A Beloved Bemis Tradition Continues at La Foret

Some summer traditions become part of the heart of a place. For generations of families, the Bemis School of Art’s summer "Art & Acting" day camps at La Foret have been exactly that: a beloved way for elementary-aged children to spend summer days immersed in creativity, community, imagination, and the beauty of our campus.

This program is especially meaningful here because the story of the Bemis School of Art and the story of La Foret are deeply connected. Both are part of the legacy of Alice Bemis Taylor, the extraordinary philanthropist whose vision helped shape so much of Colorado’s cultural and communal life. La Foret was originally her summer home, and her love of the arts was always tied to a deeper hope: that beauty, creativity, and community could help people flourish together.

For many years, the Bemis School of Art, in association with Colorado College, carried that legacy forward by hosting summer art and acting day camps at La Foret. So when Bemis faced the very difficult decision this year to discontinue this long-standing tradition because of rising costs, it was heartbreaking news for many families and teachers who have loved this program for so long.

But the story is not ending there.

When some of the program’s previous teachers reached out to ask whether La Foret might be able to help continue the tradition, we were moved by their care, commitment, and belief in what this camp has meant to so many children over the years. We are now delighted to share that La Foret will be bringing this wonderful program in-house as a La Foret-led summer day camp program.

This summer, La Foret will host five weeks of day camp for elementary-aged kids, carrying forward the same spirit, structure, and beloved traditions that families have come to know and love. Children can look forward to days filled with art, creativity, play, expression, and the joyful energy that has always made this program so special.

We are thrilled not only because this is an outstanding program in its own right, but also because it offers something more. For children who may one day be interested in overnight camp, this day camp can be a beautiful introduction to the La Foret property, community, and camp experience. It offers a chance to build familiarity, confidence, and a sense of freedom in this place — helping camp begin to feel like home.

In so many ways, this feels like a continuation of Alice Bemis Taylor’s vision: a place where art, nature, and community come together to nurture young people. We are honored to help carry that legacy forward and excited to welcome a new generation of campers into this cherished summer tradition.

Stay tuned for registration details and more information about this summer’s camp offerings. We cannot wait to create, play, and imagine together at La Foret.

Registration and Schedule Coming Soon!

Bemis actors playing to a full house in Blue Spruce