Nestled in the picturesque Monadnock Region of New Hampshire, Mass Audubon’s Wildwood Camp stands as a beacon of adventure and learning in the great outdoors. Located near the serene shores of Hubbard Pond and under the watchful eye of the historic Mount Monadnock, this camp provides an idyllic setting for children and teens to explore nature.

Mass Audubon’s Wildwood Camp was established with a vision to foster an appreciation for the natural world among young people. Through immersive environmental education and engaging outdoor activities, the camp strives to cultivate a deep, lifelong connection between campers and the environment.

The philosophy at Wildwood is simple yet profound: “Experience Nature, Experience Wildwood.” This mission encapsulates the camp’s dedication to providing hands-on learning experiences that promote environmental awareness, personal growth, and the joy of discovery.

Mass Audubon’s Wildwood Camp offers an experience, of welcoming boys and girls across various age groups. With programs tailored for different developmental stages, the camp ensures that every camper has an opportunity to thrive and explore in a supportive, enriching environment.

Join us at Wildwood, where every day is an adventure filled with learning, discovery, and a deep, enduring respect for the natural world.

Programs Offered by Mass Audubon’s Wildwood Camp

Description of Programs: Mass Audubon’s Wildwood Camp offers a diverse array of programs designed to engage campers in environmental education and outdoor activities. These programs allow campers to explore their interests in nature through hands-on, experiential learning. Whether it’s hiking through lush forests, canoeing on Hubbard Pond, or studying local wildlife, every activity is crafted to enhance knowledge and foster a love for the natural world.

Length of Sessions:

One-Week Sessions: Ideal for younger campers or first-timers, these sessions provide a brief yet immersive introduction to camp life and outdoor exploration.
Two-Week Sessions: These sessions allow for deeper engagement and more extensive exploration of environmental themes and activities. Campers have more time to form lasting friendships and connect with nature.
Full Summer Option: For the most dedicated young naturalists, spending the entire summer at Wildwood means experiencing a comprehensive, in-depth program that covers a wide range of activities and educational opportunities.

Specialty Programs:

Nature Arts: This program combines creativity with environmental education, allowing campers to express themselves through art projects inspired by the natural world around them.
Wildlife Science: Focused on biology and ecology, this specialty program gives campers the chance to engage in wildlife studies, habitat exploration, and conservation projects.
Outdoor Sports and Skills: From canoeing and archery to survival skills, this program emphasizes physical activity, teamwork, and outdoor survival techniques.

Typical Daily Schedule:

Morning:
- Wake-up and breakfast
- Morning Meeting: Campers gather to discuss the day’s activities.
- First Activity Session: Guided nature walks, bird watching, or environmental science classes.
Midday:
- Lunch and rest period
- Second Activity Session: This could involve arts and crafts focused on nature, or perhaps a hands-on science experiment.
Afternoon:
- Third Activity Session: Typically more physically engaging, such as canoeing, hiking, or sports.
- Free Time: Campers have time to explore their interests, practice skills, or relax with friends.
Evening:
- Dinner
- Evening Program: Activities vary daily, from campfires and storytelling to night hikes and star gazing.
- Lights Out: Time for rest and rejuvenation.

Each day at Wildwood is structured to balance educational activities with physical play, creative expression, and ample time for relaxation, ensuring campers have a fulfilling and enjoyable experience.

Accommodations in Mass Audubon’s Wildwood Camp

Sleeping Arrangements: Mass Audubon’s Wildwood Camp provides cozy and comfortable sleeping accommodations designed to enhance the camping experience while ensuring safety and comfort. Campers stay in well-constructed cabins that are nestled among the trees, offering a rustic yet protective environment. Each cabin houses a small group of campers, allowing them to form close bonds with their peers while under the supervision of trained camp staff. The cabins are equipped with bunk beds, and storage space for personal items, and are located close to the central bathroom and shower facilities.

Dining Options: Mealtimes at Wildwood are not only about nourishing the body but also about fostering community and sharing experiences. The camp offers a communal dining hall where campers gather to enjoy meals prepared by a dedicated culinary team. The meal plans include a variety of healthy and hearty options designed to fuel the active camp lifestyle. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner feature a range of choices to accommodate various tastes and dietary needs.

Dietary Accommodations: Understanding the importance of catering to all campers, Wildwood’s kitchen staff is well-equipped to handle special dietary requirements. Whether it’s allergies, vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, or other specific dietary needs, arrangements can be made to ensure every camper has access to suitable and delicious meal options.

Bathroom and Shower Facilities: Wildwood Camp ensures cleanliness and convenience with modern bathroom and shower facilities. These facilities are strategically located near the cabins and are maintained regularly to meet high standards of hygiene. Separate shower and bathroom facilities for boys and girls are provided to ensure privacy and comfort. These amenities are equipped with multiple stalls and showers, reducing wait times and ensuring that campers can quickly and comfortably get ready for each day’s adventures.

Overall, the accommodations at Mass Audubon’s Wildwood Camp are designed to ensure that all campers have a comfortable, safe, and enjoyable stay, allowing them to focus fully on their camping experience and the beauty of nature around them.

Activities in Mass Audubon’s Wildwood Camp

List of Activities Offered: Mass Audubon’s Wildwood Camp provides a rich array of activities tailored to engage campers in both fun and educational experiences. These activities are carefully designed to promote environmental awareness, personal growth, and a love for outdoor adventure.

Swimming: Summer camps can enjoy swimming in Hubbard Pond under the supervision of certified lifeguards. This activity is not only fun but also a great way for campers to cool off on warm days.
Hiking: With proximity to Mount Monadnock, campers have the opportunity to participate in guided hikes exploring the diverse flora and fauna of the region.
Crafts: Arts and crafts sessions allow campers to use natural materials found in the camp environment to create personal and group art projects.
Canoeing: Paddling on Hubbard Pond provides a peaceful yet exciting experience, teaching campers basic canoeing skills and safety.
Nature Studies: These include bird watching, studying aquatic life, and participating in environmental conservation projects.
Survival Skills: Campers learn essential outdoor skills such as orienteering, fire-building, and shelter construction.

Special Events or Traditions: Wildwood Camp hosts a variety of special events and traditions that become highlights of the camp experience. These include:

Campfire Nights: Regular evenings spent around the campfire, where campers sing songs, share stories, and participate in camp-wide games.
Environmental Awareness Week: A week dedicated to special activities and guest speakers who educate on conservation and the importance of protecting natural habitats.
End-of-Summer Festival: A celebratory event at the end of each summer session that includes performances, a showcase of campers’ crafts, and an awards ceremony to recognize achievements.

Skill Development Opportunities: The activities at Wildwood are not only fun but also designed to help campers develop a range of skills:

Teamwork and Leadership: Many activities require campers to work together, fostering teamwork and the development of leadership skills.
Environmental Stewardship: Through hands-on learning and involvement in conservation projects, campers develop a strong sense of responsibility for the environment.
Physical Fitness: Activities like swimming, hiking, and canoeing promote physical health and teach campers about the importance of staying active.
Creative Expression: Arts and crafts, as well as performance events, encourage campers to express themselves creatively and think innovatively.

Each activity at Mass Audubon’s Wildwood Camp is thoughtfully integrated into the camp’s curriculum to ensure that each camper not only enjoys their time but leaves with new skills, greater confidence, and an enhanced appreciation for the natural world.

The staff of Mass Audubon’s Wildwood Camp

Staff-to-Camper Ratio: At Mass Audubon’s Wildwood Camp, maintaining a low staff-to-camper ratio is a priority to ensure that each camper receives individual attention and care. The camp adheres to a ratio that typically ranges from 1 staff member for every 5 to 8 campers, depending on the age group and activity. This ratio helps foster a safe, supportive, and engaging environment, allowing staff to effectively oversee and enrich the camp experience for each participant.

Hiring Process and Staff Qualifications: The hiring process at Wildwood Camp is rigorous and thorough to ensure that all staff members are highly qualified and capable of providing a safe, educational, and fun environment for campers.

Background Checks: All potential staff undergo extensive background checks, including criminal records and references, to ensure the safety and security of the campers.
Education and Experience: Preference is given to candidates with backgrounds in environmental science, education, recreation, or related fields. Many staff members are college students or graduates who are pursuing careers in education, environmental policy, or the sciences.
Interview Process: The interview process includes multiple stages to assess the candidates’ compatibility with the camp’s values and mission, their ability to work with children, and their knowledge and enthusiasm for nature and outdoor activities.

Training and Certifications: Mass Audubon’s Wildwood Camp ensures that all staff members are adequately trained and certified to handle both routine and emergency situations. This training includes:

CPR and First Aid: All staff are required to be certified in CPR and First Aid. Regular refresher courses are provided during the camp season to ensure that these skills are up-to-date.
Lifeguard Certification: For activities involving water, such as swimming and canoeing, staff members are required to be certified lifeguards.
Specialized Training: Depending on their roles, staff may receive additional training in areas such as wilderness first aid, child psychology, educational program planning, and environmental conservation techniques.
Orientation and Seasonal Training: Before the camp season begins, all staff participate in an extensive orientation that covers camp policies, emergency procedures, activity planning, and effective communication with campers. This training is designed to align all team members with the camp’s standards and expectations.

Through these stringent hiring practices and comprehensive training programs, Wildwood Camp ensures that its staff is not only equipped with the necessary skills and knowledge to provide a safe and enriching camp experience but also shares a deep commitment to the mission of fostering a connection between young people and the natural world.

Safety and Health in Mass Audubon’s Wildwood Camp

Safety Protocols and Procedures: Mass Audubon’s Wildwood Camp prioritizes the safety of its campers and staff through a comprehensive set of protocols and procedures designed to prevent accidents and efficiently manage potential emergencies.

Regular Safety Drills: Campers and staff participate in regular safety drills, including fire drills, water safety practices, and severe weather procedures, ensuring that everyone knows how to act in case of an emergency.
Activity-Specific Training: Staff are trained to conduct all activities with a focus on safety, and they ensure that campers understand and adhere to all safety guidelines during these activities, whether they’re hiking, swimming, or crafting.
Equipment Checks: All equipment used in camp activities is regularly inspected and maintained to ensure it meets safety standards.

On-Site Health Facilities and Staff: Mass Audubon’s Wildwood Camp is equipped with on-site health facilities staffed by qualified healthcare professionals.

Health Center: The camp maintains a health center that is staffed by a registered nurse or other medical professional capable of treating minor injuries or illnesses and managing chronic conditions.
Medical Protocols: The health center follows strict medical protocols for handling more serious injuries or illnesses, including immediate first response and coordination with local hospitals if necessary.
Medication Management: The camp’s medical staff is responsible for storing and administering any medications that campers need, in accordance with prescriptions and parental instructions.

Policies on Handling Emergencies: Mass Audubon’s Wildwood Camp has a well-defined emergency response plan that includes the following elements:

Communication: In case of an emergency, there are clear protocols for communicating with all camp staff and contacting external emergency services. Parents are immediately notified according to the situation’s urgency and nature.
Evacuation Procedures: The camp has established evacuation routes and meeting points that are well-marked and familiar to all staff and campers. These are used in the event of a fire, severe weather, or other situations requiring evacuation.
Partnerships with Local Authorities: Wildwood maintains strong relationships with local law enforcement and emergency medical services to ensure a quick response time in the event of a serious emergency.
Training on Emergency Response: All staff receive training on how to handle various emergency scenarios, ensuring that they can respond effectively and keep campers safe.

Overall, the health and safety policies at Mass Audubon’s Wildwood Camp are designed to create a secure environment where campers can enjoy their activities without undue risk, and where parents can feel confident about their children’s well-being while at camp.

Cost and Registration in Mass Audubon’s Wildwood Camp

Cost of Attendance: The cost of attending Wildwood Camp varies depending on the length of the session and the specific programs chosen. Generally, fees cover all aspects of the camp experience including:

Lodging: Comfortable accommodations in camp cabins.
Meals: Three meals per day plus snacks, accommodating dietary restrictions and preferences.
Activities: Access to all camp programs and activities, including specialized equipment and materials.
Supervision: Comprehensive supervision and guidance from trained camp staff.
Health Care: Access to on-site health facilities and professional medical staff.

Registration Process and Deadlines: Registration for Mass Audubon’s Wildwood Camp is typically handled online through the camp. The process includes:

Application Form: Parents fill out a detailed application form that includes camper information, medical history, and emergency contact details.
Deposit: A deposit is usually required at the time of registration to secure a spot at the camp.
Deadlines: Registration deadlines are set well in advance of the camp start date. Early registration is encouraged as some sessions may fill up quickly.

Payment Plans, Refunds, and Cancellation Policies:

Payment Plans: Mass Audubon’s Wildwood Camp may offer flexible payment plans that allow parents to pay the camp fees in installments over time, making it more manageable financially.
Refunds: The camp typically has a refund policy that includes full or partial refunds up to a certain date before the camp begins. After this date, refunds may be reduced or unavailable except in cases of medical emergencies, which are documented and verified.
Cancellation Policies: Detailed cancellation policies are provided to ensure that families are aware of all deadlines and penalties for withdrawing from the camp.

Availability of Scholarships or Financial Aid:

Scholarships: Mass Audubon’s Wildwood Camp often offers scholarships to help make camp more accessible to families experiencing financial hardship. These scholarships can cover part or all of the camp fees.
Financial Aid: In addition to scholarships, other forms of financial aid may be available based on need. Families are encouraged to apply early for these opportunities as funds are limited and awarded on a first-come, first-served basis.

Mass Audubon’s Wildwood Camp strives to make its programs accessible to as many young people as possible, reflecting its commitment to inclusivity and the belief that all children should have the opportunity to experience nature and develop environmental stewardship.

Cost:

Teen Adventure Trips: These are week-long or 10-day immersive experiences for teens aged 14-17, with fees ranging from $2,000 to $2,718.

Nature Escape: This program caters to teens aged 13-17 and offers a shorter camping and community experience (one session only) with a fee of $2,000

Parent and Camper Preparation in Mass Audubon’s Wildwood Camp

Packing List: Preparing for camp at Mass Audubon’s Wildwood Camp involves careful packing to ensure that campers have everything they need for a comfortable and enjoyable experience. Here’s a general packing list:

Clothing: Pack enough clothes for the session, including layers for cooler days and evenings. Include t-shirts, shorts, long pants, sweatshirts, rain gear, swimsuits, and sturdy footwear for hiking.
Bedding: Sleeping bag or sheets and blankets, pillow, and a sleeping pad if desired.
Toiletries: Toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, shampoo, sunscreen, insect repellent, and a towel.
Personal Items: Water bottle, flashlight or headlamp with extra batteries, and any necessary medications (to be managed by camp health staff).
Optional Items: Books, writing materials, and disposable cameras (if campers wish to take pictures without using electronic devices).

Rules and Policies:

Technology Use: To maximize engagement with nature and fellow campers, personal electronic devices such as smartphones, tablets, and laptops are typically discouraged or not allowed at camp. This helps campers to disconnect from digital distractions and fully immerse in the camp experience.
Visitation: For the safety and security of campers and staff, visitation policies are usually restricted. Parents are encouraged to check the camp’s specific policies, but most often, visits are limited to designated visiting days.
Behavioral Expectations: Campers are expected to follow all camp rules and respect both staff and fellow campers. Policies regarding behavior, including bullying and respect for property, are strictly enforced to maintain a safe and positive camp environment.

Tips for First-Time Campers and Parents:

For Campers:
- Be open to making new friends and trying new activities. Camp is a great place to learn new skills and step out of your comfort zone.
- Remember that it’s okay to feel homesick. Most campers feel this way at some point, and staff are trained to help you adjust and feel comfortable.
For Parents:
- Prepare your child by discussing what camp will be like focusing on the exciting activities and opportunities for making new friends.
- Write letters or send care packages to provide comfort and a connection to home.
- Trust the camp staff. They are trained professionals chosen to care for and guide your child through their camp experience.

By following these guidelines and preparing accordingly, both parents and campers can ensure that their time at Mass Audubon’s Wildwood Camp will be enjoyable and memorable, filled with fun activities and valuable learning experiences.

Mass Audubon’s Wildwood Camp in Rindge, NH, offers a unique and enriching experience for children and teens eager to explore the natural world. Nestled among the scenic landscapes of the Monadnock Region, this camp provides an ideal setting for a wide range of outdoor activities, from hiking and swimming to arts and crafts inspired by nature. With a commitment to safety, environmental education, and personal growth, Wildwood Camp cultivates not just skills but also a deep respect for the environment.

The camp’s comprehensive programs, skilled staff, and well-planned facilities ensure that every camper has a memorable and transformative experience. Whether it’s through gaining new skills, forming lasting friendships, or developing a deeper connection with nature, campers leave Wildwood with valuable life lessons and cherished memories.