This New England Lake Destination Is Like Camp For Grown Ups

As a kid, few things were more exciting than school getting out for the summer, and making your way to summer camp. In New England, there is a particular lake destination that is filled with so much fun that it is essentially a camp for grown-ups.

Before we dive in, what exactly does "camp for grown-ups" mean? Well, it's not all that much different from what it would mean for kids other than maybe the beverage choices. We're talking swimming, fishing, water sports, biking, hiking, and buffet-style food. All of this has to be at your fingertips because if it's a true camp, your living quarters are on site, and these activities are outside your door.

In terms of setting, there's something special about lake life being the scene for such a camp. Perhaps it's because it's a more consistent body of water than the ocean. The lake is typically calm, around the same water temperature, and receptive to all sorts of thrilling adventures.

On Lake Champlain in Vergennes, Vermont, upon driving a winding road for miles on end, you will arrive at a view of glistening water that is being hugged by mountaintops. The destination is called Basin Harbor. They call themselves a resort and boat club, but really, they are so much more.

There are cabins spread throughout the campus. There's also a main lodge at the center where many of the golf carts you ride around the grounds are parked.

In terms of activities, you name it, they have it. A full golf course and driving range allow players of all skill levels. The tennis courts are nicely placed in private settings that block noise or heavy heat.

The 700-acre property is bike-friendly. It's the type of place where you can easily park your car upon arrival and not use it again until you leave.

Trails along Lake Champlain are great for long or short hikes. In terms of swimming, the lake has a bouncy diving board and two water trampolines. If you prefer just to float, there's a water raft or stand-up paddle boards to rent. There's also a pool with a great tiki bar.

If you want to get adventurous, boating excursions are arranged right there at the foot of the lake. Test your waterskiing, wakeboarding, or water-surfing skills at any time. The friendly staff comes from all over the world to work there over the summer, very much like a sleepaway summer camp. In fact, much of the staff stays on the property in their own living quarters.

Perhaps grown-ups care more about the dining options than kids do. Although, like the kids, adults will have a hard time coming inside to eat as opposed to staying out and playing.

There are meal plan options that enable your dining plans to be as simple (and cashless) as possible. The main dining hall usually has a buffet. There's also a themed outdoor and waterside buffet at least twice per week. If you prefer a quick grab-and-go bite, there is a food truck always onsite or a chef making sushi in the main lodge.

Also, like sleepaway camp, on a rainy day, the main lodge is filled with board games to grab and family-sized tables to gather around. Occasionally, a musician will take over the piano to provide some background cheer. Again, the only difference for adults here is that the indoor tiki hut provides a nice menu of island drinks if you desire.

Of course, kids and families are welcome at Basin Harbor. It's dog-friendly too. Really, the only challenge you will come across during your time here is that it is very hard to leave.

Basin Harbor is located at 4800 Basin Harbor Road, in Vergennes, Vermont.

The waves are starting to cooperate here in New England, so now is the time to get outfitted in the raddest gear. Here, I will take you through five of the best outlets to get surf attire in Massachusetts.

Over the past ten years, the shores of Rhode Island and Massachusetts have become hotspots for catching some of the best waves on the Atlantic coast. In recognition of the region fully adopting surf culture, major retail brands have opened locations in the area over the past year. Pairing national chains with local small business household names has made the area an east coast surfing hotspot. Jack Johnson, a Hawaiian north shore native, and the heart and soul of modern acoustic surf music, headlined the 2022 Levitate Music and Arts Festival.

The question is simple but the answer is complex. Obviously, the most crucial component to proper surf gear is a good surfboard. Many outlets allow you to rent, but once you are ready to take up the sport regularly, it's imperative that you have the board that is right for you. The best friend of the surfboard is a wetsuit. Often these items can be purchased from the same location. Though you can order wetsuits on Amazon or other digital retail outlets, they all seem to fit differently. Trust me, a loose wetsuit where water gets in the neck is one of the more initiating feelings in the water. Other necessary surfboard accessories include wax and a leash.

Finally, no surfer is properly equipped without attire to show you are a surfer when you are out of the water. Some of the stores we will list sell clothing that is representative of surf culture. In fact, one particular outlet makes their clothing with the beach in mind. They use recycled garments and often lead philanthropic efforts to help make our oceans cleaner.

Whether you are looking for a new board to hang ten with during the summer of 2023, or for athletic wear to sport while surf training in the winters, these five outlets for surf attire in New England are open and ready for you to cruise right in.

Where: 201 Newbury St.

What can I get here? The most comfortable and flexible athletic wear that you can feel great training or lounging in.

Selected item: Sunday Performance Jogger - perfect to wear to the beach during those cold sunrise mornings where the swell is best. Or - to simply lay on the coach in and watch football. Eight color options are available. Cost $98. www.vuori.com

Where: 1871 Ocean St.

What can I get here? Everything from boardshorts (year around) to fleece pullovers to longboards. And they also sell skateboards.

Selected item: Your first surfboard. A youth-sized soft-top (7 or 8 ft) can come fully equipped with a leash and wetsuit. If you are a youth beginner, this is all you need to jump right in. In addition, they often have boards from Joel Tudor or hand-crafted longboards. Regardless, Levitate always offers the highest quality boards perfect or east coast waves. Cost starts at $450 and up.
www.levitatebrand.com

Where: 131 Newbury St.

What can I get here? Denim made from environmentally sound materials, jumpsuits, and the most comfortable terry cloth sweatshirts imaginable. This brand was started by the most well-known and decorated pro surfers in the country, Kelly Slater. All of their clothing is made with sustainability at the forefront of manufacturing. You can read about their environmental efforts here.

Selected item: Hightide hoodie. Described as incredibly soft with legendary comfort, this is the perfect item to throw on after you have completed a surf session and are looking to wrap-up, sit in the sand, and marvel back at the ocean. This sells for $138.
www.outerknown.com

Where: 376 Gannet Rd.

What can I get here? NorEaster has established itself as the premier outlet for surfboards in New England. They have the largest selection of boards with a wide range of accessories. Their staff are professional surfers themselves, so they provide you with expertise that helps you to match your skill level with the right equipment.

Selected item: Daybag surfboard travel bag. Heading to San Diego because you can’t wait to get back on your board? These protective bags are durable enough to be tossed around in baggage claim while keeping your fully waxed board nice and safe. Cost starts at $149 depending upon size. www.noreastersurfshop.com

Where: 74 Narragansett Ave

What can I get here? You have all the shiny new gear now, how about setting up some lessons? This legendary, family-owned shop is in its 22nd year of business. You can walk through the wind-chiming doors to simply get a forecast or reserve your spot in an upcoming camp. Equally as important, this has become the spot to get Rhode Island branded surf swag. Trucker caps with gnarly logos fly off the shelves on a weekly basis. If you surf, you must show it!

Selected item: Narragansett Richardson trucker cap with “Surf Rhode Island” zip-up hoodie, combined cost of $73. www.narragansettsurfandskate.com