Nestled in the picturesque Pocono Mountains of Pennsylvania, Chestnut Lake Camp is a vibrant summer retreat where young campers forge lifelong friendships and explore a plethora of outdoor and creative activities. Located in Beach Lake, PA, this camp is surrounded by natural beauty, including serene forests and a sparkling lake that serves as the heart of the camp’s activities.

Founded with the vision of creating an unforgettable summer experience, Chestnut Lake Camp has a rich history of fostering a supportive community where children can grow both personally and socially. The camp’s philosophy centers on the power of choice, giving campers the freedom to select activities that spark their interest, which encourages independence and self-discovery.

Chestnut Lake Camp is a camp that welcomes boys and girls aged 6 to 16. It provides a safe, exciting, and nurturing environment where campers from diverse backgrounds can learn new skills, take on challenges, and build confidence. With its mission to enrich young lives through adventure, friendship, and fun, Chestnut Lake Camp remains a beloved summer destination, promising new adventures and lasting memories for all who visit.

Programs Offered by Chestnut Lake Camp

Chestnut Lake Camp offers a wide array of programs designed to cater to the diverse interests and passions of its campers. These programs are thoughtfully structured to ensure every camper enjoys a balanced and enriching summer experience.

Description of Programs

Campers at Chestnut Lake Camp have the opportunity to engage in various activities ranging from water sports and adventure sports to creative arts and performance. The camp prides itself on providing high-quality facilities and equipment, allowing campers to try new activities under the guidance of experienced instructors.

Length of Sessions

The camp offers flexible session lengths to accommodate the needs of different families and schedules. Options typically include:

One-week sessions for younger or first-time campers who are getting acquainted with the camp experience.
Two-week sessions provide a more immersive experience, allowing for deeper involvement in activities and stronger bonds among campers.
Full summer sessions for the ultimate Chestnut Lake experience, where campers can fully engage in the camp community and personal development.

Specialty Programs

Chestnut Lake Camp features several specialty programs that cater to specific interests:

Arts: This includes visual arts, theater, music, and dance, with opportunities for campers to showcase their talents in camp-wide performances and exhibitions.
Sports: A comprehensive sports program is available, including soccer, basketball, tennis, and more, focusing on skill development, teamwork, and healthy competition.
Science and Nature: Campers can explore the natural world through environmental science programs, including nature walks, astronomy, and hands-on ecological projects.

Typical Daily Schedule

A day at Chestnut Lake Camp is structured to provide a mix of activities, rest, and free time, ensuring that all campers have a fulfilling and enjoyable day. Here’s a glimpse into a typical day:

7:30 AM: Wake-up and cabin clean-up
8:00 AM: Breakfast
9:00 AM: Morning activities (campers participate in their chosen specialty areas)
12:00 PM: Lunch
1:00 PM: Rest hour (time for relaxation and letter writing)
2:00 PM: Afternoon activities (session-based activities or free choice)
5:00 PM: Free time (campers can choose among various informal activities)
6:00 PM: Dinner
7:00 PM: Evening activities (camp-wide games, special events)
9:00 PM: Cabin time (reflection and bonding with cabin mates)
10:00 PM: Lights out

Through its comprehensive program offerings, Chestnut Lake Camp ensures that each camper’s summer is filled with growth, fun, and adventure in a supportive community setting.

Accommodations in Chestnut Lake Camp

At Chestnut Lake Camp, the accommodations are thoughtfully designed to enhance the camping experience, providing comfort while maintaining the rustic charm of a traditional summer camp setting.

Sleeping Arrangements

Campers at Chestnut Lake Camp are housed in cabins that are both cozy and spacious enough to promote a sense of camaraderie and community among campers. Each cabin houses a specific age group, allowing campers to bond with peers of similar ages. The cabins are equipped with bunk beds, and each camper has a designated space for personal belongings. The cabins are nestled in scenic locations around the camp, providing beautiful views and a sense of being close to nature.

Dining Options

Chestnut Lake Camp provides a comprehensive meal plan that includes three well-balanced meals per day, served in a communal dining hall where campers gather to eat and socialize. The dining hall is a central hub of camp life, designed to foster a family-like atmosphere.

The camp is committed to accommodating various dietary needs and preferences, including vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and kosher options. Meals are prepared by experienced culinary staff who ensure that all food is not only nutritious but also appealing to young campers. The kitchen staff can also cater to specific allergies or dietary restrictions, ensuring that every camper has access to safe and enjoyable meal options.

Bathroom and Shower Facilities

Bathroom and shower facilities at Chestnut Lake Camp are modern and well-maintained, ensuring cleanliness and accessibility for all campers. The facilities are strategically located near the cabins and are divided by gender. Each bathroom unit is equipped with multiple stalls and sinks to accommodate multiple campers at once, reducing wait times during peak periods. Shower areas are designed to provide privacy, with individual stalls that include changing areas.

The camp prioritizes the health and safety of its campers, with regular cleaning and maintenance schedules for all accommodation facilities to ensure a high standard of hygiene and comfort. This attention to detail in accommodations at Chestnut Lake Camp ensures that campers can fully enjoy their summer experience in a safe and comfortable environment.

Activities in Chestnut Lake Camp

Chestnut Lake Camp offers a wide range of activities that cater to various interests, ensuring that every camper has the opportunity to explore new hobbies and develop existing skills. Here’s an overview of the diverse activities and special events available at the camp.

List of Activities Offered

Water Sports: Summer camps. swimming, canoeing, kayaking, and paddleboarding.
Land Sports: Soccer, basketball, volleyball, tennis, archery, and softball.
Adventure Activities: Hiking, mountain biking, rock climbing, and zip-lining.
Arts and Crafts: Pottery, painting, jewelry making, and woodworking.
Performing Arts: Drama, dance, and music, including opportunities to participate in camp-wide performances.
Nature Exploration: Guided nature walks, environmental education, and wildlife observation.

Special Events or Traditions

Chestnut Lake Camp is rich in traditions that build a strong sense of community and create lasting memories:

Color Wars: An annual multi-day event featuring team competitions across various sports and activities, fostering spirit and camaraderie.
Talent Shows: Campers showcase their talents, from singing and dancing to magic tricks, in a supportive environment.
Campfires: Regular campfire gatherings that include storytelling, singing, and marshmallow roasting, which enhance the classic camp experience.
Theme Days: Special days where activities are based around a fun theme, encouraging creativity and participation.

Skill Development Opportunities

Chestnut Lake Camp is dedicated to the personal growth and skill development of each camper. Programs are designed to progress in difficulty and complexity, allowing campers to build on their skills year after year. Instructors and counselors are skilled in their respective fields and provide personalized attention to help campers achieve their best.

Leadership Training: Older campers have opportunities to develop leadership skills through mentorship roles and specific leadership programs.
Advanced Sports Clinics: For campers who are particularly interested in sports, advanced clinics help refine techniques and improve competitive skills.
Artistic Mastery: In-depth workshops in arts and crafts offer the chance to work on sophisticated projects that require more skill and dedication.

Through these activities, special events, and skill development opportunities, Chestnut Lake Camp provides a dynamic environment where campers can learn, grow, and enjoy an unforgettable summer experience.

The staff of Chestnut Lake Camp

Chestnut Lake Camp takes great pride in its dedicated and highly qualified staff, ensuring a safe, supportive, and engaging environment for all campers. Here’s a detailed overview of the staff composition, their qualifications, and the training they undergo to maintain the highest standards of safety and care.

Staff-to-Camper Ratio

Chestnut Lake Camp maintains a low staff-to-camper ratio to ensure that each camper receives individual attention and guidance. The ratio is typically around 1:5, allowing staff members to closely monitor and actively engage with all campers, providing a personalized and supportive experience.

Hiring Process and Staff Qualifications

The hiring process at Chestnut Lake Camp is rigorous, focusing on selecting individuals who are not only skilled in their specific areas but also passionate about working with children and contributing positively to their development.

Background Checks: All potential staff members undergo thorough background checks, including criminal records and previous employment verifications.
Education and Experience: Candidates are generally required to have significant experience in camping or youth programs, and those applying for specialized activities must have relevant qualifications or proven expertise in their field.
Interviews and References: Applicants go through a comprehensive interview process and must provide professional references that attest to their suitability for the role.

Training and Certifications

Once hired, all staff members receive extensive training before the camp season begins. This training is designed to equip them with the skills necessary to ensure camper safety and deliver a high-quality camp experience.

CPR and First Aid: All staff members are required to be certified in CPR and First Aid. These certifications are regularly updated to ensure that staff can respond effectively to any health emergencies.
Child Safety and Protection: Training includes modules on child protection policies, recognizing and responding to bullying, and ensuring a safe environment for all campers.
Activity-Specific Training: Staff leading specialized activities such as swimming, climbing, or any sport receive additional training relevant to their specific area to ensure they can provide expert guidance and maintain safety standards.
Emergency Response Drills: The entire camp staff participates in emergency response drills, including fire safety, weather emergencies, and first responder coordination.

Through a combination of careful staff selection, comprehensive training, and ongoing professional development, Chestnut Lake Camp ensures that its team is fully prepared to provide a safe, enjoyable, and enriching camp experience for all attendees.

Safety and Health in Chestnut Lake Camp

Chestnut Lake Camp prioritizes the safety and health of all its campers and staff, implementing rigorous safety protocols and maintaining well-equipped health facilities to ensure a secure and responsive environment.

Safety Protocols and Procedures

Chestnut Lake Camp adheres to a strict set of safety protocols designed to prevent accidents and ensure quick responses when needed. These protocols include:

Activity Safety: All activities, especially those involving physical exertion or specialized equipment (like swimming, climbing, or archery), are conducted under strict supervision with adherence to industry safety standards. Safety gear is mandatory for certain activities, and regular equipment checks are conducted.
Security Measures: The camp is equipped with secure entry points, and all visitors must check in and out at the administration office. The camp maintains a closed campus policy during camp sessions.
Fire Safety: Regular fire drills are conducted, and the camp is equipped with fire extinguishers and other fire suppression tools, which are regularly inspected.
Weather Preparedness: The camp has procedures in place for severe weather conditions, including designated shelter areas and protocols for quick evacuation if necessary.

On-Site Health Facilities and Staff

Chestnut Lake Camp is equipped with a modern on-site health center staffed by qualified healthcare professionals, including nurses and a visiting doctor, ensuring round-the-clock availability to handle medical needs.

Health Center Capabilities: The health center is equipped to handle minor injuries, illnesses, and routine medical care. It is stocked with essential medications and first aid supplies.
Medication Management: The health staff manages and dispenses all camper medications according to physician instructions to ensure that each camper’s health needs are met.
Accessibility: The health center is centrally located within the campgrounds, ensuring it is quickly accessible from any location at the camp.

Policies on Handling Emergencies

Chestnut Lake Camp has comprehensive emergency policies in place, which are communicated to all staff and campers. These policies include:

Emergency Action Plans: Specific action plans are in place for different types of emergencies, including medical emergencies, natural disasters, and security threats.
Training and Drills: All staff undergo regular training on emergency procedures, and emergency drills are conducted with campers and staff to ensure everyone knows their role and responsibilities during an emergency.
Communication: In case of an emergency, there is a clear communication protocol for informing all relevant parties, including local emergency services, parents, and camp staff. The camp maintains multiple forms of communication, including landlines, cell phones, and radios, to ensure reliability.

Chestnut Lake Camp’s commitment to safety and health is evident in its meticulous planning, well-trained staff, and the infrastructure in place to support a safe and healthy camp environment. This comprehensive approach allows parents and campers to feel confident about the care and safety provided at the camp.

Cost and Registration in Chestnut Lake Camp

Chestnut Lake Camp provides a detailed and transparent approach to cost, registration, and financial options to ensure that families can plan effectively for their children’s summer camp experience.

Cost of Attendance

The cost of attending Chestnut Lake Camp varies depending on the session length and specific programs chosen. Generally, the fees cover:

All-Inclusive Pricing: The cost typically includes accommodation, all meals, activities, equipment use, and any special events at the camp.
Additional Costs: Some special programs or off-site excursions might have additional fees, which are clearly outlined during the registration process.

Registration Process and Deadlines

The registration process for Chestnut Lake Camp is designed to be straightforward and user-friendly:

Online Registration: Families can register their children through an online portal available at the camps.
Early Registration: Early registration is encouraged, as some sessions fill up quickly. Early registrants often benefit from discounted rates.
Deadlines: Specific registration deadlines are set for each session, typically a few months before the start of the session. These are clearly communicated in the camps and through direct communications with returning families.

Payment Plans, Refunds, and Cancellation Policies

Understanding that families have different budgeting needs, Chestnut Lake Camp offers flexible payment options and clear policies on refunds and cancellations:

Payment Plans: The camp offers structured payment plans that allow families to pay the camp fees over a series of months leading up to the summer.
Refunds: The camp has a refund policy that typically includes a full or partial refund up until a certain date before the camp session begins, after which refunds may be reduced or unavailable.
Cancellation Policy: Details regarding cancellations due to unforeseen circumstances, such as illness or family emergencies, are provided, including any potential credits for future camp sessions.

Scholarships and Financial Aid

Chestnut Lake Camp is committed to making its programs accessible to a wide range of families:

Scholarships: The camp offers a number of scholarship opportunities based on need and merit. These scholarships can significantly reduce the cost of attendance.
Financial Aid: Need-based financial aid is available to families who qualify, and the camp provides a confidential application process to assess each family’s financial situation.

By providing comprehensive information and support regarding the cost and registration processes, Chestnut Lake Camp ensures that families can make informed decisions about their children’s summer camp experiences, keeping it both enjoyable and financially manageable.

Chestnut Lake Camp in Beach Lake, PA offers different fees depending on the length of your child’s stay:

First Session: $7,800
Second Session: $6,400
Full Summer: $12,350 (includes an “Intersession” program for full summer campers).

Parent and Camper Preparation in Chestnut Lake Camp

Preparing for a stay at Chestnut Lake Camp is an exciting time for both campers and their parents. Here’s a comprehensive guide on packing, understanding camp rules and policies, and tips for first-time campers and parents to ensure a smooth and enjoyable camp experience.

Packing List

To help campers have everything they need for a fun and safe time, Chestnut Lake Camp provides a detailed packing list, which generally includes:

Clothing: Enough clothes for the session including swimwear, activewear, and warmer layers for cool evenings. Don’t forget a rain jacket and sturdy footwear for hiking.
Bedding: Sleeping bag or sheets and blankets, pillow, and a small comfort item like a stuffed animal for younger campers.
Toiletries: Toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, shampoo, sunscreen, bug repellent, and a small first aid kit with personal medications.
Gear: Water bottle, flashlight, and perhaps a disposable camera or journal to document camp experiences.

Rules and Policies

Chestnut Lake Camp’s rules and policies are designed to ensure a safe and respectful environment:

Technology Use: Campers are encouraged to disconnect from electronic devices to fully engage with camp life. Usually, devices like smartphones, tablets, and laptops are not allowed, or their use is restricted to certain times.
Visitation: Visits from parents and relatives may be allowed on specific visitor days which are scheduled in advance. Parents are informed of these dates and the camp’s visitation policies during registration.
Behavioral Expectations: Respect for others, participation in scheduled activities, and adherence to safety guidelines are expected from all campers.

Tips for First-Time Campers and Parents

For those new to the camp experience, a few tips can make the transition smoother:

Familiarization: Discuss what camp will be like focusing on the exciting activities and new friendships. Visiting the camp’s to view photos or attending a pre-camp orientation can be helpful.
Communication: Understand the camp’s communication policies, including how often and through what means you can expect updates.
Emotional Preparation: Encourage independence at home with simple tasks to build confidence. Discuss feelings about being away from home and strategies for coping with homesickness.
Practical Preparation: Label all belongings with the camper’s name. Practice packing and unpacking the suitcase together to ensure they can manage it on their own.

With these preparations in place, both first-time and returning campers at Chestnut Lake Camp can look forward to an enriching, fun-filled summer experience, while parents can feel confident about their child’s well-being and safety.

Chestnut Lake Camp stands out as a premier destination for children seeking a summer filled with growth, adventure, and lasting friendships. Nestled in the scenic Pocono Mountains of Pennsylvania, this camp offers a diverse array of activities tailored to foster independence, teamwork, and self-discovery among campers. From engaging in water sports and creative arts to participating in unique camp traditions and special events, each camper is encouraged to explore their interests and push their boundaries in a safe and supportive environment.

The camp’s dedicated staff, comprehensive safety protocols, and commitment to each camper’s well-being ensure a nurturing setting where fun and safety go hand-in-hand. With flexible session lengths, a variety of programs, and inclusive financial options, Chestnut Lake Camp is dedicated to providing an unforgettable summer experience that is accessible to families from diverse backgrounds.