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5 Reasons Camp Wigwam In Waterford, Maine Is Still The Ultimate Boys' Summer Camp In 2025

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Camp Wigwam in Waterford, Maine, is not just a summer camp; it is a 115-year-old institution dedicated to forging character, building lifelong brotherhood, and providing a classic Maine summer experience. As of the current date in late 2025, excitement is already building for the upcoming 2026 season, with the camp continuing its legacy on the pristine shores of Bear Lake, offering a traditional yet continually updated program for young men aged 6 to 16. The camp’s commitment to its founding principles—emphasizing sportsmanship, personal growth, and fun—is what keeps generations of families returning to this majestic pine grove in the foothills of the White Mountains.

For prospective families and returning alumni, the latest information confirms that Camp Wigwam remains a premier destination in the competitive Maine summer camp landscape, blending high-quality instruction in activities like golf and tennis with rustic, character-building experiences. The camp's leadership, under Director Neal Goldberg, ensures that the spirit of its founders, Abraham “Mandy” Mandelstam and Arnold “Pop” Lehman, lives on, making every session a transformative journey for its campers. This deep dive explores the core reasons why Wigwam continues to set the standard for boys' sleepaway camps.

Camp Wigwam: A Century of Brotherhood and Maine Tradition

Camp Wigwam boasts one of the richest histories of any summer camp in New England. Its story is inextricably linked to the natural beauty of Oxford County, Maine, and a vision for creating a nurturing environment for young boys.

Camp Wigwam Profile & Biography

  • Founding Year: 1910
  • Founders: Abraham “Mandy” Mandelstam (a tennis coach) and Arnold “Pop” Lehman
  • Location: 57 Wigwam Pass, Waterford, Maine, 04088
  • Waterfront: Located on the shores of Bear Lake (also known as Bear Pond)
  • Setting: Foothills of the White Mountains, nestled in a majestic pine grove
  • Type: Private boys' sleepaway camp
  • Current Director: Neal Goldberg
  • Guiding Philosophy: "Camp must be fun," focusing on the growth of each camper as a young man and fostering lifelong friendships

The camp's longevity is a testament to its consistent philosophy. Founded over a century ago, Wigwam was established with the goal of providing a structured yet fun environment where boys could develop skills, confidence, and a strong moral compass. The initial vision of Mandelstam and Lehman has been faithfully carried forward, adapting to modern times while preserving the rustic charm and traditional values of a Maine summer camp.

The current leadership is helmed by Director Neal Goldberg, who has been deeply involved with the camp for over two decades, transitioning from a first-year camper to the year-round director. His commitment ensures a seamless blend of tradition and contemporary programming, making the Wigwam experience relevant and impactful for today’s youth.

The 2025 Camp Wigwam Experience: Programs, Sessions, and Focus

The program at Camp Wigwam is carefully structured to encourage discovery and growth, offering a wide array of activities that cater to every interest, from the athletic to the artistic. The 2025 season details highlight the camp’s commitment to providing flexible yet comprehensive session lengths.

2025 Session Structure

Camp Wigwam offers multiple session options to accommodate various family schedules and age groups, ensuring that every boy can find the right fit for his summer adventure:

  • Full Session: Approximately June 24 to August 11 (7 weeks)
  • 5-Week Session: Approximately June 24 to July 28
  • Half Session (First): Approximately June 24 to July 18 (All Ages)
  • Rookie Session I: Approximately June 24 to July 7 (Shorter introductory option)

The camp’s daily and seasonal structure is intentionally designed to nurture personal discovery. Whether a camper is naturally bashful or outgoing, the environment encourages participation and self-expression, fostering a sense of belonging among the campers.

Emphasis on Special Programs

While offering a traditional summer camp experience, Wigwam places particular emphasis on several high-quality programs:

  • Tennis and Golf: These are core components of the athletic program, with golf lessons offered daily and trips organized to four local courses for practical experience.
  • The Arts: A robust arts program includes drama, music, and various crafts, providing a creative outlet for campers.
  • Woodworking: This hands-on activity is a long-standing tradition, teaching practical skills and patience.

Life on Bear Lake: The Unique Waterfront and Rustic Camping

The setting of Camp Wigwam is arguably its biggest asset. Located on Bear Lake, the camp is surrounded by a pristine natural environment that serves as the backdrop for its most memorable activities. The waterfront program is central to the Wigwam experience, offering a range of water-based skills and fun.

Waterfront Activities

The clear waters of Bear Lake provide the perfect venue for a comprehensive waterfront curriculum:

  • Swimming: Instruction ranges from beginner to advanced levels.
  • Sailing: Campers learn the fundamentals of sailing and boat handling.
  • Water Skiing: A dedicated program allows boys to learn and practice water skiing.
  • Fishing: A classic camp activity, encouraging patience and an appreciation for the outdoors.

Beyond the lake, the camp leverages its location in the foothills of the White Mountains to offer authentic, rustic camping experiences. Campers venture out on spectacular trails, learning essential outdoor survival and teamwork skills. This focus on "roughing it" is a deliberate part of the camp's character-building mission, teaching resilience and self-reliance.

The Enduring Legacy and Alumni Network

The true measure of Camp Wigwam’s success is its multi-generational appeal and its powerful alumni network. Many campers return year after year, eventually becoming counselors and directors, illustrating the deep impact the experience has on their lives. The saying, “All roads lead to Camp Wigwam,” perfectly encapsulates this enduring connection.

The camp actively maintains a strong relationship with its former campers, recognizing that the alumni are the living embodiment of the Wigwam spirit. This network is a source of mentorship and support, often contributing equipment, ideas, and even scholarship opportunities to ensure the camp's future. The camp's scholarship arm, for instance, sprouted from a third-generation Wigwam family, demonstrating a commitment that spans decades.

The annual release of the "Bear Lake Log Book"—now a digital press for the 2025 season—serves as a cherished tradition, allowing current and prospective families to relive the summer's adventures and connect with the camp's history. This focus on community, from the youngest rookie to the oldest alumnus, is what makes Camp Wigwam a truly unique and transformative place in Waterford, Maine, securing its status as a top-tier boys' camp for generations to come.

5 Reasons Camp Wigwam in Waterford, Maine is Still the Ultimate Boys' Summer Camp in 2025
camp wigwam waterford maine
camp wigwam waterford maine

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