Weekly Electives

Black Bear Lake’s program uniquely focuses on choice! Each week BBL campers choose the activities they want to explore in-depth participating alongside campers with similar interests. Our elective program allows campers to enhance skills in areas of passion and also explore new activities! Our Choice Elective Program means campers design their own schedule allowing them to enjoy a full day of programs and activities of their areas of interest!

Campers entering 1st grade through 4th grade have:
4 Elective Periods
1 Instructional Swim Period & 1 Free Swim Period
Lunch
A Group Choice activity
A Special Event Period

Campers entering 5th grade through 8th grade have:
5 Elective Periods
1 Free Swim Period
Lunch
1 Group Choice activity
A Special Event Period

Our Cubs (Nursery, Pre-K, and Kindergarten) get a taste of every activity at Black Bear Lake. During Week 8 of the summer, our Kindergarten Cubs have the opportunity to participate in our “CUB CLUB” where they will be able to pick 1 elective in preparation of moving to Lower Camp the following summer.

Our STEP Program (9th and 10th grade). In this unique “Hybrid” program, campers are eased into the responsibilities of being a leader while given the opportunity to attend electives as regular campers do. The transition from camper to staff member begins!
The STEP program is guided by the overall principles and values of Leadership, like challenging oneself, learning to work effectively with others, goal setting, and giving back to the community- all woven through their daily program We believe the best way for young leaders to achieve the best versions of themselves is to practice these skills. 90% of our STEP Campers move onto counselor positions when they are eligible.

Campers entering 1^st or 2^nd grade in the fall- LOWER CAMP
Campers entering 3^rd or 4^th grade in the fall- JUNIOR CAMP
Campers entering 5^th or 6^th grade in the fall- SENIOR CAMP
Campers entering 7^th or 8^th grade in the fall- UPPER CAMP 
Campers entering 9^th grade in the fall – STEP
Campers entering 10^th grade in the fall – STEP