Summer fun was in full swing at Rising Eagle Day Camp. For four weeks, children from Lower Brule and Crow Creek reservations were bused to and from St. Joseph’s Indian School for an experience filled with laughter, learning and … eggs? Yes, eggs!
Each day brought new adventures, both indoors and outdoors. In Arts & Crafts, the kids got creative with beads, feathers, glue and imagination. One camper shared that her favorite part of camp was making dreamcatchers, carefully threading each loop and decorating it with her personal flair. Another camper, Loveighya, said, “Making a paper snake was my favorite!” Her smile said it all.
Outdoor games were a highlight for campers of all ages. Causing so many giggles was the egg toss challenge. Campers teamed up, gently tossing eggs back and forth. The cheering from teammates filled the field as they shouted things like, “Throw it soft! Don’t scramble the egg!”
With every successful catch, they took a step farther apart. The tension built as eggs began to break — some in the air, some mid-catch and a few with spectacular splats on the ground! One girl exclaimed, “My partner threw the egg, and it exploded in my hands!” She described the gooey mess as “slimy and wet” but couldn’t stop laughing.
One egg even hit the ground and bounced without breaking. The kids were convinced it had to be hard-boiled. But the truth cracked open the next round when that very egg met its messy end.
Beyond crafts and games, campers enjoyed special field trips, including a day at the local movie theater, where they cooled off and watched a film with friends. Each day at camp included breakfast, lunch and a snack, making sure every child was fueled for fun.
Lakota Studies was another meaningful part of the day. One camper, Kash, proudly said, “I know the numbers in Lakota and a few words!” Through language and storytelling, campers deepened their understanding of their culture, who they are and where they come from. Every morning, they start class with the Lakota Flag Song and a Lakota introduction: a greeting followed by their name and where they are from.
The true heart of day camp, though, came through the people. One camper said, “I love everybody here.” Another chimed in, “The camp counselors are fun and super nice!” As camp came to a close, a group of boys declared, “We’re coming back next year!”
From slimy egg splats to heartfelt friendships, Rising Eagle Day Camp created more than just memories — it nurtured community, culture and connection … And that’s no yolk!
Watch Rising Eagle Day Camp in action — check out the fun in this video!
