Welcome to Camp Laurel, nestled in the picturesque region of Mount Vernon, Maine. This premier camp is ideally situated in a vibrant natural setting, surrounded by the serene beauty of Maine’s lush landscapes and close to notable landmarks such as the crystal-clear waters of Echo Lake.

Established with a vision to create unforgettable summer experiences, Camp Laurel has been a home away from home for countless campers since its inception. It has grown from humble beginnings into a thriving community where young people come to develop skills, make lifelong friendships, and grow in confidence and character.

At Camp Laurel, they are guided by a mission to foster a supportive, nurturing environment that encourages personal growth, teamwork, and a deep respect for oneself and others. Their philosophy is centered on the belief that every child is unique and should be provided with an opportunity to explore their interests, face new challenges, and discover their passions in a safe and encouraging setting.

Camp Laurel offers an experience, of welcoming boys and girls between the ages of 7 and 15. The camp provides a dynamic range of activities and programs that cater to the varied interests and abilities of their campers, ensuring that each child can find their own path to happiness and success during their summer at Laurel.

Whether through sports, arts, adventures, or learning experiences, Camp Laurel is committed to providing the highest quality camp experience, where children can thrive and return year after year, carrying with them memories and friendships that last a lifetime. Join us at Camp Laurel, where summer adventures await in the heart of Maine.

Programs Offered by Camp Laurel

Camp Laurel offers a diverse array of programs designed to cater to a wide range of interests, ensuring that every camper has the opportunity to engage in activities they love while exploring new passions. Here’s an overview of the programs and daily life at Camp Laurel:

Description of Programs

Camp Laurel’s programs are meticulously crafted to provide a balanced mix of education, recreation, and personal growth. The camp’s offerings are diverse, ranging from outdoor adventures and sports competitions to creative arts and science explorations. This holistic approach ensures that each camper has a well-rounded experience, fostering both skill development and personal enrichment.

Length of Sessions

Camp Laurel provides flexibility in session lengths to accommodate the needs of different families and campers. Options include:

One-week introductory sessions for younger or first-time campers.
Two-week sessions that allow for deeper exploration of camp activities and community building.
Full summer sessions for a comprehensive, immersive camp experience where campers can fully engage in the camp’s community and offerings.

Specialty Programs

Arts: Camp Laurel features a vibrant arts program that includes music, theater, dance, and visual arts. Campers can participate in performances, learn new instruments, or develop their artistic skills in various mediums.
Sports: With facilities for soccer, basketball, tennis, and more, the sports programs focus on skill improvement, teamwork, and healthy competition. Campers receive coaching from experienced instructors and participate in both intra-camp and inter-camp competitions.
Science: The science program encourages curiosity and exploration through hands-on projects and experiments. Topics might include environmental science, robotics, and astronomy, designed to engage young minds in critical thinking and problem-solving.

Typical Daily Schedule

A day at Camp Laurel is structured to provide a mix of scheduled activities and free time, allowing campers to experience both guided instruction and personal exploration. Here’s a typical day:

7:30 AM: Wake up and morning routine
8:00 AM: Breakfast
9:00 AM: First activity period (e.g., arts and crafts, sports training)
10:30 AM: Second activity period (e.g., swimming, nature hikes)
12:00 PM: Lunch and rest period
1:30 PM: Third activity period (specialty programs like science or advanced sports)
3:00 PM: Free time for campers to explore their interests or relax
4:30 PM: Fourth activity period (team sports or group games)
6:00 PM: Dinner
7:00 PM: Evening activities (campfires, talent shows, guest speakers)
9:00 PM: Return to cabins for wind-down time
10:00 PM: Lights out

Camp Laurel strives to ensure that each day is filled with opportunities for fun, learning, and personal growth, all within the beautiful natural surroundings of Mount Vernon, Maine. Whether a camper is there for a week or the entire summer, their days at Camp Laurel are packed with engaging activities and meaningful interactions.

Accommodations in Camp Laurel

Camp Laurel offers comfortable accommodations and excellent facilities designed to make campers feel at home while providing a true camp experience. Here’s an overview of the sleeping arrangements, dining options, and bathroom facilities:

Sleeping Arrangements

Campers at Camp Laurel stay in well-maintained cabins that blend comfort with the rustic charm of camp life. Each cabin is equipped with bunk beds and storage space for personal belongings, ensuring that every camper has their own designated area. Cabins are grouped by age and gender to create a supportive community where campers can form close bonds with their peers under the supervision of trained counselors.

Dining Options

Camp Laurel is committed to providing nutritious and delicious meals that fuel campers throughout their active days. The camp offers a comprehensive meal plan that includes three well-balanced meals per day, served in a communal dining hall where campers and staff eat together, fostering a sense of community.

Breakfast typically includes options like cereals, fruit, yogurt, and hot items such as pancakes or eggs.
Lunch and dinner menus vary daily, with offerings ranging from classic camp favorites to themed meals, incorporating a variety of proteins, vegetables, and starches.

Special dietary needs are accommodated with care at Camp Laurel. Whether a camper has allergies, dietary restrictions due to health reasons, or follows a vegetarian or vegan diet, the kitchen staff is prepared to meet these needs to ensure everyone has healthy and enjoyable meal options.

Bathroom and Shower Facilities

Each cabin cluster at Camp Laurel is equipped with modern bathroom and shower facilities that are centrally located for convenient access. The facilities are designed to provide privacy and cleanliness. They are maintained multiple times a day by the camp’s facilities staff to ensure hygiene and comfort. Separate shower stalls with private changing areas are provided so campers can maintain privacy and comfort.

Overall, the accommodations at Camp Laurel are designed to ensure that every camper can have a comfortable, safe, and enjoyable summer experience, with all the amenities needed to support a fun and healthy stay.

Activities in Camp Laurel

Camp Laurel offers a rich and varied program of activities, special events, and skill development opportunities that cater to the interests and growth of every camper. Here’s a detailed look at the activities and special features of the camp:

List of Activities Offered

Camp Laurel provides a comprehensive range of activities designed to engage campers in both familiar interests and new challenges:

Water Sports: Summer camps, swimming, canoeing, kayaking, and waterskiing on Echo Lake.
Land Sports: Soccer, basketball, baseball, tennis, lacrosse, and archery.
Adventure Activities: Rock climbing, mountain biking, and hiking through the scenic trails around Mount Vernon.
Creative Arts: Crafts, pottery, painting, and sculpture.
Performing Arts: Drama, dance, and music, including opportunities for campers to perform in shows.
Nature and Science: Gardening, nature exploration, and science workshops that allow campers to engage with the environment and learn about sustainability.

Special Events or Traditions

Camp Laurel is rich with traditions and special events that build community and create memorable experiences:

Opening and Closing Ceremonies: These bookend the camp sessions, celebrating the start and conclusion of the camp’s journey.
Color Wars: A multi-day event filled with team competitions across various sports and activities, fostering team spirit and camaraderie.
Talent Shows: Campers can showcase their talents and enjoy performances from their peers, highlighting the diverse skills within the camp.
Theme Days: Regularly scheduled themed activities that range from superhero day to international celebrations, encouraging creativity and fun.
Outdoor Cookouts and Campfires: Regular evenings spent around the campfire, where campers can enjoy roasting marshmallows, singing, and storytelling.

Skill Development Opportunities

Camp Laurel places a strong emphasis on personal growth and skill enhancement, offering:

Clinics and Workshops: Special sessions in sports, arts, and sciences designed to advance campers’ skills and knowledge in specific areas.
Leadership Training: Programs for older campers to develop leadership skills, preparing them for roles as counselors or in other leadership positions in the future.
Personalized Coaching: In sports and arts, allowing campers to receive individualized instruction to refine their techniques and improve in their chosen areas.

Each of these elements of Camp Laurel’s program is designed to ensure that campers not only have fun but also leave with new skills, enhanced self-confidence, and lasting friendships. The variety and quality of activities ensure that every camper can find something that excites and challenges them, all within the supportive and beautiful environment of Camp Laurel.

The staff of Camp Laurel

Camp Laurel is dedicated to providing a safe, nurturing, and fun environment for its campers, and the camp staff plays a crucial role in making this possible. Here is an overview of the staff structure, hiring process, and training at Camp Laurel:

Staff-to-Camper Ratio

Camp Laurel maintains a high staff-to-camper ratio to ensure that each camper receives personalized attention and care. The ratio is approximately 1 staff member to every 3 campers, which helps to foster a close-knit community and ensures that safety and individual needs are adequately addressed.

Hiring Process and Staff Qualifications

The hiring process at Camp Laurel is thorough and selective, focusing on recruiting individuals who are not only skilled in their specific activity areas but also passionate about working with children and contributing to their development. Candidates undergo a multi-step process that typically includes:

Detailed Applications: Prospective staff members must provide extensive information about their education, experience, and skills related to working with children and specific camp activities.
Interviews: Applicants participate in interviews to assess their suitability for the role, their ability to handle various scenarios at camp, and their commitment to the camp’s values.
Background Checks: Comprehensive background checks are conducted, including criminal record checks, to ensure the safety and security of all campers.
Reference Checks: References are contacted to verify the applicant’s past job performance and personal character.

Training and Certifications

All staff members at Camp Laurel are required to have, or obtain, relevant certifications and training to ensure they are well-prepared for any situations that may arise during camp:

First Aid and CPR: All staff must be certified in First Aid and CPR before the beginning of the camp season. These certifications are crucial for addressing any potential medical emergencies.
Specialty Training: Staff involved in specific activities, such as swimming or rock climbing, must have appropriate certifications and training relevant to their area of expertise (e.g., lifeguard certification for swimming instructors).
Pre-Camp Training: Before the campers arrive, all staff participate in an extensive pre-camp training that covers camp policies, child behavior management techniques, safety protocols, emergency procedures, and the camp’s philosophy and mission. This training ensures that every staff member is prepared to provide a supportive, enjoyable, and safe camp experience.

Camp Laurel’s commitment to a highly trained and qualified staff ensures that every aspect of the campers’ experience is enriched and secure, allowing parents to feel confident in the care and supervision their children receive.

Safety and Health in Camp Laurel

Safety and health are top priorities at Camp Laurel, where a comprehensive set of protocols and procedures are in place to ensure the well-being of all campers and staff. Here’s how Camp Laurel addresses these critical areas:

Safety Protocols and Procedures

Camp Laurel is committed to maintaining a safe environment through various established protocols and regular safety drills:

Routine Drills: Regularly scheduled fire, weather, and emergency drills ensure that campers and staff are familiar with procedures in case of an emergency.
Equipment Checks: All sporting and activity equipment undergo rigorous and regular checks to maintain safety standards.
Safety Briefings: Campers receive safety briefings at the start of each session and before participating in specific activities, such as boating or rock climbing, to ensure they understand how to engage safely.
Supervision: Constant, vigilant supervision is provided throughout all camp activities, with staff specifically trained to oversee different areas and activities.

On-Site Health Facilities and Staff

To handle health needs effectively, Camp Laurel is equipped with on-site health facilities:

Health Center: The camp has a well-equipped health center staffed by licensed professionals, including nurses and a part-time doctor. The health center is prepared to handle routine illnesses and injuries and is equipped for stabilizing a camper or staff member in case of more serious issues before transferring to a hospital.
Medications: The health center manages and administers all camper medications according to physician instructions and parent authorizations.
Health Screenings: Campers undergo health screenings upon arrival and periodically throughout their stay to monitor any changes in their health.

Policies on Handling Emergencies

Camp Laurel’s comprehensive emergency policies ensure a swift and efficient response to any incident:

Emergency Response Plan: The camp has a detailed emergency response plan that includes protocols for natural disasters, medical emergencies, and other urgent situations. This plan is regularly reviewed and updated to adapt to new safety standards and technologies.
Communication: In the event of an emergency, there are clear protocols for communication with local authorities and notifying parents in a timely manner.
Training: All staff participate in emergency preparedness training, which includes first aid, crisis management, and specific scenarios that might occur at camp.

Together, these safety and health protocols at Camp Laurel create a secure environment where campers can enjoy their activities and explore new adventures with peace of mind, knowing that they are well-cared for and protected.

Cost and Registration in Camp Laurel

Attending Camp Laurel represents a significant investment in a child’s summer experience, offering an enriching environment full of learning and growth opportunities. Here’s an overview of the cost, registration process, and financial considerations associated with Camp Laurel:

Cost of Attendance

The cost of attending Camp Laurel varies depending on the session length and specific programs chosen. Generally, fees cover:

Accommodation: Comfortable cabin lodging throughout the stay.
Meals and Snacks: Three well-balanced meals per day, along with healthy snacks.
Programs and Activities: Full access to all camp programs, including sports, arts, adventure activities, and specialty programs.
Equipment and Supplies: All necessary equipment for activities, from sports gear to arts and crafts supplies.
Health Care: On-site health services provided by qualified medical staff.

Registration Process and Deadlines

Application: Families can begin the registration process by completing an online application form available on the Camp Laurel website. This form collects essential information about the camper and their preferred session.
Deposit: A deposit is required at the time of application to secure the camper’s spot. This deposit is typically non-refundable.
Deadlines: Registration deadlines are usually set a few months before the start of the camp season. It is advisable to register early as spaces can fill up quickly.

Payment Plans, Refunds, and Cancellation Policies

Payment Plans: Camp Laurel offers structured payment plans to help families manage the cost of camp. These plans typically allow families to spread the payment over several months leading up to the camp session.
Refunds: The camp has a refund policy in place, which typically allows for partial refunds up until a certain date before the camp starts. After this date, refunds may not be available, or only in the case of medical issues with proper documentation.
Cancellation Policy: If a family needs to cancel their registration, they should do so as early as possible. The amount refundable will depend on the timing of the cancellation relative to the start of the session.

Scholarships and Financial Aid

Scholarships: Camp Laurel offers scholarships to help make camp accessible to as many children as possible. These scholarships are often need-based and require families to submit an application detailing their financial situation.
Financial Aid: Additional financial aid may be available based on the family’s needs and the availability of camp funds. Families are encouraged to apply early for financial aid as funds are limited and distributed on a first-come, first-served basis.

Camp Laurel, offers a full-season overnight summer camp experience with fees including various options:

Tuition: $16,400 (This covers the core camp program)
Additional Charges:
- Trip Day/Personal Expenses: $550 (This covers expenses on a designated field trip day)
- Equestrian Program (Optional):
  - 3 days a week: $1500
  - 5 days a week: $2500 (These are additional fees for participating in the horseback riding program)
- Extended Trips (Optional – Grade Specific):
  - 7th Grade: $700
  - 8th & 9th Grade: $950 (These are additional fees for optional extended wilderness trips for older campers)

Parent and Camper Preparation in Camp Laurel

Preparing for a stay at Camp Laurel involves knowing what to pack, understanding the camp’s rules and policies, and picking up some helpful tips for both first-time campers and their parents. Here’s a guide to help ensure that both campers and parents are well-prepared for the upcoming camp experience.

Packing List

For a successful camp experience, packing the right items is crucial. Here is a typical packing list for Camp Laurel:

Clothing: Enough comfortable clothing for active play and various weather conditions, including rain gear and warmer layers for cooler evenings.
Footwear: Sturdy shoes for hiking and outdoor activities, sandals for showers, and athletic shoes for sports.
Bedding: Sleeping bag or sheets and blankets, pillow.
Toiletries: Toothbrush, toothpaste, shampoo, soap, sunscreen, and insect repellent.
Swimwear and Towels: At least two swimsuits and several towels for swimming and showers.
Water Bottle: A durable, reusable water bottle to stay hydrated throughout the day.
Flashlight or Headlamp: Essential for nighttime.
Optional Items: Books, writing materials, and any specific gear related to their chosen activities (e.g., musical instruments).

Rules and Policies

Camp Laurel has established rules and policies to ensure a safe and enjoyable environment for all campers:

Technology Use: Camp Laurel generally promotes a technology-free environment to help campers engage fully with their surroundings and each other. Cell phones, tablets, and other electronic devices are usually discouraged or prohibited.
Visitation: Parents are encouraged to visit only on designated visiting days to minimize disruptions and help campers adjust to camp life. Detailed schedules and guidelines for these visits are provided prior to the start of the camp session.
Behavior: Campers are expected to adhere to a code of conduct that includes respecting others, participating in activities, and following the guidance of camp staff.

Tips for First-Time Campers and Parents

For first-time campers and their parents, the transition to camp life can be exciting but also daunting. Here are some tips to make the adjustment smoother:

Communication: Discuss what camp will be like focusing on exciting activities and new friendships. Address any anxieties by talking through them and establishing a plan for staying in touch, if permitted.
Practice Sleepovers: For campers who haven’t spent much time away from home, practice sleepovers at friends’ or relatives’ houses can ease the transition to being away at camp.
Pack Together: Involve your child in the packing process to give them a sense of control and responsibility. It’s a good opportunity to go over the items they are taking and discuss the purpose of each item.
Set Goals: Encourage your camper to set personal goals for their time at camp, whether it’s trying a new activity, making new friends, or developing a particular skill.
Reassurance: Reassure them that it’s natural to feel homesick and encourage them to communicate their feelings with camp staff who are there to help.

By following these guidelines and preparing effectively, both campers and parents can feel more confident and excited about the upcoming adventure at Camp Laurel.

Camp Laurel stands out as a premier destination for children looking to enjoy a summer filled with adventure, friendship, and personal growth. Nestled in the scenic landscape of Mount Vernon, Maine, this camp offers a broad range of activities, dedicated staff, and a commitment to safety that together create an enriching environment for campers to explore and develop new skills. With comprehensive programs spanning arts, sports, science, and more, every camper finds opportunities to shine and challenges to embrace.

The well-thought-out facilities, from comfortable cabins to a fully equipped health center, ensure that every aspect of a camper’s needs is met, allowing them to focus on enjoying their experience and making lifelong memories. The emphasis on community, character building, and outdoor engagement fosters independence and resilience, qualities that campers carry with them long after the summer ends.