There’s a language at the Lair that isn’t in any dictionary. You can’t ask ChatGPT what these things mean. Words like “Greet,” “Head,” and “Rookie” are more than just terms; they offer a window into the inner workings of camp life.
The Lair doesn’t just have activities. It has a vocabulary that weaves its way through everything, from the thwack of arrows in archery to the glow of the campfire that marks the day’s end. This is a world where “Hail” is a goodbye,” “Buy-in” is a challenge, and “Disco Bingo” is exactly what it sounds like. Welcome to the Lair lexicon.
Archery
Archery at the Lair is a chance to channel your inner Katniss Everdeen or Robin Hood. Sign up in the store. Hike up to the Teen Lodge. Grab a bow. Led by skilled staffers who moonlight as range masters, these sessions start with a safety lesson and basic technique. Then, it’s go time. Whoosh. Arrows fly, targets quiver. Maybe you’ll hit a bullseye. Maybe not. Either way, it feels cool.
Art Arbor
The beating heart of creativity at Camp Gold. It smells like clay, paint, and sunshine. This is where the art director and crew (always smiling, always splattered in something) spin order from chaos, coaxing lanyards from strings, bowls from mud, and patterns from color. There’s enough tie-dye supplies to outfit a Grateful Dead tour. Stop by for Adult Art Hour or just to unleash your inner Picasso. At the Art Arbor, there are no mistakes, just happy accidents and colorful memories.
Art Grove
At Camp Blue, the Art Grove overflows with its own kind of creative juice. Clay spins into bowls and cups. Tie-dye bursts like fireworks. Lanyards twist and loop until—voilà—a masterpiece. It’s the same as the Art Arbor at Camp Gold, just with a different name.
Big C
Big C is the anthem that sets the tone for the week. Sung loud and proud by staffers at Saturday dinner, it’s a Cal fight song that brings the energy. With a dance that turns the Dining Hall into a sea of motion, it’s a raw display of school spirit, getting everyone fired up and ready for what’s to come.
Bug Juice
Bug Juice is the camp’s secret weapon. It’s served at lunch and dinner, in a cooler at the front of the Dining Hall and pitchers on every table. It’s sweet, tangy, and totally addictive. No one knows exactly what’s in it, but once you take a sip, you’ll be hooked. And yep, it’s there at Greet too, the first taste of camp when you roll in. Come for the mystery, stay for the flavor.
Burger Shack
The place to go for post-dinner eats at the Lair. Home of the Burger Cook, and home to all things grilled or fried—burgers, hot dogs, and other savory snacks that hit the spot.
Buy In
“Buy in” is the Lair’s secret sauce. It’s the full-throttle dive into camp’s wild side. It’s signing up for the belly flop contest, owning the tie-dye runway show, or jumping into the Golden Revue just because. It’s that “why not?” attitude—going all in, making new friends, and squeezing every ounce of fun out of the day. At the Lair, the best memories are made when you throw yourself into the action, no hesitation, no holding back.
Buy in: that why not? attitude—going all in, making new friends, and squeezing every ounce of fun out of the day.
Campfire
It’s not just a fire; it’s the call to action, a rallying cry echoing through camp to gather everyone for a night of skits, songs, and belly laughs. “Campfire” isn’t just the name of the flames, it’s the Lair’s catch-all term for the shows themselves, i.e. the Golden Revue, the Hootenanny, the Friday Night Show, and the Saturday Night Show.
Cal Bears
The 10-to-13-year-old crew at the Lair, Cal Bears are right in their element with programs that mix fun and adventure. From paddle boating and movie nights at the lake to VIP dinner and horseback riding at Aspen Meadows, this group gets a taste of everything camp has to offer, designed just for them.
Cold Bar
The unsung hero of breakfast. Bread, yogurt, milk, fresh fruit, plus a few snacky surprises, ready and waiting to inspire your morning creation. Add a splash to your oatmeal, stack up a breakfast sandwich, or go rogue with something entirely new. The Dining Hall Crew keeps it stocked, sparkling, and full of possibility.
Cub Corral
A little world of wonder for the not-quite-Teddy-Bear crowd, those diaper graduates who aren’t yet six or seven. It’s part playground, part treasure trove, all fun. The Cub Corral is home to endless activities—think coloring, face paint, paper crowns, dance parties, sing-alongs, you name it. While parents relax by the pool or hit the lake, the Cubs are off on their own adventures, with staffers guiding the fun. It’s a lively, safe space where their imaginations can run wild.
Cub Corral Parade
On Friday at lunch, all the Cubs in the Cub Corral suit up as superheroes, paint their faces, and take over the Dining Hall for the ultimate parade. With “I Just Can’t Wait to Be King” blasting, they march with pride, turning the Dining Hall into a colorful celebration. It’s the kind of spectacle you don’t want to miss.
Creekside
Sunday mornings at the Lair, where the creek hums and the air is thick with stories and songs. Led by the Music Director, Creekside is your chance to reflect, sing, share memories, tell stories, or read poems—whatever feels right in the moment. It’s a warm, welcoming space where introspection flows just like the water. Bring your instruments and your words, and find a spot on the wooden benches by the creek. A peaceful, connective, inspiring way to start the day.
Dining Hall (DH)
The heart of the camp, where you gather three times a day for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. It’s where you fuel up and connect with friends, new and old. From the Hot Bar to the Cold Bar at breakfast, the Coffee Bar to wake you up, and the Salad Bar to keep things fresh, there’s something for everyone. Staffers keep the buffet stocked and serve family-style dinners, but they’re not only working, they’re also sitting at your table, sharing in the fun. The Dining Hall is the spot to laugh, swap stories, and make memories over meals that feel like home. It’s where camp life happens—good food, good people, and even better conversations.
Dining Hall Bell
The Dining Hall Bell rings twice for every meal, once 15 minutes before it’s time to eat, and again when the feast is officially on. Staffers on serve don some funny-looking headphones and give the bell a good, hearty ring, signaling it’s time to head to the DH. But the bell’s got more than just meal duty; it’s also the emergency signal. If something’s up, you’ll hear the bell ringing non-stop, loud and clear, to get everyone’s attention. Whether it’s calling you to dinner or calling you to action, the Dining Hall Bell never goes unnoticed.
Disco Bingo
Sunday night at the Lair just got a whole lot groovier. Get ready to throw on your best disco gear and join the ultimate mash-up of bingo and boogie. With a few rounds of Lair-ified bingo, complete with a staffer spinning the bingo wheel (balling) and another emceeing the action (calling), you’re in for some campy fun. When someone shouts “disco!” instead of “bingo!”—the lights go low, the music goes high, and it’s time to shimmy. It’s a full-on disco party in the Dining Hall. It’s bingo, but with more sparkle.
Dish Room
This is where the Maintenance Crew takes on the mountain of dishes (trays, cups, pebble bowls and the little blue ones) with rhythm and style. You’ll see someone “gonging,” someone “pivoting,” and someone “jerking.” It’s a sight to behold. Just drop your forks, spoons, and knives in the buckets in front, slide your tray under the window, and boom—your trash disappears, and everything gets cleaned. You might even catch a crew member rocking a fun outfit or dancing to some catchy tunes while they work.
Family-Style
Where dinner becomes an event, a shared experience, not just a meal. No lines, no waiting, just one server bringing out a spread you’ll want to dive into. It’s communal dining at its finest: pass the potatoes and the chimichurri, please, scoop the veggies, and, hey, don’t forget the churros! The last roll? Don’t worry about it—just ask, and there’s more. Forget the individual plates, this is family-style, and it’s the best way to experience a meal at the Lair.
Friday Night Show
Did someone say mise-en-scéne? The Friday Night Show is the big spectacle where staffers go all-in, turning into full-blown performers with drama, music, props, and costumes. Think you know what’s coming? Think again. Each year, it’s a brand new, Lair-ified version of a beloved story. Just sit back, relax, and prepare for the kind of show that’ll have you buzzing long after the final curtain calls.
Golden Bears
The Golden Bears are the 8 and 9-year-olds at the Lair, always up for an adventure. Whether they’re diving into water games, heading to the lake, or uncovering hidden spots around camp, they’re ready to make the most of every moment. With big energy and even bigger curiosity, these campers know how to have a good time.
Golden Revue
The Golden Revue is the talent show that brings all the camp’s hidden stars into the spotlight. From dance routines to karate chops, and heartfelt songs to funny skits, this is where campers show off what they’ve got. Sometimes, families get in on the action too, harmonizing like they’ve been singing together forever. It’s messy, it’s memorable, and it’s the kind of show that makes you want to jump up and cheer, even if you don’t know what just happened. Pure, unfiltered camp talent with a whole lot of flair.
Grizzly Bears
Grizzly Bears are the teens at camp, the ones who know the rules and aren’t afraid to break a few while they’re at it. They’re the leaders, the trendsetters, and the ones who bring the heat to every game, campfire, and late-night adventure. Grizzly Bears move with confidence, a little bit of swagger, and a whole lot of style. If you’re looking for the kind of coolness that’s hard to pin down, you’ll find it in the Grizzly Bears.
Greet
When you roll into camp, the energy’s undeniable. A “Welcome Home” sign greets you, but it’s the staffers, jumping with excitement and ready to direct you, that really set the tone. You’ll snag a cookie, sip some Bug Juice, and get a welcome packet with all the details. Staffers will tell you where your tent’s at, how to park (back in for fire safety!), and give you a heads-up about the Manager’s Mixer at the Lodge. It’s your first taste of the best week of the year.
Greet: a “Welcome Home” sign greets you, but it’s the staffers, jumping with excitement and ready to direct you, that really set the tone.
Hail
At the end of every Lair show, arms link around friends, flashlights flicker toward the trees, and voices meet in the mountain air. The shadows start to dance and the stars lean in close. It’s a time to soak in the natural beauty of California, to honor the communities built under its skies, and to hold tight to the magic of the Lair.
Head
At the Lair, bathrooms are called “heads,” a term borrowed from the nautical world. Why? Who knows. These are not your average camp restrooms, they’ve got solid floors, a handicapped stall, a family bathroom, and a twice-daily cleaning schedule courtesy of the Maintenance Crew. Recently renovated, the heads combine modern convenience with rustic charm.
Head Run
A Head Run is when the Maintenance Crew rolls through camp, tackling every bathroom with precision and pride. Floors get scrubbed to a shine, sinks are polished, and toilet paper is restocked like clockwork. It’s not glamorous, but it’s the behind-the-scenes hustle that keeps camp fresh and functional. A clean bathroom is a quiet kind of victory, and the Maintenance Crew makes it happen twice a day.
Hiker Bar
The Hiker Bar is the go-to pit stop for all-day adventurers. Set up bright and early in the Dining Hall during breakfast, it’s where you can build the sandwich of your dreams, grab some snacks, and pack up the fuel you’ll need for a day on the trails. Peanut butter? Sure. Turkey and cheese? Why not. Extra chips? Always. Nature Valley bar? Duh. The Hiker Bar ensures you’re ready to tackle peaks, wander through woods, or settle into the perfect picnic spot.
Hot Bar
The Hot Bar is where breakfast and lunch come to life, offering campers a spread of fresh, hot food just waiting to be scooped up. With four slots of sizzling options, it’s a choose-your-own-feast situation: grab the tongs, pile on the pancakes, or scoop up the mac and cheese. And don’t worry about things running out, staffers are on it, swapping pans faster than you can say “seconds, please.” It’s buffet-style dining that makes sure campers’ plates, and bellies, are always full.
Hootenanny
The Hootenanny is Thursday night’s country showdown, where staffers trade their camp gear for cowboy boots and flannels, strumming guitars, tickling keys, and banging on drums. Between the songs, skits pop up, but it’s the music that steals the show. It’s a celebration of pure talent, high energy, and the stomping spirit of camp.
Lair Cake
A Lair Cake is the sweet treat you order when you’ve got something to celebrate at camp. You fill out a slip at the store, and the Baker takes care of the rest, crafting the perfect cake for your special occasion. When it’s ready, staffers run it out during mealtime, gathering everyone for a festive song and a round of cheers.
Lair Dirt
Lair Dirt is the unofficial camp uniform. It’s the stuff that coats your clothes, your shoes, and maybe even your kid’s face by the end of the day. Whether you’re walking through camp, playing in the softball game, or just rolling around in the dirt (literally), it’s the perfect reminder that you’ve embraced every moment of your time at the Lair. By the end of the week, it’ll be everywhere, and you wouldn’t have it any other way.
Mountain Moment
That unpredictable, wild thing that happens at the Lair and leaves everyone talking. It could be a flash mob in the Dining Hall, a promposal at the pool, or an impromptu indie concert in the Art Arbor. These moments pop up anywhere, anytime—a burst of camp magic that makes the ordinary feel extraordinary.
Odd Job
An “odd job” at the Lair is anything that needs fixing—quick. Maybe a light flickers, or your bed frame is wobbly, or something’s just…off. You write it down at the store, and then the Maintenance Crew swoops in. They’re the problem-solvers, coming to keep things in working order so you can keep enjoying camp without interruption. No job is too odd!
Oski Year-Round Cabin
The Oski Year-Round Cabins are where camping meets comfort, a little slice of luxury tucked away in the woods. It’s glamping—your own cabin with a door that locks, a private bathroom, and a heater that keeps the chill at bay. Perfect for those who want to experience the Lair with a little extra warmth and privacy.
Pinecrest Lake
Pinecrest Lake is just a short walk from the Lair. Age groups paddle or party boat across its calm waters, taking in the towering trees and clear skies that surround them. It’s the perfect escape to unwind and recharge, whether you’re walking around with friends or simply sitting to soak in the natural beauty with some coffee from the Serene Bean. A quick getaway from camp, Pinecrest Lake gives everyone a chance to slow down and revel in the simple joy of being surrounded by wilderness.
Rookie
A “rookie” at the Lair is a first-year staffer, bright-eyed and bushy-tailed, ready to jump headfirst into the madness. They’ve got a lot to prove, a lot to learn, and a ton of enthusiasm to fuel the ride. Whether they grew up camping, go to Berkeley, or stumbled upon the Lair in some other way, rookies are the fresh spark that keeps camp alive. They’re soaking in every moment, building lifelong friendships, and slowly falling in love with the Lair, one unforgettable day on staff at a time.
Rooster
The stuntman of the famous Lair skit, always popping up from places you didn’t see coming. One moment, he’s high up, making a surprise entrance, and the next, he’s sliding into the scene just in time for the campfire. He’s a blur of motion, a dash of chaos, and somehow, always landing in the right spot at exactly the right moment. It’s like he’s everywhere and nowhere all at once. The Rooster is a twist, a tumble, an acrobatic hero. You never know where he’ll show up next, but you know he’ll steal the scene when he does.
Salad Bar
The Salad Bar is your ticket to a light, colorful alternative to whatever’s on the menu. With three types of greens, endless toppings, and dressings galore, it’s a build-your-own salad party. Go light with a crisp side or dive into a towering veggie masterpiece; you’re in control. Crunch, mix, and make it your own. It’s the place where fresh ingredients meet boundless creativity, and every bite bursts with flavor. Because sometimes, the best meals are the ones you build yourself.
Sani
Sani is what staffers swear by to keep everything sparkling clean at camp, one spray at a time. It’s the all-purpose sanitizer that tackles it all, from bathroom counters to Dining Hall tables, and every corner of camp in between. With a quick spritz, surfaces are spotless.
Saturday Night Show
The Saturday Night Show is the opening act of the week, the moment when the camp’s energy flips into high gear. It begins with the “Saturday Night” song, where staffers introduce themselves and get everyone excited. From there, the show only picks up speed. Picture a blend of skits, songs, and sharp humor that often pulls from the quirks of camp life and Cal culture. The performances are bold, the jokes land with precision, and by the end, you’ll be giddy about the week ahead.
“Stanford Jonah”
“Stanford Jonah” is the Cal fight song that kicks off the Saturday night show, the anthem that brings the whole camp to life. It starts with that chant, “So then it’s up with the blue and gold, down with the red,” and before you know it, the staffers are swaying and stomping around the campfire, setting the vibe for the whole week.
Taco Truck
The Taco Truck is Camp Oski’s mobile kitchen on wheels, where all the cooking action takes place. It’s the center of Oski’s culinary operation, whipping up everything from breakfast to lunch to dinner.
Teddy Bears
Teddy Bears are ages six and seven, fresh from the cub corral, faces bright, feet ready to run. They’re curious, full of energy, and have an enthusiasm that’s contagious. Whether they’re exploring new games, learning camp songs, or making new friends, Teddy Bears dive into every moment with wide-eyed wonder.
Tent Circles
Small clusters of tents at Camp Oski that create an intimate, welcoming space for campers to connect. Each circle fosters a sense of community by bringing campers together, making it easy to bond, share stories, and build friendships. These circles turn the campground into a close-knit neighborhood, where everyone feels like they belong, and no one’s ever too far from the action.
Therapy
Therapy is a quick drive from the Lair. No couch, no notes, just you, the setting Sun, and a view that could fix everything if you stare long enough. It’s called therapy for a reason. The mountains, the air, and the light loosen what you didn’t know needed loosening. And if you’re feeling fancy, there’s a wine and cheese program up there—staffers organize the whole thing. There’s nothing that view can’t heal. Just give it a try.
Wash Your Paws
It’s not just a reminder. It’s a Lair tradition drenched in Cal spirit and topped with a sprinkle of whimsy. When you see those signs, it’s like a little nudge from the universe saying, “Hey, let’s keep those paws clean and the good times rolling!” Staffers get in on the fun, too, with their cheerful chants and sometimes, even a dance or two, all while showing campers the importance of handwashing in the most entertaining way possible. It’s about hygiene, sure, but it’s more so about making sure everyone gets to enjoy their meals, their games, and their mountain moments without any unwanted germs tagging along. Because, after all, clean paws make happy campers.
Wellness Center
The peaceful hub of camp where calm meets care. Need a break from all the excitement? This is the place to recharge. Whether you’re booking a soothing massage to melt away the week’s adventures or just stepping in to catch a quiet moment, the Wellness Center is where you find your zen.
Veteran / Vet
A “vet” at the Lair is a returning staffer who’s seen it all, done it all, and is back to do it even better. These seasoned pros are the ones who know the ropes and aren’t afraid to teach the rookies how it’s done. They’ve got the inside scoop, the secret moves, and a bag full of stories that make them camp legends. They know the rhythm of the place, the flow of the day, and how to make it all look easy. Whether they’re leading a program, cracking jokes with campers, or helping rookies level up, vets bring the experience and wisdom that make camp life what it is.
Vigorously and Continuously
Say it with us! This is the chant at the Saturday night show, where we describe how the Dining Hall bell will ring if there’s an emergency.
VIP Dinner
VIP Dinner is the grand finale of the week, a special Thursday night event where the Teddy Bears, Golden Bears, and Cal Bears get the star treatment. Staffers go all out, transforming tables with posters, decorations, and even flowers to make their campers feel like royalty. As the meal winds down, the Host or Hostess delivers a custom cake from the Baker to each age group, brought out like a sweet, sugary display.
Vista Lodge
The Vista Lodge is high on the hill, where the trees stretch out like a big green sea. You can see everything from up there; it’s like you’re on the top of the world. Adult dance is up there, and if you’re lucky, you can sign up for a special Vista Dinner, an experience where the food is almost as breathtaking as the views.
Wacky Pool Show
The Wacky Pool Show is the Sunday afternoon event you didn’t know you were waiting for. Staffers strut onto the pool deck wearing the weirdest outfits they could piece together, and the diving board becomes their stage. Flips, twists, dives, flops, you name it. There’s synchronized swimming that’s more giggle-worthy than graceful, and a staffer bridge for kids to walk across, because why not? It all builds up to the inner-tube water polo game, which turns the pool into a goofy battlefield. It’s loud, it’s messy, and it’s impossible to look away. A pool party like no other.
