Camp Crystal Lake will host two free events to celebrate its 75th anniversary on Nov. 18 and Dec. 9.
At the anniversary celebrations, the camp invites families to participate in some of the activities Alachua County Public Schools (ACPS) students have access to. There will be fishing, archery, hayrides, a ropes course, arts and crafts and other activities.
The two events will run from 12:30 to 5:30 p.m. on both days.
The camp asks that families interested in attending would register online ahead of the event to help staff prepare.
Organizers also encourage attendees to bring copies of photos or other camp memorabilia for a ‘Decades Meet-Up’ in the Rec Hall. The celebrations will end with a closing ceremony at 5 p.m.
The event is free and open to the public, with snacks and drinks available.
Visitors can also purchase 75th Anniversary T-shirts. Proceeds from the t-shirt sales will help fund scholarships for students attending the camp’s summer program. Attendees can also donate directly to the scholarship fund.
Camp Crystal Lake, founded in 1948, is owned and operated by Alachua County Public Schools on 140 wooded acres in Starke.
Throughout the school year, the camp receives students from grades 2-5 for lessons on science, the environment and team building. In summer, Camp Crystal is open with a traditional camp experience, serving about 1,000 children in grades 2-9, according to the website.