Boy plays on playground structure in nature
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Why We Have a Playground at Walden

Young boy climbs on playground structure nestled in the woods.

Swinging, climbing, twirling, jumping—the Walden playground is one of camp’s oldest features and still one of its most popular gathering spots. And yes, we understand the question: With so many incredible activities available to our campers, why devote space to a playground at Camp Walden?

The answer is simple. Swings and jungle gyms are timeless, and they come with no learning curve. Waterskiing is thrilling. Horseback riding is an adventure. But the playground offers something different—and just as essential.

A playground meets kids’ natural need for movement, sensory stimulation, and unstructured “free play.” It’s also a magnet of a social hub. Walden’s teens love congregating around the numerous benches, talking and laughing while counselors supervise nearby.

Children on the playground in nature.

On Walden’s sand-filled playground, campers of all ages come together—challenging each other to a game of box hockey, strumming a guitar, or twirling on the saddle spinner. And the playground isn’t limited to downtime like Twilights or Special Day Optionals. For campers who need a breather from a packed activity schedule, Playground is even offered as an A/B class. During those periods, you might find campers playing cards, making friendship bracelets, or quietly reading in the shade.

For new campers especially, the universality of a playground matters. Seeing something familiar in the heart of camp—right as they step off the bus—can ease nerves, reduce homesickness, and help them feel grounded. A playground offers something to do that requires no special skill, no instruction, and no pressure.

That’s why we’ve kept a playground at Camp Walden. Even in a place bursting with excitement and energy, every camper deserves a space where they can relax, connect, and let their imagination run free.

diversity, equity, inclusion

Walden understands that a relevant camp community requires the harmonies of many voices—not only those that inspire, but also those that instruct and challenge. We strive to be a camp where diversity is celebrated and supported, and where each camper and staff member is provided the resources and opportunities to succeed. Our mission of teaching empathy and respect is incomplete if it only serves those who think and look like we do. We believe that our camp can be anyone’s camp, and that our greatest strength lies therein.

Walden is an Equal Opportunity Employer that hires qualified staff regardless of their race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, veteran status or any other basis covered by appropriate law.