Grounded in a century of tradition, Pok-O-MacCready fosters personal growth by empowering campers to achieve independence, create lifelong friendships, and develop a deep appreciation of the natural world, in the Adirondacks and beyond.
Pok-O by Numbers: 2022
Campers from 20 states and 8 countries
194 campers in weeks 1 to 4
152 campers in weeks 5 to 7
3:1 camper to staff ratio
78% retention from 2021
54 scholarships awarded
ACA accredited since 1957
119 years of continuous operation by the Robinson/Swan family
Core Programs
Click on the for our core program descriptions.
Wilderness Trips
This is a core tradition, dating back to the early 20th century, when campers hiked more than 30 miles to reach New York’s High Peaks. Our Wilderness program continues to give children of all ages and ability levels a variety of avenues to challenge themselves in nature, whether that be on a three-day hike in the remote Seward Range, a canoe trip down the Boquet River in Willsboro, or a night spent in our lean-to across the lake. Campers choose which trips they participate in, and we find that wilderness trips perfectly encapsulate Community, Growth, Challenge and Choice
BIG Games
This is the hardest to define, but highest energy program at Pok-O. These All-Camp Activities come in the form of capture-the-flag contests, scavenger hunts, music festivals, and even our very own miniature county fair. On top of these basic structures, we add costumes, scripts, and lifelong commitment to teams in events as varied as Greek Games and Pok-O-Palooza. Each Big Game provides avenues for creativity, accomplishment, and camper leadership.
Blacksmithing
A truly unique class for New York camps, taught by a long line of talented smiths. Campers age 12 and up are able to hone their skills, practice responsibility, and learn patience, all while creating art and practical objects out of iron, tin, and copper.
Horseback Riding
Although Pok-O-MacCready doesn’t focus on being just a horseback camp, this classic program has helped define our whole camp since 1967. Campers who take part in this program form special bonds, not only with the horses they ride, but also with their instructors, who foster the relationships and skills required to work with a 900 pound animal. Participants also learn to care for their horses, waking up early each day to feed, groom, and muck.
The Waterfront
Swimming. Canoeing. Fishing. Sailing. Rope-swinging. Paddle-boarding. These activities provide endless opportunities for fun in the sun with friends. Campers see real growth as they increase their swim ability and unlock opportunities to go out in bigger boats and navigate Long Pond’s 400 acres of clear water and 5 miles of near private shoreline, populated by numerous species of fish, along with bald eagles, painted turtles, osprey, and a pair of elusive loons.
Our Inclusive Camp
Pok-O-MacCready does not discriminate based on disability, race, ethnicity, religious beliefs, sexual orientation, or gender identity in either the staff hiring or camper application processes. Please read our Gender Identity and Privacy Policy for more details.
“Pok-O is a truly unique and life enriching experience. I went with my siblings, and now my daughter and her cousins are campers. I connected with nature and grew independence through new experiences and new people. Campers participate in extremely inventive and unique games and social activities that have lasted for decades. Most importantly, the staff care deeply about the kids, and they have infused the whole camp with the same warm, friendly and welcoming vibe for as long as I’ve known the place.”
-Brendan, former camper and current camper parent
Poke-O-Moonshine
Where Did the Name “Pok-O-MacCready” Come From?
The story of our name illustrates how camp grew over the past 120 years. Our New York camp sits on land that once was inhabited by the Algonquin people, who named a nearby mountain Pohqui-moosie (Broken-Smooth), referring to its combination of gentle forested slopes, and sheer rocky cliffs. “Pohqui-moosie” became “Poke-O-Moonshine,” and this in turn inspired the name of the boys’ camp Dr. Robinson founded in 1905. When “Camp MacCready for Girls” was added in 1967, it was laid out on an adjoining farm, purchased from former counselor David MacCready. The creation of a year-round outdoor education center in 1974 required a new name, and “Pok-O-MacCready” was chosen to unite the two camps.