Welcome to Camp Hollis, nestled in the serene landscapes of Oswego, New York. Situated in the picturesque region of Central New York, this historic camp is just steps away from the shores of Lake Ontario, offering a scenic backdrop that enhances the camp experience. Founded in 1946, Camp Hollis has been dedicated to providing children with a safe and nurturing environment to explore, learn, and grow during their summer adventures.

Their mission at Camp Hollis is to foster the development of young minds through outdoor activities, communal living, and educational programs that promote teamwork, healthy lifestyles, and a deep respect for nature. They believe that every child deserves a place to feel valued, challenge themselves, and build lasting friendships.

Camp Hollis is a facility that welcomes boys and girls aged 8 to 14. They offer a wide range of activities tailored to various interests and age groups, ensuring that every camper finds something they love while also pushing their boundaries in a supportive environment. Join us at Camp Hollis for an unforgettable summer of fun, learning, and adventure in the great outdoors!

Programs Offered by Camp Hollis

Camp Hollis offers a diverse range of programs designed to cater to various interests and age groups, ensuring that each camper has a rich and engaging summer experience.

Programs and Session Lengths

Their programs typically run in one-week and two-week sessions throughout the summer. This flexibility allows families to plan according to their schedules and gives campers the opportunity to enjoy either a brief stay or immerse themselves fully over multiple weeks.

Specialty Programs

Camp Hollis offers several specialty programs tailored to specific interests:

Arts: Campers can explore their creativity through painting, drawing, theater, and craft workshops.
Sports: They offer a variety of sports programs including soccer, basketball, swimming, and more, aimed at improving skills and promoting teamwork.
Science: Their science programs are designed to spark curiosity and learning, with activities ranging from environmental studies and astronomy to exciting hands-on experiments.

Typical Daily Schedule

A typical day at Camp Hollis is structured to provide a balance of activities, learning, and free time, ensuring that each camper has a fulfilling and enjoyable experience.

Morning:

7:30 AM: Wake up and morning exercise
8:00 AM: Breakfast
9:00 AM: First activity session (e.g., arts and crafts or sports)
10:30 AM: Second activity session (e.g., science workshop)

Afternoon:

12:00 PM: Lunch
1:00 PM: Quiet time/Rest
2:00 PM: Third activity session (outdoor exploration)
3:30 PM: Swimming or free play

Evening:

5:30 PM: Dinner
6:30 PM: Evening activities (campfires, storytelling, night hikes)
8:30 PM: Preparing for bed
9:00 PM: Lights out

Camp Hollis is committed to making each day at camp a memorable one, with structured activities and ample opportunities for campers to explore their interests and make new friends in a supportive environment.

Accommodations in Camp Hollis

Camp Hollis ensures that campers enjoy comfortable and safe accommodations that enhance their summer camp experience, fostering a sense of community and camaraderie among participants.

Sleeping Arrangements

Cabins: Campers are housed in cozy, well-maintained cabins that accommodate small groups, providing a family-like atmosphere. Each cabin is equipped with bunk beds and storage areas for personal belongings. The cabins are grouped in clusters, each with a common area where campers can gather for evening activities and socializing.

Dining Options

Meal Plans: Camp Hollis offers nutritious, well-balanced meals served three times a day in their communal dining hall. The menu is designed to appeal to young palates while also providing all the energy needed for active days.
Dietary Accommodations: Understanding the importance of catering to all dietary needs, Camp Hollis provides options for vegetarians, vegans, and campers with dietary restrictions due to allergies or religious beliefs. Parents are encouraged to discuss their child’s dietary needs with camp staff during registration to ensure proper accommodations.

Bathroom and Shower Facilities

The camp is equipped with modern bathroom and shower facilities, strategically located near the cabin clusters. These facilities are separated by gender and are regularly cleaned and maintained to ensure hygiene and comfort. Hot water is available, and there are ample facilities to prevent long waiting times, ensuring that all campers can comfortably manage their personal hygiene throughout their stay.

Overall, Camp Hollis prioritizes a safe, inclusive, and comfortable environment, allowing campers to focus on enjoying their activities and the beautiful natural surroundings.

Activities in Camp Hollis

Camp Hollis offers a rich array of activities designed to engage campers of all interests and skill levels, along with special events and traditions that enrich the camp experience and foster personal growth and teamwork.

List of Activities Offered

Swimming: Daily swimming sessions in Lake Ontario or their on-site pool, supervised by certified lifeguards.
Hiking: Guided nature hikes along scenic trails around the camp and lake area.
Crafts: A variety of arts and crafts sessions where campers can create everything from friendship bracelets to pottery.
Sports: Includes soccer, basketball, volleyball, and other team sports.
Canoeing and Kayaking: Water sports on Lake Ontario, teaching paddling skills and water safety.
Archery: Instruction and practice in archery, focusing on safety and skill building.
Nature Exploration: Activities such as bird watching, bug hunts, and learning about local flora and fauna.
Drama and Music: Opportunities for campers to act, sing, and dance, culminating in performances for fellow campers.
Campfires and Storytelling: Evening activities that include storytelling, singing, and roasting marshmallows.

Special Events or Traditions

Opening and Closing Ceremonies: Celebratory events that mark the beginning and end of the camp sessions, featuring performances, speeches, and recognition of campers’ achievements.
Camp Olympics: A day-long event featuring a variety of sports and games, fostering team spirit and friendly competition.
Theme Days: Special days where activities are centered around a theme, such as “Pirate Day” or “Space Exploration Day.”
Talent Shows: Summer camps showcase their talents in front of their peers, whether it’s playing a musical instrument, dancing, magic tricks, or other skills.
Nature Nights: Special evening programs focusing on astronomy or night-time nature walks, exploring the natural world after dark.

Skill Development Opportunities

Camp Hollis is dedicated to providing opportunities for personal growth and skill development. Through the diverse activities offered, campers can:

Develop Physical Skills: Through sports and outdoor activities, improving coordination, strength, and endurance.
Enhance Creativity: Through arts and crafts, drama, and music, campers express themselves artistically.
Learn Teamwork and Leadership: Many activities are designed to teach teamwork, leadership, and communication skills.
Gain Environmental Awareness: Nature-based activities help campers understand and appreciate the natural environment, promoting ecological stewardship.

Each activity at Camp Hollis is designed to be fun, educational, and supportive, ensuring that every camper leaves with new skills, friends, and wonderful memories.

The staff of Camp Hollis

At Camp Hollis, they prioritize a safe, supportive, and educational environment for all campers, which begins with their highly qualified and well-trained staff. Their commitment to maintaining a low staff-to-camper ratio and ensuring all staff members are equipped with the necessary skills and certifications is paramount in providing an exceptional camping experience.

Staff-to-Camper Ratio

Camp Hollis maintains a staff-to-camper ratio of approximately 1:5, ensuring that each camper receives individual attention and care. This ratio helps us maintain safety and provide high-quality supervision and guidance throughout all activities and daily routines.

Hiring Process and Staff Qualifications

Recruitment: They selectively recruit staff based on their experience, enthusiasm for working with children, and their specialized skills in various camp activities.
Background Checks: All potential staff members undergo thorough background checks, including criminal history and references, to ensure the safety and integrity of their camp environment.
Educational and Experience Requirements: Candidates are typically required to have prior experience in childcare or education settings. Many of their staff are education majors, former campers, or have significant experience in teaching and leading youth programs.

Training and Certifications

Mandatory Training Sessions: Before the beginning of each camp season, all staff participate in intensive training sessions. These sessions cover camp policies, emergency procedures, child behavior management, and specific training related to their assigned activities.
Certifications: All staff members are required to be certified in CPR and First Aid. Additional certifications, such as lifeguarding or specific sports coaching certifications, are required for staff overseeing particular activities like swimming or archery.
Continuous Education: Throughout the camp season, staff receive ongoing training and feedback to refine their skills and adapt to any arising challenges.

By ensuring their staff are well-prepared, highly qualified, and appropriately certified, Camp Hollis provides a secure and enriching environment where campers can thrive and enjoy their summer to the fullest.

Safety and Health in Camp Hollis

At Camp Hollis, the safety and health of their campers and staff are their highest priorities. They implement comprehensive safety protocols and maintain on-site health facilities to ensure a secure and responsive environment throughout the camping season.

Safety Protocols and Procedures

Daily Safety Checks: Regular inspections and maintenance of all camp facilities and equipment are conducted to ensure they are safe for use.
Supervised Activities: All camp activities are supervised by trained staff members to enforce safety rules and prevent accidents.
Emergency Drills: Regularly scheduled drills (such as fire and weather-related drills) are conducted to ensure campers and staff are familiar with emergency procedures.
Safety Guidelines for Activities: Specific safety protocols are in place for higher-risk activities, such as swimming, archery, and hiking. These include equipment checks, safety briefings, and close monitoring by specialized staff.

On-Site Health Facilities and Staff

Health Center: Camp Hollis has a well-equipped health center staffed by licensed healthcare professionals, including nurses and/or a visiting doctor. The health center is operational 24/7 to handle any medical needs.
Staff Training: All camp staff are trained in basic first aid and emergency response to ensure that they can provide immediate care if needed before professional medical help arrives.
Medication Management: The health center staff is responsible for the secure storage and administration of medications for campers, according to the guidelines provided by parents and physicians.

Policies on Handling Emergencies

Immediate Response: In the event of an emergency, their trained staff is prepared to respond immediately, providing necessary care and coordinating with local emergency services.
Communication Plan: They have a clear communication plan to inform parents and guardians in the event of an emergency involving their child. This plan includes timely updates as the situation evolves.
Partnership with Local Authorities: Camp Hollis works closely with local health and safety authorities to ensure rapid emergency response and support. This includes local hospitals, fire departments, and law enforcement.
Evacuation Procedures: Clear evacuation procedures are in place, and all campers and staff are briefed on these procedures upon arrival at camp. Evacuation routes and safe zones are well-marked and practiced during drills.

Through these detailed safety protocols, trained health staff, and stringent emergency policies, Camp Hollis commits to maintaining a secure environment where parents can feel confident in the safety of their children while they enjoy a fulfilling camp experience.

Cost and Registration in Camp Hollis

At Camp Hollis, they strive to make their summer programs accessible and affordable for all families, with transparent pricing, an easy registration process, and financial support options available.

Cost of Attendance

The cost of attending Camp Hollis varies depending on the length of the session and the specific programs chosen. Generally, prices include:

All meals and snacks
Accommodations in their cabins
Participation in all activities and special events
Access to all camp facilities and equipment
24/7 supervision and care from their trained staff

Prices for a one-week session typically range from $400 to $550, whereas a two-week session can range from $800 to $1,100. Detailed pricing is provided during the registration process and may vary slightly based on the specific needs or choices of each camper.

Registration Process and Deadlines

Online Registration: Parents can register their children through their online registration portal. The process involves filling out camper information, choosing sessions, and selecting any specific activities or special programs.
Deadlines: Registration for summer sessions usually opens in January, with early registration discounts available until March. Regular registration continues as space allows, up to one month before the start of each session.

Payment Plans, Refunds, and Cancellation Policies

Payment Plans: Recognizing the financial planning required for summer camp, Camp Hollis offers flexible payment plans. Families can choose to pay in installments, with final payments typically due 30 days before the camp session begins.
Refunds and Cancellations: Full refunds, minus a registration fee, are available up to 60 days before the session starts. Cancellations made between 30 to 60 days before the session can receive a 50% refund. No refunds are available for cancellations within 30 days of the session start, except in cases of medical emergencies, which are handled on a case-by-case basis.

Scholarships and Financial Aid

Scholarships: Camp Hollis offers a number of need-based scholarships each year, which can cover part or all of the cost of attending camp. These scholarships are intended to ensure that all children have the opportunity to experience camp regardless of financial status.
Application for Financial Aid: Families seeking financial assistance are encouraged to apply early, as funds are limited and awarded on a first-come, first-served basis. The application process involves submitting a financial aid form along with the registration.

Through these supportive policies and options, Camp Hollis aims to provide a memorable and enriching summer camp experience to as many children as possible, ensuring that cost is not a barrier to participation.

Parent and Camper Preparation in Camp Hollis

To ensure that both parents and campers are fully prepared for their experience at Camp Hollis, they provide a comprehensive guide that includes a packing list, an overview of camp rules and policies, and helpful tips for first-time campers and their parents.

Packing List

To make the most of their time at Camp Hollis, campers should pack the following items:

Clothing: Enough comfortable clothing for the session, including t-shirts, shorts, jeans, and sweatshirts. Include a rain jacket and swimwear.
Footwear: Sneakers, sandals, and at least one pair of sturdy shoes suitable for hiking.
Bedding: Sleeping bag or sheets and blankets, pillow.
Toiletries: Toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, shampoo, and other personal hygiene products.
Sun Protection: Sunscreen and a hat or cap to protect from the sun.
Insect Repellent: To protect against mosquitoes and ticks.
Reusable Water Bottle: To stay hydrated throughout the day.
Flashlight or Headlamp: With extra batteries.
Medications: Clearly labeled, with instructions for use.

Rules and Policies

Technology Use: To maximize engagement and connection with nature and each other, Camp Hollis has a no-technology policy for campers. This includes cell phones, tablets, and other electronic devices. Emergency contact with parents is managed through the camp office.
Visitation: Parents are encouraged to visit only on designated visiting days, which are typically scheduled in the middle of longer sessions. This policy helps maintain the camp’s security and ensures a stable environment for all campers.

Tips for First-Time Campers and Parents

Prepare Emotionally: Discuss what the camp experience will be like focusing on the exciting activities and new friends to be made. Encourage campers to express any anxieties and address them reassuringly.
Practice Independence: Before camp begins, help your child practice doing things on their own, such as packing, making the bed, and managing personal hygiene.
Stay Positive: Express confidence in your child’s ability to have a great time and handle being away from home. Avoid making comments that suggest you will be overly sad or lonely in their absence.
Communication: Write letters in advance for your child to receive at camp. Avoid focusing too much on how much they are missed; instead, ask about their adventures and encourage them to soak in every moment.

With proper preparation and an understanding of what to expect, parents can help ensure that their campers have a fulfilling and enjoyable experience at Camp Hollis, paving the way for lasting memories and personal growth.

Camp Hollis stands as a beacon of adventure, learning, and personal growth, nestled in the beautiful natural surroundings of Oswego, New York. With its comprehensive range of programs and activities tailored to spark curiosity and foster development, Camp Hollis offers a unique summer experience that goes beyond traditional camping. The carefully crafted environment supports campers in exploring new interests, building confidence, and establishing lifelong friendships under the guidance of a dedicated and skilled staff.

The camp’s commitment to safety, inclusivity, and community ensures that every camper feels secure, valued, and part of a vibrant community. From swimming in Lake Ontario to gathering around a campfire under the stars, the memories made at Camp Hollis are not just momentary joys but stepping stones to building resilient, thoughtful, and engaged young individuals.