In Loving Memory of Hayes Hitchens: A Legendary Figure in the Deerhorn Family and Beyond

It is with deep sadness and heavy hearts that we share the news of the passing of someone incredibly important to the Deerhorn Family—Hayes Hitchens. Hayes passed away last night, surrounded by the love of his family. His loss feels surreal, and it’s hard to come to terms with the fact that someone so full of life and energy is no longer with us. Hayes was more than just a family member—he was a force of nature. His presence at Deerhorn loomed large for many years, and his love for camp was unmatched. Hayes was the grandson of Dr. Don and Kathryn Hitchens, the founders of Camp Deerhorn, and he was part of a legacy that will never be the same without him. As one of Patrick, Blaine, and Don’s cousins, Hayes had a special connection to the camp, and his contributions over the years have left an indelible mark on everyone who knew him.

Hayes’s connection to Deerhorn started early and ran deep. He was a camper for many years and later returned as a counselor, where he became an iconic figure at camp. From his unforgettable campfire entertainment to his key role in counselor shows, Hayes was known for his energy, enthusiasm, and leadership. He was also a Voyager leader and a horseback riding counselor, roles in which he thrived, sharing his love for adventure and the outdoors with countless campers. Hayes’s passion for Deerhorn wasn’t confined to just his time there; he worked tirelessly to recruit new campers, spreading his love for the camp to anyone who would listen, including his friends and even his nephews, who followed in his footsteps as campers. Hayes’s connection to the camp was lifelong, and his influence will continue to resonate in the Deerhorn community for years to come.

Beyond his work at Deerhorn, Hayes took his love for the outdoors and his desire to share it with young people and founded Moondance Adventures in 1996. Through Moondance, he spent summers leading trips all over the world, creating life-changing experiences for young adventurers. Hayes was an adventurer at heart, constantly seeking to inspire others with his passion for exploration and the natural world. In his 68 years, Hayes touched the lives of so many, and his impact reached far beyond the walls of Deerhorn. His passing is felt by all who knew him, and we know that countless people are grieving with us. Our hearts go out to the entire Hitchens family during this incredibly difficult time. Service details will be shared as soon as they are available, but for now, we ask that you join us in sending prayers and love to the Hitchens family as they navigate this unfathomable loss. Hayes will always be remembered for his boundless energy, his deep love for camp, and his lasting impact on everyone fortunate enough to know him.