At Dark Waters, campers often remark how hectic their lives are away from camp.  Because of stress from school work, sports practice, music lessons and other responsibilities, campers look forward to a more relaxed time at camp.  Dark Waters' daily schedule allows for plenty of organized activities, while still allowing abundant free time to relay and enjoy just playing with friends.

Campers select their daily events in a free-choice format.  At each assembly, counselors explain the activities offered for that period.  Campers then choose an activity that interests them.  The staff encourages campers to participate in activities that are familiar to them, but also to try new endeavors as well.  The camp strives to include a wide variety of choices at each assembly.  Special events and theme days, such as carnivals and backwards days, are also scheduled each session.  Regular off-site trips are an important aspect of camp life.  Day and overnight events are planned to serve a wide variety of interests including berry picking, river tubing, county fairs, hiking, visits to local state parks and canoe trips.