Camp Pontiac’s Waterfront Adventures: Swimming, Kayaking, and more!

Camp Pontiac’s Waterfront Adventures: Swimming, Kayaking & More!

From the first splash to the last cannonball of summer, Camp Pontiac’s waterfront program is where the fun begins. Set in the scenic foothills of the Berkshires, our New York summer camp features two stunning lakefronts, multiple pools, and a massive floating Water Park that keeps campers cool, active, and smiling all summer long.

With a wide range of water activities for kids, there’s something for everyone, from first-time paddlers to adventurous wakeboarders.

At Camp Pontiac, the water isn’t just for cooling off—it’s where campers discover adventure, independence, and pure summer joy.

Set in the foothills of the Berkshires, our two stunning lakefronts offer the perfect setting for boating and water sports for kids. Whether your child dreams of gliding across the lake in a kayak or trying their hand at sailing and windsurfing, our waterfront program is built for exploration, confidence-building, and fun.

Kayaking, Sailing & Water Confidence

Campers of all ages love heading out onto the lake—and for good reason. Our boating activities are camper favorites and designed to be both exciting and approachable for all skill levels.

Kayaking for Kids Campers learn to paddle in small, stable kayaks designed just for them. Supervised closely by trained staff, kayaking builds balance, coordination, and confidence in a calm and scenic setting.

For those ready to harness the wind, our lake offers space to learn the basics of sailing and windsurfing under the guidance of experienced instructors.

Canoeing & Fishing For campers looking to slow things down, our gentler waterfront activities like canoeing and fishing offer the perfect escape. These peaceful pastimes give kids a chance to relax, recharge, and take in the beauty of the great outdoors—all while building confidence on the water.

Whether your child is a beginner or ready to level up, our waterfront team ensures every camper gets a safe and enriching boating experience—making kids’ kayaking and water exploration a central part of their summer.

More Than Boating: A Full Water Sports Program

Beyond boating, Camp Pontiac offers a wide range of water activities for kids, all supervised by our 35 American Red Cross certified lifeguards and skilled instructors.

• Small Group Swim Instruction Campers are placed by skill level and taught in supportive, encouraging settings to build confidence in the water.
• Exciting Water Sports for Kids Waterskiing, wakeboarding, and banana boating are led by licensed water-pilot instructors who prioritize both safety and fun.
• Pontiac Water Park Slides, floating courses, and splash zones make this a favorite for all ages.
• Snorkeling, Water Volleyball, and Pool Time Campers enjoy time in our pools and lake, whether they’re splashing around or playing organized water games.
• Private Swim & Sport Lessons During Rest Hour, campers can sign up for extra instruction—free of charge—to improve skills or try something new.

Safety That Parents Appreciate

Safety is at the heart of everything we do on the water. With over three dozen certified lifeguards, regular equipment checks, and a strong focus on supervision, parents can feel confident knowing their child is safe while having fun.

We also keep camper-to-staff ratios low, especially during boating and water sport instruction, so every child gets personal guidance and support.

From learning to kayak for the first time to participating in intercamp watersport events, every camper’s journey is tailored to their comfort level and goals.

FAQs: Camp Pontiac Waterfront Program

Is kayaking for kids safe at Camp Pontiac?
Yes! We use age-appropriate, stable kayaks in calm waters, and sessions are closely supervised by trained instructors.

What other boats are used in camp activities?
In addition to kayaks, we offer sailing, windsurfing, canoes, and banana boats—all managed by licensed and certified staff.

Can non-swimmers participate?
Absolutely. We provide small group swim instruction and flotation gear where needed. Campers are encouraged to participate at their own pace.

Is gear provided?
Yes, all boating and water sport gear, including life vests, paddles, and helmets, is provided and inspected daily.

Do campers need to sign up for boating activities?
Nope! All campers rotate through our boating and waterfront blocks, with optional extras like the Tennis & Waterfront Academy available for older, more experienced campers.

Are lessons available for kayaking or sailing?
Yes! Instruction is built into daily activities, and additional one-on-one guidance is available during Rest Hour at no extra cost.

Camp Pontiac’s boating and waterfront program offers more than just fun—it creates meaningful memories and skills that campers carry with them well beyond summer. Whether your child is trying kayaking for the first time or perfecting their windsurfing stance, they’ll find confidence, joy, and freedom on the water.

Not the camp activity you’re looking for? Check out other programs we offer:

• Adventure Camp Program – allows campers to appreciate and explore the outdoors in a safe and comfortable environment. This includes exciting activities such as ninja warrior course, archery sites, horseback riding, and team building activities.
• Arts & Cooking Program – allows campers to explore their creativity and discover their talents and passion. We offer cooking classes, DJ programs, photography, and woodshop activities that kids will definitely enjoy.
• Athletics Program – energizes campers through a wide range of sports and fitness activities in a supportive environment. Options include baseball, basketball, volleyball, soccer, and tennis. Campers participate in daily intramural leagues and tournaments, plus have the opportunity for optional private lessons for those looking for a more focused training.
• STEM Program – sparks curiosity and problem-solving via hands-on science and technology activities. Campers can enjoy robotics, drones, chess, and models & Legos. These programs provide structured, guided learning in small groups, perfect for thinkers and tinkerers.
• Special Events – delivers memorable, high-energy group experiences throughout the summer. Highlights include Carnival, Halloween in July, Roller Skating Disco, Glow Disco/Prom Disco, Birthday Ball, Color Run and more!
• Camp Trips – expands the experience beyond the camp property, through adventures suited to different age groups:
• Day Trips: exploring nearby natural and recreational sites
• Overnight Trips: immersive camps away from site
• Teen Trips: more independent, adventurous excursions for older campers

Want to learn more? Contact us here to schedule a tour or speak with our team about our summer camp activities.