Making Friends at Camp: How Quinebarge Builds a Kind and Inclusive Community

At Camp Quinebarge, friendship is more than just part of the fun—it’s at the heart of everything we do. Whether your camper is outgoing and social or a little more reserved, our environment is designed to help every child feel included, supported, and connected from the moment they arrive.

Cabin Life: Built-In Bonds
Our cabins are more than just places to sleep—they’re small communities where lifelong friendships begin. We carefully place campers by age and grade to help them feel comfortable, and our counselors facilitate icebreakers, games, and group chats to help campers get to know one another quickly. Living together encourages cooperation, shared routines, and spontaneous moments of fun that naturally build friendships. Our leadership team also checks in daily with cabin staff to make sure all campers are making positive peer relationships.

Shared Activities, Shared Joy
Every day at Quinebarge offers opportunities to make new connections. Whether they’re trying archery for the first time, making a tie-dye shirt, or paddling around the lake in a canoe, campers rotate through activities with different groups, giving them a chance to interact with a wide range of peers. Our counselors are trained to encourage inclusion and ensure that no camper feels left out.

Intentional Community Building
Friendship at Quinebarge doesn’t happen by accident—it’s something we actively nurture. From the first Campfire-fire to the final friendship circle, we weave community-building into every part of the program. We lead team-building cabin activities, daily reflection moments every evening with candle pass, and structured group games that reinforce kindness, cooperation, and respect.

Support for First-Time and Solo Campers
We understand that the idea of making new friends can feel overwhelming—especially for first-time campers or those attending without a buddy. That’s why our staff keeps a close eye on social dynamics and steps in gently when needed to help kids find their footing. Many of our campers arrive knowing no one—and leave with a group of lifelong friends.

A Place to Belong
At Camp Quinebarge, we don’t just talk about kindness—we live it. From day one, campers are welcomed into a culture that values empathy, inclusiveness, and support. It’s one of the reasons families return summer after summer—and why so many kids tell us camp is where they feel most like themselves.

If you have questions about how your child will adjust socially at camp, don’t hesitate to reach out. We’re happy to talk about how we can help make their experience positive, welcoming, and full of friendship.