History

Located in Muskoka on Lake of Bays, New Moon began as a family lodge in the early 1930’s. It was transformed into a children’s camp in the 1950’s under other ownership until 1959, when it was purchased by Al Goodman and Bert Fine (who ran Bathurst Manor Day Camp, later renamed to Forest Valley). After their inaugural summer of 1960, Al assumed full ownership, beginning a marvellous and long-lasting reputation in the camping community. The camp underwent further upgrades throughout the 1960’s under Al’s leadership.

In the 1980’s, Al’s son Jack became heavily involved in camp and took on the Program Director/Assistant Director role in 1984. Soon after that, Sue joined the head staff, and in 1994, Jack and Sue took full ownership of New Moon. Since that time, New Moon has undergone a second-generation of extensive rebuilding, from the complete rebuild of every camper cabin, tennis courts, docks and major structures including the Rec Hall and Dining Room. The camp also expanded to the east and west. adding more facilities and waterfront.  To this day, New Moon continues to flourish, providing campers the same warm and enriching experience that has existed for over 60 years. In 2011, their son Zack became the Program Director and since 2016, he has acted as the Assistant Director, continuing the family legacy.

Once you get the ‘New Moon Bug’, it lasts a lifetime and thousands of campers and staff have wonderful, lasting memories of their time at camp. We are now fortunate to have 3rd generation campers!

New Moon offers a tremendous facility – a perfect blend of more than 130 acres of forested hiking trails, exceptional playing fields and a beautiful waterfront on the Lake of Bays. Surrounded by mature pine trees, our newly rebuilt camper cabins have washrooms and electricity and are conveniently located to all activity areas. Our waterfront is second to none and the grounds and buildings are meticulously maintained, with an exceptional range of sports facilities and programs. Each year there are improvements made, but the uniquely warm and friendly atmosphere at New Moon has never changed. That sense of family, belonging and inclusion is truly special and is felt by everyone who steps through the gate, providing us with our greatest source of pride.