In 1861, a trek started America’s organized summer camp movement: Were those summer camps meant to save children from laboring in factories?

Dating back to 1861, summer camps were introduced by Frederick Gunn as a way for boys and girls to engage in outdoor adventure while promoting nature appreciation, teamwork, and self-reliance. Originally created for privileged children to escape the constraints of urban life, the mission expanded with charitable efforts, welcoming working-class youth and young women. Today’s camps still cultivate courage, diverse experiences, and enduring friendships for young adventurers.