Welcome to Camp Hoover, nestled in the serene forests of Newton, New Jersey. This enchanting camp, located in a region renowned for its natural beauty and proximity to landmarks like the Appalachian Trail, has been a beacon of adventure and learning for young campers since its founding.

Camp Hoover boasts a rich history of providing a nurturing environment where campers not only explore the outdoors but also discover their potential and forge lifelong friendships. Their mission is to empower each camper through enriching outdoor experiences that promote a deep respect for nature, self, and others.

As a camp specifically designed for girls, Camp Hoover caters to various age groups, providing age-appropriate activities and programs that challenge and excite. Here, campers from diverse backgrounds come together to grow in confidence and character under the guidance of their dedicated staff. Whether through hiking, swimming, or arts and crafts, Camp Hoover offers an array of opportunities to learn, explore, and thrive in a supportive community setting.

Programs Offered by Camp Hoover

Camp Hoover offers a diverse array of programs designed to cater to various interests and age groups. Each program is carefully structured to provide a balanced mix of educational enrichment, physical activity, and fun, allowing campers to explore their passions while developing new skills.

Programs Offered:

Adventure and Wilderness Exploration: Focused on outdoor skills and environmental education, this program includes activities like hiking, canoeing, and wilderness survival. Sessions typically run for two weeks, immersing campers in the natural world.
Creative Arts: This program encourages artistic expression through workshops in painting, sculpture, and performance arts. Campers can choose one-week sessions or extend their stay to further refine their artistic talents.
Sports and Team Building: Geared towards promoting physical health and teamwork, this program includes sports ranging from soccer to swimming. Campers can participate in one or two-week sessions, fostering both individual and team skills.
STEM Explorers: This program engages campers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics through hands-on projects and experiments. Available as one-week sessions, it’s designed to spark curiosity and a love for learning.

Specialty Programs:

Leadership Training: For older campers, this program focuses on developing leadership skills through workshops and practical leadership opportunities within the camp setting.
Environmental Stewardship: This specialty program teaches campers about conservation practices and the importance of sustainable living through interactive activities and field trips.

Typical Daily Schedule:

7:30 AM: Wake up and morning exercise
8:00 AM: Breakfast
9:00 AM: Morning program session (activity depends on the chosen program)
12:00 PM: Lunch
1:00 PM: Rest hour/quiet time
2:00 PM: Afternoon program session
5:00 PM: Free time and optional activities
6:00 PM: Dinner
7:00 PM: Evening activities (campfires, storytelling, night hikes)
9:00 PM: Lights out

Each day at Camp Hoover is structured to provide a rhythm that balances activity with downtime, ensuring that campers remain engaged and energized throughout their stay.

Accommodations in Camp Hoover

At Camp Hoover, they ensure that their accommodations provide both comfort and a true camp experience, helping to foster independence and camaraderie among campers.

Sleeping Arrangements:

Camp Hoover offers rustic yet comfortable cabin accommodations. Each cabin houses up to 12 campers along with 2 counselors, ensuring safety and supervision. The cabins are nestled among the trees, providing a cozy, sheltered environment that enhances the camping experience. They are equipped with bunk beds and storage space for personal belongings, making them a perfect home away from home.

Dining Options:

Mealtimes at Camp Hoover are not only about nourishing the body but also about building community. Their dining hall serves three well-balanced meals daily, prepared by experienced chefs who prioritize health and taste. They offer a variety of meal options to cater to different dietary needs, including vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and allergy-friendly choices. Campers and staff eat together, and meals are served family-style to promote unity and conversation.

Bathroom and Shower Facilities:

The camp is equipped with modern bathroom and shower facilities that are strategically located near the cabins and main activity areas. Separate facilities for campers and staff ensure privacy and convenience. Bathrooms are maintained multiple times a day to ensure cleanliness and hygiene. Shower areas are designed to offer privacy, with individual stalls and changing areas.

Camp Hoover’s accommodations are thoughtfully designed to enhance the camp experience, ensuring that all campers feel comfortable, safe, and included throughout their stay.

Activities in Camp Hoover

Camp Hoover offers a broad range of activities designed to engage campers of all interests and skill levels, along with special events and traditions that enhance the camp experience. The aim is to foster a sense of community, skill development, and personal growth among campers.

List of Activities Offered:

Swimming: Supervised swimming sessions in their on-site pool, including lessons for beginners and fun water games for all levels.
Hiking: Guided hikes along the scenic trails surrounding the camp, are suitable for different fitness levels.
Crafts: A variety of arts and crafts activities, including pottery, beadwork, and woodworking.
Sports: Team sports such as soccer, basketball, volleyball, and archery, promote teamwork and physical fitness.
Nature Exploration: Activities that focus on learning about local flora and fauna, including bird watching and nature walks.
Canoeing and Kayaking: Water-based adventures on the camp’s private lake.
Theater Arts: Drama workshops and an end-of-session camp play in which campers can perform.
Music and Dance: Opportunities to learn and participate in music and dance activities, culminating in performances.

Special Events or Traditions:

Opening Bonfire: Summer camps open ceremony with stories, introductions, and s’mores.
Color Wars: A camp-wide team competition involving various sports and challenges, fostering spirit and camaraderie.
Talent Show: An evening where campers showcase their talents, whether it be in music, dance, magic, or comedy.
Camp Olympics: Multi-day events with a range of sporting competitions.
Theme Days: Special days where activities are centered around a fun theme, encouraging creative dress and participation.
Closing Ceremony: A heartfelt event to conclude the session, featuring awards, recognitions, and reflections on the camp experience.

Skill Development Opportunities:

Camp Hoover is committed to providing opportunities for personal growth and skill development. Each activity is designed to help campers learn new skills or enhance existing ones, promote self-esteem, encourage problem-solving, and foster independence. Additionally, leadership programs for older campers aim to develop skills in teamwork, responsibility, and leadership through practical application and mentorship.

Overall, Camp Hoover’s activities, special events, and focus on skill development are all geared towards providing a fulfilling and enriching camp experience that campers will remember for a lifetime.

The staff of Camp Hoover

At Camp Hoover, the dedication and expertise of their staff are central to ensuring a safe, enjoyable, and enriching experience for all campers. They pride themselves on having a well-trained, qualified team that provides excellent supervision and guidance.

Staff-to-Camper Ratio:

They maintain a low staff-to-camper ratio to ensure personalized attention and support. Their typical ratio is 1 staff member for every 6 campers. This allows us to closely monitor each camper’s well-being, provide individualized support, and foster a strong sense of community.

Hiring Process and Staff Qualifications:

The hiring process at Camp Hoover is rigorous and thorough. It includes:

Application Screening: Potential staff members submit detailed applications outlining their experience, skills, and motivations for working at Camp Hoover.
Interviews: Shortlisted candidates undergo multiple interviews with camp leadership to assess their suitability for the camp environment and their ability to work with children.
Background Checks: Comprehensive background checks are conducted to ensure the safety and security of their campers.
References: They require and thoroughly check references from previous employers, especially those in childcare or related fields.

Training and Certifications:

All staff members at Camp Hoover undergo extensive training and are required to have or obtain relevant certifications before camp begins. Training and certifications include:

CPR and First Aid: All staff are certified in CPR and First Aid to handle emergencies effectively.
Lifeguard Certification: Staff involved in swimming and water activities hold lifeguard certifications from recognized organizations.
Child Safety and Protection: Training sessions on child safety, abuse prevention, and reporting procedures.
Activity-Specific Training: In-depth training for specific activities like archery, canoeing, and hiking to ensure staff can safely and effectively lead these programs.
Leadership and Team Building: Workshops on leadership skills, team dynamics, and effective communication to foster a supportive and cohesive staff team.
Cultural Competence and Inclusion: Training to promote understanding and inclusion of campers from diverse backgrounds and with varying needs.

Ongoing Professional Development:

Throughout the camp season, staff participate in ongoing professional development sessions to continuously improve their skills and adapt to any emerging needs. This ensures that their team remains prepared, confident, and capable of providing the best possible experience for all campers.

At Camp Hoover, their dedicated and highly qualified staff are committed to creating a safe, fun, and nurturing environment, helping each camper to thrive and make the most of their time at camp.

Safety and Health in Camp Hoover

Ensuring the safety and well-being of all campers and staff is a top priority at Camp Hoover. They have comprehensive protocols and facilities in place to address health and safety concerns, manage risks, and respond to emergencies.

Safety Protocols and Procedures:

Regular Training: All staff undergo regular safety training, including emergency response drills and first aid.
Supervision: Campers are under constant supervision by trained staff to ensure their safety during all activities.
Equipment and Facility Safety Checks: Regular inspections and maintenance of all equipment and facilities are conducted to ensure they are safe and in good working order.
Activity Safety Briefings: Campers receive safety briefings before participating in any activity, particularly those that involve higher risks, such as swimming, hiking, and archery.
Weather Preparedness: They monitor weather conditions closely and have protocols in place for severe weather, including safe locations for shelter and activity adjustments.

On-Site Health Facilities and Staff:

Health Center: Camp Hoover is equipped with a health center staffed by licensed healthcare professionals, including nurses and a visiting doctor. The health center is prepared to handle minor injuries and illnesses and is equipped with necessary medical supplies.
24-Hour Availability: Healthcare staff are available 24 hours a day to ensure that any medical needs that arise can be promptly and effectively addressed.
Medication Management: The health center manages and administers all camper medications according to physician directions.

Policies on Handling Emergencies:

Immediate Response: In the event of an emergency, trained staff are prepared to respond immediately. Procedures are in place for quick assessment and action, whether the emergency is medical, environmental, or related to a camper’s personal safety.
Emergency Contact System: Parents are promptly notified in the event of an emergency affecting their child. Camp Hoover maintains updated contact information for all families.
Evacuation Plans: Evacuation routes and procedures are established and practiced for different types of emergencies, including fires and severe weather.
Local Hospital Coordination: Camp Hoover coordinates with nearby hospitals and emergency services to ensure rapid transport and care in more serious cases. Arrangements are in place for quick access to further medical treatment when necessary.

Health Education:

Prevention Education: Campers are educated on personal hygiene, the importance of hydration, sun safety, and injury prevention as part of their daily activities and through special workshops.

By maintaining rigorous safety protocols, a well-equipped on-site health center, and clear policies for emergency situations, Camp Hoover ensures a safe, healthy, and supportive environment for all campers, allowing them to focus on enjoyment and growth during their camp experience.

Cost and Registration in Camp Hoover

Camp Hoover offers comprehensive session pricing designed to cover all the essentials of a rewarding camp experience. The fees are structured as follows:

Two-Week Session: $1,200
One-Week Session: $650

Included in the Cost:

Lodging in comfortable cabins
All meals and snacks throughout the stay
Full participation in chosen camp programs and activities
Use of all camp facilities and equipment
Supervision and guidance from trained staff
Special events and camp traditions
Basic health and accident insurance

Registration Process and Deadlines:

Online Registration: Accessible through the Camp Hoover website, where parents or guardians can fill out the registration form.
Documentation: Submission of health and consent forms is required as part of the registration process.
Early Registration: Opens on January 1st, with an early bird discount of 10% available until March 1st.
Regular Registration: Continue until June 1st or until all spots are filled. Early registration is encouraged as space is limited.

Payment Plans, Refunds, and Cancellation Policies:

Payment Plans:

Installment Option: Available as a three-part payment plan, with installments due monthly starting from the date of registration.
Full Payment: Required at registration if not opting for the installment plan.

Refunds and Cancellation:

Full Refund: Issued for cancellations made before May 1st.
Partial Refund: 50% refund for cancellations made between May 1st and June 1st.
No Refunds: After June 1st, except in cases of medical emergencies or extenuating circumstances, which are evaluated on a case-by-case basis.

Scholarships and Financial Aid:

Camp Hoover is dedicated to making the camp experience accessible and offers several financial support options:

Need-Based Scholarships: For families demonstrating financial need. Applications require detailed financial information and a statement of need.
Merit-Based Scholarships: For campers exhibiting outstanding leadership, community involvement, or specific talents.
Sibling Discounts: Discounts are available for families enrolling more than one child.
Early Bird Discount: An additional incentive of 10% off for registrations completed by March 1st.

Application for Financial Aid:

Indicate Interest: During the registration process, indicate your interest in financial aid.
Submit Necessary Documentation: Complete the financial aid application and provide the required documentation.
Review and Decision: The financial aid committee reviews applications and communicates decisions typically within two weeks.

At Camp Hoover, they strive to ensure that every child has the opportunity to enjoy a memorable and transformative summer camp experience, regardless of financial barriers.

Parent and Camper Preparation in Camp Hoover

Packing List:

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

Essentials:

T-shirts and shorts
Long pants and long-sleeve shirts (for cooler evenings or sun protection)
Undergarments and socks
Pajamas
Swimwear
Sturdy shoes for hiking and sneakers for general activities
Sandals or flip-flops (for showers and casual wear)
Rain gear (jacket and waterproof pants)
Hat for sun protection and a warm hat for cooler nights
Sunglasses
Towels (one for swimming and one for showers)
Bedding (sleeping bag or sheets and blankets, depending on the camp’s requirements)
Pillow

Toiletries:

Toothbrush and toothpaste
Soap and shampoo
Sunscreen and insect repellent
Personal medications (with instructions)

Other Items:

Water bottle
Flashlight or headlamp (with extra batteries)
Small backpack for day trips
Books, cards, or other small entertainment items (non-electronic)
Camera (disposable or digital, depending on the camp’s policy on technology)

Rules and Policies:

Technology Use: To maximize engagement and interaction, personal electronic devices such as smartphones, tablets, and laptops are generally discouraged or not allowed. Cameras may be permitted for photography.
Visitation: Parents are typically allowed to visit on designated days to minimize disruption of the camp schedule and maintain security. Specific times and rules will be provided before the camp session begins.
Behavioral Expectations: Respect for others, participation in scheduled activities, adherence to camp schedules, and maintaining cleanliness in personal and shared spaces are essential.
Safety Regulations: Compliance with all safety guidelines regarding swimming, hiking, and other physical activities is mandatory.

Tips for First-Time Campers and Parents:

For Campers:

Be open to making new friends and trying new activities.
Remember that it’s okay to feel homesick; it’s normal, and your counselors are there to help.
Keep track of your belongings; label everything with your name.

For Parents:

Prepare your child by discussing what camp will be like focusing on the positive aspects like making new friends and learning new skills.
Pack together with your child to ensure they know what they are bringing and to give them a sense of responsibility.
Write letters or send care packages to your child during their time at camp to encourage them and keep them connected to home.
Trust the camp staff; they are trained to handle various situations and are there to make your child’s camp experience safe and enjoyable.

By following these preparation guidelines, campers and parents can feel confident and excited about the upcoming Camp Hoover experience, ensuring a smooth transition and a memorable summer.

Camp Hoover is more than just a summer camp; it’s a place where girls come to explore, learn, and grow in an environment that encourages independence, creativity, and community. Nestled in the beautiful forests of Newton, New Jersey, their camp offers a unique blend of outdoor adventures, educational programs, and personal development opportunities.

From the diverse activities and special events to the dedicated and highly trained staff, every aspect of Camp Hoover is designed to provide an unforgettable experience. Their commitment to safety, inclusivity, and fun ensures that every camper can thrive and create lasting memories.