Nestled in the heart of Moravia, New York, Casowasco Camp offers a serene and picturesque retreat on the shores of Owasco Lake. A part of the region’s landscape for many years, Casowasco has been a beacon of joy, learning, and adventure for campers from all walks of life. Their camp’s rich history is woven with countless stories of friendship, discovery, and personal growth, creating a legacy that continues to inspire their community.

At Casowasco, they are driven by a simple yet powerful mission: to provide a safe, inclusive, and spiritually enriching environment for all campers. They believe in fostering a sense of community, encouraging self-discovery, and nurturing a connection with nature. Their programs are designed to develop skills, build character, and create lifelong memories in a setting that celebrates the beauty of the natural world.

Casowasco is a camp that welcomes boys and girls of various age groups, offering tailored activities that cater to the developmental needs of each age bracket. From boating and swimming in Owasco Lake to hiking and campfire gatherings under the stars, every day at Casowasco is an adventure waiting to be experienced.

Join us at Casowasco Camp, where every camper finds a second home and new adventures are always on the horizon.

Programs Offered by Casowasco Camp

At Casowasco Camp, they offer a diverse array of programs designed to cater to the interests and developmental stages of each camper. Their programs are structured around the philosophy of growth, community, and exploration, ensuring that every participant has an enriching and unforgettable experience.

1. Session Lengths:

One-Week Sessions: Ideal for younger campers or first-timers, these sessions provide a comprehensive introduction to camp life, including a variety of activities and ample opportunities for making new friends.
Two-Week Sessions: These extended sessions allow for a deeper exploration of camp activities and more profound personal development. Campers engage in more complex projects and long-term team activities.
Full Summer Option: For the ultimate Casowasco experience, campers can immerse themselves in the camp community and activities throughout the summer, experiencing everything on offer to its fullest extent.

2. Specialty Programs:

Arts: Their arts program encourages creativity through classes in painting, sculpture, music, and theater. Each session includes performances and gallery shows that allow campers to showcase their talents.
Sports: Focused on physical education and teamwork, their sports programs include everything from traditional sports like soccer and basketball to water sports and adventure activities such as climbing.
Science and Nature: These programs are designed to spark curiosity and a love for learning, with hands-on activities that range from astronomy to environmental science and wildlife exploration.

3. Typical Daily Schedule:

7:30 AM – Wake Up: Start the day with a refreshing morning routine.
8:00 AM – Breakfast: Energize with a nutritious meal.
9:00 AM – Morning Activities: Engage in the first set of scheduled activities, which might include arts and crafts, sports, or nature walks.
12:00 PM – Lunch: Replenish energy with a well-balanced lunch.
1:00 PM – Quiet Time: A period for relaxation or personal reflection.
2:00 PM – Afternoon Activities: Continue the adventure with more specialized workshops or team-building games.
5:00 PM – Free Time: Campers can choose activities at their leisure, explore the camp, or rest.
6:00 PM – Dinner: Enjoy a communal meal with fellow campers.
7:00 PM – Evening Program: Participate in camp-wide games, talent shows, or night hikes.
9:00 PM – Campfire: End the day with stories, songs, and marshmallow roasting.
10:00 PM – Lights Out: Rest up for another exciting day.

Each day at Casowasco Camp is carefully structured to balance activity with downtime, ensuring campers remain energized, engaged, and eager to participate in all that camp life has to offer. Whether they are here for a week, two weeks, or the entire summer, campers leave Casowasco with memories that last a lifetime.

Accommodations in Casowasco Camp

At Casowasco Camp, they aim to make every camper’s stay comfortable and enjoyable, ensuring that all aspects of camp life are well-catered to, from sleeping arrangements to dining options.

Sleeping Arrangements:

Cabins: Their primary accommodation option consists of cozy, well-maintained cabins. Each cabin houses multiple campers, with bunk beds to maximize space and foster a communal living experience. Cabins are grouped by age and gender to ensure comfort and appropriateness for all campers.
Tents: For a more rustic and close-to-nature experience, some of their programs offer tented accommodations. These are typically used during special wilderness programs and are fully equipped with necessary camping gear.
Dorms: Available primarily for older campers and special groups, dormitory-style accommodations provide a more private and mature environment for those who prefer it.

Dining Options:

Meal Plans: Casowasco Camp offers full meal plans that include breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Meals are served in a communal dining hall where campers gather to eat together, enhancing the community feel. Their kitchen staff prepares a variety of nutritious and tasty meals that fuel campers throughout their active days.
Dietary Accommodations: Understanding that some campers have specific dietary needs, they offer vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and allergy-sensitive options. They strive to accommodate all dietary requirements with prior notification to ensure every camper has access to suitable and enjoyable meal options.

Bathroom and Shower Facilities:

Centralized Facilities: Most of their cabins and tents utilize centralized bathroom and shower facilities, which are separated by gender and are conveniently located throughout the campsite. These facilities are maintained multiple times daily to ensure cleanliness and hygiene.
Ensuite Options: Their dormitory accommodations include ensuite bathrooms, providing added convenience and privacy. These are particularly appreciated by their older campers and guests during special events.

At Casowasco Camp, they take pride in providing a safe, clean, and welcoming environment for every camper. From the moment they wake up in their cabin, tent, or dorm, to each meal enjoyed with friends, and through every call of nature attended to in their well-kept facilities, they ensure a comfortable and fulfilling camp experience.

Activities in Casowasco Camp

Casowasco Camp offers a diverse range of activities designed to engage campers of all interests and ages, fostering both fun and skill development in a supportive environment.

List of Activities Offered:

Water Activities: Summer camps, swimming, canoeing, and kayaking on the scenic Owasco Lake.
Outdoor Adventures: Hiking, climbing, and zip-lining through the beautiful surrounding woods and hills.
Creative Arts: Craft-making sessions, pottery, and various forms of visual and performing arts.
Team Sports: Soccer, basketball, volleyball, and more, promoting teamwork and physical fitness.
Nature Exploration: Guided nature walks, wildlife spotting, and environmental education programs.
Camp Skills: Campers learn essential outdoor skills such as fire-building, orienteering, and camping safety.

Special Events or Traditions:

Opening Bonfire: A traditional start to the camp season, where campers and staff gather for introductions, games, and setting camp goals.
Color Wars: A multi-day event filled with team competitions, spirit activities, and challenges that culminate in a camp-wide relay race and awards ceremony.
Talent Shows: An opportunity for campers to showcase their unique talents, whether it’s singing, dancing, magic tricks, or stand-up comedy.
Themed Dinners: These are fun and engaging, with themes ranging from “Superheroes” to “Around the World,” encouraging creativity and participation.
Closing Ceremonies: A heartfelt farewell that includes campfire stories, reflections on camp experiences, and recognition of achievements.

Skill Development Opportunities:

Leadership Training: Older campers can participate in leadership programs designed to develop their skills in mentoring, team management, and problem-solving.
Environmental Stewardship: Programs that teach campers about sustainability practices, conservation efforts, and the importance of protecting natural habitats.
Artistic Expression: Workshops and classes that encourage creative expression and skill enhancement in various arts.
Physical Development: Structured sports and fitness activities that focus on developing physical abilities, sportsmanship, and personal health.
Cultural Awareness: Activities that explore different cultures, fostering an appreciation for diversity and global awareness.

At Casowasco Camp, they believe in the power of active engagement and hands-on learning. Their activities are designed not just for fun, but to instill a deeper sense of self-awareness, community connection, and personal development, ensuring that each camper leaves with not only memories but also new skills and a greater understanding of their capabilities and the world around them.

The staff of Casowasco Camp

At Casowasco Camp, their dedicated staff is central to creating a safe, enjoyable, and enriching environment for every camper. They maintain high standards in staff recruitment, training, and development, ensuring that all team members are well-equipped to provide the best camp experience.

Staff-to-Camper Ratio:

Casowasco Camp adheres to a favorable staff-to-camper ratio, typically around 1:8. This ratio allows us to give personalized attention to each camper, ensuring their safety, happiness, and developmental progress. For younger campers and specialty activities, such as swimming and climbing, the ratio is often even lower to enhance supervision and safety.

Hiring Process and Staff Qualifications:

Recruitment: Their hiring process is thorough, seeking individuals who are passionate about youth development and outdoor activities. Candidates are typically recruited from educational institutions, previous camp affiliations, or through referrals from trusted community members.
Background Checks: All potential staff members undergo extensive background checks, including criminal record checks and previous employment verifications, to ensure the safety and security of their campers.
Qualifications: They prioritize candidates who have experience in youth programs, education, or specific activity areas such as arts, sports, or science. Many of their staff are pursuing or have completed degrees in education, psychology, or related fields.

Training and Certifications:

Pre-Camp Training: Before the camp season begins, all staff undergo rigorous training that covers camp policies, emergency procedures, conflict resolution, and activity-specific safety protocols.
CPR and First Aid: Every staff member is required to be certified in CPR and First Aid. Certifications are kept current, with regular refreshers as needed.
Specialized Training: Staff involved in specific activities, such as lifeguards, climbing instructors, or those leading wilderness expeditions, hold additional certifications relevant to their roles (e.g., Lifeguard Certification, Wilderness First Responder).

Continuous Development:

Ongoing Education: Throughout the camp season, they hold regular staff meetings to review procedures, share feedback, and refine their approaches to camper engagement and safety.
Professional Development: They encourage and often sponsor their staff to attend relevant workshops, conferences, and courses to further their skills and knowledge in youth development and outdoor education.

The staff at Casowasco Camp are more than just supervisors and instructors; they are role models and mentors who play a pivotal role in the campers’ experiences. Their commitment to maintaining a highly qualified and well-trained staff ensures that each camper enjoys a fun, safe, and rewarding time at camp.

Safety and Health in Casowasco Camp

At Casowasco Camp, the safety and well-being of their campers and staff are their utmost priorities. They implement comprehensive safety protocols and procedures and maintain excellent on-site health facilities to ensure a secure and supportive environment.

Safety Protocols and Procedures:

Risk Assessments: Regular risk assessments are conducted to identify and mitigate potential hazards related to camp activities and facilities.
Safety Training: All staff members receive extensive training in safety protocols, including emergency response, hazard prevention, and activity-specific safety measures.
Emergency Drills: They conduct regular emergency drills with campers and staff, including fire, weather, and lockdown scenarios, to ensure everyone is prepared and knows how to react in various situations.
Equipment Checks: All sporting and activity equipment undergo regular inspections and maintenance to guarantee they are in safe working condition.
Supervision: Continuous, vigilant supervision is enforced during all activities, particularly those that are high-risk, like swimming or climbing.

On-site Health Facilities and Staff:

Health Center: Casowasco Camp is equipped with a well-staffed health center that operates 24/7 during camp sessions. The center is staffed by licensed healthcare professionals, including nurses and on-call doctors.
Medical Supplies and Equipment: The health center is stocked with necessary medical supplies and equipment to handle a range of medical issues, from minor injuries to more urgent health conditions.
Health Checks: Upon arrival, each camper undergoes a health check to identify any existing conditions or allergies and to ensure fitness for camp activities.

Policies on Handling Emergencies:

Immediate Response: In the event of an emergency, their trained staff are prepared to respond immediately, providing necessary first aid and stabilizing the situation while the emergency protocol is activated.
Emergency Contacts: Emergency contact protocols are clearly established, including immediate notification of local emergency services and communication with parents or guardians.
Evacuation Plans: They have detailed evacuation plans for each area of the camp, which are practiced during drills and can be implemented quickly if needed.
Continual Monitoring: Conditions that could elevate risk, such as weather changes, are continually monitored using both local forecasts and on-site weather monitoring technologies.

Communications and Documentation:

Incident Reports: Any incidents or injuries at camp are documented in detailed reports, which are reviewed to improve future safety measures.
Parental Communication: Clear communication lines are maintained with parents, who are promptly informed of any emergencies or significant incidents involving their children.

By maintaining strict safety protocols, a fully equipped health center, and clear policies on emergency handling, Casowasco Camp ensures that every camper enjoys a safe, healthy, and happy summer experience. They believe that a safe environment is the foundation of a fun and enriching camp experience.

Cost and Registration in Casowasco Camp

At Casowasco Camp, they strive to provide a memorable and transformative camping experience that is accessible and affordable for families. They offer transparent pricing, easy registration processes, and various financial support options to ensure that every child has the opportunity to enjoy their camp.

Cost of Attendance:

The cost of attending Casowasco Camp varies depending on the length of the session and the specific program chosen. Generally, fees cover all aspects of the camp experience, including lodging, meals, activities, and any special programming.
For example, a one-week session may cost between $500 to $700, while a two-week session could range from $900 to $1,200. Full summer options would have a different pricing structure, reflective of the extended duration and comprehensive nature of the activities.

What It Includes:

Accommodations: Comfortable lodging in cabins, tents, or dorms.
Meals: Three well-balanced meals per day, plus snacks.
Activities: Full access to all camp programs and facilities.
Supplies: All necessary equipment and materials for activities.
Healthcare: Access to on-site health services.

Registration Process and Deadlines:

Registration typically opens several months before the camp season begins, often starting in January.
Prospective campers can register online through their website, where they can fill out forms, choose their session, and submit any required health and consent documents.
Deadlines are usually set for one month prior to the start of each session, but early registration is encouraged as spots can fill up quickly.

Payment Plans, Refunds, and Cancellation Policies:

Payment Plans: They offer flexible payment plans to help spread the cost of camp over several months, making it more manageable for families.
Refunds: Full refunds are available up to a certain date, typically one month before the session starts. After this date, partial refunds may be offered depending on the circumstances.
Cancellation Policy: Cancellations due to medical reasons are generally refunded in full with a doctor’s note. For other cancellations, the refund amount may be contingent on the timing of the cancellation notice.

Scholarships and Financial Aid:

Casowasco Camp is committed to inclusivity and offers scholarships and financial aid to families who demonstrate financial need.
Financial aid can cover the partial or full costs of the camp, depending on the family’s situation and the availability of funds.
Families are encouraged to apply for financial aid during the registration process, providing any requested documentation to support their application.

They believe that financial constraints should not prevent any child from experiencing the joys and benefits of camp. Their team is dedicated to working with families to explore all available options to make the camp experience possible for their children.

Parent and Camper Preparation in Casowasco Camp

Preparing for camp is an exciting time for both campers and their parents. At Casowasco Camp, they aim to make this process as smooth and clear as possible by providing detailed guidance on what to bring, understanding camp rules and policies, and offering helpful tips for first-time campers and their families.

Packing List:

Clothing: Pack enough comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing for the session, including T-shirts, shorts, long pants, and a jacket for cooler evenings. Include a raincoat, swimwear, and a sturdy pair of hiking shoes.
Bedding: Bring a sleeping bag or sheets and blankets, plus a pillow, for sleeping comfort in cabins or dorms.
Personal Items: Toiletries, sunscreen, bug spray, and a reusable water bottle are essential. Don’t forget a hat and sunglasses for sun protection.
Flashlight: Useful for evening activities and navigating the campsite at night.
Optional Items: Books, writing materials, or small games can be included for downtime or quiet time.

Rules and Policies:

Technology Use: To ensure that campers fully engage with their surroundings and each other, the use of cell phones, tablets, and other electronic devices is restricted at camp. Devices may be collected upon arrival and returned at the end of the session.
Visitation: To maintain safety and program integrity, visitation during camp sessions is generally not allowed, except under special circumstances or on designated family days.
Behavior: Respectful and cooperative behavior is expected at all times. Bullying, aggressive behavior, or non-compliance with camp rules can result in disciplinary actions or dismissal from camp.

Tips for First-Time Campers and Parents:

Preparation: Talk about what camp will be like focusing on the fun activities and new friends. Address any anxieties and reassure your child that it’s normal to feel a bit nervous.
Communication: Discuss how you’ll communicate during camp. Many camps offer letter writing or scheduled calls.
Practice Sleepovers: If possible, arrange a few sleepovers away from home to help your child get used to being away from home.
Label Everything: Make sure all items are labeled with your child’s name to avoid lost belongings.
Set Expectations: Explain the camp rules to your child, particularly about technology use and behavior, so they know what to expect and what is expected of them.

By following these guidelines and preparations, both campers and their parents can feel more comfortable and excited about the upcoming camp experience. Casowasco Camp looks forward to welcoming new and returning campers each season, ready to make new memories and friendships.

Casowasco Camp offers a unique blend of adventure, creativity, and camaraderie set against the picturesque backdrop of Owasco Lake in Moravia, New York. With a rich history of providing enriching camp experiences, Casowasco is dedicated to fostering an environment where every camper can thrive, explore, and grow. Whether it’s through engaging activities, comprehensive safety protocols, or the supportive camp community, their commitment to quality and care is evident in every aspect of their program.

Their diverse range of activities and programs ensures that there is something for everyone, from the eager first-timer to the seasoned camper. Each day at Casowasco is an opportunity to develop new skills, make lasting friendships, and create cherished memories. They take pride in their dedicated staff, robust safety measures, and the supportive, inclusive atmosphere that defines their camp.