A Camp Monahan Experience for Kids
This summer, Chris and Theo got to experience their first camp at Camp Monahan for a week long day camp adventure they will never forget. Nestled along the beautiful shores with a mountain view, the camp provided an idyllic backdrop for a week filled with laughter, learning, and new friendships.
My Arrival at Camp
On the last day of camp, parents were invited to spend the evening with their kids and to spend time in camp. That’s when I pulled up to take a tour and see where exactly my boys had just spent countless hours building sandcastles, collecting unique rocks, and making new friends. It was just under an hour’s drive from Regina, Saskatchewan. On my approach, I observed the sign and an off-beaten path off the gravel road.
Stairs to Camp Monahan?
After a few minutes of driving down the path, I found a clearing where cars were parked and quickly found a spot. There was no building in sight. Feeling confused, I wondered if I had missed the location. While I stood perplexed, looking around, I noticed another couple emerging from their vehicle and heading in a direction. I decided to follow them. They both disappeared behind some trees. I caught sight of a flight of stairs and followed them, noticing the couple appearing below the stairs. Chris and Theo had mentioned the challenge of climbing stairs each day and feeling a sense of accomplishment with every step they took, but I hadn’t pictured the stairs in front of me as I descended. Another set of stairs appeared, followed by a small clearing, and then yet another set of stairs. I saw a man setting up a grill with a woman next to him adjusting tables.
The woman greeted me warmly and informed me that the boys would be out shortly as they were changing. She invited me to join the rest of the parents at the firepit below. After another short flight of stairs, paradise unfolded before me.
Camp Monahan Beach
In front of me was a round arena with a fireplace in the middle. Some parents were already seated, but I first walked closer to the gorgeous view in front of me and admired the serenity. I was in love. Time stood still, the next thing I heard was giggles and steps as the kids piled out from various sides, some running to hug parents and others playfully jabbing each other as they talked excitedly. I looked for the boys and noticed Theo walking with a group of boys. I waved my hands high, walking away from the beach and towards him. He lit up once he saw me and ran to give me a hug. Chris wasn’t far behind, and soon we were settled in a spot around the fireplace. We got treated to a welcome address by the hostess and enjoyed some head-bobbing beats of the campfire songs, which filled the air with energy and joy. The boys sang along with their new friends, smiling as they sang about cookies, pizza, and other random funny things.
Tetherball, Canoeing and Hiking Adventures
After the songs and prayers, the camp was dismissed to a meal of hamburgers, chips, and ice cream. Theo dragged me right by the lake to a tetherball setup, mentioning it was one of his favorite spots. He told me he spent time playing there, and this simple game brought him a lot of joy. Chris and Theo’s sense of adventure was thoroughly satisfied with the various outdoor activities at Camp Monahan. They took to canoeing like naturals, paddling through the serene waters with wide smiles on their faces. The hiking trails around the camp were another favorite, offering them the chance to explore nature, spot wildlife, and discover hidden treasures along the way. The camp also provided numerous opportunities for creative expression. Chris and Theo enjoyed various craft activities, from painting and drawing to making necklaces and nature frames.
The Downsides: Insect Bites and a Non-Functional Pool
While the camp was a fantastic experience overall, it wasn’t without its challenges. Chris and Theo both came home with multiple insect bites on their hands, backs, and legs. Despite using insect repellent, the pesky bugs managed to find their way to them. Additionally, the pool being out of service was a minor disappointment. However, the lake provided a great alternative, and the boys quickly forgot about the pool.
A Memorable Experience
Despite the minor inconveniences, Chris and Theo had an incredible time at Camp Monahan. They returned home with stories of new friends, thrilling adventures, and creative crafts. The beauty of the beach, the warmth of the hosts, and the fun-filled activities made for an unforgettable experience. As a parent, seeing my sons so happy and engaged was the best part of the camp experience. Camp Monahan provided them with the perfect balance of fun, learning, and adventure. I am grateful for the memories they made and the joy they experienced. If you’re looking for a day camp that offers a wonderful blend of outdoor activities, creative crafts, and a welcoming community, Camp Monahan is the place to be.
Feel free to visit my blog at BerniceRichard.com for more stories about our adventures and experiences. If you enjoyed reading about Chris and Theo’s camp adventure, you might also like my poem, Summer Vibes. Have a camp experience to share? I’d love to hear from you! Visit my Contact Page. Thank you for reading!
