Once upon a time, way over on the east coast of the United States, lies an enchanting land named New York. Now, it isn't just skyscrapers and bustling streets, oh no, it's stuffed to the gills with lush green forests, sparkling lakes, and towering mountains. And in this magical place, you’ll find a bunch of sprightly kiddos, known as the "Nature Ninjas". The leader of the Nature Ninjas is a wacky, woodland critter named "Sly Squirrel". Sly is no ordinary squirrel though, he wears bright green sneakers, a cap full of acorns, and carries a magical acorn amulet around his neck. He's as funny as a chipmunk on caffeine, and with the help of his magical amulet, he guides the Nature Ninjas on their wild escapades. These sparky kids, brimming with curiosity and donned in their favorite adventure boots, set off into the wilderness. They explore enchanted forests that whisper stories of the ancient ones, climb the mighty Adirondack mountains that try to tickle the sky, and canoe down the Hudson River, which flows like a ribbon unwinding its way through the state. They try to decode the tweets of the birds, engage in muddy wrestling matches with earthworms, and hold their breath to see if they can outdo the turtles in underwater staring contests. They often lose, though, and surface gasping, faces red as ripe apples, only to burst into peals of laughter. The Nature Ninjas and their antics make New York's woods and wilds echo with laughter and life. With their funny guide, Sly Squirrel, the kids of NY make the state’s nature, not just a place of trees and trails, but a land of laughter, learning, and endless adventures.
Read morebest nature programs in Hancock, NY
DEBUT Creative Center & Theater-Studio is a dual-language (English–Russian) program where kids explore creativity, confidence, and self-expression. From theater and dance to fencing and stage performance, children can try new activities and discover their unique talents. Small class sizes let instructors give each child personalized attention, helping them feel comfortable, supported, and confident as they learn. Kids build artistic skills while also developing social confidence, teamwork, and poise on stage and in everyday life. Our programs celebrate each child’s individuality, combining fun, hands-on experiences with a focus on personal growth—all while keeping Russian language and culture an important part of the curriculum.
Camp Hilltop has been a part of the Hancock, New York community since 1924. This beautiful camp is situated on 600 acres of woodlands and fields, with a private lake, in the picturesque Catskill Mountains, just two and a half hours from New York City. This summer camp offers a variety of activities, including water skiing, wakeboarding, trapeze, hiking, horses, climbing tower, high ropes, and many sports, performing arts and arts and crafts. We strive to provide a safe, nurturing and non-competitive environment, with a four to one camper to counselor ratio, overseen by a mature, skilled and caring staff. Camp Hilltop is more than just a summer camp; it’s a place where children and young adults can find a friendly and fun community and explore the wondrous possibilities in their lives. Whether it be for two weeks or eight, we provide a safe and supportive environment that encourages campers to develop their skills, build relationships, and grow in confidence.