Welcome to Echo Hill Camp, a vibrant summer retreat nestled in the serene landscapes of Worton, Maryland. This camp, established with a deep appreciation for outdoor adventure and personal growth, offers a unique blend of tradition and fun in a safe and nurturing environment.

Located in the picturesque region of Maryland’s Eastern Shore, Echo Hill Camp is not far from the historic Chesapeake Bay. This proximity allows campers to enjoy a wide range of water-based activities and the natural beauty of the area, which forms a crucial part of the camp experience.

Since its inception, Echo Hill Camp has focused on fostering a spirit of independence and resilience in young people. Through an array of activities and programs designed to challenge and inspire, campers from various backgrounds are encouraged to explore their potential and forge lasting friendships.

The mission at Echo Hill is to provide a supportive community where children can learn and grow while enjoying the great outdoors. The camp philosophy emphasizes respect, cooperation, and the development of leadership skills, all within a joyful and inclusive environment.

Echo Hill Camp welcomes boys and girls across various age groups. It offers a diverse program catering to different interests and maturity levels, ensuring that every camper finds something that excites and engages them. Whether it’s exploring the natural environment, participating in sports, or engaging in creative arts, Echo Hill Camp promises a summer filled with adventure and discovery.

Programs Offered by Echo Hill Camp

Echo Hill Camp offers a diverse array of programs designed to cater to a wide range of interests and ages, ensuring that each camper has the opportunity to explore new activities, enhance existing skills, and build meaningful relationships. Here’s an overview of the programs offered:

1. General Camp Programs

Description: These programs are comprehensive and allow campers to engage in a variety of activities including water sports, team sports, outdoor adventures, and creative arts.
Length of Sessions: Campers can enroll in sessions varying from one week to two weeks, or even opt for a full summer experience, allowing them to immerse themselves fully in camp life.
Typical Daily Schedule: A day at Echo Hill starts with a morning assembly, followed by a series of activity blocks separated by meal times and rest periods. The day concludes with an evening activity and a nightly campfire.

2. Specialty Programs

Arts: This program focuses on visual and performing arts, offering activities like painting, sculpture, drama, and dance.
Sports: Campers can participate in traditional sports such as soccer, basketball, and volleyball, as well as water sports like kayaking, sailing, and swimming.
Science: For those interested in science and nature, the camp offers hands-on environmental studies, wildlife explorations, and astronomy sessions.
Length of Specialty Programs: These specialty options are typically integrated into the daily schedule and can be chosen according to the camper’s interests. Some focused sessions, like a particular sports camp or an art workshop, might run for specific, shorter periods within the longer session lengths.

3. Leadership Development Programs

Description: Designed for older campers, these programs aim to develop leadership skills through specialized activities that include team-building exercises, leadership workshops, and counselor-in-training (CIT) roles.
Length of Sessions: Leadership programs may extend over several weeks and are structured to allow for progressive learning and responsibility.

Typical Daily Schedule

7:30 AM: Wake up and morning exercise
8:00 AM: Breakfast
9:00 AM – 12:00 PM: Morning activity blocks (varied daily)
12:00 PM: Lunch
1:00 PM – 3:00 PM: Afternoon activity blocks
3:00 PM: Snack and free time
4:00 PM – 5:30 PM: Evening activities/special events
6:00 PM: Dinner
7:30 PM: Evening assembly or special guest
8:30 PM: Campfire and night activities
10:00 PM: Lights out

This structured yet flexible schedule at Echo Hill Camp ensures that every day is full of fun, learning, and adventure, tailored to the interests and developmental needs of each camper. Whether they’re creating a masterpiece in an art studio, scoring the winning goal on the soccer field, or gazing at the stars, campers at Echo Hill are sure to have a memorable summer.

Accommodations in Echo Hill Camp

At Echo Hill Camp, the accommodations are thoughtfully designed to enhance the camping experience, promoting both comfort and a genuine connection with nature. Here’s what campers can expect in terms of sleeping arrangements, dining options, and bathroom facilities:

1. Sleeping Arrangements

Cabins: The primary accommodations at Echo Hill are rustic yet cozy cabins. These cabins are equipped with bunk beds and storage areas for personal belongings. Each cabin houses a specific number of campers, typically grouped by age and gender, to foster a community feeling and ensure that everyone feels comfortable and secure.
Tents: For older campers or those in specific adventure programs, there may be opportunities to sleep in tents. This provides a more immersive outdoor experience, allowing campers to learn basic camping skills such as setting up a tent and outdoor safety.

2. Dining Options

Meal Plans: Echo Hill Camp provides three well-balanced meals per day, served in a communal dining hall where campers and staff eat together. The meals are designed to be nutritious and energy-boosting, catering to the needs of active children and teens.
Dietary Accommodations: Understanding the importance of inclusive dining options, Echo Hill offers accommodations for various dietary needs, including vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and allergy-sensitive options. Parents can discuss their child’s dietary requirements with the camp staff before the session begins to ensure all needs are met.

3. Bathroom and Shower Facilities

Facilities: The camp is equipped with modern bathroom and shower facilities strategically located near the cabins and main activity areas. These facilities are separated by gender and are regularly cleaned and maintained to ensure hygiene and comfort.
Privacy and Accessibility: Echo Hill Camp prioritizes the privacy and safety of its campers, with facilities designed to be private and accessible. There are individual stalls and showers with changing areas to ensure privacy.

The accommodations at Echo Hill Camp are designed to make the camping experience as comfortable, safe, and enjoyable as possible, allowing campers to focus on their activities, friendships, and personal growth during their stay.

Activities in Echo Hill Camp

Echo Hill Camp offers a wide range of activities that cater to all interests and skill levels, ensuring that every camper has an enriching and enjoyable experience. Here is a breakdown of the activities, special events, and skill development opportunities available:

List of Activities Offered

Water Sports: Summer camps, swimming, canoeing, kayaking, sailing, and fishing.
Outdoor Adventures: Hiking, biking, camping, and orienteering.
Team Sports: Soccer, basketball, volleyball, baseball, and archery.
Creative Arts: Crafts, painting, pottery, drama, and dance.
Nature Exploration: Environmental education, wildlife studies, and gardening.
Recreational Games: Table tennis, board games, and scavenger hunts.

Special Events or Traditions

Echo Hill Camp is rich in traditions and hosts several special events throughout the summer to enhance the camp spirit and provide memorable experiences:

Opening and Closing Ceremonies: These bookend the camp sessions, fostering a sense of community and celebrating achievements.
Campfire Nights: Regular campfires offer storytelling, singing, and marshmallow roasting, integral to the classic camp experience.
Theme Days: Special days such as Pirate Day, Superhero Day, or International Day, where activities are themed, encouraging creativity and immersive fun.
Regatta Day: A day dedicated to water sports competitions and water-related games.
Talent Shows: Campers can showcase their talents in front of their peers, whether in music, dance, magic, or comedy.

Skill Development Opportunities

The camp not only focuses on fun but also on personal growth and skill development:

Leadership Skills: Older campers can participate in leadership programs, helping with younger groups and learning about responsibility and team management.
Outdoor Skills: Through camping and orienteering, campers learn survival skills, environmental stewardship, and self-sufficiency.
Artistic Skills: The arts programs encourage creative expression and skill refinement in various mediums.
Sports Skills: Campers improve their athletic abilities and learn about teamwork and sportsmanship through coached practice and casual play.
Social Skills: By living and working together, campers enhance their social skills, learning about communication, cooperation, and conflict resolution.

Echo Hill Camp’s diverse array of activities ensures that each camper can find something that piques their interest, whether they’re looking to try something new or deepen existing passions. This comprehensive program helps build a foundation for lifelong skills, friendships, and cherished memories.

The staff of Echo Hill Camp

Echo Hill Camp prides itself on having a dedicated, enthusiastic, and qualified staff, ensuring a safe, educational, and enjoyable environment for all campers. Here’s an overview of the staff-to-camper ratio, hiring process, qualifications, and training:

Staff-to-Camper Ratio

Echo Hill Camp maintains a low staff-to-camper ratio to ensure that each camper receives individual attention and support. The typical ratio is approximately one staff member to every six campers. This ratio allows for personalized interactions, closer supervision, and a more responsive camp environment.

Hiring Process and Staff Qualifications

Recruitment: Echo Hill Camp recruits staff from a variety of sources, including colleges, teacher recommendations, and networks of former campers who return as staff. The goal is to find individuals who are not only skilled in their specific activity areas but also have a genuine passion for working with children in a camp setting.
Screening: Potential staff members undergo a thorough screening process, which includes background checks, reference checks, and interviews. The process ensures that all staff members are trustworthy and have a clean record.
Qualifications: Staff members typically have experience either in child education, coaching, or in specialized fields relevant to the camp’s activities. Many are pursuing or have completed degrees in education, recreation management, or similar fields.

Training and Certifications

Pre-Camp Training: Before camp begins, staff undergo an intensive training program that covers camp policies, emergency procedures, child psychology, and activity planning. This training ensures that all staff are prepared to handle a wide range of situations that may arise at camp.
CPR and First Aid: All staff members are required to be certified in CPR and First Aid. These certifications are crucial for ensuring the safety of all campers and staff, especially given the physical nature of many camp activities.
Specialized Certifications: Depending on their roles, some staff may also hold additional certifications. For example, staff involved in water sports might have lifeguard certifications, while those leading hikes or outdoor expeditions might have wilderness first responder certifications.

The investment in high-quality staff training and rigorous hiring standards reflects Echo Hill Camp’s commitment to providing a safe, supportive, and enriching environment for all campers. This approach not only enhances the camp experience but also ensures that parents can have peace of mind about their children’s safety and care while at camp.

Safety and Health in Echo Hill Camp

Echo Hill Camp prioritizes the safety and health of all campers and staff, implementing comprehensive protocols and maintaining robust facilities to ensure a secure and supportive environment. Here are the details regarding safety protocols, health facilities, and emergency handling policies:

Safety Protocols and Procedures

Regular Drills: Echo Hill Camp conducts regular safety drills, including fire drills, water safety practices, and severe weather drills to ensure that all campers and staff know how to respond in different emergency situations.
Activity Safety: Each activity offered at the camp comes with its specific set of safety protocols, which are rigorously taught to both staff and campers. For example, there are strict guidelines for water sports to prevent accidents, including the use of life jackets and buddy systems.
Equipment Checks: All equipment used in camp activities is regularly inspected and maintained. This includes sports equipment, boats for water activities, and gear used in arts and crafts.

On-site Health Facilities and Staff

Health Center: Echo Hill Camp has an on-site health center staffed by qualified healthcare providers such as nurses or paramedics. This facility is equipped to handle minor injuries and illnesses and is stocked with essential medications and first aid supplies.
24/7 Availability: Health staff are available around the clock to ensure that any medical issues can be addressed promptly, regardless of when they occur.
Health Checks: Upon arrival, each camper undergoes a health check to identify any existing conditions or medications that the camp staff should be aware of. This helps in managing individual health needs effectively.

Policies on Handling Emergencies

Emergency Response Plan: Echo Hill Camp has a detailed emergency response plan that outlines the steps to be taken in case of various emergencies, from natural disasters to medical crises. This plan is regularly reviewed and updated.
Communication: In the event of an emergency, the camp has protocols for communicating with local emergency services and with parents. This ensures that all relevant parties are informed and can respond appropriately.
Evacuation Routes: The camp is equipped with clearly marked evacuation routes and safe areas designed to protect campers and staff in case evacuation becomes necessary.
Training in Emergency Procedures: All camp staff receive training in emergency procedures as part of their initial training and attend refresher courses each year. This training includes how to handle specific medical emergencies, how to evacuate campers safely, and how to use communication tools during an emergency.

Through these comprehensive safety and health measures, Echo Hill Camp ensures that risks are minimized and that both campers and staff are well-prepared to handle any situation that might arise, thereby maintaining a safe and healthy camp environment.

Cost and Registration in Echo Hill Camp

The cost of attending Echo Hill Camp varies depending on the length of the session and the specific programs selected. Generally, the cost covers all essentials, including:

Accommodation: Campers stay in well-maintained cabins or tents, as part of their outdoor experience.
Meals: Three balanced meals per day, along with snacks, all of which meet nutritional needs and accommodate dietary restrictions.
Activities: Full access to all camp activities, including specialized programs such as arts, sports, and science workshops.
Equipment: Use of all necessary equipment for various activities, ensuring no additional fees for rentals.
Supervision and Care: Constant supervision and care by trained camp staff, including medical assistance when necessary.
The summer camp fees for Echo Hill Camp in Worton, MD start at $1,700 per week.

Registration Process and Deadlines

Online Application: Parents can register their children via the camp’s online portal. This includes filling out necessary forms and providing medical and dietary information.
Deadlines: Registration typically opens several months before the camp season starts, with early registration discounts offered. Deadlines are set for each session, and it is advisable to register early as spaces can fill up quickly.

Payment Plans, Refunds, and Cancellation Policies

Payment Plans: Echo Hill Camp offers flexible payment plans, allowing parents to spread the cost of camp over several months leading up to the summer. This makes budgeting easier and camp more accessible.
Refunds and Cancellations: The camp has a clear refund policy, where a full or partial refund is available depending on when the cancellation occurs. Typically, cancellations made well in advance receive a higher refund. However, there may be a non-refundable deposit to secure a spot.
Insurance: Parents are encouraged to purchase camp insurance that can cover unforeseen cancellations due to illness or emergency.

Scholarships and Financial Aid

Scholarships: Echo Hill Camp offers scholarships based on both need and merit. These scholarships are intended to make camp accessible to a broader range of families and can cover a portion or the full cost of attendance.
Financial Aid: Financial aid applications are available during the registration process. Families are required to provide documentation supporting their financial needs, and aid amounts are allocated based on the camp’s annual budget and the number of applicants.

Echo Hill Camp is committed to providing a memorable and enriching summer experience for all children, and these financial policies are designed to help families manage the cost of camp while ensuring that children can enjoy a variety of activities and programs in a safe and nurturing environment.

Parent and Camper Preparation in Echo Hill Camp

To ensure that campers are fully prepared for their time at Echo Hill, here’s a recommended packing list:

Clothing: Pack enough comfortable clothing for the duration of the stay, including t-shirts, shorts, and jeans. Include swimwear, a rain jacket, and warmer layers for cooler evenings.
Footwear: Sturdy sneakers and/or hiking boots, plus sandals or flip-flops for shower use.
Bedding: Sleeping bag or sheets and blankets, plus a pillow.
Toiletries: Toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, shampoo, sunscreen, and insect repellent.
Other Essentials: Hat, sunglasses, water bottle, and flashlights with extra batteries.
Optional Items: Books, writing materials, and a disposable camera (if campers wish to take pictures without using a phone).

Rules and Policies at Echo Hill Camp

Technology Use: To maximize engagement and interaction, the use of personal electronic devices such as smartphones, tablets, and laptops is typically restricted or not allowed. Devices, if brought, are collected and safely stored, and returned at the end of the camp session.
Visitation: Parents are generally encouraged to say their goodbyes on the first day and not to visit until the designated visiting days if offered, or at the end of the session. This helps campers adjust to camp life and encourages independence.
Behavior: Campers are expected to follow the camp’s code of conduct, which includes respecting others, participating in scheduled activities, and adhering to safety guidelines.

Tips for First-Time Campers and Parents

For Campers:

Embrace New Experiences: Be open to trying new activities and making new friends. Camp is a great place to learn new skills and grow.
Stay Positive: Homesickness is normal. Remember, it usually passes quickly as you get involved in activities and build friendships.

For Parents:

Stay Informed: Understand the camp’s communication policies on how updates will be provided, such as through emails or a secure camp website.
Prepare Emotionally: Discuss what camp will be like focusing on the exciting opportunities. This can help ease any nervousness your child may feel.
Pack Smart: Label all belongings with your child’s name and check the weather forecast close to the packing time to ensure your child has suitable clothing for the expected conditions.

By preparing effectively and understanding the camp’s rules and expectations, both parents and campers can ensure that the camp experience is enjoyable and rewarding. Echo Hill Camp is dedicated to creating a supportive environment where campers can explore, learn, and grow.

Echo Hill Camp stands as a beacon of adventure, learning, and growth, nestled in the picturesque environment of Worton, Maryland. With its diverse range of activities, from water sports and hiking to arts and crafts, Echo Hill offers something for every camper, fostering independence, teamwork, and creativity. The camp’s commitment to safety, comprehensive facilities, and qualified staff ensures a nurturing environment where campers can explore their interests and develop new skills in a supportive community.

Each summer, Echo Hill opens its doors to a new group of eager young minds ready to embark on a journey of discovery and fun. The carefully structured programs, combined with a spirit of freedom and exploration, make Echo Hill not just a summer camp, but a transformative experience that campers remember for a lifetime. Whether it’s their first time away from home or they’re returning campers, Echo Hill provides a unique opportunity to grow, challenge themselves, and make lasting friendships.