Mountain Camp Marin’s first summer was one of magic, friendships, and unforgettable moments. We had the pleasure of interviewing Senior Counselor and former Mountain Camp camper, Ella Harper, and learning about her experience working with campers and the memories that made this summer truly special. 

Ella worked with all age groups this past summer but spent most time with our older and wiser campers, the Trackers and Alpiners. She had a blast watching them explore their creative side in arts and crafts, and their competitive, athletic side in sports games and group challenges. Regardless of the activity, Ella found herself constantly engaged and inspired by the campers’ energy and enthusiasm.

One of Ella’s favorite memories stands out as a testament to the transformative power of camp. On the first day of a new session, one of her young campers had a tough time saying bye to his parent during drop-off. He was hesitant to sit with the other campers and shy at joining conversations. However, Ella used our handy acronym WESTI (Warm smile, Eye contact, Stoop and Shake, Tell them your name, Introduce them to someone else) to help him feel more comfortable. With her encouragement and facilitated introductions, he quickly began connecting with other kids, and by the end of the day, he didn’t want to leave camp! By the end of the week, he had won the award given out each week at campfire to a camper that contributes spectacularly to the camp community called the “Helping Hand” award! He bonded with friends over their shared love of soccer, and became a confident, integral part of the group.

Ella looks back most fondly on Gather at the end of each day. It’s the perfect time for campers and counselors to come together and celebrate the day’s highlights with skits, dances, and challenges! One of Ella’s favorite games was the fruit roll-up challenge where counselors raced to see who could eat it the fastest without using their hands. But her all time favorite, and the campers all time favorite is the Gizmo! At some point during the day, a whimsically decorated clothespin called the Gizmo gets secretly pinned to a camper. When Gather begins, everyone calls out: “Who has the Gizmo?” The camper who finds it picks a card from a box and reads it aloud. Each card reveals a fun fact about a counselor, and the camper must guess who it belongs to. A wrong guess means they take on a FUNishment! This could be serenading another camp group or eating lunch with their non-dominant hand! Overall, Gather is always an exciting way to wrap up a day at camp. Who doesn’t like playing games and singing funny songs as a group?

What made this summer at Mountain Camp Marin truly special for Ella wasn’t just the activities but the relationships she formed with both the campers and her fellow counselors. The camaraderie among the staff created an environment of joy and positivity that campers could feel. Whether it was singing competitions during lunch or playful challenges among groups throughout the day, the counselors’ bond inspired the campers to embrace the same sense of community and fun.

From camper to counselor, Mountain Camp has been a meaningful part of Ella’s life, and she’s thrilled to return this summer to create new memories, reconnect with campers, and bring the same energy and excitement that made last season so special!

Ever wondered what a day in the life of a Mountain Camp Marin Camper looks like?

It all starts the moment the first car rolls up—our team of smiling, dancing counselors ready to set the tone. With loud music, big energy, and personal greetings, we make every camper feel like the star of the show. “Welcome to Camp, Ashley! Come on out—we’ve got an incredible day planned for you!” Parents wave goodbye as we guide campers into their new home for the day.

Once everyone’s settled in, it’s time for AM Gather, our high-energy morning rally. Songs, cheers, and camper performances light up the start of the day. Announcements about the exciting activities ahead build the buzz, and sometimes we throw in a zany counselor challenge. By the end of AM Gather, the whole camp is fired up for the day ahead!

Next up is Group Time, where campers gather with their age groups to bond over snacks and activities. Whether it’s decorating division flags, perfecting dodgeball strategies, or extra archery practice, this is where campers build connections and teamwork skills before diving into their personalized, elective schedules.

On Mondays, campers design their week by selecting two morning and two afternoon electives for our specialized Elective Program. The options are endless! From arts and crafts to slime-making, archery to performing arts, each camper curates their perfect day. For the adventurous, activities like LARPing or field games are always a hit, while those with creative flair love building multi-day projects in creation station or drama.

We also sprinkle in special experiences throughout the week. A plant-based cooking class or a magic show might make an appearance, adding extra pizazz to the elective periods.

Lunch is a time to refuel and catch up with friends. Whether campers bring their own meals or enjoy a hot lunch delivered from our local partner Marinwood Market, there’s something delicious for everyone.

A camper favorite is Wacky Wednesday—a midweek shake-up where the entire camp gets in on the action. Themed dress-up days like “Pirates vs. Cowboys” or “Under the Sea” start with a costume parade, then dive into special one-day-only activities. This week’s highlights included slip ‘n’ slides, tie-dye workshops, and a relaxing spa session complete with nail polish and bubbles. By Friday, campers proudly show off their custom tie-dye shirts, a true badge of Wacky Wednesday pride.

Our day wraps up with PM Gather, where we crank up the energy one last time. Traditions like the “Mostest” challenge game, badge awards for accomplishments in electives, and counselor skits (think slapstick comedy at its finest) make for a memorable send-off. Campers head home with smiles on their faces, already excited for tomorrow.

For those who need a little extra time at camp, our before-and-after care program keeps the fun going from 8:00 AM to 5:30 PM. Plus, with trips to the local pool on Tuesdays and Thursdays, everyone gets a chance to cool off and splash around!

Mountain Camp Marin is a place where creativity, laughter, and friendships shine. From morning spirit rallies to wacky midweek fun, every day is an adventure.