Nestled in the picturesque setting of Lakewood, Pennsylvania, Camp Weequahic offers a charming retreat in the Pocono Mountains, a region renowned for its natural beauty and tranquil landscapes. Founded in 1953, their camp has a rich history of providing unforgettable summer experiences, guided by traditions that celebrate fun, friendship, and learning.

At Camp Weequahic, they are driven by a simple yet profound philosophy: to offer each camper a safe, fun, and enriching environment where they can discover and develop their talents, make new friends, and build character and values that last a lifetime. They aim to create a community where every child feels valued, understood, and included.

Weequahic is a camp that serves boys and girls aged 6 to 16. Whether it’s your child’s first summer away from home or they are a seasoned camper, Weequahic is designed to offer diverse programs that meet the needs of different age groups, ensuring a deeply personal and impactful camp experience for all.

Join us at Camp Weequahic, where adventures await, friendships flourish, and the joy of summer comes to life!

Programs Offered by Camp Weequahic

Camp Weequahic offers a wide variety of programs designed to cater to the interests and developmental stages of every camper. Their sessions vary in length, allowing families to choose from two-week, four-week, or full summer options, ensuring flexibility to fit different summer schedules.

Specialty Programs

At Camp Weequahic, they believe in the power of choice. Their campers can choose from three main specialty programs, each tailored to different interests:

Arts: For the creatively inclined, their arts program includes activities such as painting, sculpture, theater, and music. Campers can explore their creativity under the guidance of experienced instructors and even put on performances at the end of each session.
Sports: Athletes can engage in a variety of sports, including basketball, soccer, tennis, and swimming. Their program focuses not only on skill development but also on teamwork, sportsmanship, and healthy competition.
Science: Designed for the curious and inquisitive, their science program allows campers to engage in hands-on experiments and projects, ranging from robotics to environmental science, fostering a love for learning and discovery.

Typical Daily Schedule

A day at Camp Weequahic is carefully structured to provide a balanced mix of activities, rest, and free time, ensuring that every camper has a fulfilling and enjoyable experience:

7:30 AM: Wake Up
8:00 AM: Breakfast
9:00 AM: First Activity Period (Choice of specialty program)
10:30 AM: Second Activity Period (Choice of specialty or elective activity)
12:00 PM: Lunch
1:00 PM: Rest Hour
2:00 PM: Third Activity Period (Sports, arts, or science)
3:30 PM: Snack Break
4:00 PM: Fourth Activity Period (Free choice of any camp activity)
5:30 PM: Dinner
7:00 PM: Evening Program (Camp-wide games, guest speakers, or performances)
8:30 PM: Cabin Time (Time to relax and bond with cabin mates)
9:30 PM: Lights Out

This schedule is designed to keep campers engaged and active throughout the day while providing enough variety to meet the needs and interests of every child. At Camp Weequahic, each day is an adventure waiting to happen!

Accommodations in Camp Weequahic

Camp Weequahic is committed to providing comfortable and safe accommodations that enhance the camp experience and help foster a sense of community among campers.

Sleeping Arrangements

Campers at Weequahic stay in cozy, well-maintained cabins that are designed to accommodate between 8 to 12 campers each. These cabins are divided by age group and gender, ensuring that campers feel comfortable and secure in their living spaces. Each cabin is equipped with bunk beds, storage space for personal belongings, and electricity. The cabins are grouped in clusters with easy access to central bathroom and shower facilities, enhancing both safety and convenience.

Dining Options

Meals at Camp Weequahic are a communal and enjoyable experience, served three times a day in their spacious dining hall. Their kitchen staff prepares a variety of healthy and delicious meals to keep campers energized throughout the day. They offer a diverse menu that includes hot entrees, a salad bar, vegetarian options, and various side dishes.

They are committed to accommodating dietary needs including vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and any allergies. Parents are encouraged to discuss their child’s specific dietary requirements with us prior to the start of camp to ensure they can provide appropriate meals.

Bathroom and Shower Facilities

Bathroom and shower facilities at Camp Weequahic are centrally located within each cabin cluster. The facilities are modern and well-maintained, with separate areas for showers, toilets, and sinks. These facilities are cleaned multiple times a day by their maintenance staff to ensure they meet their high standards of cleanliness and hygiene.

Camp Weequahic’s accommodations are designed to ensure that all campers have a comfortable, safe, and enjoyable stay, allowing them to focus fully on their activities and the fun experiences that await them each day.

Activities in Camp Weequahic

Camp Weequahic offers an extensive array of activities designed to engage campers of all interests and skill levels. Their aim is to provide opportunities for fun, learning, and personal growth through a diverse and enriching camp experience.

List of Activities Offered

Here’s a snapshot of the variety of activities available at Camp Weequahic:

Outdoor Adventures: Summer camps, hiking, canoeing, archery, and horseback riding.
Water Sports: Features swimming, kayaking, sailing, and water skiing on their private lake.
Creative Arts: Offers crafts, ceramics, photography, and drama workshops.
Team Sports: Campers can participate in basketball, soccer, baseball, volleyball, and more.
Individual Sports: Options include tennis, golf, and gymnastics.
Fitness and Wellness: Yoga, dance, and fitness classes are available to promote healthy lifestyles.
Science and Technology: Robotics, coding, and science experiments engage curious minds.

Special Events or Traditions

Camp Weequahic is rich in traditions and hosts several special events that are highlights of the summer:

Opening and Closing Ceremonies: These are festive events that welcome campers and celebrate the end of the session.
Color Wars: A camp-wide competition that spans several days and includes a variety of physical, creative, and intellectual challenges.
Talent Shows: An opportunity for campers to showcase their skills and talents in a supportive environment.
Themed Dinners and Dances: These events allow campers to enjoy special meals and fun dances with friends.
Campfires: Regular campfire gatherings where stories are told, songs are sung, and marshmallows are roasted.

Skill Development Opportunities

At Camp Weequahic, they believe in the importance of developing skills and building confidence. Each activity is designed not only for enjoyment but also for skill acquisition and personal development. Campers are encouraged to set personal goals and are supported by trained staff who help them progress in their chosen activities. Whether a camper is looking to improve their swimming technique, master a new craft, or learn teamwork through sports, there are abundant opportunities for growth and achievement.

The dynamic environment at Camp Weequahic ensures that every camper can find something they love, make new friends, and leave with memories that last a lifetime.

The staff of Camp Weequahic

At Camp Weequahic, they understand that the quality of their staff is crucial to providing a safe, enriching, and fun summer experience for all campers. They take great care in selecting, training, and supporting their staff to ensure they are well-prepared to meet the diverse needs of their campers.

Staff-to-Camper Ratio

They maintain an excellent staff-to-camper ratio of 1:3, ensuring that every camper receives individual attention and care. This ratio helps their staff closely monitor the safety and well-being of campers, while also providing personalized instruction and support in all activities.

Hiring Process and Staff Qualifications

Their hiring process is rigorous and includes multiple steps to ensure that they recruit the best individuals for their team:

Application Review: Candidates must provide a detailed application, including their educational background, previous work experience, and references.
Interviews: Prospective staff undergo thorough interviews to assess their suitability for the role, their ability to work with children, and their commitment to their camp values.
Background Checks: They conduct extensive background checks, including criminal record checks, to ensure the safety and security of their campers.
Reference Checks: They contact former employers and other references to verify each candidate’s experience and qualifications.

Most of their staff members are college students or graduates, many of whom are pursuing careers in education, recreation, sports management, or child psychology. It is also common for their staff to return year after year, providing valuable continuity and experience to their camp operations.

Training and Certifications

All staff members at Camp Weequahic are required to participate in a comprehensive pre-camp training program that covers:

Safety Protocols: Including emergency procedures and safety guidelines specific to each activity offered at camp.
CPR and First Aid: All staff must be certified in CPR and First Aid. Additional training is provided for staff involved in specific activities such as swimming or wilderness outings.
Child Development: Understanding the developmental stages of children and adolescents to tailor interactions and activities appropriately.
Conflict Resolution: Techniques for managing and resolving conflicts among campers in a positive and effective manner.

This training ensures that all staff are well-prepared not only to lead activities safely but also to support the social and emotional well-being of their campers.

The commitment and professionalism of their staff are key components of the supportive, engaging, and safe environment that Camp Weequahic prides itself on. Their staff is dedicated to making each camper’s experience both enjoyable and transformative.

Safety and Health in Camp Weequahic

At Camp Weequahic, the safety and health of their campers and staff are their top priorities. They implement comprehensive safety protocols and maintain excellent on-site health facilities to ensure that all participants enjoy a secure and healthy camp environment.

Safety Protocols and Procedures

Camp Weequahic has established a range of safety protocols designed to prevent accidents and handle any that might occur:

Activity-Specific Training: All activity areas have specific safety protocols, and staff receive targeted training relevant to their assigned activities.
Regular Safety Drills: They conduct regular drills to prepare campers and staff for a variety of scenarios, including fire, severe weather, and other emergencies.
Supervision: Campers are supervised at all times by trained staff, ensuring constant oversight during activities, meals, and rest periods.
Equipment Maintenance: All equipment used for camp activities is regularly inspected and maintained to meet safety standards.

On-Site Health Facilities and Staff

To manage health-related needs effectively, Camp Weequahic is equipped with a well-staffed and fully stocked health center:

Medical Staff: Their health center is staffed by licensed professionals, typically including a registered nurse (RN) and additional medical staff, available 24/7.
Facilities: The health center is equipped to handle routine medical issues and is prepared for emergency situations. It includes examination rooms, areas for rest, and a stock of essential medications and first aid supplies.
Partnerships with Local Hospitals: For more serious medical issues, the camp maintains relationships with nearby hospitals and medical facilities to ensure quick and efficient transport and care.

Policies on Handling Emergencies

Camp Weequahic has a clear and practiced set of policies for handling emergencies that ensure rapid and coordinated responses:

Immediate Care: In case of an emergency, the first step is to provide immediate care by on-site health professionals.
Emergency Contact: Parents or guardians are contacted immediately in the event of a significant health issue or emergency involving their child.
Evacuation Plans: The camp has established evacuation routes and plans for quick and safe removal from campgrounds if necessary.
Continuous Training: Staff undergo continuous training to stay updated on the best practices for emergency preparedness and response.

Through these measures, Camp Weequahic ensures that the environment not only supports fun and learning but also maintains the highest standards of safety and health care.

Cost and Registration in Camp Weequahic

Camp Weequahic offers a comprehensive summer experience, and they strive to make the registration process as straightforward and transparent as possible. Here’s everything you need to know about the costs, registration, and financial options available.

Cost of Attendance

The cost of attending Camp Weequahic varies depending on the length of the session chosen:

Two-week session: Approximately $3,200
Four-week session: Approximately $6,000
Full summer (six weeks): Approximately $8,500

These fees include all accommodations, meals, activities, and any special events hosted at the camp. Additional costs may apply for optional extras such as special field trips or certain specialized activities.

Registration Process and Deadlines

To register for Camp Weequahic:

Visit their Website: All registration can be handled where you can access the registration portal.
Fill Out the Application: Complete the application form, providing all necessary camper information.
Submit a Deposit: A deposit is required to secure a spot at camp. The amount and due date will be specified during the registration process.
Complete Health Forms: Submit all required health forms by the specified deadline, usually a month before the camp session begins.

Registration typically opens in the fall for the following summer, and early registration is encouraged as spaces fill up quickly.

Payment Plans, Refunds, and Cancellation Policies

Payment Plans: Camp Weequahic offers payment plans to help spread the cost of camp over several months. These plans can be customized during the registration process.
Refunds: Full refunds, minus the deposit, are available until a month before the session begins. After this point, refunds may be prorated or unavailable, depending on the timing of the cancellation.
Cancellation Policy: If you need to cancel for any reason, notify the camp administration as soon as possible to discuss your options.

Scholarships and Financial Aid

Camp Weequahic believes every child should have the opportunity to enjoy camp. They offer a limited number of scholarships and financial aid packages each year based on financial need and availability. To apply for financial aid:

Check the Eligibility Requirements: Ensure your family meets the financial criteria outlined.
Complete the Financial Aid Application: Submit this application along with the required documentation.
Submit Before the Deadline: Financial aid applications are typically due by early spring.

Their goal is to make Camp Weequahic accessible to as many children as possible, and they strive to accommodate families’ financial situations through these options.

Parent and Camper Preparation in Camp Weequahic

Preparing for summer camp is an exciting time for both campers and their families. At Camp Weequahic, they aim to make this preparation process as smooth as possible with clear guidelines and helpful tips.

Packing List

To ensure campers have everything they need for a comfortable and enjoyable camp experience, they recommend packing the following items:

Clothing: Enough comfortable clothing for two weeks (laundry facilities are available for longer stays), including shorts, t-shirts, jeans, sweaters, and a waterproof jacket.
Footwear: Sneakers, sandals, and waterproof boots.
Bedding: Sleeping bag or sheets and blankets, pillow.
Toiletries: Toothbrush, toothpaste, shampoo, soap, sunscreen, and insect repellent.
Swimwear and Towels: At least two swimsuits and several towels.
Special Gear: Depending on the activities chosen, specific equipment may be needed (e.g., musical instruments, sports gear).
Label Everything: Make sure all items are clearly labeled with the camper’s name to avoid losses.

Rules and Policies

Technology Use: Camp Weequahic aims to provide a break from screen time. Therefore, cell phones, tablets, and other electronic devices are not allowed. Cameras, however, are welcome for capturing memories.
Visitation: Parents are encouraged to visit only on designated visiting days to help maintain the camp schedule and dynamics.
Behavioral Expectations: Respect for others, participation in scheduled activities, and adherence to camp safety rules are expected from all campers.

Tips for First-Time Campers and Parents

Familiarize with the Camp: Review the camp’s and materials together to learn about the daily schedule, activities, and the camp layout.
Discuss Expectations: Talk about what camp will be like focusing on the exciting opportunities and the learning experiences ahead.
Pack Together: Involve your child in the packing process to give them a sense of control and responsibility.
Stay Positive: Focus on the positive aspects, especially if your child feels nervous. Reassure them about the fun they’re going to have and the friends they’ll make.
Communication: Explain how you will communicate (e.g., letters, emails) to help manage any homesickness.

By following these guidelines and preparations, campers and parents can ensure a smooth transition to camp life, setting the stage for a memorable and enjoyable summer at Camp Weequahic.

At Camp Weequahic, they take pride in creating a nurturing and vibrant environment where children can grow, learn, and have fun. From the moment campers step onto their beautiful campus in the Pocono Mountains, they are embraced by a community that values friendship, adventure, and personal growth. With a rich array of activities, dedicated staff, and excellent facilities, Weequahic is more than just a summer camp—it’s a place where lifelong memories are made.

Their comprehensive programs, ranging from arts and sports to science and outdoor adventures, are designed to engage and challenge every camper, encouraging them to explore their interests and discover new passions. The safety and well-being of their campers are always at the forefront, ensuring that parents can trust their children are in good hands while they’re away from home.