This summer, Camp Anokijig in Plymouth, Wisconsin, is celebrating a milestone — its 100th summer of creating unforgettable experiences for kids. Since its founding in 1926, the camp has evolved, offering new activities and expanding its facilities, yet it has always remained grounded in its core values: fostering community, personal growth and a sense of adventure.
“I attended Anokijig as a camper, went through the teen leadership program, and worked here all through college in the summers. A large portion of the value that I took away from that time was learning the importance of investing in your community and how to be a constructive member of a community,” says Hannah Wisman, camp director of Camp Anokijig.
Camp Anokijig has provided community and growth for a century
What makes Camp Anokijig so special isn’t just its longevity, but its dedication to creating an environment where children learn by doing, making decisions and exploring new challenges. Here’s how the camp has achieved this from the very beginning:
- A key philosophy of giving kids the freedom to choose from a variety of activities that excite them.
- Activities include canoeing, archery, swimming, sports, fishing, arts and crafts, trailcrafts, kayaking, windsurfing and much more.
- “The freedom to choose is what sets us apart. It allows kids to try new things, step out of their comfort zones and gain independence, all while being surrounded by the support of our wonderful community,” Wisman shares.
Camp traditions that stand the test of time
Over the years, Camp Anokijig has built a treasure trove of beloved traditions that continue to be at the heart of every camper’s experience. Here’s what your child can expect:
- The iconic “Ric Tic,” a special chant used instead of applause during campfires or after birthdays that creates a bond between campers that resonates long after they leave
- The Knighthood Honor Society challenges campers to set personal goals, serve others and contribute positively to their community.
- From the Bronze level (personal growth) to Gold (service to community and positive values), these achievements help shape the character of young campers, teaching them valuable life skills.
Here’s what campers share: “It’s the coolest camp on the planet,” and “It’s got a lot of cool activities and you are never bored.”
What your child can expect at Camp Anokijig this summer
Families can choose from standard programs like Resident Camp, offered every week, or add some variety with Specialty Camps and Day Trips. There are nine sessions in the 2025 camp schedule, from June 15-Aug.16, 2025.
The Resident Camp offers four different types of programming in one:
- Skills Period: Campers select and concentrate on specific activities to learn new skills. Activities may include canoeing, archery, swimming, sports, fishing, arts and crafts, nature exploration, trailcraft, kayaking, windsurfing and more. Each activity features personalized instruction that ensures both an educational and enjoyable experience.
- All-camp activities: Activities include group games, beach parties, cookouts, campfires, carnivals, dances, sing-a-longs, waterfront Olympics and more.
- Sectional activities: Campers who share living spaces select activities to enjoy as a group.
- Directed free time: All program areas are fully staffed and supervised, allowing campers to choose activities at their leisure. Activities include horseback riding, sailing, fishing, swimming, sports, crafts, archery, canoeing, boating and more.
Specialty camps this year are Ranch, Circle A Riders, Adventure Challenge and Fishing Expeditions. Age limits for specialty camps range from grade four and up.
Half-day trips in the 2025 session are Tree Climbing at Riveredge Nature Center, Caving Expedition and Inflatable Aqua Park. Full-day trips are Noah’s Ark-Wisconsin Dells and Whitewater Rafting. Day trips are for campers in grade seven and up.
Looking forward to another 100 years with continuous innovation for campers
While Camp Anokijig celebrates its 100th summer, it’s also looking forward to the next century. The camp’s commitment to growth and improvement is evident in its latest development — a brand-new Centennial Lodge. This state-of-the-art facility is a nod to the future, offering more space, safety and functionality for campers and staff.
In the next 100 years, Camp Anokijig plans to continue evolving its programs to meet the needs and interests of future generations, while keeping its focus on the essential aspects of personal growth, leadership and community.
Don’t miss out on the opportunity to be a part of Camp Anokijig’s next 100 years of adventure and growth. Sign your child up for a summer they’ll never forget!
For more information about Camp Anokijig, visit anokijig.com/summer-camp.
