“HEY ELMWOOD!” In an instant, hundreds of voices respond, and it’s in this moment — when we’re all together — that the magic of Elmwood shines brightest.
💚 BELONGING & COMMUNITY 🎶
All Camp Gatherings celebrate everyone — and everything that makes Elmwood Elmwood. When the entire camp comes together, the Elmwood spirit comes alive. Campers and staff unite, rooted in a shared sense of belonging and community. Traditions come to life through songs, rituals, and moments of recognition — all woven together with kindness, laughter, and that unmistakable camp magic that makes Elmwood feel like home.
In a world that’s increasingly lived on screens, camp is more important than ever. There is something powerful about setting everything else aside to laugh, sing, and truly connect with others. Social scientists often describe belonging as a fundamental human need, and research consistently shows that strong social bonds and community ties enrich our quality of life. Elmwood’s All Camp gatherings do exactly that, grounding us each week in a shared mission of inclusion, growth, and fun.
💚 TRADITION & CELEBRATION 🎶
Every Monday and Thursday, we come together as one giant Elmwood family — Stepping Stones, Lower Village, Upper Village, counselors, and specialists alike. Whether we’re gathered at the Drama Deck or the front of camp, these camp-wide moments bring together everything we love most: singing Elmwood oldies, celebrating birthdays, enjoying original skits inspired by Special Events, recognizing staff, sharing exciting updates, and learning brand-new songs led by Anne and Jessica.
Every person at Elmwood brings something unique and important to our community, and All Camp gatherings is where that comes into focus. Younger campers watch their older peers with wide eyes, imagining who they’ll become, while staff reflect on how much their campers grow year after year. All Camp brings those shared moments — big and small — into one place.
There is undeniable magic in looking out at a sea of campers and staff — all committed to kindness, connection, and eight weeks of joy. Energizing and grounding, silly and heartfelt, Elmwood’s All Camp gatherings capture the very heart of our community.