The Outdoor Girls Around the Campfire; or, The Old Maid of the Mountains

"The Outdoor Girls Around the Campfire; or, The Old Maid of the Mountains" by Laura Lee Hope is a novel likely written in the early 20th century. The story focuses on a quartet of adventurous young girls—Betty, Grace, Mollie, and Amy—who are eager to embrace the joys of a summer camping trip by a lake. Their youthful enthusiasm for exploration, outdoor sports, and a hint of mystery sets the tone for their upcoming adventures as they navigate the challenges and excitement of summertime escapades. At the start of the story, the girls embark in their motorboat, the "Gem", down the Argono River, gleefully planning their summer's camping at a cabin near Rainbow Lake. Soon, Amy reveals her brother's recent acquisition of a shack that provides a perfect setting for their adventure. However, the opening chapters also introduce tension when they experience close calls on the water, including a near-collision with a steamboat. Their excitement is soon met with unexpected danger when they encounter two tramps aboard their boat at a secluded island. With Betty's quick thinking and the use of a toy pistol, they successfully drive the intruders away, showcasing the girls' resourcefulness and courage as they head towards their anticipated camping experience.