Character Counts: How Summer Camp Builds Character

At Camp Winaukee, a traditional all-boys sleepaway camp on the beautiful shores of Lake Winnipesaukee, we understand that summer camp is about more than just fun, games, and activities. While those things are certainly an important part of the experience, the true heart of camp lies in the lasting personal growth that campers experience. One of the most significant ways this happens is through the development of character.

Camp is a unique environment where boys ages 7 to 15 can step away from the distractions of everyday life and engage in experiences that challenge them to become better individuals. From learning new sports to forging lasting friendships, every activity at Camp Winaukee is an opportunity to build character. Qualities like resilience, integrity, empathy, and teamwork - that will stay with campers long after they leave camp.

Here’s a closer look at how summer camp builds character and why Camp Winaukee is a perfect place for young boys to develop into strong, grounded individuals.

Sportsmanship: Learning to Win and Lose Gracefully

One of the core values at Camp Winaukee is sportsmanship. Whether they’re on the basketball court, the soccer field, or the waterfront, boys have the opportunity to learn the importance of good sportsmanship, showing respect for teammates, opponents, and officials, whether they win or lose. Winning is exciting, but how a player reacts when they lose often reveals more about their character. At camp, boys are encouraged to embrace both victory and defeat with grace, respecting the game and each other. This experience teaches them resilience and emotional control, helping them manage frustration and disappointment in a constructive way.

Character lesson: Boys learn how to handle success with humility and failure with dignity, understanding that both are valuable learning experiences that contribute to personal growth.

Responsibility: Taking Ownership of Actions and Choices

At Camp Winaukee, boys are given responsibility—not just for their own actions but also for the well-being of their cabin, team, and camp community. Whether it’s helping with cabin chores, leading a group during an activity, or ensuring that their equipment is ready for the next game, these tasks help campers develop a sense of ownership. By holding them accountable for their actions and contributions, we teach campers the importance of responsibility. They learn that their behavior has consequences—not only for themselves but for those around them. This fosters self-discipline and accountability, which are essential qualities in building strong character.

Character lesson: Boys understand the importance of taking responsibility for their actions and how their choices can affect others.

Teamwork: Collaborating for a Common Goal

At Camp Winaukee, boys work together in teams on almost every activity, from group sports like soccer and football to cooperative games like capture the flag or ropes courses. Teamwork is not just about working together to win—it’s about collaboration, communication, and understanding that each individual plays an important role in the group’s success.

Working as part of a team teaches campers the importance of respecting others’ contributions, providing encouragement, and recognizing that success often requires collective effort. Campers also learn to resolve conflicts within the group and to support teammates when challenges arise.

Character lesson: Boys develop the ability to collaborate and communicate effectively, valuing the perspectives and contributions of others while learning to navigate group dynamics with respect.

Empathy and Compassion: Building Stronger Connections with Others

One of the most important aspects of building character is learning to care for others. At Camp Winaukee, campers are placed in a community where they must engage with people from diverse backgrounds and personalities. From the moment they arrive, they’re encouraged to connect with their peers, be kind, and practice empathy. Whether it’s a teammate struggling with a game or a fellow camper who’s feeling homesick, boys at Camp Winaukee are taught to recognize the emotions of others and offer support. This develops their emotional intelligence, teaching them how to respond with compassion and understanding.

Character lesson: Campers learn how to put themselves in others’ shoes, which helps them build stronger, more meaningful relationships both at camp and beyond.

Self-Confidence: Overcoming Challenges and Celebrating Progress

Camp is full of new challenges and experiences. Whether it’s conquering the ropes course, learning to swim in the lake, or trying a new sport for the first time, boys are constantly pushed outside of their comfort zones. Each success, no matter how small, boosts self-confidence and reinforces the belief that they are capable of overcoming obstacles. At Camp Winaukee, boys are encouraged to celebrate progress, not just perfection. Success isn’t always about being the best—it’s about trying your hardest, learning from mistakes, and growing in the process. This builds a sense of inner strength and resilience that stays with campers long after the summer ends.

Character lesson: Boys develop the self-confidence to take on new challenges, knowing that persistence and effort are what lead to success.

Independence and Self-Reliance: Learning to Navigate the World Alone

One of the most powerful aspects of summer camp is the opportunity for boys to gain independence. Away from home for the first time, campers are encouraged to take charge of their own daily routines, from waking up on time to keeping their cabin clean and participating in activities. This experience fosters a sense of self-reliance and helps boys build the confidence they need to navigate the world on their own. They learn how to manage their time, make decisions independently, and solve problems without immediate help from parents or adults.

Character lesson: Boys develop greater independence, learning how to take care of themselves and make decisions that impact their daily lives.

Integrity: Doing the Right Thing When No One’s Watching

Integrity is one of the most important character traits a young person can develop. At Camp Winaukee, boys are placed in situations where they’re encouraged to make the right choices, even when it’s not the easiest path. Whether it’s following the camp rules, supporting a teammate, or being honest about a mistake, integrity is always a priority. When boys learn to act with integrity, they become more trustworthy, reliable, and respectful individuals. The values instilled at Camp Winaukee help boys grow into adults who can be counted on to make ethical decisions in all areas of life.

Character lesson: Boys learn the importance of doing the right thing, even when no one is watching, and the power of honesty, trust, and responsibility.

At Camp Winaukee, we believe that character counts - and we take this to heart in everything we do. From sports and activities to cabin life and group challenges, every aspect of camp is an opportunity for young boys to develop qualities that will help them grow into kind, responsible, and confident young men. Whether it’s learning teamwork, embracing responsibility, or building self-confidence, the lessons learned at camp will stay with boys long after the summer ends.

By sending your son to Camp Winaukee, you’re giving him the opportunity to build character in a supportive, engaging, and fun environment. It’s a summer of growth, challenges, and achievements—and ultimately, a summer that will shape the kind of man he becomes.

At Camp Winaukee, we don’t just focus on developing great athletes - we focus on developing great individuals. Character truly counts here.