Adventure-based programming

Founded in 1904 through the Chicago Lab School, Camp Highlands is one of the oldest boys’ camps in the country. We’re a secular camp that offers a true wilderness experience through traditional activities like canoeing, archery, baseball, football, and riflery. At the heart of our program are age-appropriate overnight trips that help boys build confidence and resilience by exploring beyond their comfort zones.

With 99% of our staff returning each summer, boys are guided by experienced, trusted leaders who know camp inside and out. Through Highlands’ “Worthwhile Way,” campers develop critical life skills—like leadership, cooperation, flexibility, and communication—all in an atmosphere of fun, challenge, and adventure.

Our guiding principles are rooted in the Honor Camper Qualities: traits like perseverance, honesty, humility, generosity, and good fellowship. Everything we do aims to help boys grow into thoughtful, capable, and Worthwhile young men.