Respect the earth and one another, because even one small act of kindness can change the world.
Wander often and wonder always, because life is meant for good friends and great adventures.
Believe in yourself, because there is no force more powerful than a woman determined to rise.
Owner/director
Having spent my entire life immersed in the summer camp environment, I know firsthand the benefits that a camp experience can provide: the opportunity to learn, grow, and explore in a safe, nurturing setting. I want my life’s work to focus on providing those benefits to other children, because I believe that the lessons learned at camp are what help them build the resources to deal with life’s challenges.
I’ve worked at Birch Trail Camp since 1993, first as a waterski instructor, trip leader, later becoming an assistant director, and now serving as director and owner. I’m an active volunteer having served on the Wisconsin Section of the American Camp Association board, Association of Independent Camps National Board, and I serve as the president of the Midwest Association of Independent Camps. I also speak regularly at conventions and conferences on professional camping and child development.
I believe passionately in developing in our girls a true spirit of adventure, born out of teamwork and individuality. For me, for my children, and for our campers, every summer is a new adventure.
My siblings and I were raised with the values of the Birch Trail philosophy, building emotional and social life skills, fostering a love of the outdoors, and creating powerful friendships that stand the test of time.
Birch Trail was founded in 1959 by Jerry and Pat Baer, who lovingly owned and operated the camp for 26 years. In 1985, my parents, Barbara and Richard Chernov, fulfilled a lifelong dream by purchasing Birch Trail and ushering in a new era of strong, confident, fun-loving campers. A lot has happened in the 33 years that have passed since then: the Chernov children grew up, the reins were handed down, and Birch Trail welcomed an even more diverse range of campers from across the country and around the world.
I am honored to follow in my parents’ footsteps leading this incredible community. Just as I work to create a loving and educational home for my three children, so too do we insist on the highest standards of care for our campers. I endeavor to provide an experience that helps your daughter feel at home, cared for, and most importantly—ready to have fun! Because Birch Trail has been in our family for two generations, we’ve gathered the time, experience, and industry expertise necessary to create a program that supports and encourages each child’s unique development and leadership potential.
With our talented and trusted team working alongside the Chernov family, Birch Trail functions on an unparalleled level of intention and care in everything we do, all for the benefit of our campers.
Assistant Director
Growing up, I was camper at Birch Trail from my maple years all the way through my TM summer. I immersed myself in all that camp had to offer. I found a home to learn independence, self confidence, and make friendships that will last the rest of my lifetime. I became a maple counselor and was given the opportunity to share the magic of camp with new campers. I moved into leadership as a program director where I was able to foster my creativity to continue the legacy of camp traditions. I became a village director for the linden and tamarack campers, where I got to see my once little maples grow up and shine as role models at camp. Birch Trail has a special way of supporting young girls to become powerful, resilient, and empathetic women through their camp journey. I am fortunate enough to have had the opportunity to see the wonderful maturity and growth of so many campers.
I have taught, first, second and third grade and now work full time at Birch Trail. I value teaching social-emotional learning, equity, and inclusion because of the way I was brought up at Birch Trail. As an assistant director, I strive to continue to support this unique community by providing a space where each child feels loved, safe, appreciated, and accepted for who they are.
Assistant Director
I grew up at Camp Timberlane, first as camper, then counselor, and village director. I worked as a clinical social worker, and have been in private practice since 2007.
My passion has always been helping kids and teens thrive as they navigate the transition to becoming adults. In my private practice I’ve focused my attention on social awareness, relationship skills, independence, life skills, and growing healthy relationships. I have years of experience teaching kids to reduce anxiety and begin orienting towards the possibilities in their lives, instead of what limits them. My values align with Birch Trail, in that Social Emotional Learning creates the space for growth.
My 14 years at camp inspired my work with children and young adults. Camp taught me how to develop and sustain lasting and enriching friendships throughout my life. As the assistant director, I intend to always be looking for opportunities for our campers to thrive at camp and at home.
Wilderness Trip Director
Betsy’s leadership, deep experience, and love of the outdoors made her a natural fit as Birch Trail’s Wilderness Trips Director. Betsy is known for her calm presence on the trail, her deep knowledge of the natural world, and her ability to empower campers to grow through challenge and adventure. She’s passionate about creating safe, inclusive, and confidence-building wilderness experiences. Whether she's paddling, hiking, or teaching campfire cooking, Betsy brings energy, heart, and a sense of wonder to everything she does.
When she’s not at camp, Betsy lives in Houston, Texas, where she works as a high school Instructional Technology Specialist, helping teachers and students integrate technology into learning in creative and meaningful ways. In her free time, you’ll find her hiking the trails, reading on the office deck, or dreaming up the next great adventure.
Waterfront Director
For over 40 summers, Dr. Cabe Knight has been the heart of our camp’s waterfront. Known for his strong leadership, and deep commitment to camper safety and growth, Cabe has created a culture of confidence and fun at the lake that spans generations.
During the year, Cabe lives in Salt Lake City, UT with his wife Jessie and son John. Cabe is a practicing child psychologist, bringing a wealth of expertise in child development, emotional intelligence, and resilience. That unique perspective makes the waterfront more than just a place to swim, ski or sail—it becomes a space where kids learn to trust themselves, support each other, and try new things with courage. His lifelong connection to camp, combined with their professional background, helps ensure that every child feels safe, seen, and capable at the water's edge.
Crafts Director
Jessie has been bringing creativity, color, and heart to our camp for over 20 years. During the summer, she’s the joyful engine behind our Craft Shop, where campers explore everything from tie-dye and beadwork to painting and nature crafts. Known for her endless supply of ideas and her calm, encouraging presence, Jessie helps campers of all ages find confidence in their creativity and pride in making something with their own hands.
When she’s not at camp, Jessie continues to inspire young minds as a teacher at the Jewish Community Center (JCC), where she shares her love of learning and the arts during the school year.
