Camp Vacamas founded Camp Top of the Pines in 1990 in response to the growing needs of children 6-15 years old in the metropolitan area and neighboring communities.  Ideally situated on beautiful Lake Tiorati, just one hour from Manhattan in Bear Mountain State Park, Bear Mountain, NY, the site combines the historic with the new, featuring cabins and recreation halls constructed by the WPA, as well as a modern dining hall overlooking the lake.  And it’s all surrounded by over 200 miles of hiking trails of the Harriman State Park nature preserve.

Developed with a special emphasis on a smaller group setting, junior and teen TOP campers benefit from living, learning and participating in camp activities in a highly personal, supportive environment.  Staff from across the country and the world facilitate communications and interaction in a uniquely multi-cultural learning experience. With a counselor camper ration of 1:5, camping activities as diverse as arts and crafts, performing arts, cooking, climbing, basketball and boating, all take on a special quality that is uniquely Top of the Pines.

PHILOSOPHY AND GOALS

• to offer quality, residential camping experiences to low and moderate income families.

• all programs are based on a non-competitive philosophy geared toward fostering the individuality of each child.

• to improve self-esteem through a variety of positive experiential activities.

• to encourage positive interaction and improved listening and communication skills through work in a small group setting.

• to acquaint each camper with the pleasures of living and playing in a beautiful, natural environment.

• to encourage youngsters to celebrate diversity through multi- cultural activities.
  
  PROGRAMS
   

• Junior Camp - campers from age 6 - 12 participate in daily activities which include Red Cross approved swim instruction, art & crafts, drama, computers, nature, organized sports, hiking and outdoor cooking, to name a few.

• Teen Adventure Program - 13 and 14 year old campers participate in an adventure program which introduces them to outdoor cooking and living skills and includes a 5 day trip.
   

• FOUNDED in 1990 by Vacamas Programs for Youth
   

• ACCREDITATION: American Camping Association