Camp Belknap Mirror Lake NH

Welcome to Camp Belknap, a beacon of tradition and camaraderie nestled on the pristine shores of Mirror Lake in Tuftonboro, New Hampshire. Established in 1903, this all-boys camp has been a home away from home for generations, fostering a sense of community and personal growth amidst the scenic backdrop of the White Mountains.

Camp Belknap’s philosophy is deeply rooted in its mission to “develop character and instill self-reliance in boys,” a commitment that resonates through its array of activities and programs. As a non-profit organization, the camp thrives on creating an environment that emphasizes values such as leadership, integrity, and respect.

Catering exclusively to boys, Camp Belknap offers programs for various age groups ranging from 8 to 16 years old. Each session is designed to challenge campers in a supportive community, encouraging them to explore their interests, build lasting friendships, and develop skills that extend beyond the campgrounds.

With over a century of history, Camp Belknap continues to be a place where traditions are cherished and new adventures begin, making it not just a summer camp, but a lifetime experience.

Programs Offered by Camp Belknap

Camp Belknap offers a variety of programs designed to engage boys in meaningful activities and foster personal growth throughout the summer. Each program is crafted with the aim of building character, skills, and lifelong friendships among campers.

Programs and Session Lengths

1. Traditional Camp Programs:
   • These core programs are offered in two-week sessions throughout the summer. Campers can also opt for longer stays, including a full summer option, which combines multiple sessions for an immersive camp experience.
     
2. Leadership Development Programs:
   • Tailored for older campers, these programs focus on developing leadership skills that are applicable both at camp and in the wider world. Typically, these are offered as part of the longer, full-summer sessions.

Specialty Programs

Camp Belknap prides itself on a diverse range of specialty programs that cater to various interests:

• Arts: Includes creative endeavors such as painting, woodworking, and performance arts, helping campers explore their artistic talents in a supportive environment.
  
• Sports: Offers a wide array of activities including soccer, basketball, swimming, and sailing, emphasizing teamwork and physical fitness.
  
• Outdoor Adventures: Focuses on skills such as hiking, camping, and survival techniques, taking full advantage of the camp’s natural setting.
  
• Science and Nature: Engages campers in environmental education and exploration, with activities that foster a deeper appreciation for the natural world.

Typical Daily Schedule

A day at Camp Belknap is structured to provide a balance of activities, personal time, and community interactions:

• Morning:
  • Wake-up and cabin clean-up
  • Breakfast is followed by a morning assembly
  • Morning activities (campers participate in pre-chosen specialty areas)
• Afternoon:
  • Lunch and some free time
  • Afternoon activities (a second round of specialty or chosen activities)
  • Free swim or general playtime
• Evening:
  • Dinner
  • Evening program (varies daily, could be a campfire, talent show, or group games)
  • Bedtime routines and lights out

This schedule is designed to keep campers engaged, active, and entertained, all while fostering independence and personal growth within the supportive framework of Camp Belknap’s mission and values.

Accommodations in Camp Belknap

At Camp Belknap, accommodations are thoughtfully designed to enhance the camping experience while providing comfort and fostering camaraderie among campers.

Sleeping Arrangements

• Cabins:
  • The primary accommodation at Camp Belknap is rustic, yet comfortable cabins that blend seamlessly with the natural surroundings. Each cabin houses a specific age group, allowing campers to bond with peers of similar ages. The cabins are equipped with bunk beds and storage areas for personal belongings. They provide a cozy, communal living experience that is central to the camp’s ethos of community building.

Dining Options

• Meal Plans:
  • Camp Belknap offers a full meal plan that includes breakfast, lunch, and dinner, served in the communal dining hall. Meals are designed to be nutritious and energizing, catering to the needs of active campers. The communal meals are a time for campers to gather and share their day’s experiences, reinforcing the sense of community.
    
• Dietary Accommodations:
  • Understanding the importance of inclusive dining options, Camp Belknap accommodates various dietary needs including vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and allergy-specific meals. Parents are encouraged to communicate any specific dietary requirements prior to the camp session to ensure that all needs are adequately met.

Bathroom and Shower Facilities

• Facilities:
  • Bathroom and shower facilities at Camp Belknap are communal and separated by age groups. These facilities are strategically located near the cabins and are regularly cleaned and maintained to ensure hygiene and comfort. The showers offer privacy stalls, and there are ample sinks and toilet facilities to accommodate the campers in each cabin area.

Camp Belknap’s accommodations are designed to ensure that all campers have a safe, comfortable, and enjoyable stay, allowing them to focus on their growth and enjoyment throughout their time at camp.

Activities in Camp Belknap

Camp Belknap offers a diverse range of activities designed to cater to various interests, promote skill development, and foster a spirit of adventure among campers. Here’s a detailed overview of the activities, special events, and skill development opportunities available:

List of Activities Offered

1. Water Activities:
   • Swimming: Summer camps, daily swim lessons, and free swim periods in Mirror Lake.
   • Sailing: Instruction in small boat handling and safety.
   • Canoeing and Kayaking: Exploring the lake and learning paddling techniques.
     
2. Land Sports:
   • Soccer, Basketball, and Baseball: Team sports focusing on skill development and teamwork.
   • Archery and Riflery: Focus on safety, technique, and precision.
   • Tennis: Lessons and matches to improve game skills.
     
3. Outdoor Adventures:
   • Hiking: Guided trips in the White Mountains.
   • Camping: Overnight camping excursions teaching survival skills.
   • Rock Climbing: Both on natural rock faces and climbing walls.
     
4. Arts and Crafts:
   • Woodworking, Pottery, and Painting: Encouraging creativity and fine motor skills.
   • Drama: Producing plays and skits that foster public speaking and performance skills.
     
5. Environmental Education:
   • Nature Walks and Wildlife Study: Learning about local flora and fauna.
   • Conservation Projects: Promoting environmental stewardship.

Special Events or Traditions

• Campfire Nights: Traditional campfire gatherings with stories, songs, and marshmallow roasting.
• Color Wars: A multi-day event featuring a series of team competitions in sports, arts, and adventure challenges.
• Regatta Day: A celebrated event involving boat races and water-based competitions.
• End-of-Summer Banquet: A formal dinner to celebrate the achievements of the summer and the bonds formed.

Skill Development Opportunities

Camp Belknap places a strong emphasis on personal growth and skill development through its structured activities. Each activity is designed to not only be fun but also to teach valuable life skills such as leadership, teamwork, resilience, and independence. Instructors and counselors are focused on helping campers improve their abilities in specific areas, whether it’s mastering a new swim stroke, improving accuracy in archery, or developing artistic talents.

Overall, Camp Belknap provides a rich, engaging, and educational environment where boys can explore new interests, challenge themselves, and grow in confidence and capabilities.

The staff of Camp Belknap

Camp Belknap is dedicated to providing a safe and enriching camp experience, underpinned by a highly qualified and well-trained staff. Here are the details regarding the staff-to-camper ratio, the hiring process, staff qualifications, and the training and certifications that are mandatory for all staff members:

Staff-to-Camper Ratio

• Camp Belknap maintains a low staff-to-camper ratio to ensure that each camper receives individual attention and guidance. The typical ratio is approximately one staff member for every four campers. This ratio allows staff to closely monitor camper safety, provide personalized instruction, and foster a nurturing environment.

Hiring Process and Staff Qualifications

• Hiring Process:
  • Camp Belknap’s hiring process is rigorous and thorough to select individuals who are not only skilled but also passionate about working with children. Prospective staff members undergo a comprehensive screening process that includes background checks, multiple interviews, and reference checks.
    
• Staff Qualifications:
  • Candidates are typically selected based on their experience in child care, education, or related fields. Many are former campers who are intimately familiar with Camp Belknap’s culture and values. Additionally, staff often possess skills pertinent to the camp’s activities, such as sports coaching, arts, or outdoor leadership.

Training and Certifications

• Mandatory Training:
  • All staff members participate in a detailed pre-camp training session that covers camp policies, child psychology, emergency procedures, and specific activity training. This ensures that every staff member is prepared to provide a safe, fun, and educational environment for the campers.
    
• Certifications:
  • Staff members are required to hold current certifications in CPR and First Aid. Instructors for specific activities, such as swimming or rock climbing, hold additional certifications relevant to their areas of expertise (e.g., lifeguard certification, climbing instructor certification).
    
• Ongoing Education:
  • Camp Belknap encourages continuous professional development. Throughout the summer, staff engage in ongoing training sessions to refine their skills and adapt to any emerging needs or challenges within the camp environment.

The combination of a rigorous hiring process, comprehensive training, and a commitment to professional development ensures that Camp Belknap’s staff are well-equipped to provide a high-quality camp experience that prioritizes the safety, learning, and enjoyment of all campers.

Safety and Health in Camp Belknap

Camp Belknap prioritizes the safety and health of all campers and staff, implementing comprehensive protocols and maintaining robust facilities to address any health or safety concerns that may arise during camp sessions.

Safety Protocols and Procedures

• Regular Training and Drills:
  • All campers and staff participate in regular safety drills, including fire, weather, and emergency evacuation drills, to ensure everyone is familiar with procedures in various scenarios.
    
• Activity-Specific Safety:
  • Each activity area has specific safety protocols, which are rigorously enforced. For example, water activities require life jackets, and all aquatic staff are lifeguard certified. Equipment for activities like archery and rock climbing is regularly inspected for safety.
    
• Supervision:
  • Campers are supervised at all times by qualified staff, with strict adherence to the camp’s staff-to-camper ratio. This ensures that supervision is both effective and attentive across all activities and general camp living.

On-Site Health Facilities and Staff

• Health Center:
  • Camp Belknap maintains a well-equipped health center staffed by licensed healthcare professionals, including nurses and a visiting physician. The health center is prepared to handle routine illnesses and injuries and is equipped with the necessary medications and medical equipment.
    
• 24/7 Availability:
  • Health center staff are available 24/7 to address any health concerns that may arise, ensuring that prompt medical attention is always accessible.

Policies on Handling Emergencies

• Emergency Response Plan:
  • The camp has a comprehensive emergency response plan that outlines procedures for handling different types of emergencies, from injuries and sudden illnesses to natural disasters. This plan is regularly reviewed and updated as necessary.
    
• External Resources Coordination:
  • In case of serious medical emergencies, Camp Belknap has protocols in place for immediate response and coordination with local hospitals. Emergency transport is readily available to ensure swift transfer to medical facilities if required.
    
• Communication with Families:
  • In the event of an emergency involving a camper, the camp promptly notifies the camper’s family while ensuring that the situation is handled smoothly and efficiently. There is a clear policy in place for maintaining communication lines open with families during such critical times.

Through these measures, Camp Belknap ensures that the environment remains not only fun and enriching but also safe and secure for everyone involved, providing peace of mind to parents and a safe space for campers to explore and grow.

Cost and Registration in Camp Belknap

Camp Belknap is committed to providing a quality camp experience that is accessible and affordable. Below are details regarding the cost of attendance, registration processes, and financial support options available to families.

Cost of Attendance and What It Includes

• Cost of Attendance:
  • The cost of attending Camp Belknap varies depending on the length of the session chosen by the camper. Prices generally include all lodging, meals, activities, and program materials. Additional costs may apply for special outings or optional extras.
    
• What It Includes:
  • Fees cover full board and lodging in camp cabins, all meals and snacks, full participation in scheduled camp activities, and the use of camp equipment and facilities.

Registration Process and Deadlines

• Registration Process:
  • Families can register their children through an online registration portal available on the camp’s website. New families are typically invited to register after returning families, based on the availability of slots.
    
• Deadlines:
  • Registration for the upcoming summer usually opens in the fall of the previous year. There are set deadlines for each session, and it is recommended to register early as spaces fill up quickly.

Payment Plans, Refunds, and Cancellation Policies

• Payment Plans:
  • Camp Belknap offers flexible payment plans to help families manage the cost of camp. Details can be arranged during the registration process.
    
• Refunds and Cancellation Policies:
  • The camp provides a structured refund policy where full or partial refunds are available depending on the timing of the cancellation. A non-refundable deposit is required at the time of registration. Specific details are outlined in the registration materials.

Availability of Scholarships or Financial Aid

• Scholarships and Financial Aid:
  • Camp Belknap believes that financial constraints should not prevent a child from attending camp. The camp offers scholarships and financial aid based on demonstrated financial need. Families are encouraged to apply early as funds are limited and distributed on a first-come, first-served basis.
    
• Application for Aid:
  • To apply for financial assistance, families must complete a financial aid application form and submit it along with the required financial documentation as part of their child’s camp registration.

Through these comprehensive policies and support mechanisms, Camp Belknap strives to ensure that every boy has the opportunity to enjoy a transformative summer experience regardless of financial background.

Camp Belknap in Mirror Lake, NH offers summer camp programs for boys aged 8-16. Their fees are structured with a registration fee and tuition that varies depending on whether you choose Option A or B:

• Option A: This option covers the full cost of the camp program, including meals, activities, and staffing.
  • Session Length: Varies (1, 2, 4, 6 or 8 weeks)
  • Cost:
    • 1 Week: ~$1,175
    • 2 Weeks: ~$2,250
    • 4 Weeks: ~$3,050
      
• Option B: This option offers a reduced rate but requires families to volunteer their time to help with camp operations (work crew).
  • Session Length: Varies (1, 2, 4, 6 or 8 weeks)
  • Cost:
    • 1 Week: ~$900
    • 2 Weeks: ~$1,950
    • 4 Weeks: ~$2,250

Parent and Camper Preparation in Camp Belknap

Camp Belknap aims to ensure that both parents and campers are well-prepared for the camp experience. Here are the essentials on what to pack, camp rules and policies, and some tips for first-time campers and their parents.

Packing List

For a successful camp experience, Camp Belknap suggests including the following items in your packing:

• Clothing:
  • T-shirts, shorts, and long pants
  • Sweaters or hoodies for cooler evenings
  • Waterproof jacket
  • Swimwear and extra towels
  • Comfortable footwear: sneakers, sandals, and hiking boots
  • Hat and sunglasses for sun protection
    
• Other Essentials:
  • Bedding (sleeping bag or sheets and blankets, pillow)
  • Toiletries and personal items
  • Flashlight or headlamp with extra batteries
  • Water bottle
  • Sunscreen and insect repellent
    
• Optional Items:
  • Camera (non-digital recommended)
  • Books and magazines
  • Writing materials, such as notebooks and pens

Rules and Policies

• Technology Use:
  • Camp Belknap enforces a no-electronics policy to encourage campers to engage fully with their surroundings and peers. Devices such as smartphones, tablets, and laptops are not permitted.
    
• Visitation:
  • Parents are encouraged to respect the camp schedule, which includes designated visiting days that are communicated prior to the start of the camp session. Unscheduled visits can disrupt the camp program and camper experience.

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. It’s a normal feeling, and talking to a counselor or friend can help.
    
• For Parents:
  • Prepare your child by discussing what camp will be like focusing on the fun and exciting activities planned.
  • Write letters or send care packages to your child during their time at camp to encourage and reassure them.
  • Trust the camp staff. They are trained to handle a variety of situations and are there to ensure your child has a safe and rewarding experience.

By following these guidelines and preparations, first-time campers and their parents can feel more at ease, ensuring that the camp experience is enjoyable and memorable for everyone involved.

Camp Belknap stands as a cherished institution where boys can immerse themselves in a world of adventure, learning, and growth amidst the natural beauty of Mirror Lake and the White Mountains. With its century-old traditions, commitment to character building, and a wide array of activities, Camp Belknap provides a unique environment that fosters independence, resilience, and friendships that last a lifetime.

The camp’s dedicated staff, comprehensive safety measures, and inclusive community ensure that every camper’s experience is both safe and enriching. Whether through engaging in water sports, exploring the arts, or conquering new heights in outdoor adventures, campers leave Belknap with enhanced skills, stronger self-confidence, and memories that they will treasure forever.