Remember Bug Juice? Let’s Check In on Those Summer Camps!
If you were a kid glued to the Disney Channel in the late ’90s, you probably remember Bug Juice. It wasn’t just a show; it was a window into a world of summer camp adventures, friendships, and maybe just a little bit of drama. And who could forget the name? “Bug juice” – that sugary, mystery-flavored drink every camp seemed to have on tap! But have you ever wondered what happened to those actual camps where all the fun (and occasional awkwardness) went down? Let’s dive in and see!
Season 1: Camp Waziyatah – Where It All Began
First up: Camp Waziyatah, nestled in Waterford, Maine. This is where the Bug Juice magic started back in 1998. Wazi, as it’s affectionately known, has been around since 1922, making it the perfect, classic summer camp setting for the show’s debut. We watched those first campers navigate everything from canoe trips to campfire singalongs. Good times!
Camp Waziyatah Today:
Guess what? Wazi is still going strong! And they totally embrace their Bug Juice fame. You’ll find nods to the show all over their website and social media. But here’s the cool part: they’re all about creating a “drama-free” zone these days, welcoming kids from all walks of life. They’ve got everything from rock climbing to theater, so there’s something for everyone.
Season 2: Camp Highlander – Mountain Highs in North Carolina
Next, Bug Juice packed its bags and headed south to Camp Highlander, tucked away in Horse Shoe, North Carolina. Suddenly, we were surrounded by the stunning Blue Ridge Mountains! New campers, new challenges, and a whole different vibe.
Camp Highlander Now:
Just like Wazi, Camp Highlander is still in the business of making summer memories. They’re big on building character and confidence, and let’s be honest, what’s better than making lifelong friends while you’re at it? They keep things co-ed, with separate cabins for boys and girls but plenty of opportunities to hang out together during meals and activities.
Season 3: Brush Ranch Camp – A Taste of the Wild West
For its final season (at least, the final season of the original run), Bug Juice went west to Brush Ranch Camp in Tererro, New Mexico. Think horses, wide-open spaces, and a completely different kind of summer adventure. It was a far cry from the East Coast vibes we were used to!
Brush Ranch Camp Today:
Okay, here’s where things get interesting. Brush Ranch Camp has changed quite a bit. It’s not really a traditional summer camp anymore. Instead, it’s focused on private rentals – think family reunions or corporate retreats. The original family sold it off in pieces, but a company swooped in to restore the cabins and lodges, so at least the spirit lives on!
Bug Juice: My Adventures at Camp (The Revival!)
But wait, there’s more! In 2018, Disney decided to bring Bug Juice back with a new name: Bug Juice: My Adventures at Camp. And guess where they went? Back to where it all started: Camp Waziyatah! A whole new generation got to experience the magic, and we got a serious dose of nostalgia.
Why We Still Love Bug Juice
Bug Juice wasn’t just a TV show; it was a cultural phenomenon. It tapped into something real about growing up, making friends, and figuring out who you are. And yeah, maybe it even inspired a few kids to give summer camp a try! These camps have definitely evolved, but their mission remains: to create awesome summer experiences that kids will remember forever. And who knows, maybe they’ll even develop a taste for bug juice along the way!