Camp Saginaw, nestled in the picturesque landscapes of Oxford, Pennsylvania, is a premier summer camp with a rich tradition and a vibrant, welcoming community. Located in the heart of the Northeastern United States, this camp is easily accessible from major cities yet secluded enough to provide a true escape into nature. Notable landmarks near Camp Saginaw include the serene Chesapeake Bay watershed, which adds to the scenic beauty of the area.

Founded with a deep commitment to fostering personal growth and friendship, Camp Saginaw has been a home away from home for countless children since its establishment. It continues to uphold its founding philosophy: to provide a safe, inclusive, and fun environment where campers can explore new activities, build lifelong friendships, and develop their sense of independence.

Camp Saginaw operates as a facility catering to boys and girls aged 6 to 16. The camp offers a wide range of activities designed to meet the interests of every child, ensuring that each camper’s summer experience is both enriching and unforgettable. Whether through sports, arts, or outdoor adventures, Saginaw’s diverse program encourages campers to challenge themselves, discover new passions, and grow in confidence and character under the guidance of dedicated staff.

Programs Offered by Camp Saginaw

Camp Saginaw offers a variety of programs designed to engage campers of all interests and ages, ensuring a well-rounded summer experience. The programs are crafted to balance structure and choice, allowing campers to explore their interests while providing them with new opportunities for growth and learning.

Description of Programs

Camp Saginaw’s programs cover a broad spectrum of activities, ranging from traditional camp experiences to specialized focus areas:

Traditional Camp Activities: These include swimming, canoeing, archery, and campfires, which help build basic skills and foster a love for outdoor adventure.
Sports: The camp provides intensive coaching in sports such as soccer, basketball, baseball, and tennis, catering to all skill levels.
Arts: For creatively inclined campers, there are programs in drama, dance, music, and various forms of visual arts.
Adventure and Exploration: These programs might include hiking, ropes courses, and survival skills training, perfect for the adventurous spirit.
Science and Technology: For campers interested in STEM, Saginaw offers robotics, coding, and science experiments that are both fun and educational.

Length of Sessions

Camp Saginaw is flexible with the duration of its programs to accommodate the needs and schedules of different families:

One-Week Sessions: Designed for younger campers or first-timers who are getting used to the camp experience.
Two-Week Sessions: These sessions allow for deeper exploration of camp activities and more opportunities for personal growth.
Full Summer: The most immersive option, lasting several weeks and providing a comprehensive experience that allows for full participation in the breadth of Saginaw’s offerings.

Specialty Programs

In addition to the general camp activities, Camp Saginaw also offers specialty programs that focus on particular interests:

Arts Program: This could include intensive workshops in theater production, fine arts, and instrumental music.
Sports Clinics: Special sessions focusing on advanced skills in specific sports, often led by expert coaches or guest athletes.
Science Camp: A program dedicated to hands-on science learning, from ecology studies to physics experiments.

Typical Daily Schedule

A day at Camp Saginaw is carefully structured to provide a mix of activities, rest, and free time, ensuring that campers remain engaged and energized throughout their stay:

Morning: After breakfast, campers typically engage in a major activity session related to their chosen program.
Midday: Lunch followed by a rest period, giving campers time to relax and recharge.
Afternoon: Campers participate in elective activities, which they can choose based on their interests, followed by free time to socialize or participate in informal games.
Evening: Dinner and evening activities, which often include camp-wide games, talent shows, or themed nights.
Night: Campers wind down with a quieter evening activity before lights out.

This structured yet flexible schedule allows each camper to have a personalized experience tailored to their interests and developmental needs, all within the supportive and communal environment of Camp Saginaw.

Accommodations in Camp Saginaw

Camp Saginaw provides comfortable and safe accommodations designed to foster a sense of community and well-being among campers. The facilities are well-maintained, offering a rustic yet modern camping experience that prioritizes the comfort and security of all participants.

Sleeping Arrangements

Campers at Camp Saginaw stay in cabins that are designed to be both cozy and functional:

Cabins: Each cabin houses a specific number of campers, typically ranging from 8 to 12, based on age and group. They are constructed with weather considerations in mind, ensuring a comfortable living environment regardless of external conditions. Cabins are equipped with bunk beds, storage space for personal items, and electricity.
Counselors: Experienced counselors stay in the cabins with the campers, providing supervision and creating a family-like atmosphere. This arrangement ensures that guidance and support are always available, fostering a safe and inclusive environment.

Dining Options

Camp Saginaw offers a comprehensive meal plan that caters to the nutritional needs and preferences of all campers:

Meal Plans: The camp provides three well-balanced meals per day, served in a communal dining hall that encourages social interaction and community building. Meals are varied to ensure that campers enjoy a range of healthy and appealing options.
Dietary Accommodations: Understanding the importance of catering to diverse dietary needs, Camp Saginaw offers options for vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and other specific dietary requirements. The kitchen staff is trained to handle allergies and special diets with the utmost care and attention to detail.

Bathroom and Shower Facilities

The bathroom and shower facilities at Camp Saginaw are conveniently located near the cabins and are designed to maintain hygiene and privacy:

Facilities: Separate bathroom and shower facilities for boys and girls are strategically placed throughout the camp. These facilities are modern and kept clean and sanitary by the camp’s dedicated maintenance staff.
Privacy and Accessibility: Individual stalls and showers ensure privacy for all campers. The facilities are also equipped to accommodate campers with disabilities, ensuring easy accessibility.

Camp Saginaw’s accommodations are crafted to provide a comfortable, safe, and enjoyable environment that complements the camp’s wide array of programs and activities, making every camper’s stay a memorable one.

Activities in Camp Saginaw

Camp Saginaw offers a dynamic and diverse range of activities that cater to various interests and skill levels, ensuring every camper has the opportunity to try something new, improve existing skills, and most importantly, have fun. Alongside these activities, the camp is proud of its special events and traditions that enrich the camp experience.

List of Activities Offered

Camp Saginaw’s activities are designed to engage campers in physical, creative, and intellectual pursuits:

Water Sports: Summer camps, swimming, canoeing, kayaking, and fishing are popular choices, with safety always a priority.
Land Sports: Campers can participate in soccer, basketball, baseball, tennis, and golf, among other sports.
Outdoor Adventure: Activities such as hiking, mountain biking, and orienteering teach survival skills and environmental stewardship.
Arts and Crafts: These include pottery, painting, jewelry making, and woodworking, allowing campers to express their creativity.
Performing Arts: Drama, dance, and music sessions are available for campers interested in the performing arts.
Science and Nature Programs: These programs encourage curiosity and learning about the natural world through experiments and explorations.

Special Events or Traditions

Camp Saginaw is rich in traditions and special events that build community spirit and create lasting memories:

Color War: A camp-wide competition that splits campers into teams for various sports and creative challenges.
Talent Shows: An opportunity for campers to showcase their skills and talents in front of the entire camp.
Theme Nights: These might include costume parties, dances, or cultural celebrations, adding a fun and festive element to the camp experience.
Campfires: Regular campfires provide a time for stories, songs, and marshmallow roasting, fostering a sense of camaraderie and belonging.

Skill Development Opportunities

The activities at Camp Saginaw are structured not only for enjoyment but also for personal growth and skill development:

Leadership Training: Older campers can participate in leadership programs that prepare them for roles as counselors and mentors.
Specialty Clinics: For sports, arts, and sciences, offering advanced instruction and focused skill development.
Environmental Education: Programs that teach sustainable practices and respect for nature, emphasizing hands-on learning.

Camp Saginaw’s broad range of activities, coupled with its commitment to tradition and skill development, ensures a balanced and enriching summer experience for all campers, helping them to grow not only in abilities but also in character.

The staff of Camp Saginaw

Camp Saginaw prides itself on maintaining a highly qualified and dedicated staff to ensure a safe, educational, and enjoyable experience for every camper. The camp’s commitment to excellence is reflected in its staff-to-camper ratio, rigorous hiring process, and the comprehensive training each staff member undergoes.

Staff-to-Camper Ratio

Camp Saginaw maintains a low staff-to-camper ratio to ensure personalized attention and care:

General Staffing: Typically, the camp adheres to a ratio of one staff member for every four to six campers, which allows for close supervision and provides ample support for all activities and needs.
Specialized Activities: For more skill-intensive or higher-risk activities like swimming or ropes courses, the ratio is even lower to enhance safety and provide focused guidance.

Hiring Process and Staff Qualifications

The process for hiring staff at Camp Saginaw is thorough, with multiple steps designed to select the best candidates:

Background Checks: All potential staff members undergo extensive background checks, including criminal records and previous employment verification.
Education and Experience: Candidates are typically required to have relevant educational backgrounds or sufficient experience in childcare, education, or specific activity areas they will be supervising.
Interviews: Prospective staff participate in in-depth interviews to assess their skills, experience, and, importantly, their passion for working with children and their ability to handle the responsibilities involved.

Training and Certifications

Camp Saginaw ensures that all staff members are well-prepared and certified to handle both everyday and emergency situations:

Mandatory Certifications: All staff must have current certifications in CPR and First Aid. Additional certifications (such as lifeguarding or specific sports coaching certifications) are required for staff overseeing certain activities.
Pre-Camp Training: Before the camp season starts, all staff undergo comprehensive training that covers camp policies, child behavior management, safety protocols, emergency response procedures, and specific training relevant to their assigned roles.
Ongoing Training: Throughout the camp season, staff receive ongoing training and support to refine their skills and adapt to any emerging needs or challenges.

Camp Saginaw’s dedication to maintaining a skilled and well-trained staff ensures that campers not only have fun and learn in a secure environment but also benefit from meaningful interactions and mentorship from positive role models. This high standard of care and professionalism sets Camp Saginaw apart as a leader in the summer camp community.

Safety and Health in Camp Saginaw

Camp Saginaw places the highest priority on the safety and health of its campers and staff, implementing stringent protocols and maintaining comprehensive facilities to ensure a secure and healthy camp environment.

Safety Protocols and Procedures

Camp Saginaw has developed a robust set of safety protocols to prevent accidents and respond effectively should they occur:

Regular Drills: The camp conducts regular safety drills, including fire, weather, and lockdown drills, to ensure that both campers and staff are familiar with emergency procedures.
Activity-Specific Safety Rules: Each activity offered at the camp has its own set of safety rules, which are rigorously taught to and enforced among all participants. Equipment is regularly inspected to meet safety standards.
Supervision: Constant, vigilant supervision is provided in all areas of the camp, particularly in places like the swimming pool, and sports fields, and during outdoor adventures.
Nighttime Security: Measures are taken to secure the camp during nighttime hours, including patrols and a check-in/check-out system for anyone entering or leaving the campgrounds.

On-site Health Facilities and Staff

The health of campers is supported by well-equipped on-site facilities and professional medical staff:

Health Center: Camp Saginaw operates a full-service health center staffed by licensed medical professionals, including nurses and, at times, a consulting physician. The center is equipped to handle routine health issues and minor injuries.
Medication Management: The health center staff manages and administers all camper medications according to physician directions and parental consent.
Isolation Areas: For communicable illnesses, there are designated isolation areas to prevent the spread of sickness among campers and staff.

Policies on Handling Emergencies

Camp Saginaw has comprehensive emergency response policies to handle various potential crises:

Immediate Response: The camp staff includes individuals trained in advanced first aid and emergency response who are prepared to act immediately in the event of an injury or health issue.
Communication Protocol: In the event of an emergency, there is a clear communication protocol to notify all necessary internal staff and, if required, external emergency services. Parents are informed as quickly as possible according to the nature of the emergency.
Collaboration with Local Authorities: Camp Saginaw maintains strong relationships with local emergency services (fire, police, medical) to ensure a rapid response when additional support is needed.
Review and Adaptation: Following any incident, procedures are reviewed and, if necessary, adapted to improve future responses and outcomes.

Through these meticulous safety and health protocols, Camp Saginaw ensures that the well-being of every camper and staff member is actively protected, allowing parents to rest assured that their children are in a safe, caring, and professional environment.

Cost and Registration in Camp Saginaw

Camp Saginaw offers a comprehensive summer experience, and understanding the cost, registration, and financial options available is crucial for families planning their camp participation.

Cost of Attendance

The cost of attending Camp Saginaw varies depending on the session length and specific programs chosen, but it generally covers:

Accommodations and Meals: All lodging and three nutritious meals per day, along with snacks.
Activities: Full access to all camp activities, including specialized programs and equipment use.
Health Care: On-site medical care from qualified health professionals.
Additional Costs: Some specialized activities or excursions may require additional fees, which are usually specified during the registration process.

Registration Process and Deadlines

To secure a spot at Camp Saginaw, families should follow these steps:

Early Registration: Families are encouraged to register early as spaces fill up quickly. Early registration often opens in the fall for the following summer.
Online Registration: Camp Saginaw typically offers an online registration platform where families can fill out necessary forms, choose sessions, and select activities.
Deadlines: Specific deadlines for registration are usually well-publicized on the camp’s and through its communication channels. Deadlines are crucial for planning purposes, both for families and the camp administration.

Payment Plans, Refunds, and Cancellation Policies

Understanding the financial commitments is important:

Payment Plans: Camp Saginaw offers payment plans to help spread the cost of camp over several months, making it more manageable for families.
Deposits: A non-refundable deposit is typically required at registration to secure a place at the camp.
Refunds and Cancellation: The camp has a cancellation policy that details the conditions under which refunds (full or partial) can be issued. This usually includes provisions for cancellations due to medical reasons or unforeseen circumstances.
Late Payments: Policies regarding late payments and potential consequences, such as losing a spot at camp, are also clearly defined.

Scholarships and Financial Aid

Camp Saginaw is committed to making camp accessible to as many children as possible:

Scholarships: Need-based scholarships are often available to help families afford the cost of camp. These scholarships require separate applications and documentation of financial need.
Financial Aid: Some forms of financial aid may be available through community organizations or through partnerships Camp Saginaw has with local businesses and nonprofits.
Discounts: Discounts might be available for early registration, multiple siblings attending camp, or for referring other families.

Camp Saginaw aims to provide clear information and support to help families navigate the cost and registration processes, ensuring that the camp is accessible and enjoyable for every child.

Camp Saginaw in Oxford, PA offers a traditional day camp program. Here’s how their fees are structured:

Per-Week Fee: The base price is charged per week your child attends camp. It starts at $630 for the first week and goes down slightly for longer enrollments, reaching $545 per week for the entire 7-week program

Parent and Camper Preparation in Camp Saginaw

Preparing for a summer at Camp Saginaw involves several steps for both parents and campers to ensure that everyone is ready for a positive and enriching camp experience. Below are detailed guidelines on packing, understanding camp rules, and helpful tips for first-time campers and their parents.

Packing List

Camp Saginaw recommends packing items that are practical, comfortable, and suitable for a variety of activities and weather conditions:

Clothing: Include t-shirts, shorts, jeans, sweatshirts, a raincoat, and a swimsuit. Bring enough for about a week to 10 days of wear.
Footwear: Sturdy sneakers, sandals, and water shoes.
Bedding: Sleeping bag or sheets and blankets, pillow.
Toiletries: Toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, shampoo, sunscreen, insect repellent, and a small first aid kit.
Miscellaneous: Flashlight, batteries, water bottle, hats, and sunglasses.
Optional Items: Books, writing materials, and a camera (non-smartphone).

Rules and Policies

Camp Saginaw has established rules and policies to ensure a safe and enjoyable environment for all campers:

Technology Use: To encourage interaction and engagement, Camp Saginaw often limits the use of personal electronic devices such as smartphones, tablets, and laptops. These items may be collected or restricted to certain times.
Visitation: Parents are usually welcome to visit on designated days, which are communicated ahead of time. It’s important to follow the camp’s schedule and procedures to minimize disruptions.
Behavioral Expectations: Respect for fellow campers, staff, and camp property is a cornerstone of the community at Camp Saginaw. Policies regarding behavior, including bullying and respect for privacy, are strictly enforced.

Tips for First-Time Campers and Parents

For those new to the camp experience, preparation can help alleviate any anxiety and ensure a smooth transition:

Pre-Camp Orientation: Many camps offer pre-camp meetings or materials that provide an overview of what to expect. Participating in these can be very helpful.
Communication: Understand the camp’s communication policy, including how often and through what means you can expect updates about your child.
Homesickness: Prepare your child for potential homesickness by discussing what camp will be like and how they can handle feelings of missing home. Sending pre-addressed, stamped envelopes and paper can encourage writing letters.
Empowerment: Involve your child in the packing process, and discuss the activities they might participate in, which can help them feel more prepared and excited about the upcoming experience.

By following these guidelines and preparing accordingly, parents and campers can look forward to a successful and memorable summer at Camp Saginaw.

Camp Saginaw offers a rich and diverse summer experience that combines fun, learning, and personal growth in a safe and supportive environment. With a wide range of activities, highly qualified staff, and excellent facilities, Camp Saginaw is dedicated to providing campers with unforgettable memories and valuable skills. Whether it’s through sports, arts, adventure, or academic enrichment, each camper is encouraged to explore their interests, challenge themselves, and develop lasting friendships.

The camp’s well-thought-out policies and preparation guides also ensure that both parents and campers are well-informed and ready for the summer adventure. At Camp Saginaw, the ultimate goal is to foster a nurturing community where every child can thrive and return home with enhanced self-confidence, enriched by a truly transformative camp experience.