Camp Atwater
Private
Historic residential summer camp on the shores of Lake Lashaway in North Brookfield, owned and operated by the Urban League of Springfield and established in 1921. The oldest African American-owned and operated residential youth camp in the nation and a National Historic Landmark, it serves youth ages 8-15 with swimming, archery, sports, STEM, nature, arts, and leadership and cultural-enrichment programming. Nonprofit; ACA member.
The practical details
We list only what the camp itself publishes, and programs change — dates, prices, ages and availability can all move after we check. Confirm the details on the camp’s own website and contact Camp Atwater directly before you register or pay. Last checked August 2026.
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★★★★★Carissa BrowneThis is my favorite place on earth I really wanna go back this summer and make more life long friends I wanna thank Adrianna,Mr.Jawad,Gladys,Ap, Justice,Nadeer,etc.Thank you Camp atwater for the best memories a kid can make I love y'all so much🤍
★★★★★simone pettawayI went to this camp in 2000, 2001 & 2002. Best experience of my life. I really enjoyed swimming to the island and making lifelong friends. My daughter will be attending next summer!
★★★★★Travel MuvaHistoric camp, the only real camp around offering old school experiences and life lessons. My child's first official year going and I'm not only impressed with his camping experience but his overall growth since being in camp. He will be returning for years to come!
★★★★★Russell JohnsonBest experience of my life. This was the foundation of the work values that I have now. Working in the kitchen and started as a dishwasher inspired me to go to college and give back to the very communities that have made me what I am today.
★★★★★Lead Inspection ServicesMy name is Ron Childs and I attended Camp Atwater every summer from age 12 to 16 and worked as a life guard and counselor when I was 17. I only have good memories from my time at Camp Atwater and I am still friends with some of the kids I met there. I reflect on the experiences, the fun, and the independence I gained from attending the camp. I still remember many of the counselors and what a positive male influence they had on my life. Thanks Camp Atwater.