History of Camp DREAM
Our Beginnings
In 2003, with the support of Vermont Housing & Conservation Board, Vermont Land Trust, and many small donors from DREAM’s programming, we purchased the land for Camp DREAM Adventure Base. Our vision was to create an inclusive outdoor space where DREAMers from diverse backgrounds could learn, explore, and grow as leaders.
Early Days
Initially, Camp DREAM was a simple campsite among the trees, with canvas tents set up in both summer and winter. Campers explored the forest and shores of Metcalf Pond, gathering around campfires to cook and share stories.
Growth and Development
Homestead and Garden
Early gardening efforts took place within the protective rock walls of an old settler’s barn foundation. As our needs grew, we built a picnic shelter near the Homestead and garden, where most of our meals are now enjoyed. Thanks to American Flatbread, we added an outdoor pizza oven, perfect for creating fresh, garden-to-table pizzas.
Sleeping Structures
The first permanent sleeping structures, including three-sided shelters and a magical treehouse, were introduced to provide cozy, rustic accommodations. These structures are still in use today, offering a simple living experience without running water or electricity.
Key Milestones
Camp DREAM Bus
To address transportation needs, we outfitted the old Camp DREAM bus to partially run on waste vegetable oil, reducing our carbon footprint. The bus, adorned with murals and poetry magnets, became a fun and memorable part of the camp experience. Later, it was repurposed as our camp kitchen, serving meals assembly-line-style before finally retiring in 2017.
DREAM Lodge
After more than a decade of fundraising, we built the DREAM Lodge in 2017. Completed in 2018, the Lodge features a professional kitchen, performance stage, gear storage, and A/C. It is partially solar-powered and serves as a versatile space for cooking, shelter, and activities.
Recent Additions
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Expanded tree orchard and hobbit holes.
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New bathhouse and a weatherized winter cabin for extra support during colder months.
Future Goals
We aim to enhance our waterfront offerings with more canoes, life jackets, and a boathouse to ensure safe and fun water activities for all DREAMers. Consider donating some supplies and equipment or contact us if you have boats/gear to contribute.
Year-Round Adventures
Camp DREAM provides a home-away-from-home year-round, with seasonal activities including:
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Winter: Playing broomball on frozen Metcalf Pond, sledding, and staying warm in canvas tents with hot chocolate made on a woodfired stove.
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Summer: Exploring the forest and shores, enjoying fresh garden produce, and making pizzas in the outdoor oven.
