Such a bitter sweet day today was! Not only are we closing out on a fabulous Session 9; these campers gave us an unforgettable last day to our 2026 season.

Morning storms shifted their presence and the sun held steady so that our first canoe trip could get their paddles in the water. The waters of the New River brings joy to everyone that gets to be in it and gave everyone a smooth and refreshing trip down ending with a lunch at the take out. Nothing beats a delicious sandwich after a day on the river!

By afternoon, the classic summer thunderstorms made an appearance and shifted our plans. Making the most of every break in the storms, our second canoe trip still got to float down the river... just minus the canoes. While some skipped rocks, others fished, threw frisbees or floated down to Cheerio New River's old canoe launch just in time to beat the next storm rolling in. Lifeguard Trout was out and about on duty the whole afternoon with everyone!

Winding down the day, the fun was far from over. The blue and red teams battled it out during Castle Ball! It is a debate on who won the campers versus staff round. Our Friday night pizza party tradition kicked off our last night. Campers gathered for energizers then headed down to closing ceremony where we celebrated our Honor Camper and recognized our Milestone and Last Year campers. Closing ceremony was rounded out with our camp magic tradition that everyone so loves. You'll have to ask your camper more about that!

And then came everyone's favorite finale—a S'mores Party!  Campers gathered together to roast marshmallows, build the perfect s'more, and enjoy some tunes to dance the night away. Sticky fingers, chocolate-covered smiles, and lots of laughter made for the perfect ending to an already amazing day.

From canoes to thunderstorms, energizers to honor camper, and river adventures to s'mores, today was a perfect reminder of why summers at Cheerio New River are so special. Here's to the campers that make this place our little slice of paradise!!