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4-H Camp Owahta

Summer Season 2026 Begins July 5th

Now Hiring for 4-H Camp Owahta

Seasonal positions include: Jr. and Sr. Counselors, Nurse, Kitchen Assistant and Manager, Assistant Director, as well as Directors for Day camp, Waterfront, Outdoor Adventure Program, Nature Program, Music and Theatre, Garden and Small Animals, as well as Arts and Crafts and Lifeguards! Apply Today!

4-H Camp Owahta Summer Enrollment Begins February 16, 2026!

About

Nestled in the scenic hills of Cortland County, 4-H Camp Owahta is a vibrant summer camp community where youth build confidence, develop new skills, and form lifelong friendships, all while experiencing the joy of the outdoors. Operated by Cornell Cooperative Extension Cortland County, Camp Owahta blends the traditions of classic summer camp with the hands-on learning and leadership values that define 4-H.

At 4-H Camp Owahta, every day is an adventure. Campers engage in a wide variety of programs including outdoor recreation, environmental education, arts and crafts, swimming, team-building, archery, sports, nature exploration, STEM activities, and leadership development. With supportive, well-trained staff and a welcoming community, campers thrive as they discover new interests and challenge themselves in a safe, inclusive environment.

campers on skis
Day Camp

Where Adventure Meets Learning

Campers ages 5 to 12 join us Monday through Friday, with lunch included, 9:00 AM–4:00 PM, with an optional Thursday night sleepover for an extra taste of camp magic. Our Day Camp Program is built to nurture curiosity, confidence, and connection through a blend of structured activities and time to explore, play, and discover.

Through camp, campers learn to:
Appreciate the natural world
Build teamwork and communication skills
Problem-solve creatively
Practice independence and responsibility
Explore new hobbies, interests, and challenges
Grow confidence through success, and resilience

Whether they’re hiking wooded trails, trying archery for the first time, creating art under the pines, or building skills in the water through swimming lessons, campers head home each day with big memories, new friendships, and life skills that last long after summer ends.

night fire
Residential Camp

Your Week to Unplug, Explore, and Belong.

A classic week-at-camp experience for ages 8 to 15, Sunday through Friday will enjoy a week full of fresh air, big laughs, and new friendships. Campers spend their days exploring Camp Owahta through a mix of adventure and creativity, from swimming, fishing, hiking, archery, and the ropes course to arts and crafts, music, team games, and nature discovery. Evenings are the best part: campers wind down with cabin time, camp traditions, and plenty of moments to connect with friends.

Breakfast, lunch, dinner, and a daily snack are included, so campers stay fueled for every activity. Each night ends the way camp should, around the campfire, with songs, stories, and unforgettable memories under the stars.

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New Programming for Summer 2026

Step Into Leadership with the 4-H Camp Owahta LIT program!

The Leader-in-Training (LIT) Program is designed for teens ages 14 and 15, who are interested in developing their leadership skills and learning what it means to be a positive role model in a camp setting and beyond. Throughout the week LITs will participate in traditional camp activities in addition to hands-on activities, team-building challenges and group discussions that foster confidence, teamwork, communication, and responsibility. Throughout the week they will form close bonds with their peers while exploring their strengths and opportunities for growth.

Participants may assist camp staff with daily activities, set-up, and clean-up, while learning the fundamentals of leadership and camp operations. LITs do not supervise campers independently and are closely supported by staff throughout the program.

Offered: July 19-24, 2026 or August 2-7, 2026

Sunset Session

Sunset Session is our evening camp just for teens ages 12 to 15! Packed with Camp Owahta favorites like games, activities, and time with friends, without the overnight commitment. It’s perfect for busy summer schedules or for teens who want a low-pressure way to ease into camp life while still getting the adventure and connection that make camp so special. All the camp vibes, no sleeping bag required!

Offered: July 20-25, 2026

Directions

We are located 45 minutes south of Syracuse, NY, and 50 minutes North of Binghamton, NY.

Our address is:

4826 Knecht Rd., McGraw, NY 13101

From route 81-Exit #10, go south on Route 41 through McGraw to Maybury Road. Take Maybury Road North 3 Miles to 4 -H Camp Road. Entrance is on the right side of the road where our camp sign is. 

Find us on Google Maps.

CIT Program Updated for 2026!

Learn, Lead and Grow with the 4-H Camp Owahta CIT Program!

The Counselor-in-Training (CIT) Program is intended for teens ages 16, who are interested in working with youth, gaining practical experience and preparing for a camp counselor role. CITs work closely with staff to learn strategies for camper supervision, activity facilitation techniques, risk management protocols, and safety practices.

Participants will shadow counselors, assist with leading and planning activities, and gradually take on increased responsibility throughout the week under supervision. CITs will track their growth throughout the week through self reflection, group discussions and goal-setting with an emphasis on leadership development, problem-solving skills, interpersonal skills, and teamwork.

The CIT program offers a meaningful hands-on summer experience for youth looking to build transferable workplace skills. Participants will leave the program with increased confidence, experience working with children and peers, a clear understanding of professional expectations, and practical skills such as responsibility and effective communication, that can be applied in a wide range of employment and volunteer settings.

Offered: July 12-17, 2026 or July 26- 31, 2026

Contact

Rachel Bortin: Outdoor Recreation/Camp Director owahta@cornell.edu (607) 391-2660