Nestled in the picturesque landscape of Jermyn, Pennsylvania, Camp Comanche offers a unique blend of adventure, camaraderie, and personal growth. Located in the northeastern region of the state, near the serene Lackawanna State Park, their camp provides an idyllic setting surrounded by natural beauty where campers can thrive.

Established with a rich tradition of fostering independence and skills development, Camp Comanche has been a home away from home for young adventurers for decades. Their mission is to empower young individuals through outdoor experiences that build character, promote teamwork, and develop leadership skills.

Camp Comanche is a specialty camp designed specifically for boys aged 7 to 16. Each session is carefully crafted to meet the developmental needs and interests of different age groups, ensuring that every camper has an engaging, enjoyable, and enriching experience.

Join us at Camp Comanche, where adventures await and lifelong friendships are made in the great outdoors of Pennsylvania.

Programs Offered by Camp Comanche

At Camp Comanche, they offer a variety of programs designed to engage and challenge their campers while fostering personal growth and a love for the outdoors. Their programs are structured to accommodate various interests and age groups, ensuring a memorable summer for every camper. Here’s a closer look at the programs they offer:

General Camp Programs

Session Lengths: They offer flexible session lengths to fit every family’s needs, including one-week, two-week, and full summer options.
Activities: These sessions include a mix of traditional camp activities such as hiking, swimming, canoeing, and campfires. Campers will also participate in team sports and individual challenges, fostering a sense of community and personal achievement.

Specialty Programs

Arts: For the creatively inclined, their arts program includes workshops in painting, sculpture, and performance arts. These sessions are designed to spark creativity and allow campers to express themselves in various artistic mediums.
Sports: Focused on physical fitness and teamwork, their sports programs cover a wide range of activities from soccer and basketball to more specialized sports like archery and rock climbing.
Science and Nature: Campers curious about the world around them can dive into their science and nature program. This includes hands-on activities related to environmental science, wildlife studies, and even basic astronomy.

Typical Daily Schedule

Morning: After breakfast, campers start their day with a morning assembly, followed by their first activity session. This could be a team sport, a nature hike, or a creative arts workshop, depending on the program.
Midday: Lunch is followed by a rest period, giving campers a chance to recharge. Afterward, they engage in a second activity session, which often focuses on skill-building and personal development.
Afternoon: The late afternoon includes free time where campers can choose from a variety of available activities, followed by dinner.
Evening: Evenings at Camp Comanche are a time for community gatherings such as campfires, group games, storytelling, or talent shows. Each night ends with a calming reflection period before bedtime.

Each day at Camp Comanche is carefully planned to balance structured activities with ample free time, allowing campers to explore their interests, develop new skills, and make lifelong friends.

Accommodations in Camp Comanche

At Camp Comanche, they ensure that every aspect of their campers’ stay is comfortable, safe, and conducive to a great summer experience. From where they sleep to what they eat, they’ve carefully crafted their accommodations to meet the needs of all campers.

Sleeping Arrangements

Cabins: Campers are housed in well-constructed, rustic cabins that blend into the scenic surroundings. Each cabin is equipped with bunk beds and comfortably sleeps 8-12 campers, grouped by age and gender to create a supportive peer environment. Cabins are supervised by trained counselors who stay in adjoining quarters to ensure safety and provide guidance.

Dining Options

Meal Plans: Their dining hall serves three well-balanced meals each day, prepared by experienced culinary staff. They focus on nutritious, kid-friendly options that provide the energy campers need for active days. Meals are served family-style to promote camaraderie and conversation.
Dietary Accommodations: Understanding that some campers have specific dietary needs, they offer vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and allergy-sensitive alternatives. Their kitchen staff is trained to handle special dietary requirements with the utmost care to ensure every camper enjoys safe and delicious meals.

Bathroom and Shower Facilities

Facilities: Separate bathroom and shower facilities are centrally located near the cabins. These facilities are divided by gender and are designed to ensure privacy and convenience for all campers. Each bathroom is equipped with multiple stalls and sinks, and the shower area includes individual shower cubicles with changing areas.
Cleanliness and Safety: Maintaining a clean and hygienic environment is a top priority at Camp Comanche. Bathrooms and showers are cleaned and sanitized multiple times a day, and they teach all campers the importance of personal hygiene to promote a healthy camp environment.

Their accommodations at Camp Comanche are designed to make every camper feel comfortable and secure, allowing them to focus on the fun and learning that await them each day at camp.

Activities in Camp Comanche

Camp Comanche is dedicated to providing a diverse array of activities that cater to the interests and developmental needs of all their campers. From outdoor adventures to creative arts, their programs are designed to engage, challenge, and inspire. Here’s a detailed overview of the activities and special events that define the Camp Comanche experience.

List of Activities Offered

Outdoor Adventures: Summer camps, swimming, hiking, canoeing, and fishing are staples of their program, allowing campers to explore the natural beauty of their campgrounds.
Team Sports: Soccer, basketball, volleyball, and baseball help build teamwork and sportsmanship among campers.
Individual Sports: Activities like archery, rock climbing, and mountain biking challenge campers to develop new skills and build confidence.
Creative Arts: They offer a variety of arts and crafts sessions, including painting, pottery, and woodworking. These activities encourage creativity and provide a relaxing outlet for campers.
Performing Arts: Drama and dance workshops culminate in performances where campers can showcase their talents.
Environmental Education: Through guided nature walks and wildlife observation, campers learn about local ecosystems and the importance of conservation.

Special Events or Traditions

Opening and Closing Ceremonies: These bookend each session, fostering a sense of community and achievement.
Campfire Nights: Regular campfire gatherings feature storytelling, songs, and s’mores, creating lasting memories and a sense of camaraderie.
Color Wars: This camp-wide competition splits campers into teams for a series of fun and spirited challenges.
Talent Shows: An opportunity for campers to display their unique talents, whether it be in music, comedy, magic, or dance.

Skill Development Opportunities

Leadership Training: Older campers can participate in leadership programs that prepare them for roles as counselors or leaders in their communities.
Skill Workshops: Specialized sessions in areas like survival skills, first aid, and orienteering offer practical knowledge and life skills.
Personal Growth: Through structured reflection times and mentorship from counselors, campers are encouraged to set personal goals and work towards them during their stay.

At Camp Comanche, they believe in the power of play and learning combined. Each activity and event is carefully planned to ensure that campers not only have fun but also grow personally and socially in a supportive environment.

The staff of Camp Comanche

At Camp Comanche, their staff are the backbone of their camp experience, dedicated to providing a safe, educational, and fun environment for all campers. They pride themselves on a selective hiring process, rigorous training, and maintaining an optimal staff-to-camper ratio to ensure that each camper receives individual attention and care.

Staff-to-Camper Ratio

General Ratio: They maintain a general staff-to-camper ratio of 1:5, allowing their staff to closely monitor and engage with each camper, ensuring a personalized and responsive experience.
Specific Activities: For specialized activities such as swimming and rock climbing, they adhere to stricter ratios (e.g., 1:3) to ensure higher levels of safety and supervision.

Hiring Process and Staff Qualifications

Selection Process: Their hiring process begins with a detailed application, followed by multiple interviews and thorough background checks. This ensures that they only select candidates who are not only skilled but also passionate about youth development and outdoor education.
Qualifications: They seek staff members who have experience in child care, education, or specific activity areas. Many of their staff are pursuing or have completed degrees in education, psychology, or related fields, and have previous experience working in camp settings or with children.

Training and Certifications

Mandatory Certifications: All staff members are required to be certified in CPR and First Aid before the camp season begins. Additional training in lifeguarding, wilderness first aid, and other relevant areas is provided based on the roles they will be undertaking.
Pre-Camp Training: Prior to the arrival of campers, all staff undergo an intensive training program that covers their camp philosophy, safety protocols, emergency procedures, and child psychology. This also includes team-building exercises to foster a strong sense of unity and cooperation among staff members.
Ongoing Training: Throughout the camp season, they conduct regular review sessions and provide opportunities for staff to gain further certifications or attend workshops that enhance their skills and knowledge.

The commitment to excellence from their staff at Camp Comanche ensures that every camper enjoys a supportive, enriching, and safe environment. Their staff are not just supervisors or teachers; they are role models who inspire and help each camper to grow in confidence, skills, and character.

Safety and Health in Camp Comanche

Ensuring the safety and well-being of their campers is their top priority at Camp Comanche. They have established comprehensive safety protocols and health measures to manage any situation that may arise, from minor injuries to emergency situations.

Safety Protocols and Procedures

Routine Safety Drills: Campers and staff participate in regular safety drills, including fire drills, water safety practices, and emergency evacuation procedures, to ensure everyone knows how to act in case of an emergency.
Activity-Specific Protocols: Each activity is governed by strict safety rules, which are always explained and enforced by the staff. Equipment is regularly inspected, and safety gear must be worn for activities like rock climbing and archery.
Supervision: Constant, vigilant supervision is provided by their staff, who are trained to anticipate and mitigate risks. Campers are never left unattended.

On-Site Health Facilities and Staff

Health Center: Their on-site health center is staffed with a licensed nurse available 24/7 during camp sessions. The center is equipped to handle minor injuries and illnesses and is prepared to stabilize conditions in case of more serious issues before transportation to a hospital.
Medical Staff Qualifications: Their health center staff typically includes registered nurses and/or a part-time visiting doctor. All are experienced in pediatric and emergency care, particularly in a camp setting.
Health Screening: Upon arrival, each camper undergoes a health check to identify any existing conditions or allergies. This helps their medical staff provide personalized care and take preventive measures.

Policies on Handling Emergencies

Emergency Response Plan: They have a detailed emergency response plan that includes protocols for handling natural disasters, health crises, and other urgent situations. This plan is reviewed and updated annually in consultation with safety experts.
Communication with Parents: In the event of an emergency, their policy is to immediately notify parents or guardians while ensuring the safety and emotional well-being of all campers.
Local Hospital Collaboration: They maintain a relationship with the nearest hospital to ensure a swift medical response if off-site care is needed. Transport to the hospital is facilitated quickly and efficiently, with staff trained to provide ongoing support during the transfer.

The comprehensive safety and health policies at Camp Comanche ensure that all campers enjoy their time in a secure and caring environment, allowing parents to feel confident in the care their children receive while at camp.

Cost and Registration in Camp Comanche

At Camp Comanche, they strive to make their enriching camp experience accessible and affordable. They offer transparent pricing, a straightforward registration process, and options for financial assistance to ensure every child has the opportunity to join us for an unforgettable summer.

Cost of Attendance

Cost Details: The cost of attending Camp Comanche varies depending on the length of the session and the specific program chosen. Fees typically cover all aspects of the camp experience including lodging, meals, activities, equipment, and 24/7 supervision by their qualified staff.
What’s Included: The registration fee includes full participation in all scheduled activities, meals and snacks, accommodation, camp T-shirts, and any transportation for off-site excursions. There are no hidden costs; however, personal spending money for the camp store and optional extras (like specialty trips) are not included.

Prices typically range from $500 for a ten-day overnight camp session.

Registration Process and Deadlines

How to Register: Registration can be completed online. Prospective campers will need to fill out an application form and provide medical information and any necessary consent forms.
Deadlines: They encourage early registration as spaces are limited and tend to fill up quickly.

Payment Plans, Refunds, and Cancellation Policies

Payment Plans: Recognizing the financial planning required for summer camps, they offer flexible payment plans that allow families to pay in installments leading up to the camp start date.
Refunds and Cancellations: Full refunds are available up to a certain date, which is typically one month before the session start date. After this, partial refunds may be offered depending on the circumstances of the cancellation. In the event of cancellation due to unforeseen circumstances such as illness, they strive to be as accommodating as possible.
Insurance: They recommend considering camp insurance to cover any unforeseen cancellations.

Scholarships and Financial Aid

Scholarships: Camp Comanche offers a limited number of scholarships each year to families who demonstrate financial need. These scholarships can cover a significant portion of the camp fees.
Financial Aid: They also provide customized financial aid packages based on the family’s unique circumstances. Applications for financial aid are confidential and need to be submitted along with the camper’s registration.

Their goal at Camp Comanche is to ensure that no child misses out on a camp experience due to financial constraints. They encourage families to reach out to their registration office for more information on scholarships, financial aid, or any aspect of the registration process.

Parent and Camper Preparation in Camp Comanche

To ensure that both campers and their parents are fully prepared for the upcoming camp experience, Camp Comanche provides detailed guidance on what to bring, camp rules, and tips for making the most of the camp experience. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you get ready for an unforgettable summer.

Packing List

A well-prepared camper is a happy camper. Here’s what they recommend packing:

Clothing: Pack enough comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing for the session, including layers for cooler evenings. Include swimwear, a rain jacket, and sturdy footwear for hiking and sports.
Bedding: Bring a sleeping bag or sheets and a blanket, plus a pillow, for use in the cabins.
Toiletries: Include all necessary personal items like toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, shampoo, and sunscreen.
Miscellaneous Gear: Don’t forget a flashlight, insect repellent, water bottle, and any needed medications (with clear instructions).
Optional Items: Books, writing materials, and disposable cameras are welcome, but please avoid expensive items that could be lost or damaged.

Rules and Policies

Technology Use: To maximize engagement and interaction, Camp Comanche has a no-electronics policy. This means no smartphones, tablets, or similar devices. Cameras for photography are allowed.
Visitation: Parents are welcome to visit on designated days, which are communicated at the start of the camp season. These visitation days allow parents to participate in activities and see what camp life is like.
General Conduct: Respect, teamwork, and safety are their core values. They expect all campers to adhere to these principles in their interactions with peers and staff.

Tips for First-Time Campers and Parents

For Campers: Engage fully, try new activities, and be open to making new friends. It’s normal to feel a bit homesick, but staying active and involved helps you make the most of your time at camp.
For Parents: Prepare your camper by discussing what camp will be like focusing on the fun and growth opportunities. If worried about homesickness, send your child with a personal item from home, like a favorite stuffed animal or a family photo.
Communication: Explain how letters can be sent and received, and reassure your camper that you’ll keep in touch through the camp’s communication channels.

By following these guidelines and preparations, campers and parents can feel confident and excited about the upcoming adventure at Camp Comanche, knowing they are well-prepared for a summer filled with fun, learning, and new experiences.

As the gateway to unforgettable summer experiences, Camp Comanche stands out as more than just a camp—it’s a community where young boys find adventure, friendship, and a chance to grow. With their diverse range of activities, committed staff, and a focus on safety and personal development, they ensure that every camper has the opportunity to explore their interests, challenge themselves, and create memories that last a lifetime.

At Camp Comanche, they are dedicated to fostering an environment where campers can thrive both socially and personally. Whether it’s through scaling the heights of a rock climbing session, mastering a new art technique, or sitting around a campfire under the stars, their campers leave with newfound confidence and skills.