American Summer Camps Guest Blog

If you’re searching for the ultimate sleepaway summer camp experience for your first-time camper, you’re likely feeling both excited and nervous. Sending your K-4th grader to overnight camp for the first time is a big milestone. You want them to gain independence and confidence — but you also want them to feel safe, supported, and genuinely cared for.

Camp Eastwood was created specifically for that first brave step.

Located in Maine’s beautiful Belgrade Lakes region, Camp Eastwood is an overnight camp for boys and girls ages 6–10 designed to provide a positive first sleepaway camp experience in an exciting and secure setting. Unlike traditional camps that serve a broad age range, Eastwood focuses entirely on younger campers. Every element—from cabin life to daily scheduling—is thoughtfully designed for elementary-aged children.

For families looking for a safe summer camp for young children, that intentional approach makes all the difference.

Why Parents Love Camp Eastwood

1. Tailored for Young Campers

Camp Eastwood isn’t just a summer camp — it’s a starter overnight camp created specifically for elementary school-aged kids (finishing K-4th grade). Every activity, cabin setup, song, and tradition is intentionally designed to match the developmental needs of 6-10-year-olds, helping them feel confident, capable, and connected.

2. A Safe and Structured Environment

Parents often worry about safety, homesickness, and supervision. At Eastwood, safety and wellness are top priorities:

-Trained, compassionate staff selected through thorough screening -Dedicated Health Center staffed 24/7 -Structured routines and age-appropriate expectations -Clear supervision at all times — especially during trips and activities

3. Confidence-Building Through Fun

Camp isn’t just play — it’s growth. Eastwood builds independence, stamina, teamwork, and social skills through community living, team games, and choice-based activities.

4. Balanced Days Kids Thrive In

Every day blends structure with choice. Campers have swim instruction, play sports and group games, explore STEM projects, create arts and crafts, participate in nature activities, and enjoy bunk time and free play. Electives allow children to try new interests while still having time to rest and connect with friends. The rhythm of the day builds independence without overwhelming young campers

5. Leadership Parents Can Trust

Camp Eastwood was founded by Lauren Beckwith and Stacey Levy, experienced elementary school-aged camp specialists, former teachers, college athletes, and longtime camp moms. Together, they bring decades of combined experience at Camps Manitou and Somerset and understand what younger campers need to feel safe, inspired, and joyful.

Short Sessions Designed for Success

One of the things that makes Camp Eastwood especially ideal for younger campers is its intentionally shorter session lengths. Offering 1 and 2 week overnight camp sessions, Eastwood understands that ages 6–10 is often a child’s very first time away from home. A shorter stay allows children to build independence gradually, without feeling overwhelmed by a long separation. For many families searching for the best summer camp for little kids, this structure provides peace of mind: campers have enough time to form friendships, learn new skills, and settle into a routine. It’s a thoughtful, developmentally appropriate approach that sets young children up for a positive first sleepaway camp experience and a lifelong love of summer camp.

What a Day at Camp Eastwood Looks Like

Young children thrive on predictability.

That’s why Eastwood’s daily schedule is thoughtfully structured and consistent. Campers know what to expect each day, which reduces anxiety and builds security.

A typical day includes:

• Swimming
• Sports and group games
• STEM and Arts and crafts
• Nature activities
• Bunk activities
• Free play options
• Electives to explore new interests
• Evening traditions and connection time

The schedule blends activity, rest, choice, and community, helping children feel comfortable while building confidence at their own pace.

Camp Life Made Comfortable & Fun

Cabin Life That Feels Like Family

One of the biggest fears parents have about sending a 6-10-year-old to camp is: “Will someone notice if my child is struggling?”

At Camp Eastwood:

• Campers live in small cabin groups.
• 3 caring counselors per cabin provide steady guidance.
• Staff encourage independence without pushing too fast.
• Children are known by name, personality, and comfort level.

This approach ensures that younger campers don’t get lost in the crowd. Rather, they are supported while they try new activities, make friends, take small, confidence-building responsibilities, and learn to manage routines away from home. This balance of nurture and independence is what makes Eastwood an ideal first sleepaway camp for elementary kids.

Nutritious, Kid-Approved Meals

Every meal is served family-style with variety and choice, including vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options. With a 100% nut-free dining environment, campers with allergies or selective tastes are well cared for.

Meet the Directors

One of the biggest concerns for parents is who will care for their child. At Camp Eastwood, your child is guided by two seasoned professionals with a deep understanding of young kids’ needs:

Lauren Beckwith — Co-Director

Lauren’s journey in camp leadership began in 2005 and spans roles from program director to educator. She holds degrees in Elementary Education and Literacy & Language, has nearly 20 years of classroom experience, and brings a powerful blend of care, structure, and encouragement to every child at Eastwood. Her own children have grown up with camp as a meaningful part of their lives — and now her youngest will enjoy Eastwood too.

Stacey Levy — Co-Director

Stacey comes with 20+ years as an educator and coach, holding degrees in Physical Education and Counseling. Stacey helped open Camp Somerset for Girls in 2018 and has been the Associate Director there for the past several years. As a former college athlete, her expertise in child development, wellness, and team leadership will shape Eastwood’s supportive, active camp culture. Together with Lauren, Stacey brings enthusiasm, energy, and decades of experience to creating the best summer camp experience for little kids.

Ready to Learn More?

With intentional programming, skilled leadership, and an environment built for smiles and growth, this camp is quickly emerging as one of the top choices for parents seeking the best summer camp for little kids.

If you’re ready to give your child a summer that builds independence in a safe, joyful setting, Camp Eastwood may be the perfect place to start.