North Star Camp for Boys

Why We Like It

North Star Camp in Wisconsin's Northwoods is the premier traditional boys' camp in the Midwest. The natural setting — surrounded by lakes and old-growth forest — is breathtaking, and the camp's focus on character, friendship, and self-reliance produces young men that parents notice are different when they come home. A generation-spanning institution for Midwest families.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Exceptional Northwoods setting with pristine lakes and forests
• Strong emphasis on character development alongside traditional camp activities
• Outstanding staff retention — many counselors are former campers

Cons

• Boys only
• Remote Wisconsin location requires flight for most families

Score Breakdown

Camps were evaluated on programming breadth and quality, safety record and staff training, facilities and environment, community and values, and value relative to cost.