French Woods

French Woods (French Woods Festival of the Performing Arts) is a co-ed overnight summer camp for ages 7–17 in Hancock, New York (Catskills), built around an “individual choice” model: instead of one fixed track, campers design their own schedule and can go deep in one area (like musical theatre or dance) or mix multiple interests (like rock band + circus + tennis). Offerings span theatre, music, art, dance, circus, and more, plus traditional camp options like waterfront activities, sports, and horseback riding—so it works for both “all-in performing arts kids” and kids who want variety.

The day is structured into 6 activity periods: campers pick three “majors” at the start of the session (these stay consistent for the full session) and then choose three “minors” daily at breakfast, which lets them keep a stable skill focus while trying something new each day. Younger campers get extra guidance and supervision, while older campers can take on added responsibility and may have opportunities like community service/legacy projects and college-prep options.

For planning and budget, French Woods runs flexible summer lengths in 2026: four main 3-week sessions (plus a 1-week “trial” session at the end of the summer for new campers), and families can combine sessions for 3, 6, 9, or 12 weeks.

June 6 - August 30, 2026

199 Bouchoux Brook Rd

Hancock, NY 13783

• 1 week trial sessions are $2,150
• 3 week sessions range from $6,750 - $8,000
• 6 week sessions range from $11,195 - $12,495
• 9 week sessions are $14,495
• 12 week sessions are $16,400

Programs can be registered for online here.

(607) 637-8400

admin@frenchwoods.com

What Parents Like‍

• Parents and alumni consistently describe French Woods as a place where kids who love musical theatre/dance/music can go all in—with a busy, creative atmosphere and lots of performance opportunities. (1, 2)
• On camp review sites, parents mention multi-year returns and how much their kids love it—especially when they’ve found “their thing” (circus, theatre, etc.). (3)
• Families like that campers can combine focused training (majors) with daily variety (minors), so a kid can do, say, theatre + dance + art without being locked into one lane. (4, 5)
• Multiple discussions describe a strong sense of community—kids surrounded by other creative peers, often feeling “seen” and inspired. (6, 7)

‍What Parents Think Could Be Improved‍

• Recent firsthand accounts describe French Woods as a large, go-go-go camp; kids who are sensitive, easily overwhelmed, or need a quieter/smaller environment may struggle, especially being away from home. (6.5)
• Parent forums note that there may be competition and a wide range of experience levels—great for driven kids, potentially intimidating for others. (1.5, 8)
• Some parents mention it can attract wealthier families and wish for more diversity—worth considering for fit and your child’s comfort. (6.75)

‍Our Take

‍French Woods is best viewed as a high-energy performing arts universe: incredible for kids who want a packed schedule, lots of peers who love the arts, and a camp where performance is central—not a side activity. The main watch-out is fit: if your child is sensitive to stimulation or prefers a smaller, calmer environment, the “big camp + constant activity” vibe may be too much.