Hello everyone! My name is Chelsea Cummins and I’m a digital marketing specialist for Girl Scouts of Western New York. Today I’m writing to tell you all about my first time at Camp Timbercrest!

That’s me on the left! With me is Susan, my tour guide and fellow marketing team member

As you most likely know, Girl Scouts are crazy about camp. It’s been a part of the organization’s programming since the beginning and remains one of our core pillars. Every summer, our council runs programs at three camps – Camp Piperwood (day camp), Camp Seven Hills (resident camp), and Camp Timbercrest (resident camp). We have a fourth camp that is completely run by volunteers called Camp Windy Meadows!

Prior to camp season, I spent some time at Seven Hills for meetings and celebrations and even worked on a few service projects there. It was incredible to not only get to see our camp, but be a part of its improvement.

This summer, I knew I wanted to see more of our grounds and made plans to tour Timbercrest during one of their sessions. Let me tell you – if I wasn’t a believer in camp, I am now!

The first view I had was the lake – it’s enormous! It stretches through different parts of the property and is simply stunning. Then, we walked to the horses and I even got to pet a few of them. They were so sweet it took me a minute to pull myself away. Later, when I actually got to see girls riding them, I was so envious! But also happy for their opportunity. Not only do our girls ride, they learn how to properly take care of the horses.

As we walked to a new part of the lake, I got to see girls boating in canoes, kayaks, and paddleboards! It took everything in me to not climb aboard. Unfortunately due to recent rains they couldn’t get into the water, but the giant inflatable toys inside looked like a blast.

I talked to girls as they tie-dyed t-shirts and while they ate lunch (it was Taco Tuesday!). I learned all about why they love camp, from swimming to the horses! One common answer touched my heart – making new friends.

The foundation of Girl Scouts is community in safe and girl-led environments. You could tell how relaxed the girls felt and free to be themselves. Our counselors, most who were Girl Scouts and campers, continue to come back because to them, camp is family.

I was sad when I had to leave this amazing place, but I was comforted knowing all the girls who will develop these relationships and find a safe space in Girl Scouts and at Girl Scout camp.

Check out our Instagram page for some highlights from my visit to Camp Timbercrest!