Welcome to Camp St Charles, a serene getaway nestled in the scenic surroundings of Newburg, Maryland. Situated along the picturesque banks of the Wicomico River, this camp offers a unique retreat in the heart of Southern Maryland, an area rich with natural beauty and tranquility.

Founded in 1952, Camp St Charles has been a home away from home for generations of campers, providing a safe and nurturing environment where children can explore, learn, and grow during the summer months. This long-standing tradition of fostering youth development through outdoor activities and communal living is at the core of their mission. They strive to develop the whole child through opportunities for emotional, spiritual, and physical growth, all within a supportive community setting.

Camp St Charles is a summer camp that welcomes boys and girls aged 6 through 13. Their programs are thoughtfully designed to cater to the needs of each age group, ensuring that every camper receives the right balance of fun, education, and adventure. From swimming and boating to arts and crafts, their diverse activities offer something for every child to enjoy, all while building lasting friendships and unforgettable memories.

Join us at Camp St. Charles, where summer adventures await, and every child stars in their own unforgettable summer story!

Programs Offered by Camp St Charles

Camp St Charles offers a variety of engaging programs designed to suit the interests and developmental stages of each camper. Their programs are carefully structured to ensure a balanced and enriching summer experience.

Programs Offered:

General Camp Program: This is the heart of Camp St Charles, where campers participate in a wide range of activities, including sports, arts, and outdoor adventures. This program is flexible, allowing campers to explore different activities each day.
Specialty Programs:
- Arts Program: Focuses on creativity through crafts, painting, and performing arts. Campers get to showcase their talents in a supportive environment.
- Sports Program: Includes traditional sports such as soccer, basketball, and swimming, as well as unique offerings like archery and kayaking. This program emphasizes teamwork and personal development.
- Science Program: Designed to spark curiosity about the natural world. Activities include hands-on experiments, environmental education, and exploration of the local flora and fauna.

Length of Sessions:

One-Week Sessions: Ideal for younger campers or first-timers who are just getting used to the camp experience.
Two-Week Sessions: Offers a more immersive experience, allowing for deeper engagement with the camp activities and community.
Full Summer Option: For the ultimate Camp St Charles experience, campers can stay for the entire summer, participating in a variety of sessions and special events.

Typical Daily Schedule:

7:30 AM: Wake up and morning exercise
8:00 AM: Breakfast
9:00 AM: Morning activities (Campers rotate through their chosen program areas)
12:00 PM: Lunch
1:00 PM: Quiet time (rest or reading)
2:00 PM: Afternoon activities (a second round of diverse program offerings)
5:00 PM: Free time and optional activities
6:00 PM: Dinner
7:00 PM: Evening activities (campfires, talent shows, etc.)
9:00 PM: Lights out for younger campers
10:00 PM: Lights out for older campers

This daily schedule is designed to provide a mix of structured program time and free periods, allowing campers to explore their interests, rest, and socialize, all under the guidance of their dedicated staff. Each day at Camp St Charles is an opportunity for fun, learning, and growth.

Accommodations in Camp St Charles

At Camp St Charles, they ensure that their accommodations and facilities are comfortable, safe, and conducive to a memorable camp experience. Here’s a detailed overview of their accommodations and amenities:

Sleeping Arrangements

Cabins: Campers stay in cozy, rustic cabins that blend traditional charm with modern safety features. Each cabin houses 8-10 campers along with 2 counselors, fostering a family-like atmosphere. The cabins are equipped with bunk beds and storage space for personal belongings. They are grouped in clusters to create small camper communities, each with its own identity within the larger camp.

Dining Options

Meal Plans: They provide three well-balanced meals each day, served in their communal dining hall. Meals are a time for the entire camp to come together, share experiences, and enjoy nutritious, delicious food prepared by their experienced kitchen staff.
Dietary Accommodations: Understanding that some campers have special dietary needs, they offer vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and allergy-sensitive options upon request. Their kitchen team is trained to handle various dietary requirements to ensure that all campers have healthy and satisfying dining options.

Bathroom and Shower Facilities

Facilities: Bathrooms and showers are conveniently located near each cabin cluster. The facilities are gender-segregated and are maintained multiple times a day to ensure cleanliness and hygiene.
Showers: Hot and cold water is available, with individual shower stalls to provide privacy and comfort. They encourage responsible water use and educate campers on environmental conservation practices.

Their facilities at Camp St Charles are designed to make the camping experience as comfortable as possible, while also encouraging campers to enjoy the simplicity of outdoor living. They strive to create a home away from home where every camper feels safe, respected, and part of their camp family.

Activities in Camp St Charles

Camp St Charles offers a diverse array of activities designed to engage campers of all interests and skill levels, ensuring that every day is filled with fun, adventure, and opportunities for personal growth. Here’s a breakdown of the activities and special features of their camp:

List of Activities Offered

Water Activities: Summer camps, swimming, canoeing, kayaking, and fishing in the Wicomico River.
Land Sports: Soccer, basketball, volleyball, archery, and hiking along scenic trails.
Arts and Crafts: Pottery, painting, beadwork, and various crafting workshops.
Performing Arts: Drama, dance, and music sessions, culminating in performances for fellow campers.
Nature Exploration: Guided nature walks, environmental education, and wildlife spotting.
Adventure Activities: Rope courses, climbing walls, and zip-lining.

Special Events or Traditions

Opening Ceremony: A camp-wide gathering to kick off the session, introducing campers to the staff and setting the tone for a summer of fun and camaraderie.
Campfire Nights: Regular evenings spent around the campfire, featuring storytelling, singing, and marshmallow roasting.
Color Wars: A multi-day event where campers are divided into teams to compete in various sports and creative challenges, fostering spirit and teamwork.
End-of-Session Banquet: A celebratory dinner where achievements are recognized, and campers can reflect on their experiences and bid farewell to new friends.

Skill Development Opportunities

Leadership Training: Older campers can participate in leadership programs that prepare them for roles as junior counselors or in leadership positions in their communities.
Environmental Stewardship: Through hands-on activities, campers learn about conservation, sustainability, and the importance of protecting the natural world.
Creative Expression: Arts and crafts, along with performing arts programs, encourage campers to explore their creativity and express themselves in various mediums.
Physical Fitness: Through regular participation in sports and adventure activities, campers improve their physical health and learn the value of staying active.

Camp St Charles is dedicated to providing a supportive environment where children can explore their interests, develop new skills, and build confidence. their activities are designed not only for fun but also to enrich the campers’ lives and provide them with valuable lessons that extend beyond the summer.

The staff of Camp St Charles

Camp St Charles is committed to providing a safe, educational, and fun environment for all campers, which is significantly supported by their dedicated and well-qualified staff. Here is an overview of their staff structure, hiring processes, and training programs:

Staff-to-Camper Ratio

They maintain an excellent staff-to-camper ratio of 1:5, ensuring that each camper receives personalized attention and care. This ratio enables their staff to effectively supervise and engage with campers, providing a safe and supportive environment that fosters meaningful interactions and personal growth.

Hiring Process and Staff Qualifications

Recruitment: They carefully select their staff through a rigorous recruitment process that includes extensive background checks, interviews, and references. Their recruitment is focused on finding individuals who are passionate about youth development and have previous experience in camping or related fields.
Qualifications: All staff members are required to have relevant qualifications depending on their role. For example, activity leaders often have specialized skills in areas such as sports coaching, arts, or environmental science. Counselors typically have experience in child care, education, or psychology.

Training and Certifications

Mandatory Training: Prior to the beginning of camp, all staff members undergo a comprehensive training program that covers camp policies, emergency procedures, child psychology, and conflict resolution.
CPR and First Aid: Every staff member is required to be certified in CPR and First Aid. Regular refresher courses are provided to ensure these skills are up-to-date.
Specialized Training: Depending on their roles, staff may also receive additional training in areas such as lifeguarding, wilderness first aid, or specific sports and activities. This specialized training ensures that they can safely lead and supervise all camp activities.

Continuous Professional Development

Ongoing Training: Throughout the summer, they offer continuous learning opportunities for their staff, including workshops and seminars on the latest in education and child development.
Feedback and Evaluation: Staff performance is regularly evaluated through peer reviews and camper feedback, ensuring high standards are maintained and providing opportunities for improvement.

At Camp St Charles, they pride themselves on having a team that is not only highly qualified but also deeply committed to creating a nurturing and enriching camp experience for every child. Their staff are the backbone of their camp, and their expertise and enthusiasm play a crucial role in the success of their programs.

Safety and Health in Camp St Charles

At Camp St Charles, the safety and health of their campers and staff are their highest priorities. They have implemented comprehensive protocols and maintain facilities to ensure a secure and supportive environment.

Safety Protocols and Procedures

Regular Training: All staff undergo rigorous safety training, including emergency response drills and scenario-based practice sessions, to prepare for any situation that may arise.
Supervision: Constant supervision is maintained while campers are engaged in all activities, especially those that involve higher levels of risk such as water sports and climbing.
Equipment and Facilities: Regular checks and maintenance of all equipment and facilities are conducted to ensure they meet safety standards. This includes sporting equipment, play structures, and transportation vehicles.
Security Measures: The camp is equipped with controlled access points and is monitored to ensure that only authorized personnel and campers are on the premises.

On-Site Health Facilities and Staff

Health Center: Camp St Charles has a fully equipped health center staffed by qualified healthcare professionals, including nurses and a visiting doctor. The health center is prepared to handle minor injuries and illnesses and is operational 24/7 during the camp session.
Medications and Medical Conditions: They have strict protocols for managing and administering medications. A detailed medical form must be completed for each camper, outlining any allergies, medications, or other medical conditions, which is reviewed by their medical staff upon arrival.

Policies on Handling Emergencies

Emergency Response Plan: They have a detailed emergency response plan tailored to various scenarios, including natural disasters, medical emergencies, and other critical situations. This plan is regularly reviewed and updated to adapt to new challenges.
Communication: In the event of an emergency, there are clear protocols for communication with local authorities and emergency services, as well as with parents and guardians. They ensure that all parties are informed and updated as necessary.
Evacuation Procedures: Evacuation routes and procedures are clearly defined and practiced with campers and staff at the start of the camp and periodically throughout their stay.

By maintaining strict safety standards and preparedness measures, Camp St Charles ensures that all campers can enjoy a fun and enriching camp experience with peace of mind for both them and their parents. Their commitment to health and safety is integral to their mission and reflects their dedication to providing a safe, supportive, and enjoyable environment.

Cost and Registration in Camp St Charles

Camp St Charles strives to make its enriching summer experiences accessible and affordable for families while ensuring high-quality programs and facilities. Here’s an overview of the cost, registration process, and financial options available:

Cost of Attendance

Fees: The cost of attendance varies depending on the length of the session and the specific programs chosen. Typically, fees cover all lodging, meals, activities, and program materials. For example, one-week sessions might cost approximately $700, while two-week sessions could be around $1,400.
What’s Included: The fees cover accommodation in their cabins, all meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner), snacks, and all scheduled activities. Also included are 24-hour supervision, access to all camp facilities, and basic health services at the on-site health center.

Registration Process and Deadlines

Online Registration: Registration can be completed online through their website, where parents can fill out necessary forms, choose session dates, and select any specific programs.
Deadlines: Early registration typically starts in January, and it’s advisable to register by late March to ensure a spot, as some sessions fill up quickly. Registration generally closes two weeks before each session begins, but late registrations may be accepted based on availability.

Payment Plans, Refunds, and Cancellation Policies

Payment Plans: They offer flexible payment plans that allow families to pay in installments leading up to the summer. These plans can be arranged on a monthly or quarterly basis.
Refunds and Cancellations: A deposit is required at the time of registration, which is non-refundable. For cancellations made more than one month before the start date, all but the deposit is refunded. Cancellations made less than one month before the start date may receive a 50% refund, except in cases of medical emergencies, where a full refund can be provided (less the deposit).
Cancellation Insurance: Families have the option to purchase cancellation insurance, which covers the cost of camp in case of an unexpected need to cancel close to the session start date.

Scholarships and Financial Aid

Scholarships: Camp St Charles offers a limited number of scholarships each year to help cover the costs for families in need. These scholarships are need-based and require an application detailing the family’s financial situation.
Financial Aid: Additional financial aid may be available through various programs and fundraising efforts, designed to ensure that no child is turned away due to financial constraints. Parents are encouraged to inquire early about these opportunities.

Their goal at Camp St Charles is to provide a transformative experience that is within reach for all families. They are committed to working with parents to find the best solutions to ensure their child can enjoy a summer filled with growth, learning, and fun.

Parent and Camper Preparation in Camp St Charles

Preparing for a summer at Camp St Charles is an exciting time for both campers and their parents. To ensure everyone is well-prepared and informed, here’s a comprehensive guide to packing, understanding camp rules, and additional tips for first-time campers and their families.

Packing List

To ensure campers have everything they need for a comfortable and enjoyable experience, here is a suggested packing list:

Clothing: Enough comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing for the session (include items like shorts, t-shirts, socks, and underwear), pajamas, swimwear, a jacket or sweatshirt, and a raincoat.
Footwear: Sneakers, sandals, and water shoes.
Bedding: Sleeping bag or sheets and blankets (check if the camp provides mattresses), pillow.
Toiletries: Toothbrush, toothpaste, shampoo, soap, sunscreen, insect repellent, and a small first aid kit.
Other Essentials: Flashlight, water bottle, hats for sun protection, and sunglasses.
Optional Items: Books, writing materials, and a disposable camera (if desired).

Rules and Policies

Technology Use: Camp St Charles encourages a technology-free environment to help campers engage fully with their surroundings and fellow campers. Cell phones, tablets, and other electronic devices are typically not allowed, or their use is restricted to specific times and areas.
Visitation: Parents and family members are welcome to visit on designated visiting days, which are usually scheduled during longer sessions. This helps maintain the camp’s schedule and minimizes disruptions.
Behavioral Expectations: Respect for others, participation in scheduled activities, and adherence to safety guidelines are crucial. Bullying or disruptive behavior is not tolerated.

Tips for First-Time Campers and Parents

For Campers:
- Engage Positively: Embrace all activities and opportunities to make new friends. Being open and positive can significantly enhance the camp experience.
- Communicate: Feel free to express any concerns to camp staff; they are there to help you have the best time possible.
For Parents:
- Prepare Together: Involve your child in the packing process, using the packing list as a guide, which can help alleviate any pre-camp anxiety.
- Set Expectations: Discuss what the camp experience will be like focusing on the exciting activities and new friendships.
- Stay Positive: If you’re feeling anxious about the separation, try to keep these feelings from your child to help them remain excited about their adventure.
- Communication Plan: Understand the camp’s communication policy, including how and when you can expect updates and in what situations you will be contacted.

By following these guidelines and preparations, both campers and parents can feel confident and ready for a wonderful summer experience at Camp St Charles. The anticipation of new adventures, learning opportunities, and the chance to build lasting friendships should make the preparation process a joyful time for all involved.

Camp St Charles in Newburg, Maryland, offers a remarkable setting where children can thrive in a supportive, safe, and enriching environment. With a vast array of activities, from swimming and hiking to arts and science programs, there is something to ignite the passion and curiosity of every camper. Their dedicated staff ensures that each child receives personal attention, fostering growth and development in a community setting.

The comprehensive approach to camper engagement, from the detailed safety protocols and health facilities to the inclusive atmosphere that celebrates diversity, makes Camp St Charles an ideal choice for parents seeking a meaningful summer experience for their children. Whether it’s through forming new friendships, learning new skills, or simply enjoying the beauty of nature, campers leave with memories that last a lifetime and skills that extend far beyond the summer.