THE PEOPLE’S CAMP

A visionary folk music camp that birthed a generation of activists and musicians that inspire today's fight for democracy.


Camp Woodland (1939–1962) was a progressive summer camp in New York’s Catskill Mountains, dedicated to musicology, folklore preservation, and social justice. Renowned for its integration and commitment to civil rights, the camp fostered racial inclusivity, cultural exchange, and political activism. Campers engaged in applied folklore, collecting songs and stories from local communities and sharing them through performances and a farm tool museum.

The camp played a key role in reviving Black history, including efforts to honor Sojourner Truth. Its extensive archive includes over 30 hours of folk music recordings, interviews, film footage, and photographs. Folk legends like Pete Seeger inspired campers, while Black counselors like Bruce Langhorne and Bill McAdoo, along with artists such as Janis Ian, carried Camp Woodland’s influence into their musical careers.

Even after closing in 1962, Camp Woodland’s legacy endured. Many former campers became activists, historians, and educators committed to social justice. A documentary on the camp remains relevant today, highlighting themes of resistance, diversity, civic engagement, and radical education while serving as a call to action against contemporary social injustices.


CREDITS

  • Costa Boutsikaris, Director, Editor, Cinematographer

  • Bill Horne, Advisor

DONATE (PAYPAL)

We can accept donations via Zelle (through your bank account) @ fiscal@woodstockfilmfestival.org or by check (made out and sent to Woodstock Film Festival, PO Box 1406, Woodstock, NY 12498) or ACH/wire transfer for any amount. Please clearly note you are donating to THE PEOPLE’S CAMP.

THE PEOPLE’S CAMP is a fiscally sponsored project of The Woodstock Film Festival, Inc. a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. Donations are tax-deductible to the full extent of the law. Your generous contribution will support an outreach campaign to help THE PEOPLE’S CAMP reach a wide audience.

Please contact fiscal@woodstockfilmfestival.org for any questions regarding donations. 

Fiscally Sponsored Projects