Welcome to Camp Seven Hills, nestled in the scenic landscapes of Holland, New York, a charming spot known for its lush forests and serene atmosphere. Established with a rich history of providing an enriching camp experience, Camp Seven Hills has been a beacon of adventure, learning, and personal growth for young campers.
Located in the Western region of New York State, this camp is not only surrounded by the natural beauty of wooded areas and rolling hills but is also easily accessible from major cities, making it a prime location for summer escapades. The camp itself serves as a landmark of youth development within the community.
Camp Seven Hills operates with a heartfelt mission: to empower young girls by providing them with a safe, supportive, and fun environment where they can explore their potential and develop essential life skills. Through a variety of activities that challenge and engage, the camp fosters independence, teamwork, and resilience among attendees.
Specifically designed for girls, Camp Seven Hills caters to various age groups, providing tailored programs that meet the developmental needs of each age range. This ensures a nurturing and impactful experience, where every camper can make lasting memories while discovering new passions and capabilities.
Join us at Camp Seven Hills, where every summer unfolds new adventures, lifelong friendships, and the joy of learning in the great outdoors.
Programs Offered by Camp Seven Hills
Camp Seven Hills offers a diverse array of programs designed to engage and inspire girls of all ages. From outdoor adventures to creative arts and science exploration, the camp provides an environment where campers can grow, explore, and discover their interests in a supportive community setting.
Programs Description
- Outdoor Adventure: Emphasizing wilderness skills and environmental stewardship, this program includes hiking, canoeing, and archery. It’s perfect for girls who love the outdoors and want to develop survival skills while deeply connecting with nature.
- Creative Arts: This program allows campers to explore their artistic side through activities such as painting, crafts, drama, and dance. It’s designed to foster creativity and self-expression.
- Science and Discovery: Aimed at curious minds, this program offers hands-on activities that make learning fun. From experiments in basic chemistry to exploring the laws of physics and biology, girls can engage in scientific exploration.
- Equestrian Program: For horse enthusiasts, this program teaches riding skills, horse care, and stable management. It’s suitable for beginners and experienced riders alike.
Length of Sessions
- One-week sessions: These are introductory sessions perfect for first-time campers or those who wish to try different programs throughout the summer.
- Two-week sessions: These sessions allow for a more in-depth exploration of interests and skills, providing campers with a more comprehensive experience in their chosen area.
- Full summer: For the ultimate camp experience, girls can immerse themselves in camp life and activities throughout the summer, building strong connections and advanced skills.
Specialty Programs
In addition to the core programs, Camp Seven Hills offers specialty programs such as:
- Leadership Development: Designed for older campers, this program focuses on building leadership skills that are useful both at camp and beyond.
- Adventure Trips: These special sessions involve off-site expeditions that may include backpacking, kayaking, and more, depending on the age and skill level of the participants.
Typical Daily Schedule
A day at Camp Seven Hills is structured to provide a balanced mix of activities, free time, and community building:
- Morning: After breakfast, campers participate in their chosen program activities, which last until lunch.
- Afternoon: Post-lunch activities typically include a combination of free time, elective activities, and structured program sessions.
- Evening: Dinner is followed by camp-wide games, evening activities, and sometimes special events like campfires and night hikes.
- Nighttime: Campers wind down with a cabin chat reflecting on the day’s experiences before lights out.
Camp Seven Hills is committed to making each day at camp an adventure that contributes to personal growth and joyful memories. Whether it’s through mastering a new art technique, conquering a trail, or learning about the stars, every camper finds something to love at Camp Seven Hills.
Accommodations in Camp Seven Hills
Camp Seven Hills is well-equipped to ensure that all campers have a comfortable and enjoyable stay. The accommodations are designed to enhance the camp experience, promoting camaraderie and safety, while also catering to the needs of all participants.
Sleeping Arrangements
- Cabins: The primary accommodation at Camp Seven Hills is cabin-style lodging. These cabins are rustic yet cozy, each housing a group of campers along with at least one counselor. Cabins are grouped by age and program, ensuring that campers are with peers of similar age and interest. Each cabin is equipped with bunk beds and storage space for personal belongings.
- Tents: For certain outdoor adventure programs, there may be opportunities for tent camping. These experiences are designed to immerse campers more fully in the natural environment and teach them practical outdoor skills.
Dining Options
- Meal Plans: Camp Seven Hills provides three nutritious meals per day, served in a communal dining hall where campers can enjoy meals together and strengthen their sense of community. The dining hall is a hub of activity, often adorned with decorations from various camp events and programs.
- Dietary Accommodations: Understanding the importance of catering to various dietary needs, the camp offers vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and allergy-sensitive options. Parents are encouraged to discuss any specific dietary requirements with the camp staff during registration to ensure that all needs are met seamlessly.
Bathroom and Shower Facilities
- Facilities: The camp is equipped with modern bathroom and shower facilities strategically located near the cabins and main activity areas. These facilities are gender-segregated and maintained multiple times a day to ensure cleanliness and comfort.
- Accessibility: For campers with special needs, accessibility is a priority. Facilities designed to accommodate everyone are available, and the camp staff is trained to assist in ensuring that all campers can manage their personal care independently and with dignity.
At Camp Seven Hills, the goal is to create a home away from home where campers can feel comfortable and cared for while they explore new activities and forge new friendships. The accommodations and facilities are just one part of making the camp experience memorable and rewarding for every attendee.
Activities in Camp Seven Hills
Camp Seven Hills offers a wide range of activities designed to engage, challenge, and entertain campers of all interests and skill levels. From outdoor adventures to creative expression and skill development, the camp provides a vibrant environment where girls can thrive and explore.
List of Activities Offered
- Swimming: The camp features a swimming pool where campers can enjoy swimming lessons, free swim periods, and water games under the supervision of certified lifeguards.
- Hiking: With access to extensive trails, hiking is a key component of the camp experience, offering different levels of difficulty to suit various age groups and physical fitness levels.
- Crafts: A variety of crafting sessions are available, including pottery, beadwork, scrapbooking, and more, encouraging creativity and manual skills.
- Sports: Summer camps can participate in traditional sports like soccer, volleyball, and basketball, as well as try their hand at archery.
- Nature Exploration: Programs focused on environmental education and nature exploration teach campers about local flora and fauna, conservation, and sustainable living practices.
- Performing Arts: Activities include drama, dance, and music, allowing campers to express themselves artistically and participate in camp performances.
Special Events or Traditions
Camp Seven Hills is rich in traditions and special events that enhance the camp experience:
- Opening and Closing Ceremonies: These bookend the camp sessions, creating a sense of community and celebration.
- Campfire Nights: Regular campfires offer a time for songs, stories, and marshmallow roasting, fostering a classic camp atmosphere.
- Theme Days: These special days might include activities like “Pirate Day” or “Superhero Day,” encouraging campers to dress up and engage in themed activities.
- Talent Shows: An opportunity for campers to showcase their talents in front of their peers, whether it be singing, dancing, magic tricks, or other skills.
- Color Wars: A camp-wide competition that splits campers into teams for a series of fun and spirited challenges.
Skill Development Opportunities
Camp Seven Hills places a strong emphasis on personal growth and skill development:
- Leadership Training: Older campers can engage in leadership programs designed to develop their abilities to lead and mentor younger girls.
- Survival Skills Workshops: These workshops cover basic wilderness survival skills, orienteering, and safe outdoor practices.
- Artistic Skill Workshops: Specialized sessions in fine arts help refine skills in painting, sculpture, or digital arts.
- Science and Technology Workshops: These sessions might include programming basics, robotics, or simple machine construction.
At Camp Seven Hills, activities are not just about fun; they are carefully curated to contribute to the personal and social development of each camper. The camp’s robust programming ensures that every girl leaves with new skills, enhanced confidence, and cherished memories.
The staff of Camp Seven Hills
The staff at Camp Seven Hills is a dedicated team committed to providing a safe, educational, and fun environment for all campers. The camp prioritizes having a highly qualified and well-trained staff to ensure that each camper receives the attention and care they need.
Staff-to-Camper Ratio
- Camp Seven Hills maintains a low staff-to-camper ratio to ensure that each camper receives personalized attention and supervision. Typically, the ratio is about one staff member for every six campers. This ratio allows staff to effectively oversee and engage with campers in all activities, ensuring safety and a supportive atmosphere.
Hiring Process and Staff Qualifications
- Selection Process: The hiring process at Camp Seven Hills is rigorous, involving thorough background checks, multiple interviews, and reference checks to ensure that all staff members are not only qualified but also passionate about working with children and youth.
- Qualifications: Staff members often come from a variety of backgrounds, including education, psychology, recreation management, and environmental sciences. Many are returning staff who have grown up attending the camp themselves or have been part of similar programs, adding a personal commitment to the camp’s ethos.
Training and Certifications
- Pre-Camp Training: Before the camp season starts, all staff undergo intensive training that covers camp policies, emergency procedures, conflict resolution, activity leadership, and camper safety.
- CPR and First Aid: All staff members are required to be certified in CPR and First Aid. Additional training in AED use and managing specific health concerns like allergies and asthma is also provided.
- Specialized Certifications: Depending on their roles, some staff may also hold certifications in lifeguarding, wilderness first aid, or specific activity areas such as archery, horseback riding, or boating safety.
The commitment to high-quality staff and rigorous training ensures that Camp Seven Hills is a place where parents can feel confident about their child’s safety and where campers can enjoy their summer experience to the fullest. The staff’s expertise and dedication play a crucial role in creating an environment that fosters learning, growth, and fun.
Safety and Health in Camp Seven Hills
Camp Seven Hills places a strong emphasis on the safety and health of all campers and staff. The camp implements comprehensive safety protocols and maintains well-equipped health facilities to handle any situation that may arise.
Safety Protocols and Procedures
- Safety Training: All staff members receive extensive training in safety protocols, including emergency response, fire safety, and severe weather procedures. Regular drills are conducted to ensure everyone knows how to act in an emergency.
- Activity Safety: Specific guidelines and safety measures are in place for all activities, especially those involving higher risks such as swimming, horseback riding, and hiking. Equipment is regularly inspected and maintained to ensure it is safe for use.
- Security Measures: The camp is equipped with secure entry points, and all visitors must check in at the administration office. Staff and campers are familiar with all safety protocols upon arrival, and a curfew is strictly enforced for all campers.
On-Site Health Facilities and Staff
- Health Center: Camp Seven Hills has an on-site health center staffed by qualified health professionals, including nurses and a visiting doctor. The health center is equipped to handle minor injuries, illnesses, and the management of any ongoing medical conditions.
- Medications: The health center staff manages the storage and distribution of medications for campers who require them, ensuring they are administered at the correct times and in the correct dosages.
- Health Checks: Upon arrival, campers undergo a health check to identify any immediate health concerns and to verify health information provided by parents or guardians. This ensures that staff are aware of and prepared for any specific needs.
Policies on Handling Emergencies
- Emergency Response Plan: The camp has a detailed emergency response plan that includes protocols for handling natural disasters, medical emergencies, and other critical situations. This plan is regularly reviewed and updated.
- Communication: In the event of an emergency, the camp has a protocol for communicating with parents and guardians as quickly and efficiently as possible. Contact information is kept up-to-date to facilitate this communication.
- Partnerships with Local Authorities: Camp Seven Hills collaborates closely with local emergency services, including fire, police, and hospitals, to ensure a rapid response in case of a serious incident. Regular meetings are held to coordinate planning and response strategies.
Through these rigorous safety protocols, health facilities, and emergency policies, Camp Seven Hills ensures a safe and healthy environment where campers can enjoy their activities without undue risk, and parents can rest assured that their children are in good hands.
Cost and Registration in Camp Seven Hills
Camp Seven Hills is committed to making its enriching summer experience accessible and affordable, with clear information on costs, registration, and financial support options. Here are the key details about attending Camp Seven Hills:
Cost of Attendance
- What it Includes: The cost of attending Camp Seven Hills covers all lodging, meals, activities, and program materials. Additional costs might be associated with specific specialty programs or optional excursions. Uniforms or camp gear, if required, are typically not included in the base cost and must be purchased separately.
- Varied Pricing: Prices may vary depending on the length of the session, the type of program chosen, and the age of the camper.
Prices typically range from $480 per person for a week-long session.
Registration Process and Deadlines
- How to Register: Registration for Camp Seven Hills can be completed online through the camp’s official website. The process involves filling out necessary camper information, selecting preferred sessions and programs, and submitting medical and dietary information.
- Deadlines: Registration typically opens several months in advance of the summer sessions, with early registration discounts available. It is advisable to register early as spots fill up quickly, and some programs may have limited availability.
Payment Plans, Refunds, and Cancellation Policies
- Payment Plans: To accommodate different budgets, Camp Seven Hills offers structured payment plans that allow families to spread the cost of the camp over several months. Details and arrangements for these plans can be made through the camp’s finance office.
- Refunds and Cancellations: The camp has a clear cancellation policy, which usually includes a non-refundable deposit at the time of registration. Partial refunds may be available up to a certain date, after which the camp may retain full payment unless the spot can be filled by another camper. These policies are designed to be fair while covering the costs incurred in planning for each camper’s attendance.
- Cancellation Insurance: Families are often encouraged to purchase cancellation insurance to cover unforeseen circumstances that prevent attendance.
Scholarships and Financial Aid
- Scholarships: Camp Seven Hills offers scholarships based on need, merit, or both. These scholarships can significantly reduce the cost for families, ensuring that more children have the opportunity to experience camp.
- Financial Aid: Additional financial aid may be available for families experiencing economic hardship. Applications for financial aid are confidential and require documentation to support the financial assistance request.
- Community Support: The camp also engages with community organizations and alumni to fundraise for its scholarship programs, aiming to broaden access to its enriching programs.
Camp Seven Hills strives to make its programs accessible to all interested families, ensuring that financial barriers do not prevent enthusiastic campers from experiencing a memorable summer.
Parent and Camper Preparation in Camp Seven Hills
Camp Seven Hills provides comprehensive guidance to ensure that both parents and campers are well-prepared for the camp experience. Here’s what families need to know about packing, rules and policies, and tips for first-time campers and their parents.
Packing List
To make the most out of their camp experience, campers should pack:
- Clothing: Enough comfortable and weather-appropriate clothing for the duration of the stay, including long pants, shorts, t-shirts, sweaters, and rain gear. Swimwear and a sturdy pair of hiking boots or shoes are essential.
- Bedding: A sleeping bag or sheets and blankets, depending on the accommodation type, plus a pillow.
- Toiletries: Basic items like toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, shampoo, and sunscreen. Insect repellent is also recommended.
- Miscellaneous: Flashlight, water bottle, hat, sunglasses, and any needed personal items.
- Optional Items: Books, writing materials, and small games or sports equipment.
Rules and Policies
- Technology Use: Camp Seven Hills encourages a technology-free environment to help campers fully engage with their surroundings and each other. Therefore, the use of smartphones, tablets, and other electronic devices is typically restricted to certain times or not allowed at all.
- Visitation: Parents and family members are encouraged to visit only on designated visiting days to minimize disruptions and maintain the camp schedule. All visitors must check in at the camp office.
- Behavioral Expectations: Respect for fellow campers, staff, and the environment is expected at all times. The camp has a strict policy against bullying and inappropriate behavior.
Tips for First-Time Campers and Parents
- Preparation: Discuss what camp will be like focusing on the exciting activities and new friendships. Address any anxieties about being away from home.
- Communication: Learn about the camp’s communication policies, including how often and through what means you can expect updates about your child’s experiences.
- Homesickness: It’s normal for first-time campers to feel homesick. Encourage them to bring a personal item from home, like a stuffed animal or a photo, to comfort them.
- Independence: Prepare your child for camp by practicing independence at home, like packing their own bag or managing their daily hygiene independently.
- Encouragement: Reassure your child about the safety and fun of camp, emphasizing that it’s a place to learn and grow.
By preparing thoroughly and understanding the camp’s policies, parents can help ensure that their child has a safe, enjoyable, and enriching experience at Camp Seven Hills.
Camp Seven Hills offers a unique blend of adventure, creativity, and personal growth, all set within the beautiful and serene landscapes of Holland, New York. With its comprehensive range of programs, from outdoor adventures to arts and sciences, Camp Seven Hills is designed to nurture and challenge young girls, helping them to develop new skills, confidence, and lasting friendships. The camp’s commitment to safety, coupled with its inclusive and supportive environment, ensures that each camper’s experience is both enriching and joyful.
Whether a first-time attendee or a returning camper, girls at Camp Seven Hills are guaranteed a summer filled with memorable moments and the joy of exploration. This camp is not just a place to spend the summer; it’s a place to grow, learn, and become part of a community that values fun, respect, and the great outdoors.