Welcome to Camp Kaylie, nestled in the picturesque hills of Wurtsboro, New York. Located in the serene upstate region, their camp is surrounded by the natural beauty of the Catskill Mountains, providing an ideal setting for children and teens to explore, learn, and grow.

Founded with a commitment to fostering a nurturing environment, Camp Kaylie has a rich history of bringing children together in a joyful, inclusive setting. Their mission is to create a community where every camper feels valued, learns leadership skills, and builds lifelong friendships. They believe in the development of the whole child through diverse experiences that prepare them for the challenges of the future.

Camp Kaylie is a summer camp that caters to boys and girls across various age groups. They offer a wide range of activities tailored to meet the interests and developmental needs of each age group, ensuring that every camper has the opportunity to thrive and discover their potential in a supportive community setting. Whether it’s through sports, arts, adventure, or team-building exercises, Camp Kaylie is dedicated to providing an unforgettable summer experience that enriches and inspires.

Programs Offered by Camp Kaylie

Camp Kaylie offers a dynamic array of programs designed to engage campers of all interests and ages throughout the summer. Here’s a detailed look at their offerings:

Program Description: At Camp Kaylie, they believe in providing a well-rounded experience, where campers can indulge in a variety of activities ranging from arts and crafts to sports and science. Their programs are carefully designed to foster personal growth, teamwork, and creativity.

Length of Sessions:

One-week sessions: Ideal for younger campers or first-timers who are just getting accustomed to the camp experience.
Two-week sessions: These sessions provide more time for deeper engagement in activities and stronger bond formation among campers.
Full summer: The ultimate camp experience, allowing campers to fully immerse in all that Camp Kaylie has to offer, with the greatest opportunity for personal development and fun.

Specialty Programs:

Arts: Their arts program includes everything from painting and sculpture to performing arts, allowing campers to express themselves creatively under the guidance of expert instructors.
Sports: They offer a comprehensive sports program featuring soccer, basketball, swimming, and more, catering to all skill levels and promoting physical health and teamwork.
Science: Their science program encourages curiosity and learning through experiments, environmental studies, and hands-on activities that make learning exciting and relevant.

Typical Daily Schedule:

7:30 AM – Wake Up
8:00 AM – Breakfast
9:00 AM – Morning Activities (campers rotate through their scheduled activities such as arts, sports, or science)
12:00 PM – Lunch
1:00 PM – Rest Hour (time for relaxation or writing letters home)
2:00 PM – Afternoon Activities (continuation of morning activities or new sessions)
5:00 PM – Free Time (campers choose their activity, from swimming to playing games)
6:00 PM – Dinner
7:00 PM – Evening Program (camp-wide games, bonfire nights, talent shows)
9:00 PM – Bedtime for younger campers
10:00 PM – Bedtime for older campers

Each day at Camp Kaylie is structured to balance activity with adequate rest, ensuring campers stay energized and enthusiastic about their camp experience. Whether they’re here for a week, two weeks, or the whole summer, their campers leave with cherished memories and new skills.

Accommodations in Camp Kaylie

Camp Kaylie is designed to provide a comfortable and safe living environment for all campers, ensuring they feel at home throughout their stay. Here’s an overview of their accommodations:

Sleeping Arrangements:

Cabins: Their primary accommodation consists of well-constructed cabins that are designed to be both cozy and functional. Each cabin houses campers of similar ages and is supervised by experienced counselors. The cabins are equipped with bunk beds, storage spaces for personal items, and large windows for natural light.

Dining Options:

Meal Plans: They offer nutritious and delicious meals three times a day, served in their communal dining hall. Meals are designed to be kid-friendly while promoting healthy eating habits. They ensure there’s something for everyone with a variety of options at each meal.
Dietary Accommodations: Understanding the importance of catering to individual needs, Camp Kaylie provides options for various dietary requirements including vegetarian, vegan, kosher, and allergen-free meals. Their kitchen staff is trained to handle special dietary needs with the utmost care to ensure every camper enjoys safe and satisfying dining experiences.

Bathroom and Shower Facilities:

Each cabin cluster has its own centrally located bathhouse, which is shared among a small number of cabins to maintain cleanliness and accessibility. Their bathhouses are equipped with multiple showers, toilets, and sinks, all of which are separated for privacy. The facilities are cleaned multiple times daily to ensure hygiene and comfort for all campers.

At Camp Kaylie, they prioritize the comfort and safety of their campers through high-quality accommodations and facilities. Their goal is to create a “home away from home” atmosphere where campers can relax, refresh, and recharge after a day full of activities.

Activities in Camp Kaylie

Camp Kaylie offers a wide variety of activities designed to engage campers in fun, learning, and personal growth. Here is a breakdown of their offerings:

List of Activities Offered:

Swimming: Supervised by certified lifeguards, their swimming programs include instruction for beginners and free swimming for more experienced swimmers.
Hiking: Taking advantage of their location in the Catskill Mountains, they offer guided hiking trips that allow campers to explore the natural beauty around them.
Crafts: Their arts and crafts sessions provide campers with the opportunity to express their creativity through various mediums such as painting, beadwork, pottery, and more.
Sports: They offer a range of sports activities including soccer, basketball, baseball, volleyball, and tennis, facilitating teamwork and physical fitness.
Performing Arts: Summer camps can participate in drama, dance, and music activities, culminating in performances at the end of sessions.
Adventure Activities: Their adventure program includes rope courses, zip-lining, and rock climbing, designed to challenge campers and build confidence.
Science and Nature: These activities encourage curiosity and learning through environmental studies, experiments, and interactive science projects.

Special Events or Traditions:

Color War: A camp tradition, Color War is a multi-day event featuring various athletic, artistic, and team-building competitions, fostering camp spirit and camaraderie.
Campfires: Regular campfire gatherings include singing, storytelling, and marshmallow roasting, creating memorable camp experiences.
Talent Shows: Campers get to showcase their talents in front of their peers, encouraging self-expression and confidence.
Themed Dinners and Dance Parties: These special nights allow campers to dress up and enjoy themed activities, enhancing the fun and excitement of camp life.

Skill Development Opportunities:

Leadership Training: Older campers have opportunities to participate in leadership training programs, preparing them for roles as future counselors or leaders in their communities.
Workshops: Specialized workshops in areas like creative writing, photography, and environmental science are offered, providing deeper skill development.
Personal Growth Activities: Through daily interactions and structured reflective practices, campers develop important life skills such as resilience, teamwork, and problem-solving.

At Camp Kaylie, their activities and events are designed not just for fun, but also to nurture the development of skills and character in every camper, ensuring they leave with not only fond memories but also valuable life lessons.

The staff of Camp Kaylie

Camp Kaylie is dedicated to providing a safe, supportive, and enriching environment for all campers. Their commitment to excellence is reflected in their staffing policies and procedures.

Staff-to-Camper Ratio:

Camp Kaylie maintains a low staff-to-camper ratio to ensure that each camper receives personalized attention and care. They typically operate with a ratio of one staff member for every four to six campers, depending on the age group and specific needs. This ratio allows their staff to monitor and engage effectively with each camper, ensuring a safe and nurturing environment.

Hiring Process and Staff Qualifications:

Selection Process: Prospective staff members undergo a rigorous selection process that includes thorough background checks, multiple interviews, and reference checks to ensure that they are suitable for working with children.
Qualifications: They prioritize hiring individuals who have experience in child care, education, or related fields. Many of their staff members are pursuing or have completed higher education in fields such as education, psychology, or sports and recreation.
Diversity and Inclusion: Camp Kaylie seeks to hire a diverse staff that reflects the diversity of their campers. They value inclusivity and the ability to cater to a wide range of cultural and individual needs.

Training and Certifications:

Pre-Camp Training: All staff members participate in a comprehensive pre-camp training that covers camp policies, child development, emergency procedures, and specific training related to their assigned roles.
CPR and First Aid: Every staff member is required to be certified in CPR and First Aid. They ensure that these certifications are kept current, and they provide opportunities for re-certification during the employment period.
Specialized Certifications: Depending on their roles, some staff members may also hold additional certifications. For example, swimming instructors are certified lifeguards, and adventure activity leaders have appropriate certifications in areas such as rope course management or wilderness first aid.

Continuous Professional Development:

Throughout the summer, they offer ongoing training and professional development opportunities. These sessions are designed to enhance their staff’s skills and ensure they are equipped to handle any situation that may arise, continually improving the quality of care and instruction provided to campers.

At Camp Kaylie, their staff are more than just supervisors; they are role models and mentors who play a crucial role in shaping a positive and memorable camp experience. They invest heavily in their training and well-being to ensure they can deliver the highest level of care and engagement to their campers.

Safety and Health in Camp Kaylie

At Camp Kaylie, the safety and health of their campers and staff are paramount. They have comprehensive protocols and facilities in place to ensure a secure and healthy camp environment.

Safety Protocols and Procedures:

Safety Training: All staff undergo extensive safety training that includes emergency response, fire safety, and security measures specific to their camp setting.
Regular Drills: They conduct regular safety drills, including fire drills and emergency evacuation procedures, to ensure that both campers and staff are familiar with how to act swiftly and safely in an emergency.
Supervision: Camp Kaylie ensures strict supervision of campers at all times. Activities, especially those involving higher risk like swimming or climbing, are closely monitored by qualified staff.
Secure Facilities: The camp premises are secured and monitored. They have protocols in place for visitor check-ins and check-outs to maintain a controlled and safe environment.

On-site Health Facilities and Staff:

Health Center: Camp Kaylie is equipped with a well-staffed health center that operates 24/7. This facility is staffed by licensed healthcare professionals, including nurses and on-call physicians, capable of handling minor injuries and illnesses.
Medical Equipment and Supplies: The health center is stocked with necessary medical supplies and equipment to address a range of health issues. This includes first aid kits, medications, and emergency response equipment.
Accessibility: The health center is centrally located to ensure it is quickly accessible from any part of the camp.

Policies on Handling Emergencies:

Emergency Action Plans: Specific action plans are in place for various types of emergencies, including severe weather, health emergencies, and other critical situations. These plans are regularly reviewed and updated.
Communication: In case of an emergency, clear lines of communication are established. This includes internal communication among staff and communication with parents and external emergency services.
Parental Notification: Parents are promptly notified in the event of any emergency affecting their child. They maintain up-to-date contact information for all families to facilitate immediate communication.
Collaboration with Local Authorities: Camp Kaylie works closely with local health departments and emergency services to ensure a coordinated response to any situation. This includes routine checks and updates from local safety officials.

Camp Kaylie’s comprehensive approach to safety and health is designed to provide peace of mind to parents and a safe, enjoyable experience for all campers. They are committed to maintaining a high standard of care and readiness to address any issues that may arise during the camp session.

Cost and Registration in Camp Kaylie

At Camp Kaylie, they strive to ensure their camp experiences are accessible and affordable for families. Here’s a detailed overview of the cost, registration, and financial support options available:

Cost of Attendance:

The cost of attending Camp Kaylie varies depending on the length of stay and the specific programs chosen. Prices typically range from $1,000 for one-week sessions to $5,000 for the full summer.
What It Includes: The fee covers all lodging, meals, activities, and program materials. It also includes access to all camp facilities and special events. Transportation to and from the camp is usually an additional cost unless otherwise specified.

Registration Process and Deadlines:

How to Register: Parents can register their children. The process includes filling out the camper’s profile, selecting the session and programs, and completing necessary medical and consent forms.
Deadlines: Registration typically opens in mid-January and runs through the end of May. However, early registration is encouraged as spots are limited and tend to fill up quickly. They also offer early bird discounts for registrations completed by a certain date, usually by the end of March.

Payment Plans, Refunds, and Cancellation Policies:

Payment Plans: To make the cost more manageable, Camp Kaylie offers installment payment plans. Families can opt to pay in monthly installments leading up to the beginning of the camp session.
Refunds: A full refund is available up to a month before the start date of the session, except for a non-refundable deposit required during registration. Post that, partial refunds may be available depending on the timing of the cancellation.
Cancellation Policy: If the camp has to cancel a session due to unforeseen circumstances (like extreme weather events or health emergencies), full refunds or options to roll over registrations to the next available session are offered.

Scholarships and Financial Aid:

Scholarships: Camp Kaylie provides need-based scholarships to help families afford the camp experience. These scholarships are granted based on the family’s financial situation and the availability of camp funds.
Financial Aid: In addition to scholarships, they occasionally have sponsorships from donors that can be applied as financial aid for specific cases, particularly for long-term attendance or for families sending multiple children to camp.

Parent and Camper Preparation in Camp Kaylie

Preparing for a stay at Camp Kaylie is an exciting time for both campers and their parents. To ensure everyone is ready for a fantastic summer, here are some essential preparation tips, a packing list, and an overview of their camp rules and policies.

Packing List:

Clothing: Pack enough comfortable and weather-appropriate clothing for the session, including t-shirts, shorts, pants, swimsuits, pajamas, and a jacket for cooler evenings.
Footwear: Include closed-toe shoes for activities, sandals for showers, and sneakers.
Bedding: Bring a sleeping bag or sheets and blankets for a twin-size bed, and a pillow.
Toiletries: Toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, shampoo, sunscreen, insect repellent, and a small first aid kit.
Miscellaneous: Flashlight, water bottle, hats, sunglasses, and a laundry bag.
Optional Items: Books, writing materials, and a disposable camera (if desired).

Rules and Policies:

Technology Use: To maximize engagement and interaction, the use of smartphones, tablets, and other electronic devices is restricted at Camp Kaylie. Devices may be used during designated times under supervision.
Visitation: Parents are encouraged to visit on designated visiting days, which are communicated at the beginning of the summer. To ensure the safety and security of all campers, all visitors must check in at the administration office upon arrival.
Behavioral Expectations: Respect for fellow campers, staff, and camp property is essential. Bullying, violence, or any form of disrespectful behavior is not tolerated and may result in disciplinary action.

Tips for First-Time Campers and Parents:

For Campers:
- Be open to new experiences: Try different activities, even those outside your comfort zone.
- Stay organized: Keep your belongings tidy and your living area clean.
- Communicate: If you’re feeling homesick or have any concerns, talk to your counselor—that’s what they’re there for!
For Parents:
- Stay positive about the separation: Focus on the exciting opportunities your child will have, which helps ease any anxieties they might have.
- Pack a personal item: A small reminder of home can comfort a first-time camper.
- Write letters: Sending mail can be a great way to stay connected and encourage your child during their time at camp.

These preparations will help ensure that both campers and parents are set for a successful and enjoyable experience at Camp Kaylie. Whether it’s your first time or you’re a returning family, they’re excited to welcome you to a summer full of adventure and growth.

At Camp Kaylie, they are proud to offer a vibrant summer experience where children and teenagers can thrive in a safe, supportive, and fun environment. Nestled in the stunning Catskill Mountains, their camp provides an ideal setting for adventure, creativity, and personal growth. With a wide array of activities, from swimming and hiking to arts and science, there is something at Camp Kaylie for every camper to love.

Their dedicated staff ensures that every child feels welcomed, valued, and connected, maintaining a strong focus on safety, learning, and fun. They uphold a tradition of fostering independence and building strong characters through engaging programs and shared experiences.