The legend of wish boats September 2, 2011

Legend has it that Pine Tree Camp is magical. Part of that magic are the wish boats, making each camper’s wish come true.

Each night of the session, one cabin enjoys a more rustic experience at Pine Tree Camp’s overnight site. While this alone may be a wish come true for some, there are more wishes yet to come.

You see, each camper also gets a chance to create a wish boat during their time at the overnight site. Wooden boats are given to each camper, along with materials for decorating their boat. Campers are asked to write or draw their wish on their boat.

“For some, their wish is very private and they choose to keep their wish in their heart,” explains Greg King, Program Director. “We want each camper to participate how they’re comfortable with wish boats.”

Once everyone is done decorating, campers head to a small beach nearby. With the assistance of the counselors, a candle is placed in the boat, lit, and the boat is set a sail on North Pond. When the candle blows out, legend has it that the campers wish will come true.

“All eyes are on those boats as they float away,” King smiles.

Kings says he’s seen some amazing wishes over the years – wishes for money, ponies, family reunifications, or to live at Pine Tree Camp forever.

“The ones that get me are the wishes to be able to see again or not have seizures anymore,” King says. “It just puts things into such perspective I think.”

Though it is not known who started the tradition or when it began exactly, it is estimated that the legend of the wish boats has been part of Pine Tree Camp for over 30 years. As each summer ends at Pine Tree Camp, it is thought that the wishes linger in the air of North Pond, keeping the magic alive for the next summer.