Some have called it “camp magic.” To F&W, it has always been both an art and a science – a combination of unique factors that have had a demonstrable, positive impact on the lives of its campers. 

Over the past several years, we have worked thoughtfully and intentionally to better understand what’s at the heart of this magic. Last summer, we launched a research project to shed light on this question. We conducted camper surveys and collected and analyzed qualitative responses from families, which revealed a series of themes. We then conducted a literature review of studies, books, and journal articles on youth development to understand and put a name to the themes we say emerge in our surveys.

Our research revealed that Farm & Wilderness camps are helping campers develop in three key impact areas: self-efficacy, community-mindedness, and authentic identity.