Camp Winadu, the premier all boys summer camp, has been providing boys a well-rounded traditional camp experience in the Berkshire Mountains since 1927. The camp’s soul is rooted in its values, where all boys can be successful and be their best selves. Every summer brings new Winadu adventures, but a couple things always remain the same – time flies and camp friends become family. Campers are supported by directors Jared and Jill Shapiro & Alissa & Mike Girling who have an unwavering commitment to their campers. As we celebrate summer 100, we are grateful for the opportunity to impact the lives of so many and to continue and build upon the proud legacy that defines Camp Winadu.
In today’s world, where boys face increasing social and academic pressures, what role do you believe camp plays in their overall development?
- Camp, especially at Winadu, gives boys the freedom to just be boys. As you noted, the social and academic pressures at home are intense – amplified even more by social media, where every kid is performing their life for an audience. At an all-boys camp, it’s the opposite. There’s no social hierarchy, no pressure to “be cool,” and very little competition. That environment allows boys to become comfortable in their own skin, learn how to communicate, and build confidence through genuine friendships. Without judgment, campers often try things at camp they might never do at home – like belting out a song or dancing wildly at the end-of-meal or rainy day sing-alongs. Those moments, full of laughter and freedom, are exactly what help boys grow.
What truly sets Camp Winadu apart from other all-boys camps?
- Winadu is different – and it’s hard to capture in words. The best way to describe it? Our boys come back and finish their experience as campers. We believe it’s the individual attention and care each camper feels, combined with being part of 100 years of one camp family, supported by our staff, leadership team, and Directors. Every new camper is personally met by the Winadu Directors in their home before their first summer, helping them feel known and comfortable even before stepping off the bus. Our program is another difference: while our core values stay the same, no two summers are alike. Campers can expect new energy, fresh ideas, and plenty of surprises. With boys from 18+ states, Winadu is truly a diversified community – another thing that sets us apart.
Winadu is known as a well-rounded traditional summer camp for boys. What types of boys thrive most at Winadu, and what qualities do you hope they take home at the end of the summer?
- Great question. We take pride in the well-roundedness of our program, where nearly all boys thrive. The key to thriving at Winadu is openness – being willing to try new things and make lifelong friends. Campers do it all: play basketball, learn to sail, go on hikes, and create projects in our craft shack. Kindness is equally important – boys who are considerate to each other and to the entire Winadu community really shine. We see camp as a partnership with our families, and over the years, our campers grow into young men who embody community, confidence, thoughtfulness, and resilience.
What one tradition or moment at camp captures the heart of Winadu?
- Campership! This is our Friday night tradition where the entire camp comes together as one. You truly have to see it to believe it – we even have a short documentary called The History of Campership. The camp sits in the round and recognizes campers for their accomplishments throughout the week. Every Friday, our in-house band kicks things off with a concert, and soon the whole camp is singing and dancing — the energy is electric. Traditions within the tradition include the campers’ favorite: shoulder rides! Campership is also part of our Winadu Circle, our six-value system, with Campership representing caring about others. Friday night celebrates that value, ending the week and starting a new one together as one camp family.
What advice do you have for families considering Winadu for summer 2027?
- Visit camp – there’s no better way to understand Winadu than experiencing it firsthand and meeting the people who will be caring for your son. Our in-summer Rookie Days are perfect for this. Rookies and their parents join us on a regular camp day to see the real Winadu in action. Campers eat in the dining hall, explore the lake, meet staff, and get a feel for daily life at camp. Parents tour with a Director, observe activities, and have time to ask questions. Choosing a camp is a multi-year decision, and seeing Winadu in person is truly special.
If you had to describe Camp Winadu in three words, what would they be, and why?
- Brotherhood, Heart, Legacy – for almost 100 summers, Winadu has been a place where time stands still, boys focus on friendships, and everyone feels a deep sense of belonging. It’s where songs are sung, memories are made, and a meaningful legacy is lived every summer. Friendships grow into family through shared experiences, and through wins, losses, laughter, and growth, Winadu brothers know they will always have each other.
About the Contributors:
Jared and Jill Shapiro – Owners/Directors
Jared’s history with Camp Winadu dates back to 1984 when he began as a camper. He spent 12 consecutive summers as a camper, counselor, group leader. Jill spent her summers growing up at Camp Kippewa. In 2012, Jared and his wife, Jill returned to Winadu. They live in Millburn, NJ and have three sons. Together, they carry on the beauty and traditions of the unique Winadu culture. They met at University of Wisconsin where their two sons, Ethan and Reid currently attend, and Bennett is still a camper at Winadu. As a family they are die-hard Wisconsin Badger fans waiting for their first basketball or football national championship.
Alissa and Mike Girling – Owners/Directors
In 2010, Alissa & Mike started at Winadu. Alissa and Mike met at sleepaway camp in 2002 and they instantly knew that camping was their future together. Alissa (a proud Hoosier) came back to camping after a career as a school guidance counselor and Mike a soccer professional. Alissa is involved in directing all areas of camp but focuses on camper recruitment and communication with camp families to ensure a seamless camp experience. Mike – who wears every hat at Winadu – oversees staffing, food service, maintenance, and ensures that the “behind the scenes” aspects of camp life function smoothly and perfectly. Alissa, Mike, and their daughters Hannah and Emma reside in New City, New York,
We asked Alissa what her favorite Winadu event was – and she has 4 letters ZORK!!! (our camp wide shaving cream fight)
We asked Mike what his favorite Winadu program is – Mike loves World Cup Day (a full day soccer tournament) and of course, his summer all camp birthday party.