The 1970s were a defining chapter in Adirondack Camp’s history—a time of bold adventures, new traditions, and unforgettable characters. From the first climbing tower rising above the trees to the spirited dances with Moss Lake Camp, this decade blended the rustic roots of the North Woods with an evolving sense of freedom, exploration, and camaraderie. Campers paddled farther, climbed higher, and made memories that would echo through the generations. This page pulls together pieces of that vibrant era—through catalogues, camper-written Eagles, grainy yearbook snapshots, and the tabloid-style humor of The Tom-Tom—to preserve and celebrate what made those summers legendary.

As Adirondack Camp evolved through the 1970s, a series of new structures took shape—each designed to support the growing camp community while preserving the wild spirit of The Point.

Early 1970s

Nature Building → Summer Office Originally built as a space for environmental education and nature programming, this building was later repurposed as the summer office—a quieter role, but still central to camp life.

Crazy Horse Cabin Added as a camper cabin with a character all its own, Crazy Horse became one of the most memorable and talked-about bunks of the era.

Mid-1970s

New Junior-Senior Perch (Bathhouse) A much-needed update to camper facilities, this lakeside bathhouse served the Junior and Senior lines with upgraded plumbing and easy access to the waterfront.

New Kitchen Storeroom Behind the scenes, the growing camp population called for greater food storage. A new storeroom supported the kitchen in keeping hungry campers fed and happy.

Late 1970s

First Climbing Tower Constructed This bold addition marked the start of Adirondack’s vertical adventures. The tower introduced climbing as a structured program and sparked a decades-long tradition of scaling new heights.

New Barn for Horseback Riding Built to centralize and support the camp’s growing riding program, the barn brought horses into the heart of camp activities and added rustic beauty to the grounds.

Sailing Fleet Upgrade

420s Acquired from Moss Lake Camp A major upgrade for the sailing program, these sleek boats brought speed and challenge to the lake. (Regret still lingers over not snagging their legendary war canoes.)

Notable Events & Camp Lore: Stories That Echo Through the Pines

The 1970s were full of legendary moments that helped shape the Adirondack Camp experience—acts of grit, spirited traditions, and unforgettable nights that still ripple through camp lore.

Early 1970s

Climbing Rogers Slide

Four 10-year-old Intermediates, including Brian McGillicuddy, along with two staff members led by Mark Birmingham, successfully climbed Rogers Slide—an impressive feat for such a young group. The moment was more than a one-off achievement: it marked the beginning of a lifelong climbing friendship between Brian and Mark that would span the next five decades.

Mid-1970s

War Canoe Challenges to Lake George Village

In a bold attempt to push the limits of endurance and teamwork, several groups of campers set out to paddle to Lake George Village and back in a single day. Led by staff member Chris Geissman, these efforts became legendary for their difficulty, ambition, and the camaraderie they inspired—whether the goal was reached or not.

Late 1970s

Moss Lake Takeover and the First Coed Dance

In an unexpected twist to a scheduled social event, campers from Moss Lake arrived and took over the Intermediate Line (now the Girls Line) for a coed overnight dance. The event sparked a new tradition of “home-and-home” socials that would later be woven into the camp’s official programming. The cultural shift marked the beginning of a more connected summer experience between Adirondack and neighboring camps.

Big Moose Inn Staff Gathering

Following one of these historic dances, Adirondack staff gathered at the Big Moose Inn for a celebration that many remember as the best staff party of the decade. The night became part of staff lore—capping off a summer with music, laughter, and a shared sense of something special.