History & Philosophy
Carrying on a tradition of high standards since its founding in 1919, Tapawingo is known as one of the country’s finest private, independent camps for girls.
Tapawingo sits on the shores of Keyes (rhymes with "eyes") Pond in Sweden, Maine. Our 200 beautiful acres of woods, fields and sandy beaches overlook Mt. Washington and the White Mountains of New Hampshire to the west. Portland and the Atlantic sit just forty miles to the east.
The value of the camp experience is extremely important at Tapawingo. Next to safety, our primary goal is that each camper return home at the end of the summer feeling better about herself. We know that campers will have tons of fun, learn wonderful skills in their activities, and make lifelong friends. But above all, we know that it is at Tapawingo where they will learn how to be leaders, how to be true friends, and how to be themselves. Tapawingo is a safe place for the development of character and values: judgment, personal responsibility, and independence.
We provide encouragement, encouragement and more encouragement – to assure that each girl develops independence and self-confidence. We do not award trophies for the best athlete or best camper. Any camper may sign up to be on a Tapawingo team; she does not need to try out. We are a cheering and singing kind of place, where a child strives to do her very best.
Tapawingo’s call for fun and adventure is contagious – between 80 and 90 percent of our kids come back to Tapawingo, year after year, and many bring their friends. Tradition is a cornerstone of our camp. Many Tapawingo campers are second-generation campers, and some are third.
We can hardly believe that our family has "graduated" from Camp Tapawingo. We can’t begin to thank you enough for all that you have done for both of our girls, and for the wonderful experience that Tap provided. Their summers at camp enabled them to grow in so many ways and gave them the ability to be independent in a nurturing and loving environment. Tap will hold a special place in their hearts for the rest of their lives. We hope that some day future generations of our family can continue the Tap Tradition.
