5 Fascinating Facts About Camp Bonnie Brae, America's Longest-Running Girl Scout Camp
Camp Bonnie Brae in East Otis, Massachusetts, continues its incredible legacy as the nation's longest, continuously operating Girl Scout Camp, offering fresh, outdoor adventures for the current generation of campers. As of the 2025 camp season planning, the camp remains a cornerstone of the Girl Scouts of Central and Western Massachusetts (GSCWM), welcoming girls from second grade through twelfth grade to its historic grounds overlooking the stunning Big Pond. This iconic Berkshire County institution is not just a historical landmark; it's a vibrant, modern summer destination where girls build confidence, explore the wilderness, and engage in unique, high-adventure activities like hatchet throwing and a low elements challenge course.
The camp's enduring appeal lies in its blend of cherished tradition and exciting, contemporary programming, making it a highly sought-after destination for summer adventure. Whether you are a long-time Girl Scout or a first-time camper looking for a unique Massachusetts experience, Camp Bonnie Brae offers an immersive environment where leadership skills are forged and lifelong friendships are made in the rustic beauty of East Otis, MA. The GSCWM continually updates its offerings, ensuring the camp environment is both safe and challenging for every girl who steps onto the historic property.
The Undying Legacy of America's Oldest Girl Scout Camp
The story of Camp Bonnie Brae is a remarkable chapter in American youth camping history. Founded in 1919, the camp has operated without interruption for over a century, a feat that distinguishes it as the oldest continuously running Girl Scout camp in the United States. This rich history is palpable across the entire property, giving campers a genuine sense of connection to generations of girls who have come before them.
A Century of Outdoor Empowerment
The camp celebrated its 100th season in recent years, a milestone that showcased its unwavering commitment to the Girl Scout mission. The camp’s longevity is a testament to the dedication of the Girl Scouts of Central and Western Massachusetts and the countless volunteers and staff who have maintained the grounds and programs. While the landscape of youth activities has changed dramatically since 1919, Bonnie Brae has consistently provided a vital space for girls to develop self-reliance and a deep appreciation for the natural world.
The East Otis Setting: Berkshire County's Gem
Located deep within Berkshire County, the camp's setting is a key part of its identity. It sits on the shores of Big Pond, a substantial 330-acre lake that serves as the camp's natural playground. The location provides a pristine backdrop for all waterfront activities, from swimming and boating to fishing and observation. This natural environment is a world away from the distractions of city life, offering true immersion in the wilderness.
Unforgettable Adventures: Programs and Activities at Bonnie Brae
Camp Bonnie Brae is renowned for its diverse programming, which caters to a wide range of interests and age groups, from Girl Scout Brownies to Seniors. The camp is famously open to all girls, regardless of prior Girl Scout experience, making it an accessible option for any family seeking a high-quality summer camp.
High-Adventure and Leadership Training
The camp's activities are designed to push campers out of their comfort zones in a safe, supportive environment. Key features of the modern Camp Bonnie Brae experience include:
- The Low Elements Challenge Course: A team-building experience where girls work together to navigate obstacles, fostering essential leadership skills and collaboration.
- Archery Range: A classic camp activity that teaches focus, precision, and safety.
- Hatchet Throwing: A unique, supervised activity that has become a favorite, promoting self-confidence and a sense of accomplishment in a non-traditional way.
- Waterfront Programs: Utilizing Big Pond for swimming, canoeing, and other boating activities, ensuring every camper gets comfortable and safe around the water.
Programs vary in length, offering everything from short 3-day sampler programs for younger campers to immersive 12-day program sessions for older girls. The GSCWM also runs leadership programs at Bonnie Brae, preparing older girls to become future camp staff and mentors.
Living the Camp Life: Accommodations and Facilities
Accommodation at Camp Bonnie Brae is designed to provide a rustic, authentic camping experience while ensuring comfort and safety. Campers are housed in various units that reflect the traditional camp setting.
Rustic Charm Meets Modern Safety
The living arrangements at Bonnie Brae offer a true taste of the outdoors. Campers can expect to stay in a variety of structures, including platform tents, traditional small cabins, and even modern yurts. Each unit is self-contained and features essential amenities, including a unit house with a fireplace and a dedicated fire circle for nightly activities and cooking.
Beyond the living units, the camp boasts a comprehensive array of facilities to support its extensive programming:
- Health Center: Staffed by medical professionals, the Health Center ensures the well-being of all campers, with secure storage for medications and handling any emergency.
- Learning Center: A dedicated space for educational and indoor activities, especially useful during inclement weather.
- Observation Tower: Providing a unique vantage point over the camp and Big Pond, this facility is often used for nature observation and reflective time.
- Handicap Accessible Locations: The camp maintains accessible locations to ensure the experience is inclusive for all girls.
The GSCWM continues to invest in the facilities, as evidenced by the draft 2025 Overnight Camp Family Handbook, which details the ongoing commitment to high standards of care and programming.
The Broader Girl Scout Camp Network in Western Massachusetts
Camp Bonnie Brae is a flagship property within the larger network of camps operated by the Girl Scouts of Central and Western Massachusetts. This extensive network ensures that girls across the region have access to diverse outdoor opportunities.
Sister Camps and Regional Entities
While Bonnie Brae focuses heavily on overnight, rustic camping, the GSCWM also operates other important sites, including Camp Green Eyrie, Camp Laurel Wood (in Spencer), and Camp Lewis Perkins (in South Hadley). These camps, along with Bonnie Brae, form a robust regional offering for summer adventure and outdoor education. The surrounding area of East Otis also provides access to regional attractions like the Tolland State Forest and Otis Ridge, further enhancing the campers' connection to the Berkshire County wilderness.
In conclusion, Camp Bonnie Brae is far more than a simple summer camp; it is a living, breathing piece of American history and a vibrant hub for youth development. Its status as the longest continuously operating Girl Scout camp, combined with its modern, empowering programs like hatchet throwing and the challenge course, ensures its relevance for the next generation of strong, independent young women. The legacy continues to grow stronger with each new summer season in East Otis, Massachusetts.
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