Seventh grade camp at MICDS is a cherished tradition, one that is eagerly awaited and is an exciting rite of passage for students and faculty alike. On October 1, new memories unfurled as members of the MICDS Class of 2032 ventured south to Camp Lakewood in Potosi, Missouri.
In the weeks leading up to the trip, each seventh-grade advisory collaborated to design a flag representing their advisory’s unique team spirit. On the Tuesday before departure, students paraded their colorful flags down the aisle of Eliot Chapel to the beat of their chosen advisory “walk-up” songs. The excitement was officially brewing!
On camp day, students loaded onto buses for the 90-minute trip to the heart of the Missouri Ozarks, a region with rolling foothills, dense forests, cool caves, and natural springs.
The two-day experience at Camp Lakewood centered on seven activity sessions designed for fun, engagement, and challenge. Under clear skies on day one, student groups rotated through archery, axe throwing, outdoor cooking, canoeing and kayaking at the Trout Lodge Boathouse, and several team-building activities:
- Pines Peak: A high-ropes climbing tower and zip line set among the trees where campers gear up in harnesses to conquer new heights.
- Dam building: A hands-on stream activity where students construct natural barriers with rocks, sticks, mud, and leaves while learning basic hydrology and ecosystem dynamics.
- The Challenge Course: A series of low-ground obstacles focused on communication, trust, and collective problem-solving.
Between the structured sessions and group meals, students had ample time for free play, enjoying amenities such as sand volleyball, gaga ball, fishing, or simply taking a refreshing nature walk. “The schedule is intentionally built for plenty of social time, where students can bond and relax together,” said Seventh Grade Dean & Arts Teacher Charlotte Dougherty.
When evening storms rolled in and threatened the traditional bonfire and s’mores, the MICDS spirit shone through. The group easily pivoted indoors to keep the energy high with songs, skits, and games.
Read on for student reflections about Camp Lakewood!
“Just remember to pack for what kind of weather because it changes and watch out for bugs and bring sunscreen and be prepared!” – Eliza K. ’32
“I really love all we get to be together in a community. It’s also cool how we all get to spend time with people we don’t have classes with, and I made new friends with people I hadn’t really had a chance to talk to yet this year.” – Hollyn R. ’32
“My favorite activity at camp was building the banana boat. It was really good.” – Luke C. ’32
“My favorite activity was the dam building because it was a fun competition. We all worked together to build it, and we had a good time as a group.” – Parker B. ’32
“Everyone is so welcoming, and it’s been so fun getting to know people better. I’ve gotten to know girls who aren’t in classes with me. I liked the rock climbing wall the best because it was challenging and I didn’t give up.” – Masha P. ’32
“I ‘fell’ in the water during canoeing and it was really fun. I would tell next year’s seventh graders just to relax and have fun.” – Sam M. ’32
“I wasn’t sure I would like the rock climbing, but it was great. I also really enjoyed canoeing because we all splashed each other. It was fun being together.” – Levi D. ’32
“I would tell next year’s seventh graders to watch the current during kayaking, or it will take a long time to get back. I enjoyed the archery and axe throwing the best. I also liked the flag competition.” – Leo C. ’32
“It was fun to get to know classmates outside of school. I would tell next year’s seventh graders to relax and have fun with your friends, but don’t be afraid to branch out and meet new people too.” – Lucy B. ’32
Dougherty said, “We are so lucky to be able to take the kids camping at the beginning of seventh grade. They get time away from school to bond and play. Our students traveled without electronics, and watching them interact was joyful. It is the best way to get to know each other.
“The weather was absolutely beautiful and warm on Thursday. We had rain in the evening, and it interrupted the campfire, but we went to the rec center to finish songs and games with the instructor, Big E. Later, we walked back to our cabins, and even getting wet was an adventure. I was surrounded by smiles and laughter. Best time ever!”
As the Class of 2032 settles back into their campus routines, the connections and memories built among the pines, lakes, and streams will keep growing all year long.