“And all of those who see me, all who believe in me
Share in the freedom I feel when I fly”
–John Denver
Flocks of birds have some amazing attributes. They often fly in coordinated, cohesive patterns. They react rapidly to changes. They engage in collective decision-making. And younger members of a flock learn socially by traveling with more experienced feathered friends.
Camp people are a flock, too, with equally impressive qualities. They inherently understand the importance of working together and of pooling their wisdom to make informed decisions. They grasp the emotionality of holding on to camp traditions but also embrace change when pivoting means welcoming a more diverse group of campers and staff. And they take their job as mentors to campers and younger staff to heart, knowing that their actions and encouragement have an impact that reaches far beyond the camp habitat.
Like homing pigeons with the ability to find their way home over extremely long distances, camp people journey to the ACA National Conference each year in February to learn, laugh, and celebrate their passion for camp and the possibilities it offers generations of children and young adults.
Enthusiastic hoots and whistles often reverberate off the conference room walls of general sessions as attendees recognize friends from far afield and honor insightful keynote speakers and local performers before flying off to one of a wide variety of educational sessions and meetups with fellow learners.
Early birds catch worms as they take advantage of chance meetings over coffee and bagels. The exhibit hall is alive with merchandise in peacock colors and innovative gadgets and apps to delight even the most seasoned camp pros. And one may even hear a songbird or two break into a spontaneous camp tune in the hallway.
Every personality under the sun is represented at the ACA National Conference — the wise owl, the boisterous rooster, the contemplative and peaceful heron, the playful parrot — making it a true reflection of the broader camp community.
If you are a camp person, you’ll find your flock at the ACA National Conference. It is an ideal place to nest for a few days in February to learn from the best in the camp industry. Then shake a tail feather and figure out how to apply all the powerful insights you’ve gleaned to benefit your campers and staff during the next camp season!
Marcia Ellett is the editor in chief of Camping Magazine.
