MAXJOY is ESF’s signature framework and proprietary guiding philosophy designed to intentionally create a life filled with meaning, positivity and fulfillment.Discover ESF MAXJOY
Core Memories MadeA summer journey that sparks forever friendships through time-honored ESF traditions, creating core memories that last a lifetime.
Summer That Shapes FuturesAt ESF, every program is uniquely designed to equip campers with the knowledge, character, and confidence to meet life’s next challenges, at school and beyond.
Confidence in Every StrokeDaily swim instruction is included! Campers gain life-saving water skills while growing stronger, safer, and more confident with every stroke, making summer fun for campers and worry-free for parents.
Swim InstructionWith daily instructional swimming, campers receive an initial skill assessment and then progress at their own pace. Progress reports are sent home weekly.
The PlayZoneOur favorite free-choice adventure. Campers rotate through exciting stations featuring LEGO creations, hands-on manipulatives, music and movement, story time, crafts, water play, Big Wheel Alley, and creative expression—sparking curiosity, imagination, and independent discovery at every turn.
Science & NatureLittle explorers investigate the world around them. Through hands-on experiments, nature walks, and playful discoveries, campers spark curiosity and learn about plants, animals, and the environment.
Swim InstructionWith daily instructional swimming, campers receive an initial skill assessment and then progress at their own pace. Progress reports are sent home weekly. Recreational swimming is offered 1 day per week on Friday.
Choice/Club PeriodEach day, campers select their favorite activities (arts, sports, science, or camp games), creating their own personalized adventure. They can explore a variety of experiences or dive deeper into a favorite passion; the choice is theirs!
Sports & TeambuildingFast-paced, action-packed athletics and classic camp games! Campers jump, run, and compete in games that strengthen coordination, teamwork, and sportsmanship.
Recreational SwimmingRecreational swimming is offered daily. Campers receive an initial deep water safety test to assess their skill level.
ElectivesCampers enjoy three dynamic periods each day to explore their passions. Aligned with their weekly track selection, these rotating options let them design a personalized schedule, try new activities, and dive deeper into the experiences they love most.
True Life STEAM AdventuresWeekly True Life STEAM Adventures follow a themed focus, giving campers the chance to explore the Arts and Sciences in depth.
True Life STEAM AdventuresWeekly True Life STEAM Adventures follow a themed focus, giving campers the chance to explore the Arts and Sciences in depth.
ElectivesCampers enjoy three dynamic periods each day to explore their passions. Aligned with their weekly track selection, these rotating options let them design a personalized schedule, try new activities, and dive deeper into the experiences they love most.
Recreational SwimmingRecreational swimming is offered daily. Campers receive an initial deep water safety test to assess their skill level.
Hands-on ExperiencesThe goal of this robust 4-week long program is to create a bridge between being an ESF camper and an ESF staff member. High-achieving young individuals develop essential skills through leadership opportunities and hands-on camp experiences while being mentored by ESF’s trained adult staff.
Professional DevelopmentParticipants engage in professional development, workshops, and various opportunities to explore camp life including shadowing in camp groups throughout the summer. Additional activities include community service, special project-based initiatives, ongoing coaching, professional development, and more.
Leadership OpportunitiesWe transition campers into counselors creating independent young leaders who can contribute positively to camp and their community. We teach individuals to be positive role models and responsible leaders, while successfully preparing them for future opportunities with ESF.
Gratitude RockThe ESF Gratitude Rock is a daily camp tradition that celebrates kindness. Each day, a camper or team member passes the rock to someone who performed a special act of gratitude, creating a chain of appreciation and positivity all summer long.
Spirit StickThe Spirit Stick is a beloved Junior Camp tradition that honors the bunk showing the most enthusiasm, teamwork, and camp spirit each day. It’s a symbol of joy and unity, reminding campers that their energy and positivity bring magic and excitement to the ESF summer experience.
The OracleThe Oracle is a cherished Senior Camp tradition that honors the group demonstrating the greatest teamwork, respect, leadership, and kindness each day. It symbolizes wisdom, unity, and the responsibility to spread positivity throughout camp.
The Oracle is a cherished Senior Camp tradition that honors the group demonstrating the greatest teamwork, respect, leadership, and kindness each day. It symbolizes wisdom, unity, and the responsibility to spread positivity throughout camp.
ESF Camp PennantsConsidered the “yearbook” of camp, the Pennant is signed by every camper and Counselor. It becomes a treasured keepsake; packed with memories, friendships, and all the unforgettable moments that make summer at ESF truly special.
“My kids had a wonderful time at ESF!”The counselors went above & beyond my expectations in keeping them engaged and communicating with us so we always knew how they were doing at camp. There was a great balance of themes and activities—plenty of new experiences to keep them excited without disrupting the routine or becoming overwhelming. They can’t wait to come back next summer!-Carol G.
“The camp exceeded our expectations in every way.”The camp exceeded our expectations in every way. We’ll definitely be returning next year. A solid five-star experience, from the diverse range of activities to the exceptional level of management oversight. Every aspect was thoughtfully organized and impressively executed.-Teona G.
“Our camper has been excited to go to camp every day.”Our camper has been excited to go to camp every day. I love hearing him repeat camp chants and see him light up when he tells me about his day. We were hesitant to send him at a young age but see ESF in our future for multiple summers to come! Thank you for making it such a positive experience!-Lindsey D.
MarylandBaltimore at Gilman School|View DetailsBethesda at The Academy of the Holy Cross|View Details
PennsylvaniaChestnut Hill at Norwood-Fontbonne Academy|View DetailsHaverford at The Haverford School|View DetailsPhiladelphia at Friends Select School|View Details
