Welcome to Camp Winaukee, an idyllic retreat for boys nestled on the shores of Lake Winnipesaukee in Moultonborough, New Hampshire. Founded with a spirit of adventure and growth, Camp Winaukee has been a home away from home for young minds since its inception. Positioned in the heart of the Lakes Region and shadowed by the picturesque White Mountains, this camp offers not just a stunning backdrop but a history of fostering independence and building character in its attendees.

At Camp Winaukee, they believe in the holistic development of each camper through sports, arts, and outdoor activities, guided by their philosophy: “Building character through sports.” Their mission is to provide a safe, fun, and stimulating environment where boys aged 7 to 15 can challenge themselves, develop new skills, and gain lifelong friendships.

As a boys’ camp, Winaukee is dedicated to creating memorable summer experiences that balance structure with choice, and competition with camaraderie, allowing every camper to shine in his own unique way. Join us at Camp Winaukee for a summer of adventure, learning, and growth, where the days are just as memorable as the nights under the starlit New Hampshire sky.

Programs Offered by Camp Winaukee

Camp Winaukee offers a diverse array of programs designed to cater to a wide range of interests and ages, ensuring each camper experiences a fulfilling and enriching summer. Their programs are carefully structured to balance physical, creative, and intellectual development through a variety of activities.

Program Description

At Camp Winaukee, each day is filled with opportunities for exploration, learning, and fun. Their programs include a comprehensive mix of sports, arts, and adventure activities, with campers encouraged to try everything from soccer and basketball to theater and digital photography. They also offer specialized programs in areas like water sports, which take full advantage of their lakefront location.

Length of Sessions

Camp Winaukee offers flexible session lengths to accommodate the needs and schedules of different families. Options include:

Two-week sessions for younger or first-time campers who might prefer a shorter stay.
Five-week sessions provide a more immersive experience, allowing campers to delve deeper into their activities of choice and build stronger community ties.
Full summer sessions, lasting seven weeks, for the ultimate Camp Winaukee experience, with the fullest range of activities and the deepest personal growth and camaraderie among campers.

Specialty Programs

Their specialty programs are designed to cater to specific interests and talents:

Arts: Includes visual arts, music, theater, and crafts, helping campers explore their creativity in various mediums.
Sports: A broad range of sports programs including soccer, tennis, basketball, and exclusive water sports like sailing and canoeing.
Science and Nature: Programs that utilize their natural setting to teach environmental science and other STEM topics through hands-on activities and exploration.

Typical Daily Schedule

A typical day at Camp Winaukee is structured to provide a balanced mix of activities, meals, and free time, ensuring campers are engaged and energized throughout the day. Here’s how a day might look:

7:30 AM: Wake up
8:00 AM: Breakfast
9:00 AM to 12:00 PM: Morning activities (rotations between different sports, arts, and science programs)
12:00 PM: Lunch
1:00 PM to 2:00 PM: Rest hour
2:00 PM to 5:00 PM: Afternoon activities (specialty program time)
5:30 PM: Dinner
7:00 PM: Evening activities (camp-wide games, special events)
8:30 PM: Return to cabins
9:00 PM: Lights out for younger campers
10:00 PM: Lights out for older campers

Camp Winaukee prides itself on offering structured yet flexible programs that adapt to the interests and developmental stages of their campers, ensuring that every summer is a transformative experience.

Accommodations in Camp Winaukee

Camp Winaukee provides comfortable and welcoming accommodations designed to enhance the overall camping experience, fostering camaraderie among campers while ensuring their comfort and safety.

Sleeping Arrangements

Campers at Camp Winaukee stay in rustic yet well-maintained cabins that blend into the beautiful natural surroundings of the New Hampshire lakeside. Each cabin is designed to house a small group of campers, typically ranging from 8 to 12 boys, along with one or two counselors. This arrangement ensures that each camper receives personalized attention and fosters a strong sense of community and brotherhood among cabin mates. The cabins are equipped with bunk beds, storage space for personal items, and electricity.

Dining Options

Nutrition is a priority at Camp Winaukee, and their dining hall is at the heart of the camp both literally and figuratively. They offer three well-balanced meals a day, served family-style to promote unity and conversation. Their meal plans are varied to cater to the tastes and dietary needs of all campers.

Dietary accommodations are an integral part of their meal planning. They cater to various dietary needs including vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and kosher diets, as well as any allergies or specific food sensitivities. Their kitchen staff is well-trained in safe food handling practices to ensure that all dietary requirements are met with care and precision.

Bathroom and Shower Facilities

Each cabin cluster at Camp Winaukee has its own centrally located bathhouse, which is shared among a few cabins. These facilities are modern and kept clean and hygienic by their dedicated facilities team. The bathhouses include multiple showers, toilets, and sinks, all equipped with hot and cold running water. Privacy is a key consideration in the design of these facilities, ensuring that campers feel comfortable and secure while using them.

The combination of homely cabins, nutritious and accommodating dining options, and well-appointed bathroom facilities ensures that every camper’s stay at Camp Winaukee is comfortable, enjoyable, and safe, allowing them to focus on the fun and growth that each day brings.

Activities in Camp Winaukee

Camp Winaukee offers a robust lineup of activities, special events, and opportunities for skill development, ensuring that each camper’s experience is both enriching and fun-filled. The diverse range of activities caters to all interests and skill levels, providing every boy a chance to explore new passions and refine existing ones.

List of Activities Offered

Water Sports: Summer camps, swimming, canoeing, kayaking, sailing, water skiing, and fishing.
Land Sports: Soccer, basketball, baseball, tennis, lacrosse, and flag football.
Outdoor Adventures: Hiking, mountain biking, rock climbing, and camping expeditions.
Arts and Crafts: Pottery, painting, drawing, woodworking, and digital photography.
Performing Arts: Drama, dance, music, and campfire storytelling.
Fitness and Wellness: Yoga, meditation, and fitness training.
Skill Development Workshops: Archery, survival skills, and orienteering.

Special Events or Traditions

Camp Winaukee is rich in tradition and hosts several special events throughout the summer that highlight the camp’s spirit and history. Some of these include:

Opening and Closing Ceremonies: These bookend the camp sessions, celebrating the start and conclusion of the campers’ journey.
Color Wars: A multi-day event filled with various sports and challenges, fostering team spirit and healthy competition.
Regatta Day: A water-based competition day celebrating Lake Winnipesaukee’s influence on camp life.
Talent Shows: Allowing campers to showcase their talents and skills in a supportive, enthusiastic environment.
Theme Nights and Dances: These social events encourage creativity and camaraderie among campers.

Skill Development Opportunities

Camp Winaukee places a strong emphasis on personal growth and skill development. Each activity is designed not only for fun but also for teaching valuable skills such as teamwork, leadership, and perseverance. Campers are encouraged to set personal goals and work towards achieving them, guided by experienced counselors and coaches. Advanced instruction is available in many sports and activities, providing an opportunity for campers to take their skills to the next level.

In addition to physical and artistic skills, Camp Winaukee promotes emotional and social development. Activities and daily interactions are structured to teach resilience, independence, cooperation, and respect for others.

By combining a wide array of activities, unique traditions, and extensive skill development opportunities, Camp Winaukee ensures that every camper has a meaningful and unforgettable summer experience.

The staff of Camp Winaukee

At Camp Winaukee, they are proud of their dedicated and skilled staff, who play a crucial role in creating a safe, supportive, and engaging environment for all campers. Their commitment to maintaining high standards in staffing ensures that every child is cared for, guided, and inspired throughout their time at camp.

Staff-to-Camper Ratio

They adhere to a staff-to-camper ratio that exceeds industry standards to ensure each camper receives personalized attention and care. Their ratio is approximately one staff member for every three campers, which facilitates a close-knit, attentive environment conducive to personal growth and safety.

Hiring Process and Staff Qualifications

The selection of their staff is based on a rigorous hiring process that includes multiple interviews, reference checks, and background checks to ensure the suitability and reliability of each candidate. Their staff is predominantly composed of experienced educators, seasoned camp professionals, college athletes, and specialists in various fields such as arts, sports, and science. Many of their staff members are also former campers who return with a deep understanding of their camp culture and values.

Training and Certifications

All staff members undergo comprehensive pre-camp training that covers camp policies, child psychology, emergency procedures, conflict resolution, and specific training related to their assigned activities. Additionally, many of their staff hold professional certifications including:

CPR and First Aid: All counselors and activity leaders are certified in CPR and First Aid.
Lifeguard Certification: Staff involved in water-based activities are certified lifeguards.
Specialized Training: Depending on their roles, some staff members have additional certifications, such as in wilderness first aid, boating safety, or specific coaching credentials.

This emphasis on extensive training and appropriate certifications ensures that their staff is not only equipped to provide a fun and enriching camp experience but also prepared to handle any situations that may arise, with the health and safety of campers being the utmost priority.

Through maintaining a qualified, well-trained staff with a favorable staff-to-camper ratio, Camp Winaukee upholds its commitment to excellence and ensures that every camper has a memorable, enjoyable, and safe summer.

Safety and Health in Camp Winaukee

Safety and health are paramount at Camp Winaukee, where they strive to create a secure and healthy environment for every camper and staff member. Their comprehensive safety protocols and medical facilities ensure that all participants can enjoy their camp experience with peace of mind, knowing that they are well cared for in all situations.

Safety Protocols and Procedures

Camp Winaukee adheres to rigorous safety standards, which are designed to prevent accidents and manage risks associated with camp activities and the natural environment. Key safety protocols include:

Activity-Specific Training: Campers and staff receive specific training for all activities, focusing on safety measures tailored to each program, whether it’s rock climbing, swimming, or woodworking.
Regular Safety Drills: They conduct regular emergency response drills, including fire drills, water safety procedures, and severe weather protocols, to ensure everyone knows how to act in case of an emergency.
Safety Gear: All activities requiring protective gear, such as helmets, life jackets, or goggles, are strictly monitored to ensure that equipment is properly used and maintained.
24-Hour Supervision: Campers are under constant supervision by trained staff members, ensuring their safety at all times, whether during activities, in the cabins, or at meal times.

On-Site Health Facilities and Staff

Camp Winaukee is equipped with a modern, fully-staffed health center that operates 24/7. Their health facilities are staffed by licensed professionals, typically including:

Registered Nurses: Available around the clock to administer first aid, manage medications, and address any health concerns that arise.
Visiting Doctors: Regularly on-site to oversee health operations and consult on more serious health issues.
Consulting Specialists: Available on-call for specific needs, such as sports injuries or allergy management.

The health center is equipped to handle a range of medical needs, from routine treatments to more urgent care, and is stocked with essential medications and first-aid equipment.

Policies on Handling Emergencies

Camp Winaukee has a well-defined emergency response plan, which includes:

Immediate Care: Their health staff provide immediate care for any injuries or illnesses that occur at camp.
Hospital Coordination: For more serious issues, they have procedures in place for quick transportation to the nearest hospital, with which we maintain a standing relationship.
Parental Communication: Parents are promptly notified in the event of any emergencies involving their children, following a clear communication protocol to keep them informed and involved in decision-making.
Continual Review: Emergency plans and health protocols are regularly reviewed and updated to adapt to new challenges and ensure alignment with best practices in health and safety.

By maintaining strict safety protocols, staffing their on-site health center with qualified medical professionals, and enforcing thorough emergency procedures, Camp Winaukee ensures a safe, healthy, and enjoyable camping experience for all participants.

Cost and Registration in Camp Winaukee

Camp Winaukee is committed to providing an enriching and memorable summer camp experience. Understanding the financial aspects of attendance, including costs, registration, and available financial support, is crucial for families planning their campers’ adventures. Here’s a detailed overview to guide you through these aspects.

Cost of Attendance and What It Includes

The cost of attending Camp Winaukee varies depending on the length of the session chosen. Prices generally cover all aspects of the camp experience to ensure a hassle-free summer for both parents and campers. This includes:

All meals and snacks
Lodging in well-maintained cabins
Full participation in camp programs and activities
Use of camp facilities and equipment
Camp clothing and gear
Transportation for off-site excursions (if applicable)

Registration Process and Deadlines

Registration for Camp Winaukee is conducted online through their secure camp management platform. Families are encouraged to register early as spaces fill up quickly. Here’s a typical timeline:

Early Registration: Opens in the fall for the following summer, often with a discount for early commitment.
Regular Registration: Continues as long as spaces are available, typically closing a few weeks before the camp session begins.

Payment Plans, Refunds, and Cancellation Policies

To accommodate different family needs, Camp Winaukee offers several payment plan options:

Full Payment Upfront: Often with a slight discount.
Installment Plans: Spread the cost over several months, typically concluding before camp starts.

Their refund and cancellation policies are designed to be as accommodating as possible, considering the planning and staffing commitments involved:

Cancellation with Refund: Available until a certain date, minus a non-refundable deposit.
Post-Deadline Cancellation: May result in partial refunds depending on when the cancellation occurs and the reasons for it.

Families are encouraged to consider camp insurance to cover unexpected cancellations due to illness or other unforeseeable events.

Availability of Scholarships or Financial Aid

Camp Winaukee believes every child should have the opportunity to enjoy a summer camp experience. They offer a range of scholarships and financial aid options for families in need:

Need-Based Scholarships: Awarded based on family financial circumstances, requiring an application that details financial need.
Merit-Based Scholarships: For returning campers who have shown exceptional spirit, improvement, or contribution to camp life.

By providing clear information on costs, registration procedures, financial policies, and support options, Camp Winaukee aims to ensure that families can confidently plan for a fantastic summer experience for their campers.

Camp Winaukee’s summer camp fees depend on the session length you choose:

3 Weeks: $9,100 (Available to 1st-6th graders in their first summer only)
4 Weeks: $7,150 (First Session)
4 Weeks: $4,750 (Second Session – Available to 1st-6th graders in their first summer only)
7 Weeks (Full Summer): $14,700

Parent and Camper Preparation in Camp Winaukee

Preparing for Camp Winaukee involves getting ready for a summer of adventure, fun, and growth. Whether you’re a first-time camper family or returning for another year, understanding what to pack, familiarizing yourself with camp rules, and having some helpful tips can make the transition to camp life smooth and enjoyable.

Packing List

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

Clothing: Enough for two weeks (camp laundry services are available):
- T-shirts, shorts, and jeans
- Sweatshirts or jackets for cooler evenings
- Swimwear and beach towels
- Comfortable footwear (sneakers, sandals, water shoes)
- One formal outfit for special camp events
Bedding: Sleeping bag or sheets and blankets (check the size with the camp), pillow
Toiletries: Toothbrush, toothpaste, shampoo, soap, sunscreen, bug spray
Other Essentials: Water bottle, flashlight or headlamp, hat, sunglasses
Optional Items: Books, stationary, disposable cameras

Rules and Policies

Camp Winaukee aims to create a supportive and safe environment for all campers, which involves adhering to specific rules and policies:

Technology Use: To ensure that campers fully engage with the experience and those around them, personal electronic devices such as smartphones, tablets, and laptops are not allowed. Emergency contact with parents is facilitated through the camp office.
Visitation: Parents are encouraged to visit on designated visitation days, which are scheduled to minimize disruption to the camp program and allow campers to settle into camp life.

Tips for First-Time Campers and Parents

For both campers and their parents, starting camp can be an exciting and sometimes nerve-wracking experience. Here are some tips to make the transition smoother:

Open Communication: Discuss what camp will be like, focusing on the fun and growth opportunities. Address any anxieties openly and positively.
Practice Sleepovers: For younger campers, having experience sleeping away from home can help ease the transition to camp.
Set Goals: Discuss what your child hopes to achieve at camp, whether it’s trying a new activity, making new friends, or developing a specific skill.
Stay Positive: Parents should maintain a positive and encouraging tone when discussing camp. If you’re excited, your child is more likely to be excited too.
Packing Together: Involve your child in the packing process to give them a sense of control and anticipation about the upcoming experience.

By being well-prepared and understanding what to expect, campers and parents can maximize the benefits and enjoyment of Camp Winaukee. Remember, the goal is for every camper to have a memorable and transformative experience!

Camp Winaukee stands as a beacon of adventure, growth, and community in the picturesque setting of Moultonborough, New Hampshire. This camp offers a nurturing environment where boys from ages 7 to 15 can explore a range of activities, develop new skills, and form lasting friendships under the guidance of dedicated staff. With its comprehensive programs that encompass sports, arts, and environmental learning, Camp Winaukee ensures a balanced approach to both fun and developmental growth.

The commitment to safety, paired with robust health facilities and a strong camper-to-staff ratio, assures parents that their children are in good hands. Meanwhile, the traditions and memories created at Winaukee resonate long after the summer ends, building a foundation that many campers cherish throughout their lives.