Nestled in the serene landscapes of Merrill, New York, Camp Jeanne d Arc stands as a beacon of adventure and self-discovery for young girls. Situated in the lush, picturesque region of the Adirondack Mountains, their camp offers a breathtaking backdrop for an array of activities and personal growth experiences. Established with a rich history of empowering young women, Camp Jeanne d Arc has been a home away from home for campers since its inception in 1922.

Their mission is clear and powerful: “To build strong girls and bright futures.” At Camp Jeanne d Arc, they are dedicated to fostering a nurturing environment that promotes self-esteem, leadership skills, and lifelong friendships among girls. They aim to instill a strong sense of community, resilience, and independence in all their campers.

Designed specifically for girls aged 7 to 16, their camp provides a supportive setting where campers can explore their interests, develop new skills, and challenge themselves in a safe and encouraging environment. Whether it’s through water sports on Chateaugay Lake, hiking through the Adirondacks, or participating in creative arts, Camp Jeanne d Arc is committed to offering an enriching summer experience that each camper will cherish forever. Join us for a summer filled with fun, adventure, and the opportunity to grow into the leader you are meant to be!

Programs Offered by Camp Jeanne d Arc

At Camp Jeanne d Arc, they pride themselves on offering a diverse array of programs tailored to nurture the interests and talents of every camper. Their programs are designed to enrich the camp experience, allowing each girl to explore new activities, develop skills, and build lasting friendships. Here’s a breakdown of what they offer:

Description of the Programs

Camp Jeanne d Arc provides a comprehensive summer experience with activities ranging from outdoor adventures to creative arts and sports. Their programs are designed to challenge campers physically, creatively, and intellectually in a supportive and fun environment.

Length of Sessions

One-Week Introductions: Perfect for first-time campers, these sessions offer a taste of camp life and the variety of activities available.
Two-Week Sessions: These sessions provide a deeper dive into camp life, with more time to engage in activities and build friendships.
Full Summer: Their full summer option spans several weeks, offering an immersive experience where campers can fully embrace the camp spirit and participate in all events and activities.

Specialty Programs

Arts: Their arts program includes everything from painting and sculpture to theater and dance, encouraging campers to express themselves creatively.
Sports: They offer a wide range of sports, including soccer, basketball, swimming, and sailing, catering to all skill levels and promoting teamwork and healthy competition.
Science and Nature: Campers can engage in environmental education, exploring the local flora and fauna, participating in science projects, and learning about conservation.

Typical Daily Schedule

7:30 AM: Wake up and morning exercise
8:00 AM: Breakfast
9:00 AM – 12:00 PM: Morning activities (rotating schedule of arts, sports, and science)
12:00 PM: Lunch
1:00 PM – 2:00 PM: Quiet time/rest
2:00 PM – 5:00 PM: Afternoon activities (specialty programs and free choice)
5:30 PM: Dinner
7:00 PM – 8:30 PM: Evening activities (campfires, talent shows, group games)
9:00 PM: Lights out for younger campers
10:00 PM: Lights out for older campers

Their daily schedule is designed to keep campers engaged and excited, with enough variety to cater to all interests and sufficient downtime to relax and recharge. Camp Jeanne d Arc is more than just a summer camp—it’s a place to grow, learn, and become the best version of oneself.

Accommodations in Camp Jeanne d Arc

Camp Jeanne d Arc is designed to ensure that every camper feels comfortable and at home throughout their stay, offering well-planned accommodations and facilities that cater to all needs. Here’s what campers can expect:

Sleeping Arrangements

Cabins: Their primary accommodation, the cabins, provide a cozy and safe environment for campers. Each cabin houses a small group of campers and is supervised by experienced counselors, ensuring a family-like atmosphere. The cabins are equipped with beds, and storage space for personal belongings, and are centrally located to all camp facilities.
Tents: For special outdoor adventures, campers may also have the opportunity to sleep in tents. This allows them to fully immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the Adirondack Mountains, under the guidance and supervision of their staff.

Dining Options

Meal Plans: Camp Jeanne d Arc provides three well-balanced meals daily, prepared by their experienced kitchen staff. Meals are communal times where campers and staff gather in the dining hall to share food and stories, fostering a strong sense of community.
Dietary Accommodations: Understanding that some campers have specific dietary needs, they offer vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and allergy-friendly options. Their kitchen staff is trained to handle various dietary requirements to ensure that every camper has nutritious and satisfying meal options.

Bathroom and Shower Facilities

Bathrooms and Showers: Their camp is equipped with modern bathroom and shower facilities that are conveniently located near all camper cabins. These facilities are separated by gender and are maintained multiple times daily to ensure cleanliness and hygiene. Private stalls and showers offer campers privacy and comfort.

At Camp Jeanne d Arc, they strive to make sure that every aspect of their accommodations contributes to a positive and enriching camp experience. Their facilities are designed to be safe, clean, and conducive to the personal growth and fun that define every camper’s summer adventure.

Activities in Camp Jeanne d Arc

Camp Jeanne d Arc offers a rich array of activities designed to engage campers in fun, educational, and meaningful experiences. Each activity is tailored to foster personal growth, teamwork, and a deeper appreciation of nature and creativity. Here’s a closer look at their offerings:

List of Activities Offered

Water Sports: Summer camps, swimming, canoeing, kayaking, and sailing on the pristine waters of Chateaugay Lake.
Outdoor Adventures: Hiking, archery, horseback riding, and camping trips in the Adirondack Mountains.
Crafts and Creative Arts: Pottery, painting, jewelry making, and various arts and crafts workshops that encourage creativity and artistic expression.
Sports: Soccer, basketball, volleyball, and tennis, focusing on skill development, teamwork, and healthy competition.
Performing Arts: Drama, dance, and music, allowing campers to explore their theatrical and musical talents through performances and recitals.

Special Events or Traditions

Opening and Closing Ceremonies: Symbolic events that foster a sense of community and continuity among campers.
Color Wars: A camp-wide team competition that spans several days and includes a variety of sporting, artistic, and intellectual challenges.
International Day: Celebrating the diverse cultural backgrounds of their campers with presentations, food, and activities from around the world.
Campfires and Storytelling: Regular evenings spent around the campfire, sharing stories, singing songs, and enjoying the camaraderie of fellow campers.

Skill Development Opportunities

Leadership Programs: Older campers can participate in leadership training sessions, where they learn essential skills such as team management, conflict resolution, and effective communication.
Environmental Education: Programs that teach campers about local ecology, conservation efforts, and sustainable practices.
Specialty Clinics: Intensive workshops in areas like advanced sailing, horseback riding, or art techniques, designed for campers who wish to delve deeper into specific skills.

At Camp Jeanne d Arc, activities are more than just pastimes; they are gateways to learning and growth. Through these varied programs, campers not only enjoy their summer but also build resilience, confidence, and lifelong skills.

The staff of Camp Jeanne d Arc

At Camp Jeanne d Arc, they are committed to providing a safe, supportive, and enriching environment for all campers. This commitment is upheld by their dedicated and highly qualified staff. Here are the details regarding their staff-to-camper ratio, hiring process, and the training their staff undergoes:

Staff-to-Camper Ratio

Staff-to-Camper Ratio: They maintain a low staff-to-camper ratio of 1:5. This ensures that each camper receives personalized attention and support throughout their stay at camp. Their ratio is designed to foster a nurturing environment where strong relationships can be built and every camper feels valued and understood.

Hiring Process and Staff Qualifications

Hiring Process: Their rigorous hiring process includes thorough background checks, multiple interviews, and reference checks to ensure they recruit individuals who are not only skilled but also passionate about youth development and education.
Staff Qualifications: Their staff members typically have backgrounds in education, child psychology, sports, arts, or related fields. Many are returning staff who have grown up in the camp environment themselves or have extensive experience working in youth camps or educational settings.

Training and Certifications

CPR and First Aid: All staff members are required to be certified in CPR and First Aid before the beginning of the camp season. These certifications are crucial for ensuring the safety and well-being of all campers and staff on site.
Specialized Training: Depending on their roles, staff may also receive additional training in areas such as lifeguarding, wilderness first aid, and specific sports or activity instruction.
Ongoing Professional Development: Throughout the camp season, staff participates in ongoing training sessions to refine their skills and adapt to any new challenges. This includes workshops on child behavior management, inclusivity, and leadership development.

The investment in their staff’s professional growth reflects their commitment to quality and safety at Camp Jeanne d Arc. They ensure that their team is equipped not only with the necessary skills to lead and teach but also with the sensitivity and awareness to create a positive and inclusive camp culture. This approach helps us deliver a summer experience that is as rewarding for the staff as it is transformative for the campers.

Safety and Health in Camp Jeanne d Arc

Ensuring the safety and health of all campers and staff is paramount at Camp Jeanne d Arc. They have comprehensive protocols and facilities in place to address any health or safety concerns that may arise during camp.

Safety Protocols and Procedures

Routine Safety Drills: Regularly scheduled drills for fire, weather emergencies, and other potential threats ensure that both campers and staff are well-prepared and aware of the procedures to follow in different scenarios.
Safety Gear and Equipment: All activities requiring specific safety gear, such as helmets for horseback riding or life jackets for water sports, comply with the highest safety standards. Equipment is regularly inspected and maintained.
Secure Campus: The camp is monitored with appropriate security measures to ensure a safe and protected environment. Staff are trained to enforce a secure perimeter and manage visitor access.

On-site Health Facilities and Staff

Health Center: Their on-site health center is staffed by qualified nurses and a visiting physician. The center is equipped to handle routine health checks, minor injuries, and illnesses. It’s stocked with necessary medications and first aid supplies.
24/7 Availability: Health staff are available around the clock to ensure that any medical needs are promptly addressed. They are also responsible for managing and distributing prescribed medications as needed.
Health Screenings: Upon arrival, all campers undergo health screenings to identify any existing conditions or potential health concerns that may require monitoring during their stay.

Policies on Handling Emergencies

Emergency Response Plan: Camp Jeanne d Arc has a detailed emergency response plan that includes procedures for immediate action, notifying parents, and coordinating with local emergency services.
Training for Staff: All staff members receive training on how to respond to various types of emergencies, including health crises, natural disasters, and accidents.
Communication Protocol: In the event of an emergency, there is a clear protocol for communication within the camp and with external parties, including parents and local authorities. This ensures that information is disseminated quickly and efficiently and that appropriate actions are taken to manage the situation.

The health and safety policies at Camp Jeanne d Arc are designed to create a secure and healthy environment where campers can enjoy their activities without worry. Their proactive approach to safety, comprehensive healthcare provisions, and detailed emergency procedures reflect their commitment to the well-being of every individual at the camp.

Cost and Registration in Camp Jeanne d Arc

At Camp Jeanne d Arc, they strive to make their enriching camp experience accessible and straightforward for families. Here are the details on the cost of attendance, registration procedures, and financial policies:

Cost of Attendance

Cost of Attendance: The cost varies depending on the length of stay and the specific program chosen. For example, a two-week session may cost around $2,000, while a full summer session could be approximately $5,500. This fee includes all lodging, meals, activities, equipment, and 24-hour supervision by their trained staff.
What It Includes: Fees cover all the essentials—accommodation in their cabins or tents, three meals per day plus snacks, all program materials and equipment, and access to all camp facilities and activities. There are no additional required costs once your child is at camp, although optional extras like camp merchandise or special trips may incur extra charges.

Registration Process and Deadlines

Registration Process: Registration can be completed online through their secure portal. Prospective campers will need to fill out forms detailing medical information, dietary needs, and emergency contacts.
Deadlines: Early registration typically opens in January and offers reduced rates. Standard registration is usually open until a month before the camp session begins, but spots can fill up quickly, so early registration is encouraged.

Payment Plans, Refunds, and Cancellation Policies

Payment Plans: They offer a variety of payment plans to help families manage the cost of camp. Options include installment payments spread out over several months.
Refunds and Cancellation: They understand that plans can change. Cancellations made up to a month before the session starts are typically eligible for a full refund minus a registration fee. Cancellations after this date may be subject to partial refunds depending on the timing and the reasons for cancellation.
Cancellation Insurance: Families are encouraged to purchase cancellation insurance to cover potential losses in case of unexpected changes to their plans.

Scholarships and Financial Aid

Availability of Scholarships: They believe financial constraints should not prevent any child from experiencing Camp Jeanne d Arc. Scholarships are available based on need and merit. Families are encouraged to apply early as funds are limited.
Financial Aid: Additional financial aid may be available in the form of reduced fees or payment adjustments. Their staff is committed to working with families to explore all possible options to enable their children to attend camp.

Camp Jeanne d Arc is committed to transparency and support throughout the registration and payment process. They aim to make the camp experience as accessible as possible to all families interested in joining their community.

Parent and Camper Preparation in Camp Jeanne d Arc

To ensure that both parents and campers are well-prepared for the camp experience, they provide detailed guidance on what to bring, Their camp rules, and some tips for first-time campers and their parents. Here’s what you need to know:

Packing List

Clothing: Pack enough comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing for the duration of the stay, including layers for cooler evenings. Include swimwear, athletic wear, and a rain jacket.
Footwear: Sturdy shoes for hiking, sandals for showers, and athletic shoes.
Bedding: Sleeping bag or sheets and blankets, pillow, and a small comfort item like a stuffed animal (optional).
Toiletries: Toothbrush, toothpaste, biodegradable soap, shampoo, sunscreen, insect repellent, and a small first aid kit.
Equipment: Water bottle, flashlight or headlamp with extra batteries, and any specific gear related to their chosen activities (though most equipment is provided by the camp).
Miscellaneous: Books, writing materials, and disposable cameras (if desired, as smartphones are discouraged).

Rules and Policies

Technology Use: To maximize engagement and interaction, the use of smartphones, tablets, and other electronic devices is restricted. Devices, if brought, will be collected and stored safely upon arrival and returned at the end of the session.
Visitation: Parents are welcome to visit on designated visiting days, which are scheduled to allow campers to settle in and gain some independence. Details and dates are provided ahead of the camp season.
Behavioral Expectations: Campers are expected to follow all camp rules and instructions from staff. Respect for peers, staff, and the environment is paramount.

Tips for First-Time Campers and Parents

For Campers:
- Embrace the experience! Try new activities, make new friends, and learn new skills.
- Communicate openly with your counselors; they are there to help you have the best possible experience.
For Parents:
- Discuss what the camp experience will be like focusing on the exciting activities and opportunities for growth.
- Ensure your child knows how to manage basic personal tasks such as hygiene, organizing belongings, and following a schedule.
- Write letters or send care packages to provide comfort and a connection from home.

Preparing both parents and campers adequately for their time at Camp Jeanne d Arc ensures a smoother transition, greater comfort, and a more enriching camp experience. Their goal is to foster a sense of preparedness and excitement for what promises to be a memorable summer adventure.

Camp Jeanne d Arc, nestled in the scenic Adirondack Mountains of Merrill, New York, offers a unique blend of adventure, friendship, and growth opportunities for young girls. With a legacy stretching back nearly a century, their camp is dedicated to nurturing strong, independent, and confident young women through a diverse array of programs and activities. From arts and sports to leadership training and environmental education, Camp Jeanne d Arc provides a safe, supportive, and enriching environment that caters to a wide range of interests and abilities.

Their highly trained staff, comprehensive safety protocols, and commitment to each camper’s personal development set us apart, ensuring that every girl leaves with not only cherished memories but also new skills, enhanced self-esteem, and lifelong friendships. Whether you’re a first-time camper or a returning family, they invite you to join us for a summer of exploration and discovery in a place where girls can be brave, bold, and above all, themselves.