Summer is here with its long, lazy days, but don’t tell that to the counselors and campers at Camp Silvershell.

“The kids are happy. And super energetic,” said Senior Camp Counselor Kayla Farrell last week.

The day camp, operated by the Marion Department of Recreation, is located at Silvershell Beach, and kicked-off its eight week run on June 24. Registration is open to children entering first through sixth grades.

Camp Director Donna Hemphill, who is also the Recreation Department’s administrative assistant, said the activities bring kids and counselors together.

“It’s absolutely fantastic. The camp gives kids a chance to get together, make new friends from all age ranges,” Hemphill said. “The little ones idolize the older kids and counselors. There’s a real sense of community.”

The bi-weekly fee of $275 fee includes daily swimming lessons, arts, crafts, sports, games and more. On weeks two, four, six and eight field trips are scheduled for campers, Hemphill said.

Now in its third year, Recreation Department Director Jody Dickerson modeled the camp after a similar program he oversaw as a recreation director in New Hampshire.

“I started the camp because it was something that I believe was lacking in Marion,” he said.

Since opening, the camp has had robust attendance.

“Attendance is increasing. Campers say it’s the best camp they’ve been to, and the response from parents has been outstanding,” Dickerson said.

Keeping Camp Silvershell affordable is also a goal of the department. “We don’t do this to make money. We charge enough to cover the cost of the program,” Dickerson said.

Camp Silvershell also accepts children from outside Marion and Mattapoisett, Rochester, and Wareham children are welcome to register, Hemphill noted.

An eight week program, Camp Silvershell operates Monday through from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. with an early drop-off time of 8 a.m. and a late pick-up available at 5 p.m. for an additional $5 fee. August 12 through 16 is the camp’s final week.

Though camp has started it’s not too late for parents to register children, Hemphill said. She urged them to sign-up soon because open spots are becoming scarce.

Families can register for a minimum of two weeks or more. Registration forms are available at Camp Silvershell, Marion Town House, or online at the department’s website www.marionrecreation.com.

To register, complete the form, indicate which two weeks are being signed up for and make the check payable to the Marion Recreation; return forms to the department, located at 2 Spring St. Marion.