Welcome to Camp Olmsted, a serene oasis nestled in the scenic landscape of Cornwall-On-Hudson, New York. Situated within the picturesque Hudson Valley, just a stone’s throw from the majestic Hudson River, Camp Olmsted has been a beacon of adventure and learning since its inception in 1901. Named after Frederick Law Olmsted, the famed designer of Central Park, their camp is steeped in a rich history that celebrates nature, discovery, and personal growth.

At Camp Olmsted, their mission is to provide a safe, inclusive, and vibrant camping environment that nurtures character development, leadership skills, and lifelong friendships. They believe in empowering their campers to explore their potential and embrace the great outdoors with enthusiasm and respect.

They cater primarily to boys from diverse backgrounds, offering a variety of programs tailored to different age groups, ranging from 6 to 16 years old. Their activities are designed to challenge and inspire, from hiking and swimming to arts and crafts and team sports, ensuring a holistic experience that contributes to both physical wellness and personal development.

Join us at Camp Olmsted for an unforgettable summer of fun, learning, and growth amidst the natural beauty of Cornwall-On-Hudson!

Programs Offered by Camp Olmsted

Camp Olmsted offers a diverse array of programs designed to cater to the interests and developmental needs of young boys across different age groups. Their programs range from traditional camp activities to specialty tracks that focus on arts, sports, and science. Here’s an overview of what they offer:

Program Description

Their camp sessions are structured to provide a balanced mix of education, recreation, and personal growth. Campers can choose from a variety of programs that include:

Outdoor Adventures: Emphasizing survival skills, orienteering, and environmental science, this program helps campers connect with nature and learn about conservation.
Sports Academy: Focusing on teamwork and physical fitness, this program includes basketball, soccer, baseball, and swimming, coached by experienced instructors.
Arts and Creativity: From theater arts to pottery and painting, campers express their creativity and learn new artistic skills.
STEM Explorers: Designed for budding scientists and engineers, this program includes activities like robotics, basic coding, and hands-on science experiments.

Length of Sessions

One-Week Sessions: These short sessions are perfect for younger campers or first-timers who are getting accustomed to the camp experience.
Two-Week Sessions: Offering a more immersive experience, these sessions allow for deeper exploration of camp activities and community building.
Full Summer: Their full summer program is the most comprehensive, allowing campers to experience a wide range of activities and personal development opportunities.

Specialty Programs

In addition to their core programs, Camp Olmsted offers several specialty programs that cater to specific interests:

Leadership Development: For older campers, this program focuses on building leadership skills through advanced camp responsibilities and peer mentoring.
Environmental Stewardship: A program dedicated to teaching campers about sustainable living and environmental protection practices.

Typical Daily Schedule

A day at Camp Olmsted is structured to maximize learning, fun, and relaxation:

7:30 AM: Wake Up
8:00 AM: Breakfast
9:00 AM: Morning Activities (rotating based on program)
12:00 PM: Lunch
1:00 PM: Rest Hour
2:00 PM: Afternoon Activities
5:00 PM: Free Time
6:00 PM: Dinner
7:00 PM: Evening Programs (campfires, storytelling, talent shows)
9:00 PM: Lights Out

Through these programs, Camp Olmsted ensures that every camper has the opportunity to grow, learn, and have fun in a supportive and enriching environment.

Accommodations in Camp Olmsted

Camp Olmsted provides comfortable and well-maintained accommodations that cater to the needs of their campers, ensuring they have a safe and enjoyable stay. Here’s what they offer in terms of sleeping arrangements, dining options, and bathroom facilities:

Sleeping Arrangements

Cabins: Their primary accommodations are rustic yet cozy cabins that blend into the natural surroundings of Cornwall-On-Hudson. Each cabin houses 8-12 campers along with 2 counselors, fostering a close-knit community atmosphere. The cabins are equipped with bunk beds and storage areas for personal belongings.
Tents: For older campers or those enrolled in specific outdoor adventure programs, they offer the option to sleep in tents. This allows for a more immersive nature experience. Tents are pitched in designated areas that are secure and monitored.
Dormitory Style: Available primarily for special events or larger group accommodations, their dorm-style facilities provide a more communal living experience, with larger rooms and shared living spaces.

Dining Options

Meal Plans: Camp Olmsted operates a full-service dining hall that provides three nutritious meals per day, along with healthy snacks. Meals are served buffet-style, with a variety of options to suit every appetite.
Dietary Accommodations: Understanding the importance of catering to various dietary needs, their kitchen is equipped to handle special dietary requirements including vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and allergy-friendly options. They ask parents to communicate any specific dietary needs prior to arrival to ensure they are fully prepared.

Bathroom and Shower Facilities

Centralized Facilities: Bathroom and shower facilities are centrally located for easy access from all cabins and tents. These facilities are separated by gender and are maintained with the highest standards of cleanliness and hygiene.
Private Showers: Each shower area is individualized to ensure privacy and comfort. They ensure that hot water is available throughout the day.
Sanitation Stations: Additional sanitation stations are provided around the camp, featuring handwashing stations and sanitizing gel, to promote a healthy and hygienic environment.

At Camp Olmsted, their accommodations are designed to ensure that every camper feels comfortable, safe, and part of their community. This nurturing environment allows campers to focus on their growth and enjoyment during their stay with us.

Activities in Camp Olmsted

Camp Olmsted is a hub of dynamic and engaging activities designed to cater to a wide range of interests and skills, fostering personal growth, teamwork, and creativity among campers. Here’s a detailed look at the activities, special events, and skill development opportunities available:

List of Activities Offered

Swimming: Supervised by certified lifeguards, their swimming programs cater to all skill levels, from beginners to advanced swimmers.
Hiking: Explore the natural trails around Cornwall-On-Hudson, learning about local flora and fauna and enjoying breathtaking views.
Crafts: A variety of crafting activities such as pottery, painting, and woodworking allow campers to express their creativity.
Sports: Soccer, basketball, baseball, and more are available, focusing on skill development, teamwork, and healthy competition.
Archery: Taught by experienced instructors, archery helps develop focus and precision in a controlled environment.
Canoeing and Kayaking: Water sports on the Hudson River provide fun and challenge, emphasizing safety and paddling techniques.
Theater and Performing Arts: Campers can participate in drama workshops, improv sessions, and a camp-wide talent show.
Environmental Education: Programs that teach sustainability, wildlife conservation, and environmental stewardship.

Special Events or Traditions

Campfire Nights: Regular campfire gatherings where stories are shared, songs are sung, and marshmallows are roasted.
Color Wars: An annual tradition that divides the camp into teams for a series of fun, competitive activities.
End-of-Summer Carnival: A festive celebration featuring games, prizes, and performances, marking the culmination of the camp season.
Visiting Day: When family members are invited to experience camp life, participate in activities, and see the progress their children have made.

Skill Development Opportunities

Leadership Programs: Summer camps can engage in leadership training, taking on roles that allow them to mentor younger campers and assist in camp operations.
First Aid and Safety Workshops: Practical sessions that teach basic first aid, CPR, and emergency response skills.
Artistic Expression Classes: Advanced classes in fine arts, crafts, and performance to refine skills and encourage creative growth.
Science and Nature Labs: Hands-on learning experiences that promote curiosity and critical thinking about the natural world.

Camp Olmsted is committed to providing a rich, engaging, and supportive environment where boys can learn new skills, make lasting friendships, and build strong character. Through a wide array of activities and special programs, campers leave with not only memories but also valuable life skills.

The staff of Camp Olmsted

At Camp Olmsted, they prioritize the safety, enjoyment, and development of their campers by maintaining a highly qualified and dedicated staff. Here is an overview of their staff structure, the hiring process, the staff-to-camper ratio, and the training and certifications their staff members hold:

Staff-to-Camper Ratio

General Ratio: They maintain a staff-to-camper ratio of 1:5, ensuring that each camper receives personalized attention and supervision.
Specific Programs: For activities that require more specialized skills or heightened safety measures, such as swimming and archery, they ensure a lower ratio to provide enhanced supervision and instruction.

Hiring Process and Staff Qualifications

Recruitment: Their staff are recruited based on their experience, qualifications, and their passion for working with children in a camp environment. They actively seek individuals who have previous experience in camping, education, or child care.
Background Checks: All potential staff members undergo thorough background checks, including criminal history and reference checks, to ensure the safety and integrity of their camp environment.
Interviews and Selection: Candidates go through a rigorous interview process where they are assessed for their skills, experience, and their ability to align with the camp’s mission and values.

Training and Certifications

Mandatory Training: All staff members are required to complete a comprehensive pre-camp training program that covers camp policies, emergency procedures, child behavior management, and activity-specific safety protocols.
CPR and First Aid: Every staff member is certified in CPR and First Aid. They ensure these certifications are kept up to date, and refresher courses are provided as necessary.
Specialized Certifications: Staff responsible for specific activities like swimming, archery, or boating hold additional certifications pertinent to their roles (e.g., Lifeguard Certification, USA Archery Level 1 Instructor).

Ongoing Development

In-Service Training: Throughout the summer, they conduct regular in-service training sessions to address any arising issues, refresh important skills, and continuously improve their camp’s operations and safety standards.
Feedback Systems: They have a robust feedback system that allows for continuous assessment and improvement based on the experiences of campers and staff, ensuring that their team is always growing and adapting.

The combination of a rigorous hiring process, thorough training, and ongoing development ensures that the staff at Camp Olmsted are not only qualified but also deeply committed to providing a safe, educational, and fun-filled camping experience for all campers.

Safety and Health in Camp Olmsted

At Camp Olmsted, the safety and health of their campers and staff are paramount. They have established comprehensive safety protocols and health policies to ensure that everyone enjoys a secure and healthy camp experience. Here’s an overview of their safety protocols, on-site health facilities, and emergency handling policies:

Safety Protocols and Procedures

Regular Drills: They conduct regular safety drills, including fire, weather, and lockdown drills, to ensure that both campers and staff are familiar with emergency procedures.
Activity-Specific Safety Protocols: Each activity offered at the camp has tailored safety guidelines, which are rigorously enforced by trained staff. Equipment is regularly inspected and maintained to ensure it is safe for use.
Supervision: Campers are supervised at all times, with staff strategically positioned to monitor all activities and ensure that safety rules are followed.
Security Measures: The camp is equipped with security measures including controlled access points and nightly patrols to ensure a secure environment.

On-Site Health Facilities and Staff

Health Center: Camp Olmsted is equipped with a well-staffed health center that is operational 24/7 during camp sessions. The center is staffed by licensed healthcare professionals, including nurses and a part-time visiting doctor.
Facilities and Equipment: The health center is equipped to handle minor injuries and illnesses, with arrangements in place for more serious cases to be quickly transported to a nearby hospital.
Medication Management: They have strict protocols for managing and administering medications to campers, ensuring that any medications are stored securely and administered correctly as per the prescribing doctor’s instructions.

Policies on Handling Emergencies

Emergency Action Plans: The camp has detailed action plans for a variety of emergencies, from medical situations to natural disasters. These plans are regularly reviewed and updated.
Communication: In the event of an emergency, there is a clear communication protocol to contact all relevant parties, including parents, local authorities, and medical services. The camp also maintains communication devices that function in areas where cell service may be unreliable.
Training: All staff members receive training on how to respond to various emergencies, ensuring they can manage situations effectively until professional help is available.
Partnerships with Local Authorities: They maintain strong relationships with local emergency services, including fire, police, and hospitals, to ensure a rapid response when needed.

Camp Olmsted’s commitment to safety and health is designed to provide peace of mind to parents and a safe environment for campers, allowing them to focus on the fun and learning aspects of their camp experience.

Cost and Registration in Camp Olmsted

Camp Olmsted is committed to making their enriching summer camp experience accessible and affordable to families while ensuring the highest quality of programming and facilities. Here is an overview of the cost of attendance, registration details, and financial support options:

Cost of Attendance and What It Includes

Fees: The cost of attending Camp Olmsted varies depending on the length of the session and the specific program chosen. Typically, fees range from $500 for one-week sessions to $3,500 for full summer programs.
Included in the Cost: Fees cover all aspects of the camp experience, including lodging, meals, all scheduled activities, equipment use, and program materials. Transportation to and from the camp is generally not included, except for special circumstances.

Registration Process and Deadlines

Online Registration: Parents can register their children through their online platform, which is streamlined to make the process as easy as possible. Registration typically opens in January and runs until spaces are filled.
Deadlines: They encourage early registration as some programs fill up quickly.
Required Documentation: During registration, parents will need to complete health forms, emergency contact information, and any applicable consent forms for activities.

Payment Plans, Refunds, and Cancellation Policies

Payment Plans: Recognizing that families have different financial needs, Camp Olmsted offers flexible payment plans to spread the cost of the camp over several months.
Refunds and Cancellations: A deposit is required at the time of registration, which is typically non-refundable. Full refunds, minus the deposit, are available until a month before the camp session starts. After this point, refunds are only provided for medical reasons or family emergencies, with documentation.
Cancellation Policy: If a camp session is canceled by Camp Olmsted due to unforeseen circumstances (e.g., extreme weather conditions), full refunds or alternative session options will be offered.

Scholarships and Financial Aid

Scholarships: Camp Olmsted offers a number of scholarships each year to families who demonstrate financial need. These scholarships can cover part or all of the camp fees.
Financial Aid: In addition to scholarships, they have a financial aid program designed to assist families. Applications for financial aid are reviewed on a case-by-case basis, and awards are made based on available funding and individual circumstances.
Community Support Programs: They also partner with community organizations to offer sponsored camp placements to children who may not otherwise have the opportunity to attend a summer camp.

Camp Olmsted strives to provide clear and transparent information regarding costs, registration, and financial support to ensure that all families have the opportunity to consider their camp for their children.

Parent and Camper Preparation in Camp Olmsted

Preparing for a stay at Camp Olmsted is an exciting time for both campers and their families, especially if it’s their first experience with summer camp. To ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience, they provide detailed information on what to pack, the rules and policies of the camp, and some helpful tips for first-time campers and their parents.

Packing List

For a comfortable and worry-free camp experience, here’s what they recommend including in your packing:

Clothing: Pack enough clothes for the session length, including t-shirts, shorts, long pants, a jacket, and a raincoat. Include swimwear and a sturdy pair of hiking shoes.
Bedding: A sleeping bag or sheets and blankets (depending on the camper’s preference), and a pillow.
Toiletries: Toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, shampoo, sunscreen, insect repellent, and a small towel.
Other Essentials: Flashlight, water bottle, hat, and sunglasses.
Optional Items: Books, writing materials, or small games for downtime.

Rules and Policies

Technology Use: To maximize engagement and interaction, personal electronic devices like smartphones, tablets, and laptops are not allowed during camp sessions. Emergency contact will be through camp phones and staff.
Visitation: Parents are encouraged to visit on designated Visiting Days only, which helps maintain the camp schedule and security. Detailed information on visitation schedules will be provided before the camp session.
Behavioral Expectations: Campers are expected to adhere to the rules of respect, cooperation, and kindness towards others. Specific guidelines and consequences for misconduct are clearly communicated to both campers and parents at the start of the session.

Tips for First-Time Campers and Parents

Preparation: Discuss what camp will be like focusing on the exciting activities and new friendships. Encourage your child to express any feelings about going to camp and discuss them openly.
Packing: Involve your child in the packing process, which can help them feel prepared and excited about their upcoming adventure.
Communication: Explain how they can communicate with you during camp and reassure them that they can talk to camp staff about any concerns.
Homesickness: It’s normal. Remind your child that it’s okay to miss home and that they can talk to their counselors, who are there to help them adjust.

With the right preparation, camp can be an incredibly enriching experience for your child. At Camp Olmsted, they strive to ensure that both campers and parents are well-prepared and informed, helping to create a positive and memorable summer camp experience.

At Camp Olmsted, nestled in the picturesque settings of Cornwall-On-Hudson, New York, they pride themselves on providing an enriching, safe, and unforgettable summer camp experience. Their diverse array of programs, from outdoor adventures to arts and STEM, are designed to foster growth, creativity, and camaraderie among campers. With a strong emphasis on safety, skilled staff, and a community-oriented environment, they ensure that every camper not only has fun but also develops essential life skills and lasting friendships.

Their comprehensive preparations for campers and parents, flexible registration processes, and commitment to accessibility through financial aid and scholarships demonstrate their dedication to inclusivity and community support. Whether it’s your child’s first summer with us or they are returning for another year of adventure, Camp Olmsted is dedicated to making every summer impactful and joyous.