The Kawanhee cove, with its fine sandy beach and clear sparkling water, is unsurpassed as a safe and ideal setting for every conceivable type of fresh water sport.

During the first day of camp each boy takes a swimming test. Some will do the Lake Swim, a distance of 1/4 mile. Some may swim across the cove, a distance of 100 yards, and some will swim between the docks, a distance of 100 feet. Boys who cannot comfortably swim 100 feet are given daily instruction until they can.

During swim periods, all boys recieve instruction geared to their individual swimming ability. Kawanhee uses the American Red Cross Swimming Levels in its swimming program. The morning free swim is at 11:00, and the afternoon free swim is at 4:00. If the day has been hot, an evening free swim will be enjoyed by all.

Fully accredited lifeguards are stationed on the docks any time boys are in the water. The buddy system is followed, and no boy is allowed into the water until he has a buddy. Each boy must pass both swimming and boating tests before he is allowed the privilege of using the boats. A Beach Guard is on duty to monitor all boating activities, and to emphasize safety.

Other swimming activities include the popular Ten Mile Swim, where boys swim laps in order to complete ten miles by the end of the summer, and the special Bass Rock Swim, a distance of 3/4 of a mile. The big Aquatic Meet is held on a Saturday afternoon, and is a time when Greys and Maroons compete for honors. There are swimming and boating events, and the competition is keen and exciting.

Kawanhee also conducts Red Cross classes in Basic Recue and Water Safety (BLS) for boys 11 years and older, and Lifeguard Training (LGT) for boys 15 years and older. Graduates of the LGT class become certified lifeguards, a difficult but worthwhile achievement!