Nestled amidst the picturesque landscapes of Winsted, Connecticut, Greenwood Trails offers an idyllic setting for young campers to explore, learn, and grow. This premier summer camp, located in the heart of the scenic Northwest region, is surrounded by the natural beauty of Connecticut’s rolling hills and lush forests, providing a backdrop that is as inspiring as it is tranquil. Not far from notable landmarks such as the expansive Highland Lake and the charming downtown Winsted, Greenwood Trails is perfectly positioned for campers to enjoy both the serenity of nature and the excitement of nearby attractions.

Since its establishment, Greenwood Trails has been dedicated to creating an environment that nurtures personal growth, fosters lifelong friendships, and encourages the adventurous spirit of youth. The camp’s history is rich with stories of summers filled with laughter, learning, and the kind of memories that last a lifetime. Through the years, Greenwood Trails has evolved to meet the changing needs and interests of its campers while staying true to its core values of community, character, and camaraderie.

At the heart of Greenwood Trails lies a mission that is both simple and profound: to provide a safe, welcoming, and dynamic environment where children and teenagers can discover their strengths, challenge themselves, and develop a sense of independence and self-confidence. The camp’s philosophy emphasizes the importance of respect, responsibility, and resilience, guiding campers to become the best versions of themselves both at camp and beyond.

Greenwood Trails is a co-ed camp that welcomes boys and girls aged between 7 and 16. It is designed to cater to a wide range of interests and abilities, offering a diverse array of activities that ensure every camper finds something they love. From traditional outdoor adventures to creative arts and sports, Greenwood Trails is committed to delivering an exceptional summer experience that enriches the lives of its campers, inspiring them to explore new horizons and embark on journeys of personal growth and discovery.

Programs Offered by Greenwood Trails

Greenwood Trails offers a rich tapestry of programs designed to cater to a wide range of interests and age groups, ensuring that every camper has the opportunity to explore their passions, learn new skills, and make unforgettable memories. The camp’s programs are meticulously structured to provide a balanced mix of activities, relaxation, and fun, all within the beautiful and nurturing environment of Winsted, Connecticut.

Description of the Programs

Greenwood Trails’ programs are diverse, offering everything from outdoor adventures and sports to arts, crafts, and science. The camp prides itself on its ability to provide a well-rounded experience that encourages campers to try new things while also deepening their skills in areas of existing interest.

Length of Sessions

The camp offers flexible session lengths to accommodate the needs and schedules of different families. Options include:

One-Week Sessions: Ideal for first-time campers or those looking for a short but memorable summer camp experience.
Two-Week Sessions: Perfect for campers who want to immerse themselves in camp life, offering more time to explore a broader range of activities.
Full Summer: The ultimate Greenwood Trails experience, allowing campers to fully engage with the camp community, participate in a wide array of activities, and build lasting friendships.

Specialty Programs

Greenwood Trails offers several specialty programs that allow campers to focus on specific areas of interest. These include:

Arts: From painting and pottery to theater and dance, the arts program encourages creativity and self-expression.
Sports: A comprehensive sports program that includes traditional sports like soccer, basketball, and baseball, as well as unique offerings like archery and climbing.
Science: Designed for curious minds, the science program includes fun and educational activities in areas such as ecology, astronomy, and robotics.

Typical Daily Schedule

A typical day at Greenwood Trails is thoughtfully planned to strike a balance between structured activities, free time, and rest. Here’s what a typical day might look like:

7:30 AM: Wake Up
8:00 AM: Breakfast
9:00 AM: Morning Assembly
9:30 AM: Activity Period 1 (e.g., Arts and Crafts)
10:30 AM: Activity Period 2 (e.g., Swimming)
11:30 AM: Free Time / Snack Break
12:30 PM: Lunch
1:30 PM: Rest Hour
2:30 PM: Activity Period 3 (e.g., Nature Hike)
3:30 PM: Activity Period 4 (e.g., Sports)
4:30 PM: Free Time / Snack Break
5:30 PM: Dinner
6:30 PM: Evening Activity (e.g., Campfire, Talent Show)
8:30 PM: Cabin Time / Wind Down
9:00 PM: Lights Out (for younger campers) / Extended Activities for older campers

This schedule is flexible and can vary based on the camp session, weather, and special events. Greenwood Trails ensures that every day is filled with fun, learning, and opportunities for personal growth, all within a supportive community that feels like a second home.

Accommodations in Greenwood Trails

Greenwood Trails offers comfortable and safe accommodations, ensuring that all campers feel at home during their stay. The camp’s facilities are designed to foster a sense of community and camaraderie among campers while also respecting their need for privacy and comfort.

Sleeping Arrangements

Cabins: Campers typically stay in cabins that are designed to be cozy and conducive to social interaction among campmates. Cabins are usually divided by age group and/or gender, ensuring a comfortable environment for all campers. Each cabin is equipped with beds for each camper, windows for natural light, and storage space for personal items.
Tents/Dorms: Depending on the specific programs and sessions, some campers might have the opportunity to experience more rustic accommodations, such as sleeping in tents during special camping trips or in dormitory-style lodgings for certain specialty camps.

Dining Options

Meal Plans: Greenwood Trails provides nutritious and delicious meals served in a communal dining hall, where campers gather to eat together. The meal plan is designed to accommodate the energy needs of active campers and typically includes breakfast, lunch, and dinner, along with snacks throughout the day.
Dietary Accommodations: Understanding the importance of meeting the dietary needs of every camper, Greenwood Trails offers options for those with dietary restrictions, including vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and allergy-friendly meals. Parents are encouraged to communicate any specific dietary needs during the registration process to ensure appropriate accommodations are made.

Bathroom and Shower Facilities

Facilities: Bathroom and shower facilities are conveniently located near camper accommodations. These facilities are designed to ensure cleanliness, privacy, and accessibility for all campers.
Maintenance: The camp prioritizes the cleanliness and maintenance of all bathroom and shower facilities, with regular cleaning schedules to uphold high standards of hygiene and comfort.
Privacy and Safety: Measures are in place to ensure the privacy and safety of campers when using these facilities, including separate facilities for different age groups and genders, as well as appropriate supervision by staff to ensure safety without compromising privacy.

Greenwood Trails is committed to providing a safe, comfortable, and enjoyable living environment for all campers. From the sleeping arrangements to dining options and bathroom facilities, every aspect of camp life is carefully considered to ensure that campers can focus on having fun, learning new skills, and building friendships in a supportive community setting.

Activities in Greenwood Trails

Greenwood Trails provides an extensive array of activities, special events, and opportunities for skill development that cater to the interests and passions of every camper. This vibrant camp environment is designed to encourage exploration, learning, and fun in a supportive community setting.

List of Activities Offered

Greenwood Trails offers a wide range of activities that ensure every day is an adventure. Some of the many options include:

Swimming: Summer camps can cool off, play games, and improve their swimming skills in the pool.
Hiking: With the scenic beauty of Connecticut’s landscapes, hiking is a great way for campers to explore the natural world.
Crafts: From pottery and beadwork to painting and woodworking, there’s something for every aspiring artist.
Sports: A variety of sports activities such as soccer, basketball, volleyball, archery, and baseball are available for all skill levels.
Performing Arts: Campers interested in drama, dance, and music can express themselves creatively in performances.
Adventure Activities: These include rope courses, climbing walls, and zip lines for thrill-seekers.
Nature Exploration: Learning about the environment through fun and educational activities.
Cooking: For those interested in culinary arts, cooking activities can be a delicious way to learn new skills.

Special Events or Traditions

Greenwood Trails hosts several special events and traditions that contribute to the camp’s unique spirit and community bonding, such as:

Color Wars: A camp-wide competition that splits the camp into teams for a variety of fun and spirited challenges.
Talent Shows: An opportunity for campers to showcase their talents in front of their friends.
Campfires: Regular campfires offer a time for stories, songs, and s’mores, fostering a sense of community and belonging.
Theme Days: Special-themed activities and dress-up days add an extra layer of fun to the camp experience.

Skill Development Opportunities

In addition to enjoying a broad spectrum of activities, campers at Greenwood Trails have numerous opportunities to develop skills in various areas:

Leadership: Older campers can take on leadership roles, guiding younger campers and assisting in activities.
Teamwork: Many activities and special events are designed to encourage collaboration and teamwork.
Creativity: Through arts and crafts, performing arts, and other creative endeavors, campers can express themselves and develop their creative talents.
Self-Confidence: By trying new things and overcoming challenges, campers build self-confidence and resilience.

Greenwood Trails is committed to providing a safe, fun, and enriching summer camp experience where every camper can find activities that excite them, learn new skills, and make lasting friendships.

The staff of Greenwood Trails

Greenwood Trails takes great pride in its dedicated and skilled staff, ensuring that every camper enjoys a safe, educational, and fun summer experience. The camp is committed to maintaining a supportive and nurturing environment, which is facilitated by a rigorous hiring process, comprehensive staff training, and a favorable staff-to-camper ratio.

Staff-to-Camper Ratio

Greenwood Trails maintains a low staff-to-camper ratio to ensure that each camper receives individual attention, guidance, and support. This ratio is designed to foster strong connections between staff and campers, promote safety, and enhance the overall camp experience. While the exact ratio can vary depending on the age group and specific activities, the camp aims to keep this ratio as favorable as possible to ensure a high level of care and supervision.

Hiring Process and Staff Qualifications

The hiring process at Greenwood Trails is thorough and competitive, designed to select individuals who are not only qualified but also passionate about working with children and contributing to a positive camp community. Potential staff members undergo a comprehensive screening process that includes:

Application Review: Detailed examination of the applicant’s experience, skills, and motivations.
Background Checks: Comprehensive checks to ensure the safety and security of the campers, including criminal background checks and references.
Interviews: Multiple rounds of interviews to assess the candidate’s suitability for the role, including their ability to work with children, handle responsibilities, and fit into the camp culture.

Staff qualifications vary by position but generally include:

Experience: Prior experience working with children, either in camp settings or related fields.
Skills: Specific skills relevant to the position being applied for, such as sports coaching, arts and crafts expertise, or wilderness training.
Character: Strong interpersonal skills, a positive attitude, and a commitment to the camp’s values and mission.

Training and Certifications

Once hired, all staff members at Greenwood Trails undergo a comprehensive training program before the camp season begins. This training covers a range of topics essential for creating a safe and positive camp environment, including:

CPR and First Aid: All staff are required to be certified in CPR and First Aid to respond effectively to any health emergencies.
Child Development: Training on the developmental stages of children and teens to tailor their approach to meet the needs of different age groups.
Safety Protocols: Detailed instructions on the camp’s safety protocols and emergency procedures.
Activity Planning: Guidance on planning and delivering engaging, age-appropriate activities.
Behavior Management: Strategies for managing behavior positively and effectively, ensuring a supportive environment for all campers.

Specialized staff, such as those leading adventure activities or swimming, may also hold additional certifications relevant to their roles, such as lifeguarding or specific activity safety certifications.

Through its meticulous hiring process, comprehensive training, and ongoing support, Greenwood Trails ensures that its staff is fully equipped to provide an exceptional summer camp experience, focusing on the safety, well-being, and enjoyment of every camper.

Safety and Health in Greenwood Trails

Greenwood Trails prioritizes the safety and health of all its campers and staff, implementing comprehensive safety protocols and procedures, maintaining on-site health facilities, and adhering to strict policies for handling emergencies. These measures ensure a secure and supportive environment, allowing campers to enjoy their summer experiences with peace of mind.

Safety Protocols and Procedures

Routine Safety Drills: Regularly scheduled drills for fire, severe weather, and other potential emergencies ensure that both campers and staff are familiar with procedures to stay safe.
Activity Safety: All activities are supervised by trained staff, with safety gear and protocols strictly adhered to, especially for adventure sports, swimming, and outdoor exploration.
Campus Security: The camp maintains a secure environment with controlled access to the campus to ensure that only authorized individuals are present. Nighttime security measures are also in place for added safety.

On-site Health Facilities and Staff

Health Center: Greenwood Trails is equipped with an on-site health center staffed by qualified healthcare professionals, including nurses and/or a camp doctor, to handle medical needs and emergencies.
Medical Preparedness: The health center is stocked with essential medical supplies and equipment to address injuries, illnesses, and daily medication needs.
Access to Emergency Services: In case of serious medical emergencies, the camp has protocols for quick transportation to nearby hospitals or medical facilities.

Policies on Handling Emergencies

Immediate Response: In the event of an emergency, camp staff are trained to respond promptly and efficiently, ensuring the safety and well-being of all campers.
Communication: The camp has a clear communication plan to inform parents and guardians in the event of an emergency, including the nature of the incident and the steps being taken.
Collaboration with Local Authorities: Greenwood Trails works closely with local emergency services, law enforcement, and healthcare providers to ensure a coordinated response to any situation.

Continuous Training and Education

Staff Training: All camp staff undergo rigorous training in emergency preparedness, first aid, CPR, and specific safety protocols related to their assigned activities.
Health Education: Campers are also educated on personal safety and health practices, including hygiene, sun protection, and self-care, to promote a healthy camp environment.

By implementing these comprehensive safety and health measures, Greenwood Trails ensures that every camper can explore, learn, and have fun in an environment that is as safe as it is enriching. The camp’s commitment to the well-being of its community is a cornerstone of its philosophy, creating a summer experience where parents can rest assured that their children are in good hands.

Cost and Registration in Greenwood Trails

Greenwood Trails provides a detailed structure for cost, registration, and financial options to ensure transparency and accessibility for families interested in the enriching camp experience it offers. While specific figures may vary yearly and depend on session choices, a general outline can help families plan and make informed decisions.

Cost of Attendance

The cost of attending Greenwood Trails typically includes:

Tuition for the chosen session(s): This covers all camp activities, meals, accommodations, and most supplies needed for daily activities.
Additional costs might include Optional extras such as specialized activities, camp merchandise, and any travel fees for off-site excursions.

Registration Process and Deadlines

Online Registration: Families can usually register their campers through an online portal on the Greenwood Trails website. This process includes selecting session dates, filling out camper information, and submitting any necessary medical forms.
Deadlines: Early registration is encouraged as spaces in popular sessions can fill up quickly. The camp often sets a registration deadline in the spring, but late registrations may be accepted based on availability.

Payment Plans, Refunds, and Cancellation Policies

Payment Plans: To accommodate different family budgets, Greenwood Trails typically offers payment plan options, allowing tuition to be paid in installments leading up to the camp session.
Refunds and Cancellations: Policies on refunds and cancellations are usually clearly outlined upon registration. Generally, there may be a non-refundable deposit, with partial refunds available up to a certain date before the camp begins. Specific circumstances such as illness or family emergencies are often considered on a case-by-case basis.
Cancellation Insurance: Some families opt for cancellation insurance to cover unexpected events that prevent attendance.

Scholarships and Financial Aid

Scholarships: Greenwood Trails is committed to making camp accessible to as many children as possible and may offer scholarship opportunities based on need, merit, or both.
Financial Aid: The camp may have a financial aid program to assist families who require financial support to send their children to camp. Details on how to apply for financial aid or scholarships are typically available on the camp’s website or by contacting the camp office directly.

Greenwood Trails encourages interested families to reach out directly with any questions regarding costs, registration, or financial assistance. The camp’s administration is dedicated to providing clarity and support throughout the registration process, ensuring that every family can navigate the steps toward securing a spot for their camper with ease and confidence.

Greenwood Trails offers a few different session lengths for their summer camp program. Here’s a breakdown of their fees:

2 Weeks: $3495
3 Weeks: $4645
5 Weeks: $7345 (combination of A Session & B Session)

They also have a special Rookie Camp option for new campers which is priced at $1045 for a single week.

Parent and Camper Preparation in Greenwood Trails Packing list

Preparing for a summer at Greenwood Trails is an exciting time for both campers and their parents. To ensure everyone is ready for the upcoming adventure, the camp provides comprehensive guidance on packing, adheres to clear rules and policies for a safe and enjoyable experience, and offers tips for those new to the camp scene.

Packing List

Greenwood Trails recommends packing items that are practical, comfortable, and suitable for a range of activities and weather conditions. A typical packing list includes:

Clothing: T-shirts, shorts, jeans, sweaters, rain gear, swimwear, and a warm jacket for cooler evenings. It’s also important to bring enough socks and underwear for the session’s duration, plus a pair of sturdy shoes for hiking and another for everyday use.
Bedding and Toiletries: A sleeping bag or sheets and blankets for the bed, pillow, towels, and personal toiletry items (toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, shampoo, etc.).
Miscellaneous: Sunscreen, insect repellent, water bottle, flashlight or headlamp, and any necessary prescription medication.

Campers are encouraged to leave valuable items, electronics, and excessive cash at home to focus on the immersive camp experience and to avoid losses.

Rules and Policies

Greenwood Trails has established rules and policies to maintain a safe, respectful, and fun environment for all campers. Key policies include:

Technology Use: To foster social interaction and connection with nature, the use of personal electronic devices (smartphones, tablets, etc.) is typically restricted or prohibited.
Visitation: The camp may have specific visitation days and guidelines to ensure the program’s integrity and safety. Parents are encouraged to respect these guidelines and communicate with camp staff for visitation arrangements.
Behavior: Respect for fellow campers, staff, and the camp environment is expected at all times. Bullying, disruptive behavior, and disrespect are not tolerated.

Tips for First-Time Campers and Parents

For those new to the camp experience, preparation is key to a smooth transition and enjoyable time at Greenwood Trails.

Discuss Expectations: Talk about what camp will be like focusing on the exciting activities and new friendships to be made. Address any anxieties or questions openly.
Practice Independence: Encourage your child to take on new responsibilities at home, such as packing their bag or managing their hygiene routine, to prepare for camp life.
Stay Positive: Especially for parents, it’s important to express confidence and enthusiasm about the camp experience. Children often pick up on parental cues, so a positive outlook can greatly influence their feelings about camp.

By following these preparation guidelines, campers and parents can ensure a smooth, exciting lead-up to a memorable summer at Greenwood Trails. This preparation not only helps in packing and understanding the camp’s rules but also sets the stage for a successful, enjoyable camp experience for first-timers and returning campers alike.

Greenwood Trails stands as a beacon of adventure, learning, and friendship in the heart of Connecticut’s beautiful landscape. With its diverse range of activities, dedicated staff, and commitment to safety and personal growth, the camp offers an unparalleled summer experience for children and teenagers. Through carefully curated programs, campers are encouraged to explore their interests, challenge themselves, and build lasting relationships in a supportive and nurturing environment.

The camp’s philosophy of respect, responsibility, and resilience is woven into every aspect of the camp experience, from the engaging activities and special events to the daily interactions between campers and staff. Greenwood Trails is more than just a summer camp; it is a community that fosters self-confidence, independence, and a sense of belonging.