Camp Awosting, nestled in the picturesque hills of Morris, Connecticut, in the serene region of Litchfield County, offers an idyllic setting for boys to explore, learn, and grow. Situated near Bantam Lake, Connecticut’s largest natural lake, Camp Awosting boasts a rich history of fostering camaraderie, adventure, and personal growth since its establishment. This beautiful camp serves as a beacon for young minds to immerse themselves in the natural beauty and historical richness of the area, providing a backdrop for memories that last a lifetime.

The mission of Camp Awosting is centered around the philosophy of building strong character, promoting independence, and cultivating friendships in a supportive community environment. The camp’s ethos is grounded in the belief that every boy deserves a summer filled with adventures, learning opportunities, and the chance to forge bonds that transcend the campgrounds.

Camp Awosting is a traditional summer camp exclusively for boys, welcoming various age groups. The camp offers a myriad of activities tailored to meet the interests and developmental needs of boys, encouraging them to step out of their comfort zones, try new things, and discover their potential. Through a carefully curated blend of outdoor adventures, team sports, creative arts, and leadership training, Camp Awosting is dedicated to providing an unforgettable summer experience that nurtures growth, resilience, and lifelong friendships.

Programs Offered by Camp Awosting

Camp Awosting offers a diverse array of programs designed to cater to the wide-ranging interests and developmental stages of its campers. These programs are meticulously planned to ensure that every boy has an enriching, fun, and memorable summer experience, fostering personal growth and lifelong skills.

Description of the Programs

The programs at Camp Awosting are crafted to encourage exploration, adventure, and learning in a nurturing environment. From outdoor activities that take full advantage of the camp’s stunning natural setting to specialized workshops that allow campers to dive deep into their interests, there’s something for everyone. The camp emphasizes a balanced approach, combining physical activity, creativity, teamwork, and individual achievement.

Length of Sessions

Camp Awosting offers flexible session lengths to accommodate the needs and preferences of different families and campers. These include:

One-week introductory sessions for first-time campers.
Two-week sessions that provide a deeper dive into the camp experience.
Four to six-week sessions for those who wish to enjoy the full summer at Awosting, allowing campers to fully immerse themselves in the camp community and activities.

Specialty Programs

Arts: Campers can explore their creativity through various art forms, including painting, drawing, woodworking, and pottery. These activities are designed to inspire creativity and self-expression.
Sports: Awosting offers a comprehensive sports program, including traditional team sports like soccer, basketball, and baseball, as well as individual sports like tennis and golf. There are also opportunities for water sports on Bantam Lake, such as swimming, kayaking, and sailing.
Science: For campers interested in STEM, Awosting provides hands-on science and nature programs. These might include activities like robotics, environmental science projects, and astronomy nights, encouraging curiosity and learning about the world around them.

Typical Daily Schedule

A typical day at Camp Awosting is structured to provide a balanced mix of activities, meals, free time, and rest. Here’s a rough outline of what campers might expect:

Morning: Campers start their day with a flag-raising ceremony, followed by breakfast. The morning is then filled with scheduled activities or specialty program sessions.
Afternoon: After lunch, campers have some rest time before diving into afternoon activities. This might include sports competitions, arts and crafts sessions, or special workshops.
Evening: Dinner is followed by camp-wide events or activities, such as campfires, talent shows, or themed nights, fostering a strong sense of community and camaraderie.
Night: Campers have a wind-down period before lights out, ensuring they get the rest needed to recharge for another day of adventure.

At Camp Awosting, the blend of structured activities and free time allows campers to explore their interests, develop new skills, and make lasting friendships in a safe and supportive environment.

Accommodations in Camp Awosting

Camp Awosting offers accommodations and facilities designed to enhance the camp experience, blending comfort with the rustic charm of outdoor living. Here’s an overview of the sleeping arrangements, dining options, and bathroom facilities available to campers:

Sleeping Arrangements

Cabins: Campers are housed in traditional cabins that embody the spirit of camp life. These cabins are designed to be both comfortable and functional, providing campers with a sense of community and belonging. Each cabin houses a specific age group, ensuring that campers are with peers of similar ages. The cabins are equipped with bunk beds, and storage space for personal items, and are situated close to the central bathroom and shower facilities. They are also supervised by experienced counselors, ensuring safety and a supportive atmosphere.

Dining Options

Meal Plans: Camp Awosting offers a comprehensive meal plan that includes three well-balanced meals per day, served in the camp’s communal dining hall. Meals are designed to be nutritious, delicious, and appealing to young appetites, providing the energy campers need for an active day. The dining hall serves as a central gathering place, promoting camaraderie and community among campers and staff.
Dietary Accommodations: Understanding the importance of catering to individual dietary needs, Camp Awosting offers options for campers with dietary restrictions, including vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and allergy-friendly meals. The camp’s kitchen staff is experienced in preparing meals that meet these needs while ensuring that all campers enjoy tasty and nutritious options.

Bathroom and Shower Facilities

Facilities: The camp is equipped with modern bathroom and shower facilities that are centrally located for easy access from the cabins. These facilities are separated by age groups to provide comfort and privacy. The bathrooms and showers are maintained with high standards of cleanliness and hygiene, ensuring a safe and comfortable environment for all campers.
Privacy and Safety: Privacy and safety are top priorities at Camp Awosting. Shower stalls have individual curtains or doors, and bathroom facilities are designed to respect the privacy of each camper. Staff members are trained to promote and maintain a respectful and safe environment, emphasizing the importance of personal space and privacy.

Camp Awosting’s accommodations and facilities are thoughtfully designed to ensure that campers have a comfortable, safe, and enjoyable summer experience. From the communal spirit of the cabins and dining hall to the modern conveniences of the bathroom and shower facilities, every aspect of camp life is geared towards supporting the well-being and development of the campers.

Activities in Camp Awosting

Camp Awosting offers a dynamic range of activities designed to engage campers in both adventure and personal growth. From traditional favorites to specialized programs, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Here’s a glimpse into the activities, special events, and skill-building opportunities awaiting campers at Camp Awosting:

Activities Offered:

Swimming: Summer camps can cool off and have fun in the camp’s swimming facilities, including a pool or access to Bantam Lake for water sports and swimming lessons.
Hiking: Explore the natural beauty surrounding Camp Awosting through guided hikes, nature walks, and overnight camping trips in the nearby forests and hills
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Sports: Engage in a variety of team sports such as soccer, basketball, baseball, tennis, and volleyball, promoting teamwork, sportsmanship, and physical fitness.
Arts and Crafts: Unleash creativity through various arts and crafts activities, including painting, pottery, woodworking, and more, allowing campers to express themselves artistically.
Outdoor Adventures: Experience thrilling outdoor adventures such as rock climbing, zip-lining, ropes courses, and orienteering, fostering confidence, resilience, and a love for the great outdoors.
Water Sports: Take advantage of the camp’s proximity to Bantam Lake with activities such as kayaking, canoeing, sailing, and paddleboarding, promoting water safety and adventure.
Nature Exploration: Delve into the wonders of the natural world with activities focused on environmental science, wildlife observation, gardening, and conservation efforts.
Team Building: Participate in team-building exercises and challenges that promote collaboration, communication, and leadership skills, fostering a sense of unity and camaraderie among campers.

Special Events and Traditions:

Campfires: Gather around the campfire for stories, songs, skits, and marshmallow roasting, creating cherished memories and fostering a sense of community.
Talent Shows: Showcase talents and creativity during talent shows, where campers can perform music, dance, magic tricks, and more, celebrating individuality and self-expression.
Theme Nights: Enjoy themed events such as costume parties, beach parties, and movie nights, adding excitement and variety to the camp experience.
Olympic Games: Engage in friendly competition and team spirit during Olympic-style games and tournaments, promoting sportsmanship and healthy competition.
Camp-wide Celebrations: Celebrate special occasions such as birthdays, holidays, and milestones with festive decorations, themed meals, and memorable activities.

Skill Development Opportunities:

Leadership Training: Participate in leadership workshops and activities designed to develop communication, problem-solving, and decision-making skills, empowering campers to become effective leaders.
Outdoor Skills: Learn essential outdoor skills such as fire-building, knot-tying, map reading, and wilderness survival techniques, fostering self-reliance and resourcefulness.
Creative Expression: Hone artistic talents and explore new creative outlets through arts and crafts workshops, theater productions, and music lessons, encouraging self-expression and imagination.
Water Safety: Receive instruction in water safety and swimming techniques from certified lifeguards and instructors, ensuring confidence and competence in aquatic environments.
Environmental Awareness: Gain a deeper understanding of environmental issues and stewardship through nature walks, conservation projects, and hands-on learning experiences, fostering a sense of responsibility for the natural world.

At Camp Awosting, every activity is an opportunity for adventure, learning, and personal growth, creating a summer experience filled with fun, friendship, and discovery.

The staff of Camp Awosting

Camp Awosting is committed to providing a safe, nurturing, and enriching environment for its campers, largely due to its dedicated and highly qualified staff. Here’s an insight into the camp’s staff-to-camper ratio, the hiring process, staff qualifications, and the training and certifications required.

Staff-to-Camper Ratio

Camp Awosting maintains a low staff-to-camper ratio to ensure that each camper receives personalized attention, guidance, and supervision. This ratio is designed to foster strong, positive relationships between campers and staff, enhancing the overall camp experience. While the exact ratio may vary depending on the age group and specific activities, the camp prioritizes a structure that supports safety, engagement, and individual growth.

Hiring Process and Staff Qualifications

Hiring Process: The selection of staff is rigorous and thorough. Candidates undergo a comprehensive application and interview process, including background checks and reference verification, to ensure they meet the camp’s high standards. The camp looks for individuals who are not only skilled in their respective areas but who also embody the values and spirit of Camp Awosting.
Staff Qualifications: Staff members are chosen based on their experience, expertise in working with children, and ability to contribute positively to the camp environment. Many are education professionals, experienced counselors, or college students pursuing related fields. A passion for mentoring young people and a strong sense of responsibility are crucial traits for all staff members.

Training and Certifications

Pre-Camp Training: Before the camp season begins, all staff members participate in an extensive pre-camp training program. This program covers a range of topics, including camp policies and procedures, child development, behavior management techniques, and emergency response protocols.
CPR and First Aid: All camp staff are required to be certified in CPR and First Aid. These certifications ensure that staff can respond effectively to health emergencies and provide basic care as needed until professional medical assistance is available.
Specialized Training: For activities that require specific skills or safety measures (e.g., swimming, boating, rock climbing), staff members hold additional certifications or have specialized training. For example, lifeguards are certified by recognized organizations, and instructors for specific activities have the necessary qualifications and experience to teach those skills safely.

Camp Awosting’s emphasis on a well-qualified, well-trained staff ensures that campers enjoy a summer filled with fun, learning, and growth in a safe and supportive environment. The camp’s commitment to excellence in staffing is a cornerstone of its mission to provide an unforgettable camp experience for every boy.

Safety and Health in Camp Awosting

Camp Awosting places the highest priority on the safety and health of its campers and staff, implementing comprehensive protocols and maintaining facilities designed to ensure a secure and supportive environment. Here’s an overview of the camp’s approach to safety, health care, and emergency management:

Safety Protocols and Procedures

Comprehensive Safety Policies: Camp Awosting adheres to strict safety policies that cover all aspects of camp life, from daily activities and sports to outdoor adventures and excursions. These policies are designed to prevent accidents and injuries and are regularly reviewed and updated to meet the highest standards of safety.
Activity Supervision: All camp activities are supervised by trained and qualified staff members who ensure that campers engage in activities safely and responsibly. Equipment and facilities are regularly inspected for safety, and activities are conducted following established safety guidelines.
Safety Training for Campers: Campers receive orientation and ongoing instruction on safety practices relevant to their activities. This includes proper equipment use, understanding of safety rules, and learning how to support a safe environment for themselves and their peers.

On-site Health Facilities and Staff

Health Center: Camp Awosting maintains an on-site health center staffed by licensed medical professionals, including nurses and/or a camp physician. The health center is equipped to handle routine health care needs, minor injuries, and illnesses.
Access to Emergency Medical Services: For more serious medical issues, the camp has established protocols for quick transportation to nearby medical facilities. The health staff maintains relationships with local hospitals and emergency services to ensure prompt and effective medical care when needed.

Policies on Handling Emergencies

Emergency Preparedness: The camp has comprehensive emergency response plans in place, covering a wide range of potential scenarios, including natural disasters, medical emergencies, and other urgent situations. Staff members are trained in these protocols and participate in regular drills to ensure readiness.
Communication with Families: In the event of an emergency, Camp Awosting has clear policies for communicating with campers’ families. The camp prioritizes timely and accurate information sharing, ensuring that parents are informed and involved as appropriate.
Mental Health Support: Recognizing the importance of emotional as well as physical health, Camp Awosting provides support for campers who may experience homesickness or emotional distress. Counselors are trained to recognize and address these issues, and the camp ensures that professional support is available if needed.

Through its diligent attention to safety protocols, comprehensive healthcare facilities, and thorough emergency preparedness, Camp Awosting ensures a safe, healthy, and enjoyable camp experience for all its participants.

Cost and Registration in Camp Awosting

Camp Awosting offers a comprehensive camp experience, and understanding the cost, registration process, and financial policies is essential for families considering this opportunity for their child. While specific details can vary from year to year, here’s a general overview based on common practices at summer camps.

Cost of Attendance

What It Includes: The cost of attendance at Camp Awosting typically covers all aspects of the camp experience. This includes lodging in the camp’s cabins, all meals and snacks, participation in a wide range of activities, access to camp facilities, and 24/7 supervision and care by trained staff. Additional costs might apply for certain optional activities, specialty programs, or field trips outside the camp.

Registration Process and Deadlines

Registration Process: The registration process for Camp Awosting usually begins several months before the camp season starts. Prospective campers can often register through the camp’s website, where they can fill out necessary forms, select session dates, and choose any specialty programs they are interested in.
Deadlines: It’s important to note specific deadlines for registration, as spots at the camp can fill up quickly. Early registration may also be incentivized with discounts or guaranteed placement in popular programs.

Payment Plans, Refunds, and Cancellation Policies

Payment Plans: Camp Awosting may offer flexible payment plans to help families manage the cost of the camp. These plans can allow parents to pay for camp in installments rather than all at once.
Refunds and Cancellation Policies: The camp likely has a detailed policy regarding refunds and cancellations, which typically includes deadlines for canceling with a full or partial refund. There may be non-refundable deposits or fees. It’s crucial to understand these policies before registering.

Scholarships and Financial Aid

Availability: Recognizing the importance of making camp accessible to as many children as possible, Camp Awosting may offer scholarships or financial aid to families who demonstrate financial need. These opportunities can vary in amount and availability.
Application Process: Typically, applying for scholarships or financial aid involves submitting additional forms or documents that detail the family’s financial situation. The camp may have a separate deadline for these applications, and funds are often limited, so early application is encouraged.

Camp Awosting charges fees based on the length of your child’s stay:

2 weeks: $2,750 deposit (half refundable) + $100 canteen charges
4 weeks: $3,500 deposit (half refundable) + $150 canteen charges
6 weeks: $4,250 deposit (half refundable) + $200 canteen charges
8 weeks (full season): $5,000 deposit (half refundable) + $250 canteen charges

Parent and Camper Preparation in Camp Awosting

Preparing for a summer at Camp Awosting is an exciting time for both campers and their parents. Being well-prepared can help ensure that the camp experience is enjoyable and stress-free. Below is a guide on packing, understanding camp rules and policies, and tips for first-time campers and their parents.

Packing List

A well-thought-out packing list is crucial for campers to have everything they need for their time at Camp Awosting. While specific items may vary based on the activities a camper will participate in, a general list includes:

Clothing: Pack enough clothes for the session length, including t-shirts, shorts, jeans, swimwear, undergarments, and socks. Also, include rain gear, a warm jacket or sweatshirt, and a hat for sun protection.
Footwear: Include comfortable sneakers, sandals or flip-flops (for shower use), and waterproof boots if participating in hiking or similar activities.
Bedding: Check if the camp provides bedding. If not, bring a sleeping bag, pillow, and bed linens.
Toiletries: Toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, shampoo, sunscreen, insect repellent, and any other personal items.
Equipment and Accessories: Water bottle, flashlight or headlamp with extra batteries, and any specific gear required for specialty programs (though the camp may provide most equipment).
Optional Items: Books, writing materials, or a disposable camera for capturing memories without the need for electronic devices.

Rules and Policies

Technology Use: Many camps, including Camp Awosting, have policies limiting or prohibiting the use of personal electronic devices by campers. This is to encourage social interaction and full engagement with the camp experience. Understand and discuss these rules with your camper before arrival.
Visitation: Familiarize yourself with the camp’s visitation policy, including any designated visiting days, to plan accordingly.
Behavior Expectations: Review the camp’s code of conduct with your camper, ensuring they understand the importance of respect, responsibility, and community living.

Tips for First-Time Campers and Parents

Communication: Discuss how you’ll communicate during the camp session, whether through letters, emails, or scheduled calls, based on the camp’s policy.
Homesickness: Talk about homesickness, reassuring your camper that it’s normal and that camp staff are trained to help.
Independence and Responsibility: Encourage your camper to take responsibility for their belongings and to participate actively in camp activities. This is a great opportunity for personal growth.
Positive Attitude: Encourage a positive attitude towards trying new activities, making friends, and embracing the camp experience.

For Parents

Stay Informed: Ensure you’re aware of all necessary camp information, including emergency contact numbers, session dates, and transportation details.
Trust the Process: Remember that camps like Awosting are experienced in caring for children and fostering positive environments. Trust in their expertise and your child’s resilience.

Preparing for camp involves practical packing, understanding and discussing rules, and emotionally preparing for the experience. With the right preparation, camp can be an unforgettable adventure that fosters independence, growth, and joy.

Camp Awosting stands as more than just a summer retreat; it’s a vibrant community where lifelong memories are made, friendships are forged, and personal growth flourishes. Nestled amidst the serene hills of Morris, Connecticut, Awosting offers a haven for boys to explore, learn, and thrive in a supportive and nurturing environment.

With a rich tapestry of programs encompassing outdoor adventures, creative arts, sports, and science exploration, Camp Awosting provides a diverse array of opportunities for campers to discover their passions, challenge themselves, and develop invaluable life skills. Under the guidance of dedicated and experienced staff, campers are encouraged to step out of their comfort zones, embrace new experiences, and build lasting friendships that transcend the boundaries of the campgrounds.