Nestled in the scenic Pocono Mountains of Pennsylvania, Summit Camp and Travel in Honesdale stands as a beacon for youth development and adventure. This distinguished camp, rooted in a rich tradition of fostering independence and growth, began its journey several decades ago with a mission to provide a nurturing environment where children and teens could thrive. With its location surrounded by natural beauty, including lush forests and serene lakes, Summit Camp offers a picturesque setting for memorable summers.

The philosophy of Summit Camp and Travel revolves around building confidence, fostering friendships, and encouraging exploration. The camp prides itself on creating a supportive community where campers from diverse backgrounds can discover their strengths and challenge their limits. With a focus on inclusivity and personal growth, the programs are tailored to meet the needs of each camper, ensuring a fulfilling and enriching experience.

Summit Camp and Travel caters to boys and girls across various age groups, typically ranging from 8 to 19 years old. The camp offers a variety of programs that cater to different interests and developmental stages, making it an ideal choice for families seeking a comprehensive, engaging, and safe summer experience for their children. Through a blend of traditional camp activities, travel adventures, and specialized workshops, Summit Camp and Travel stands out as a premier destination for young explorers eager to make the most of their summer vacations.

Programs Offered by Summit Camp and Travel

Summit Camp and Travel offers a diverse array of programs designed to engage campers in meaningful and enjoyable activities that foster personal growth and a spirit of adventure. Each program is thoughtfully crafted to cater to the varied interests and developmental needs of the campers, making every day at Summit an opportunity for exploration and discovery.

Programs Offered

Traditional Camp Experience:

Length of Sessions: Available in one-week, two-week, and full summer options.
Activities: This program includes a mix of outdoor adventures, team sports, water activities, and arts and crafts. Campers can expect a well-rounded experience with plenty of opportunities for both fun and learning.

Specialty Programs:

Arts: Focused sessions ranging from visual arts, such as painting and sculpture, to performing arts, including drama and dance. These sessions encourage creativity and self-expression.
Sports: Tailored for young athletes, this program offers coaching in various sports such as soccer, basketball, swimming, and more. Emphasis is on skill development, teamwork, and healthy competition.
Science and Nature: Designed for curious minds, this program explores subjects like environmental science, biology, and astronomy with hands-on activities and experiments.

Typical Daily Schedule

A typical day at Summit Camp and Travel is structured to provide a balanced mix of activities, personal time, and community interactions, ensuring that each camper has a fulfilling day. Here’s what a typical day might look like:

7:30 AM: Wake up and morning exercises
8:00 AM: Breakfast
9:00 AM: Morning session (activity varies by program)
12:00 PM: Lunch
1:00 PM: Rest period/free time
2:00 PM: Afternoon session (specialty program activity)
5:00 PM: Free time/playtime
6:00 PM: Dinner
7:00 PM: Evening activities (campfire, night hikes, talent shows)
9:00 PM: Lights out for younger campers
10:00 PM: Lights out for older campers

This schedule is designed to keep campers engaged and active throughout the day while also providing enough downtime to relax and recharge. Whether they are exploring their artistic talents, competing on the sports field, or engaging in scientific discovery, campers at Summit Camp and Travel are sure to have a summer filled with fun, learning, and adventure.

Accommodations in Summit Camp and Travel

At Summit Camp and Travel, the accommodations are designed to enhance the camp experience, ensuring comfort while maintaining a strong sense of community and outdoor adventure.

Sleeping Arrangements

Campers at Summit Camp and Travel are housed primarily in cabins that blend traditional rustic charm with modern necessities. Each cabin is equipped to house a specific number of campers, generally ranging from 8 to 12 per cabin, fostering a close-knit atmosphere. Cabins are usually segregated by age and sometimes by program to ensure that campers are with peers who share similar interests and developmental stages.

Cabins: Well-ventilated and equipped with bunk beds, storage space for personal items, and nearby washroom facilities.
Tents: For specific programs or adventure trips, campers might spend part of their time in tents, providing an authentic outdoor experience under supervision.

Dining Options

Summit Camp and Travel offers a comprehensive meal plan that caters to all campers throughout the day, consisting of breakfast, lunch, dinner, and designated snack times. The dining hall serves as a communal space where campers and staff gather to enjoy meals prepared by professional catering staff.

Meal Plans: Nutritious and varied, meals are designed to fuel the high energy demands of active campers. Options typically include a hot entree, a salad bar, fruit, and vegetarian options.
Dietary Accommodations: Understanding the importance of catering to various dietary needs, Summit Camp and Travel provides options for vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and kosher diets. The camp can also accommodate specific dietary restrictions due to allergies or other health-related needs upon prior notice.

Bathroom and Shower Facilities

The camp ensures that bathroom and shower facilities are accessible and maintained to high standards of hygiene. Facilities are strategically located near living and activity areas for convenience.

Bathrooms: Equipped with multiple stalls and sinks to accommodate several campers at once, reducing wait times.
Showers: Separate shower facilities with individual stalls ensure privacy and comfort. Both bathrooms and showers have hot and cold water and are regularly cleaned and stocked with necessary supplies.

Summit Camp and Travel is dedicated to providing a safe, comfortable, and enjoyable environment that complements the fun and adventurous activities offered at the camp. This thoughtful accommodation setup helps ensure that campers can relax and recharge after a day full of activities.

Activities in Summit Camp and Travel

Summit Camp and Travel is designed to provide an enriching experience through a variety of activities, special events, and opportunities for skill development. The camp offers a broad range of activities that cater to different interests, ensuring that every camper finds something they love.

List of Activities Offered

Outdoor Adventures: Hiking, canoeing, rock climbing, and zip-lining.
Water Activities: Summer camps, swimming, water polo, kayaking, and fishing.
Sports: Soccer, basketball, tennis, archery, and volleyball.
Arts and Crafts: Pottery, painting, jewelry making, and woodworking.
Performing Arts: Drama, dance, and music workshops.
Educational Pursuits: Nature workshops, astronomy nights, and science experiments.

Special Events or Traditions

Summit Camp and Travel hosts a variety of special events and traditions that enhance the camp spirit and provide campers with unique experiences:

Color Wars: A camp-wide event that divides campers into teams to compete in various activities, fostering team spirit and camaraderie.
Talent Shows: Campers have the opportunity to showcase their talents, whether in music, dance, magic, or comedy.
Theme Days: Days where activities are centered around specific themes, such as Superhero Day or Back to the Future, encouraging creativity and engagement.
Campfire Nights: Regular campfires offer a time for stories, songs, marshmallow roasting, and bonding with fellow campers and staff.

Skill Development Opportunities

At Summit Camp and Travel, skill development is a cornerstone of the camp experience, with structured opportunities to gain new skills and improve existing ones:

Leadership Training: Older campers can participate in leadership programs that prepare them for roles as counselors or in other leadership positions, both within and outside the camp environment.
Specialized Clinics: For campers interested in developing specific skills, such as advanced sports training or specialized arts workshops, clinics are offered to provide focused instruction.
Personal Growth Workshops: Workshops that focus on building self-confidence, teamwork, and problem-solving skills are regularly scheduled.

The activities at Summit Camp and Travel are designed not only to entertain but also to educate and inspire. Through a blend of fun, learning, and personal development, campers leave with a sense of accomplishment and a treasure trove of happy memories.

The staff of Summit Camp and Travel

The staff at Summit Camp and Travel play a crucial role in ensuring that every camper has a safe, enjoyable, and enriching experience. The camp prioritizes maintaining a high-quality staff who are well-trained and dedicated to fostering a supportive and fun environment.

Staff-to-Camper Ratio

Summit Camp and Travel maintains a low staff-to-camper ratio to ensure personalized attention and better supervision. Typically, the ratio is approximately one staff member for every four to six campers. This ratio allows staff to effectively oversee and engage with each camper, ensuring safety and providing guidance throughout their camp experience.

Hiring Process and Staff Qualifications

The hiring process at Summit Camp and Travel is rigorous to ensure that all staff members are highly qualified and suitable for their roles:

Background Checks: All potential hires undergo thorough background checks, including criminal history and previous employment verification.
Education and Experience: Candidates are typically required to have relevant educational backgrounds or substantial experience in their area of expertise, whether it’s sports, arts, or outdoor activities.
Interviews and References: Applicants go through a detailed interview process and must provide professional references that are rigorously checked to assess their suitability for the role.

Training and Certifications

Summit Camp and Travel ensures that all staff are well-prepared and certified to handle both daily activities and any potential emergencies:

Mandatory Training: Before the camp season begins, all staff undergo intensive training that covers camp policies, emergency procedures, conflict resolution, and specific training related to their assigned activities.
CPR and First Aid Certification: All staff members are required to be certified in CPR and First Aid. Many staff also have additional certifications in lifeguarding, wilderness first aid, or specific sports and activities coaching.
Ongoing Professional Development: Throughout the camp season, staff are given opportunities to participate in professional development sessions to enhance their skills and adapt to new methods and practices in youth education and recreation.

The investment in high-quality staff training and rigorous hiring standards reflects Summit Camp and Travel’s commitment to providing a safe, enjoyable, and enriching camp environment. These efforts ensure that all campers are in capable and caring hands, allowing them to thrive during their summer experience.

Safety and Health in Summit Camp and Travel

At Summit Camp and Travel, the safety and health of campers and staff are paramount. The camp implements comprehensive safety protocols, maintains well-equipped health facilities, and upholds stringent policies to manage emergencies effectively.

Safety Protocols and Procedures

Routine Safety Drills: Regularly scheduled drills for fire, weather emergencies, and other potential threats ensure that both campers and staff are familiar with evacuation routes and safety procedures.
Activity-Specific Safety Guidelines: Each activity, especially those involving higher risk like rock climbing or swimming, follows strict safety guidelines, with appropriate gear and supervisory ratios.
Nightly Check-Ins: The camp has a policy of nightly check-ins to ensure all campers are accounted for each evening, enhancing security and safety.
Secure Campground: The campgrounds are secured with controlled access, ensuring that only authorized personnel and campers are on the premises. Surveillance and night patrols are used to enhance security.

On-site Health Facilities and Staff

Health Center: Summit Camp and Travel is equipped with a health center staffed by licensed professionals capable of handling minor injuries and common illnesses. The health center is equipped to provide first aid, administer medications, and perform basic diagnostic checks.
Medical Staff: The on-site medical team typically includes a registered nurse (RN) and other medical staff available 24/7. For camps with a large number of attendees, a doctor may also be on-site or on call.
Partnerships with Local Hospitals: For more serious medical issues, the camp maintains relationships with local hospitals and emergency services to ensure quick transportation and professional care.

Policies on Handling Emergencies

Emergency Response Plan: The camp has a detailed emergency response plan tailored to various scenarios, including natural disasters, medical emergencies, and other critical situations.
Communication Protocols: In the event of an emergency, there are clear protocols for communicating with local authorities, parents, and staff. This ensures that everyone is informed and that the response is coordinated effectively.
Training in Emergency Preparedness: All staff members undergo training in emergency preparedness, focusing on response strategies and communication methods to ensure a swift and effective handling of any crisis.
Regular Reviews and Updates: Safety protocols and emergency plans are regularly reviewed and updated to adapt to new challenges and ensure alignment with the best practices in safety and emergency management.

Summit Camp and Travel’s proactive approach to safety and health underscores its commitment to providing a secure and nurturing environment where campers can enjoy a fun-filled and worry-free summer experience.

Cost and Registration in Summit Camp and Travel

Summit Camp and Travel provides a comprehensive and transparent approach to costs, registration, and financial policies to ensure that families can plan effectively and access various financial support options.

Cost of Attendance

The cost of attending Summit Camp and Travel varies depending on the length of the session and the specific program chosen. Generally, prices include:

Accommodation and Meals: Full room and board throughout the duration of the camp.
Activities and Equipment: Access to all camp activities and necessary equipment.
Health Services: Basic on-site health care and emergency services.
Transportation: Any camp-organized transportation for off-site trips.

Additional costs might include special outings, certain specialized programs, and personal expenses like snacks or camp merchandise.

Registration Process and Deadlines

Online Registration: Families can register their campers through an online platform accessible via the camps. This system allows for easy submission of necessary documentation and health forms.
Deadlines: Early registration typically opens several months before the camp season starts and may offer a discount for early sign-ups. There are set deadlines for registration to ensure adequate preparation and staffing for the camp season.
Required Documentation: Registration usually requires filling out detailed forms including medical history, consent forms, and preferences regarding activities.

Payment Plans, Refunds, and Cancellation Policies

Payment Plans: Summit Camp offers flexible payment plans allowing families to spread the cost over several months, making the camp more financially accessible.
Refunds and Cancellation Policies: The camp provides a structured refund policy, which typically includes a full or partial refund by certain dates. After these dates, refunds may not be available, or only available if the spot can be filled by another camper.
Insurance: Families are encouraged to purchase cancellation insurance to cover unforeseen circumstances that prevent attendance after the refund deadline.

Scholarships and Financial Aid

Scholarships: Summit Camp offers a variety of scholarships aimed at providing opportunities for campers who may not otherwise be able to afford the experience. These scholarships are often merit-based or need-based.
Financial Aid: Need-based financial aid is available to families who qualify, helping to cover a portion of the camp fees. The application process for financial aid typically requires documentation of financial need.

Summit Camp and Travel’s inclusive approach to financial planning and support ensures that as many children as possible have the opportunity to experience a rewarding summer at camp. This approach fosters a diverse camp community where children from various backgrounds can come together to learn, grow, and enjoy their summer.

Summit Camp and Travel in Honesdale PA offers various summer camp programs with different costs. Here’s a breakdown of their fees:

Full Season (8 Weeks): $19,950. This includes the entire summer camp.
First Half Season (4 Weeks): $10,895. This covers the first half of camp.
Second Half Season (4 Weeks): $10,895. This covers the second half of camp.
Mini Camp (10 days): $5,750. This is a shorter program offered.

Parent and Camper Preparation in Summit Camp and Travel

Summit Camp and Travel ensures that both parents and campers are well-prepared for the camp experience by providing detailed information on what to pack, camp rules and policies, and useful tips for first-time campers and their families.

Packing List

A comprehensive packing list is provided to all families, which typically includes:

Clothing: Weather-appropriate attire, including rain gear, swimwear, and comfortable footwear for hiking and sports.
Bedding and Linens: Sleeping bags or sheets and blankets, pillows, and towels for both bathing and swimming.
Personal Items: Toiletries, sunscreen, insect repellent, and a water bottle.
Optional Items: Books, writing materials, and a small backpack for day trips.

Campers are advised to label all personal items with their name to prevent loss or confusion.

Rules and Policies

Technology Use: To foster a genuine camp experience and encourage social interaction, the use of smartphones, tablets, and other electronic devices is typically restricted or prohibited except in designated areas or times.
Visitation: There are specific days and times for family visitation, designed to allow campers to adjust to camp life and gain independence. Parents are informed of these policies well in advance.
Behavior Expectations: The camp has strict rules regarding camper behavior, including policies on bullying, respect for others, and adherence to the camp schedule and activities.

Tips for First-Time Campers and Parents

Pre-Camp Orientation: Many camps offer pre-camp orientation sessions for families. These sessions are invaluable for first-time campers and parents to meet staff, learn more about daily routines, and ask questions.
Stay Positive: Parents are encouraged to maintain a positive attitude about camp. Children often take cues from their parents, so enthusiasm about the upcoming experience can help ease any nervousness.
Communication: Understand the camp’s communication policies, including how often and through what means you can expect updates. This helps set expectations for the frequency and type of communication during the camp session.
Packing Together: Involve campers in the packing process to give them a sense of control and responsibility. This also ensures they know what they have packed and can find items when needed.
Emotional Preparation: Discuss what camp will be like focusing on the fun aspects but also acknowledging and addressing any fears or concerns. Encourage campers to be open about their feelings and reassure them that it’s normal to feel a bit nervous about new experiences.

By thoroughly preparing both parents and campers, Summit Camp and Travel aims to create a seamless transition into camp life, ensuring that all campers have a positive and memorable experience.

Summit Camp and Travel in Honesdale, Pennsylvania, offers a dynamic and enriching summer experience that goes beyond traditional camping. With its beautiful setting in the Pocono Mountains, the camp provides a backdrop where adventure and learning coalesce, fostering independence, creativity, and camaraderie among campers. From a diverse range of activities and programs designed for various interests and age groups to comprehensive safety protocols and a nurturing staff, Summit ensures a holistic approach to child development.

The camp’s commitment to inclusivity and personal growth is reflected through its flexible payment options, scholarships, and a robust support system for first-time campers and their families. Whether it’s through engaging in thrilling outdoor activities, exploring artistic talents, or developing new skills, each camper at Summit finds a path to self-discovery and joy.