure and the unknown. Those who have joined us for previous summers are back at their home away from home greeting camp friends they haven’t seen since last year. As the opening night campfire comes to a close, always with warm chocolate chip cookies of course, there is a feeling of comfort starting to set in. One of my favorite feelings of the week always happens after day one or two, right after dinner. 

The Moments of Joy, Laughter, and Connection at Pinecrest Lake

This is where we see what we refer to as the "Camp Magic". Stepping outside the dining hall there are sounds of laughter and joy resonating around camp. Free play is live! Over near the huge rock outside the dining hall there is a group of campers rehearsing a skit for the end of week talent show taking notes on all they have planned; just behind them a game of sand volleyball of all ages is taking place with "oohs and ahhs" as the rally stays alive. Scanning across the way, Connect 4, cards and ping pong are filled with animated laughter, the line to play knockout basketball extends way back as it will all week with loud cheers whenever a younger camper knocks out an older camper or a counselor and of course the gaga ball pit is filled to capacity with muddied players narrowly escaping getting out. 

Where Free Play Sparks Creativity, Connection and Fun

As I scan camp, taking it in, I see campers having joyful experiences, meeting new friends and doing activities they love. Sure we all love the horseback riding (Ya we have a half day ride this year also!), the kayaking, archery and the hike up to Camp Lake. However, it's my belief the MAGIC is in the conversations, friendship and play. The little connections and moments of laughter you share participating in an activity you love or bonding with your cabin before lights out. 

No Screens, No Pressure, Just Pure Camp Magic

Camp is a place where kids, counselors and staff can show up and be accepted for being themselves. There is no technology and nothing to show off other then your cool new friendship bracelet or which cabin got to go in first for breakfast. It's why these weeks up at Pinecrest are my favorite days of the year. 

We hope to see you at camp in Summer '26 and if you are considering overnight or any of our programs and have questions give us a call, we would love to chat.

Warmly,
Dave Barth
Summer Camp Director
Dave@runforfuncamps.com
(650) 823-5167