Sundays at Camp Highlander are intentionally slower, less structured, and always full of sweet surprises. They offer the perfect balance of rest, reflection, and just the right dose of friendly competition. After a packed week of adventures, activities, off-camp trips, and high-energy Evening Programs, Sundays give campers and staff the space to pause, reset, and reconnect — with themselves and with each other.

The day started just the way we love it — with a little extra sleep and a big, delicious breakfast. From there, we gathered at Reflect for Chapel, a cherished Highlander tradition since 1957. Each Sunday, we share a story with a meaningful takeaway and talk about how it applies to life at camp and beyond. Today’s book was Say Something by Peter H. Reynolds, which reminded us that our actions often speak louder than our words — and that small, kind gestures can make a big difference.

After an extended rest hour (just what we all needed), campers were surprised with a visit from the Dolly’s Trolley at the Quarterdeck! Scoops of their favorite ice cream flavors brought smiles to every face — the perfect treat to cool off before diving into the afternoon fun.

Next came a Session A favorite: Director’s Cup — our all-camp showdown between Girls Camp and Boys Camp. Campers brought their A-game in events like bombardment, riverball, pool volleyball, cannonball competitions, the longest slip-n-slide, relays, and more. While Girls Camp entered the day as reigning champs, Boys Camp brought the heat and walked away with the Golden Cup this year — a proud and playful victory!

But even with the cheering and competition, the spirit of Sunday remained: unhurried, joy-filled, and deeply connected. There’s a certain magic in the slower pace — where laughter flows easily, friendships deepen naturally, and moments of rest feel just as meaningful as moments of play.

At Highlander, Sundays are more than a break from our normal schedule — they’re a chance to breathe, reflect, and fully appreciate this incredible gift we call Camp Highlander.

Favorite Details of The Day

• Weather: It was a HOT, SUNNY day on Old Forge!
• Meals: For breakfast we had Mrs. Kaye’s homemade blueberry crumble muffins, scrambled eggs, sausage links, grits, oatmeal and a fresh fruit bar. For lunch we had meatball subs, tator tots, a salad bar and a sandwich bar. Dinner was teriyaki chicken with broccoli & carrots, vegetable egg rolls, fried rice, a salad and sandwich bar.
• EP: Tonight’s EP was Campfire, followed by Cookies and Milk in the dining hall! We recognized our Honor Campers and Honor Cabins for the week. These campers and cabins have stood out as leaders and positive role models this session. Congratulations to our Honor Campers and Honor Cabins!

Honor Campers & Cabins Session A

• Girls’ Camp Honor Campers: Juliette S. (Cabin 1), Caprice S. (Cabin 5), Clover C. (Cabin 12) & Tatum M. (Cabin 16)
• Boys’ Camp Honor Campers: Josh R. (Cabin 34), Walker C. (Cabin 30), Hans D. (Cabin 26), Noah F. (Cabin 24)
• Girls’ Camp Honor Cabin: Cabin 12
• Boys’ Camp Honor Cabin: Cabin 34