"Today, there are more than 12,000 resident camps that exist within the United States that serve more than 11 million youth and adults annually (American Camp Association, 2008). Among these camps, are a large number of 4-H conducted residential camps. According to National 4-H Enrollment Statistics (USDA, 2003), 299,297 youth participated in overnight 4-H camps in 2003. Fifty-eight percent of these youth were female, and 42% were male...According to the American Camping Association (1997), camp provides the forum for children to discover and explore their interests, values, and talents. Research shows, from a youth and parent perspective, that camp provides positive impacts for youth. Youth attending 4-H camp indicated their participation helped them acquire life skills and helped them most in making new friends, developing new skills, and becoming more independent and able to take care of themselves (Garst & Bruce, 2003). Furthermore, parents/guardians identified significant gains in their children in the areas of responsibility for actions, work responsibility, and increasing initiative as a self-starter (Garst & Bruce, 2003)."

Each year in late July, Mason County gets to experience the "Best Week of Summer" at North Central 4-H Summer Camp. The camping session in 2019 brought Mason County participation to almost double from previous years. Youth were offered an opportunity to complete a scholarship application for a partial/full scholarship from 4-H Council and donations from community partners. During the week of camp, youth participate in four classes in three days, get to swim in the pool and lake, sally down the alley, play field games, and so much more. Skills are acquired through 4-H Camp as well as new relationships forged. Even as an adult, I can feel the "Camp Magic" that happens at North Central. In 2019 we had a total of 54 campers/counselors/staff which is almost a 59% increase from the previous year. Campers made a lifetime of memories, and we look forward to many more years of 4-H Camp