Camp in the Winter: Totally Different But Completely the Same
The temperatures are dropping, and as the last reminders of summer fade away our attention and excitement is turning towards our Winter Experiences. This year, we’re running both Winter Camp and New Year’s Adult & Family Camp. As you can expect, Camp Chi is a bit of a different place in the winter than it is in the summer. To give you all an idea of what to expect at our Winter Experiences, we’ve got the top ways of how Chi during the winter will be totally different, yet at the same time completely the same.
Sleeping… Across the Bridge
It will be a little chilly to stay in cabins, but we’ve still got great accommodations for you. Instead of the usual cabins, everyone will be staying across the bridge at the Perlstein Retreat Center. For those of you used to life on the Chi side, now is your chance to explore the grounds on the other side of the Ravine. Everyone at our Winter Experiences will sleep in comfortable, heated rooms, with private bathrooms in each one, and eat meals with panoramic views of Lake Blass in the Perlstein Dining Hall.
Different State of Matter
Speaking of Lake Blass, the same place everyone is used to swimming and boating in will be looking pretty different during our Winter Programs. Lake Blass actually completely freezes over in the winter months, leaving a thick sheet of ice over top. It’s a beautiful sight, and if you’re lucky, you might see some ice-fishers on the hunt in the middle of the lake!
The Third (yes, Third) Gaga Pit
Everyone at Chi is gaga for gaga, but did you know that Camp Chi has a third Gaga Pit? Although the Gaga Pits in the Commons and on the Athletic Field are regular action-packed spots during the summer, we actually have a third pit at the Perlstein Retreat Center. The Perlstein Gaga Pit is indoors, carpeted, and sunk into the ground of the Lower Level Lodge. Start warming up now because we know some great games are going to be played here this winter.
No More Using the Gym for A/C
Gaga isn’t the only sport that will be played this winter. In the summer we escape to the gym as a place to beat the heat and savor the luxurious air conditioning. But in the winter, we flip the switches and turn on the heat, keeping the gym a perfect comfortable temperature to continue to play any sports indoors in the winter months. If sports aren’t your thing, we also have a stocked Arts and Crafts room on the Perlstein side that rivals the Art Center during the summer.
Fire Actually Used for Warmth
We’ve said it countless times- campfires are an essential part of camp. But while they are a frequent occurrence over the summer, they’re not often used for keeping warm. Get ready to warm up next to your friends around a roaring campfire this winter. And don’t worry, we know that it’s not really a campfire without s’mores no matter the season! Still feeling a bit chilled? Maybe some hot cocoa and songs around the fire will help!
New Chi Hats
We all love rocking Camp Chi gear (especially on the upcoming CHIrt Day). Get ready to trade those Camp Chi baseball caps for our newly restocked Camp Chi Beanies! We have an awesome assortment of beanies, plus new scarves, sweatshirts, sweatpants, and more! Stay warm and cozy all Winter Experience long while rocking some awesome winter camp swag! Find all the winter gear here!