Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Girls Summer Camp in Northern Minnesota
Camp Kamaji is a sleepaway summer camp for girls aged 7 to 16 located in Northern Minnesota. Founded in 1914, we provide a safe, supportive environment where campers unplug from technology, engage in diverse activities like waterskiing and horseback riding, and build lifelong friendships. Our mission emphasizes personal growth, courage, and celebrating individuality through structured programs and a child-centered community.Led by directors Kat Martin and Jason Nelson, our team fosters independence, creativity, and resilience while maintaining traditions that have defined our camp for over a century. Accredited by the American Camp Association, we prioritize safety, inclusivity, and experiential learning to create transformative experiences for campers and staff alike.
Services
Waterskiing
Horseback Riding
Paddleboarding
Archery
Dance
Sailing
Climbing Wall
Wilderness Trips
Photography
Tennis
Details
- Year established: 1914
Highlights and features
- We offer over 25 ACA-accredited activities in a safe, structured environment.
- Our staff includes experienced counselors and specialists from diverse backgrounds.
- We prioritize personal growth through courage-building challenges and leadership opportunities.
- Campers develop lifelong friendships in a supportive, inclusive community.
- We maintain century-old traditions while adapting to modern needs and interests.
Associations and certifications
- American Camp Association
What people say
Safe, organized, fun
Life affirming summer home
Nurtures children's interests
Magical place for growth
Encourages independence
Services
Waterskiing
Camp Kamaji's waterskiing program teaches fundamental skills and advanced techniques in a safe lake environment. Campers develop balance, coordination, and confidence while gliding across Big Wolf Lake. Certified instructors prioritize safety through proper equipment use and progressive skill development, making this activity accessible to all experience levels.
Horseback Riding
Our horseback riding program emphasizes horsemanship, safety, and connection with animals. Campers learn riding techniques, stable management, and horse care fundamentals. Qualified instructors guide lessons tailored to individual skill levels, from beginners to advanced riders, fostering responsibility and empathy through hands-on experiences with our trained horses.
Wilderness Trips
Wilderness trips range from two to nine days of immersive outdoor experiences in Northern Minnesota's natural landscapes. Campers learn navigation, camping skills, and environmental stewardship while developing teamwork and leadership abilities. These excursions emphasize self-reliance and appreciation for nature through canoeing, portaging, and backcountry living experiences.
Climbing Wall
The climbing wall challenges campers to build physical strength and mental resilience. Certified staff teach belaying techniques and safety protocols while encouraging personal growth through goal-setting. This activity promotes problem-solving skills and celebrates individual achievements in a supportive environment that emphasizes courage and perseverance.
Leadership Training
Our leadership program develops campers into confident counselors through structured training and mentorship. Participants learn conflict resolution, activity planning, and child supervision skills. The program emphasizes emotional intelligence, responsibility, and community building, preparing young leaders to guide others while continuing their personal growth journey.
People
Kat Martin
Director
Director Kat Martin has over 25 years of camp experience, transitioning from camper to counselor to leadership roles. She focuses on camper well-being, staff development, and health center operations while maintaining the camp's founding principles of personal growth and community building.
Jason Nelson
Director
Co-director Jason Nelson manages camp operations, wilderness programs, and kitchen services. With extensive experience in camp logistics and program development, he ensures the camp's infrastructure supports its educational mission while maintaining safety and quality standards.
Questions
What age groups does Camp Kamaji serve?
We serve girls aged 7 through 16 years old with both four-week and eight-week session options.
Is Camp Kamaji accredited?
Yes, we are accredited by the American Camp Association, meeting rigorous national health and safety standards.
What outdoor activities are available?
We offer waterskiing, sailing, horseback riding, climbing wall, wilderness trips, archery, and over 25 other activities.
How does staff training work?
Staff undergo comprehensive training covering child safety, activity instruction, and emergency protocols before camp begins.
What happens if a camper gets homesick?
Our staff provides emotional support while encouraging campers to engage with activities and build new friendships.
Can parents visit during the session?
We offer Friends & Family Weekend for visits, with specific dates provided before each summer session.
Reviews (5)
Natalie Lynette
Jun 14, 2021
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I love this camp! It is a place where I can be myself, be introduced to new activities, and make lots of friends! The food is really good too.
Eddis Goodale
Mar 18, 2021
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Our younger daughter went here as a camper, then matriculated into a CIT, a full counselor, and head of the CIT's. Even served as a medical staff member when she was finishing nursing school. This was a life affirming summer home for her for more than 10 years. An amazing place.
Iiam Natt
Jul 25, 2019
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Great place.... 3rd home....... I love my tribe......My cabins...... The activities......And the staff........
Caroline Portis
Jul 18, 2018
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THE happy place for my daughters! If you're looking for an all girls camp with a wonderful staff, amazing surroundings and a supportive and loving environment, look no further.
Jane C.
May 10, 2016
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It's been years and I still can close my eyes and be back. I went to Kamaji as a young camper, as a counselor in training and as a counselor. My two younger sisters did the same. I still have friends with whom I stay in touch from Kamaji. I am 77 years old and wish I were busy packing to go back!! Had we has children, they would have also gone to Kamaji. My first year was also Bert and Phil's last year and Bill and MF's first year. At least I still have my dreams!
Janie Shearer Calhoun
Janie Shearer Calhoun
