Camp Fernwood is an all-girls residential summer camp located in Poland, Maine for campers ages 7 to 15. Founded in 1921, Camp Fernwood is rooted in the four principles of living simply, enjoying the beauty and wonder of natural surroundings, nurturing tolerance and unselfishness, and developing loving, lifelong friendships.
Fernwood's 6.5 week, single-session program is intentional, allowing for friendships to form, independence and resilience to develop, and girls to fully immerse themselves in the complete camp experience.
Why Fernwood
What makes Fernwood meaningful is different for every camper. For some, it’s the spirit and long-held traditions built over more than 100 years. For others, it’s the opportunity to try something new or the ability to take pride in a personal accomplishment. From getting up on the wakeboard for the first time to the anticipation of a performance or an overnight camping trip, Fernwood is a place where girls are encouraged to take risks and step outside their comfort zones with the support of fellow campers and dedicated staff. It’s a close knit community that feels like a family, where kindness matters more than competition, and every girl feels seen and valued.
Ages 7 to 15
Fernwood enrolls girls ages 7 to 15, and the program is intentionally designed to meet each camper at her own developmental pace. Each younger or first-year camper is paired with a big sister who is 14 or 15 years old, creating a built-in support system that begins even before the summer starts. This relationship gives younger campers a trusted person to turn to, while offering older campers a meaningful opportunity to step into a direct role as both a leader and role model.
Additionally, as campers move into the older age groups, they are given increasing independence, responsibility, and clear, intentional leadership opportunities.
Grow, Create, Explore| 40+ Activities to Choose From
Fernwood offers a wide range of activities that encourage creativity alongside physical growth and confidence. Campers get to create their own daily schedule, giving them the chance to jump in the lake, swing from the ropes course, complete a bezel in jewelry, or return a serve on the tennis courts each day. Activities are grouped by interest and skill level rather than age, allowing each camper to learn at her own pace while connecting with everyone across camp. Older campers may choose to focus on a specific activity, spending extra time developing skills while continuing to explore new interests.
6.5 Weeks, One Transformative Experience
True growth and connection take time. Fernwood’s 6.5 week session allows girls to move beyond first impressions and fully become part of the community. Friendships deepen, confidence builds, and independence grows through shared daily life. This immersive experience teaches campers how to connect, reflect, and thrive. This extended time together is what makes Fernwood not just memorable, but truly transformative.
Adventure, Traditions, and Everyday Magic
Life at Fernwood blends simplicity with adventure. Girls live in historic wooden bunks without electricity and then step into activity spaces that challenge and inspire them. Weekly trips take campers into the Maine outdoors for hiking, canoeing, camping, and more, with overnight and extended trips available for older campers. Beloved traditions and special events complete the summer months, from campfires and performances to color war and mini courses.
