The story of Chewonki began in 1915, when our founder first set up tents for his boys camp along the shores of Lake Champlain. Three years later, the tents were moved to an old farm field along the shores of Montsweag Bay, on Chewonki Neck in Wiscasset, Maine.

Today, Chewonki has evolved into one of Maine’s most highly respected institutions. Our name and reputation extend well beyond the state’s borders, and our work has gained regional and even national recognition. For those who know our programs, Chewonki is a recognized leader in what we offer young people and the results we achieve in creating lifetime stewards of our natural world. Chewonki has become synonymous with innovation; we are known as an organization of active self-starters who teach with passion and who engage our communities.

Chewonki’s programs have grown tremendously. Each year we touch the lives of nearly 35,000 young people in programs that range from one hour to one semester. There are no limits to opportunities for life-changing experiences at Chewonki, and our core programs reflect this diversity.

Chewonki’s Core Programs

Semester School—A challenging academic program for high-school juniors and seniors.

Camp for Boys—A traditional boys camp that encourages personal growth, teamwork, and an appreciation for the natural world.

Camp for Girls—A wilderness camp that provides opportunities for girls to become skilled at wilderness and backcountry travel.

Wilderness Trips For Teens—A wide variety of wilderness trips and workshops for teens.

Wilderness Vacations for Adults and Families -- Big Eddy Campground, Debsconeag Lakes Wilderness Camps, Family Camp, Workshops, and Guided Adventures for people of all ages.

Outdoor Classroom for Schools—Overnight, wilderness trip, and day programs for schools.

Traveling Natural History Programs—Live presentations that explore the incredible diversity and complexity of the world around us.

Sustainability Office—The hub of Chewonki’s leading-edge conservation and energy curriculum.