Nestled in the picturesque town of Wiscasset, Maine, Camp Chewonki stands as a beacon of adventure and learning in the Northeast. This exceptional camp is strategically located in a region known for its stunning natural beauty, bordered by the serene Sheepscot River and a short drive from the rugged coastline that Maine is famous for.

Founded on a rich tradition of outdoor education and respect for nature, Camp Chewonki has been fostering a love for the outdoors and developing leadership skills in young people since its inception. Its deep-rooted philosophy centers around personal growth through environmental stewardship and community living. The camp’s mission is to inspire transformative growth by connecting young people with nature and each other, cultivating a sense of responsibility and respect for the natural world.

Camp Chewonki offers a range of programs tailored for boys and girls of various ages. With a diverse selection of activities designed to challenge and engage, the camp provides a supportive environment where each camper can thrive and discover their potential. Whether it’s through paddling a canoe, hiking through dense forests, or learning about wildlife, Camp Chewonki is dedicated to creating lifelong memories and skills that extend far beyond the campgrounds.

Join us at Camp Chewonki, where adventures await and the lessons learned last a lifetime.

Programs Offered by Camp Chewonki

Camp Chewonki offers a diverse array of programs designed to engage campers in active learning and adventure, all while fostering a deep connection with the environment. Here’s an overview of the programs, session lengths, specialties, and a glimpse into a typical day at camp:

Program Descriptions

Outdoor Adventure Programs – These programs focus on skills such as canoeing, kayaking, wilderness survival, and navigation. They encourage campers to connect with nature and learn practical outdoor skills.
Environmental Education – Designed to teach campers about local ecosystems, sustainable practices, and wildlife. Activities include guided nature walks, wildlife spotting, and hands-on sustainability projects.
Leadership Training – Aimed at older campers, these sessions focus on developing leadership skills through group activities, team-building exercises, and leadership roles within the camp setting.

Length of Sessions

One-Week Introductions – Short sessions designed for younger campers or those new to the camp experience, focusing on general camp activities and introductory outdoor skills.
Two-Week Specialties – These sessions delve deeper into specific areas such as advanced environmental education or specialized outdoor adventures.
Full Summer Immersion – The most comprehensive option, spanning several weeks, where campers experience a full spectrum of activities and in-depth learning opportunities.

Specialty Programs

Arts – Includes creative workshops like pottery, photography, and nature crafts, encouraging campers to explore their artistic side.
Sports – Focuses on outdoor sports such as archery, swimming, and rock climbing, promoting physical fitness and teamwork.
Science – Campers engage in hands-on science activities, exploring topics like marine biology, astronomy, and physics in a fun, interactive ways.

Typical Daily Schedule

Morning
- 7:00 AM: Wake Up
- 7:30 AM: Morning Exercise
- 8:00 AM: Breakfast
- 9:00 AM: Morning Activity Session (e.g., canoeing, nature walk)
Afternoon
- 12:00 PM: Lunch
- 1:00 PM: Rest Period
- 2:00 PM: Afternoon Activity Session (e.g., arts workshop, science lab)
- 4:30 PM: Free Time
Evening
- 6:00 PM: Dinner
- 7:00 PM: Evening Program (e.g., campfire, talent show)
- 9:00 PM: Lights Out

Each day at Camp Chewonki is carefully structured to balance active learning, skill development, and plenty of fun, ensuring that every camper has a memorable and enriching experience.

Accommodations in Camp Chewonki

Camp Chewonki offers comfortable and rustic accommodations designed to enhance the camping experience while providing all the necessary amenities. Here’s a detailed look at the sleeping arrangements, dining options, and bathroom facilities available to campers:

Sleeping Arrangements

Cabins: The primary accommodation at Camp Chewonki consists of traditional wooden cabins nestled among the trees. Each cabin houses a group of campers and is equipped with bunk beds, storage space for personal items, and electricity. The cabins are designed to foster a sense of community and camaraderie among campers.
Tents: For certain programs, especially those involving wilderness trips, campers may sleep in tents. These are typically used during excursions and provide a more immersive outdoor experience. Tents are pitched in scenic locations, allowing campers to fall asleep under the stars.
Dorms: For specific leadership and educational programs, dormitory-style accommodations may be available, featuring individual beds in a shared space, ideal for older campers or those participating in more academically focused sessions.

Dining Options

Meal Plans: Camp Chewonki provides three well-balanced meals each day, served in a communal dining hall where campers gather to eat together. The meals are prepared by experienced chefs and designed to be nutritious and energy-boosting, catering to the needs of active campers.
Dietary Accommodations: Understanding the importance of catering to various dietary needs, Camp Chewonki offers vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and allergy-friendly options. Parents can communicate any specific dietary requirements their children might have before the session begins, ensuring that all campers receive suitable meals.

Bathroom and Shower Facilities

Bathrooms: Strategically located near the cabins and main camp areas, the bathroom facilities are communal but separated by gender. They are well-maintained and cleaned regularly to ensure hygiene and comfort.
Showers: Shower facilities are also communal with private stalls, providing hot and cold water. These facilities are designed to respect the privacy of each camper while ensuring that everyone can stay clean and refreshed.

Overall, Camp Chewonki’s accommodations are thoughtfully designed to blend with the natural surroundings, providing a safe, comfortable, and enjoyable environment for all campers. The facilities foster a community atmosphere, ensuring that every camper feels at home and is part of the Camp Chewonki family.

Activities in Camp Chewonki

Camp Chewonki offers a wide range of activities designed to engage campers in both fun and educational experiences, promoting personal growth and a deep connection with nature. Here’s a comprehensive overview of the activities, special events, and skill development opportunities available:

List of Activities Offered

Swimming and Water Sports: Summer camps can enjoy swimming in the river, kayaking, canoeing, and sailing, learning important water safety skills along the way.
Hiking: The camp organizes hikes on various trails around the area, ranging from gentle walks to more challenging treks, allowing campers to explore the beautiful landscapes of Maine.
Crafts: Artistic activities include pottery, drawing, painting, and nature crafts, where campers can express their creativity using natural and recycled materials.
Environmental Education: Activities like bird watching, plant identification, and sustainability workshops educate campers on environmental stewardship.
Farming and Gardening: Campers can participate in hands-on gardening and learn about organic farming practices at the camp’s own farm.
Rock Climbing and Ropes Courses: These activities help build confidence and physical strength, with safety always a priority.

Special Events or Traditions

Campfire Nights: Regular campfire gatherings include storytelling, singing, and marshmallow roasting, fostering a sense of community and tradition.
End-of-Session Banquet: A celebratory meal that marks the end of each session, where campers and staff share memories and achievements.
Color Wars: An annual competitive event that involves various sports and challenges, promoting teamwork and camp spirit.
Environmental Awareness Week: A week dedicated to learning about and participating in activities focused on environmental conservation.

Skill Development Opportunities

Leadership Skills: Older campers can engage in leadership training sessions, where they learn to lead small groups, manage projects, and resolve conflicts.
Outdoor Survival Skills: Workshops on building shelters, orienteering, and wilderness first aid equip campers with skills to safely enjoy and respect the outdoors.
Creative Arts Skills: Expert-led workshops in various arts encourage campers to develop their creative talents and possibly discover new passions.
Scientific Inquiry: Through experiments and explorations in natural settings, campers learn scientific methods and critical thinking skills.

At Camp Chewonki, the emphasis is on creating a supportive, educational, and fun environment where campers can develop a range of skills and form lasting friendships. Each activity is designed to nurture different aspects of a camper’s development, from physical fitness and creative expression to environmental responsibility and personal growth.

The staff of Camp Chewonki

Camp Chewonki prides itself on having a dedicated and highly qualified team of staff members who ensure a safe, educational, and fun environment for all campers. Here is an overview of the staff-to-camper ratio, the hiring process, staff qualifications, and the training and certifications required.

Staff-to-Camper Ratio

General Ratio: Camp Chewonki maintains a low staff-to-camper ratio to ensure personalized attention and a high level of care. Typically, the ratio is about one staff member for every four to six campers, varying slightly depending on the age group and activity.
Specific Activities: For activities that require more intensive supervision or specialized skills, such as swimming or rock climbing, the ratio is adjusted to ensure even greater oversight and safety.

Hiring Process and Staff Qualifications

Selection Process: Potential staff members undergo a rigorous selection process that includes detailed application forms, multiple interviews, and thorough background checks. This process helps ensure that only the most suitable candidates are chosen.
Qualifications: Staff members typically have prior experience in camp settings, education, or child care. Many are pursuing or have completed degrees in related fields such as education, environmental science, or psychology. Specialized activity leaders, like those for rock climbing or sailing, often have specific skills and proven expertise in their areas.

Training and Certifications

Mandatory Training: Before the camp season begins, all staff undergo comprehensive training that covers camp policies, child psychology, emergency procedures, and specific training related to their assigned activities.
Certifications:
- CPR and First Aid: All staff members are required to be certified in CPR and First Aid. These certifications are crucial for ensuring the safety and well-being of all campers and staff.
- Lifeguard Certification: For staff involved in water-based activities, lifeguard certification is mandatory, ensuring that they can effectively manage and supervise water safety.
- Wilderness First Aid: Staff leading trips or engaging in wilderness activities often hold Wilderness First Aid or even Wilderness First Responder certifications, preparing them for potential emergencies in remote settings.

Camp Chewonki’s commitment to maintaining a well-trained and qualified staff ensures that each camper enjoys a safe, nurturing, and enriching experience. The staff’s dedication to the camp’s mission and philosophy is evident in their professionalism and the care they provide to each camper, fostering a welcoming and supportive community.

Safety and Health in Camp Chewonki

Camp Chewonki is deeply committed to ensuring the safety and health of all its campers and staff. The camp implements stringent safety protocols, maintains well-equipped health facilities, and follows comprehensive emergency procedures.

Safety Protocols and Procedures

Routine Safety Drills: Regularly scheduled drills ensure that both campers and staff are familiar with procedures for fire safety, severe weather, and other potential emergencies.
Activity-Specific Protocols: Each activity offered at the camp has specific safety guidelines that are rigorously enforced. For example, water activities require life jackets and are closely supervised by certified lifeguards.
Equipment Checks: All equipment used in activities, such as climbing gear or boats, is regularly inspected and maintained to ensure it meets safety standards.

On-site Health Facilities and Staff

Health Center: Camp Chewonki is equipped with a health center staffed by licensed healthcare professionals, including nurses and occasionally a visiting doctor. The health center is prepared to handle routine health issues and is equipped with the necessary supplies to treat minor injuries or illnesses.
Health Screening: Upon arrival at camp, all campers undergo a health screening to identify any existing conditions or special medical needs. This ensures that all health considerations are managed appropriately throughout their stay.
Medication Management: The health center staff manages and administers all camper medications according to physician instructions, ensuring that each camper’s health needs are met accurately and consistently.

Policies on Handling Emergencies

Emergency Response Plan: Camp Chewonki has a comprehensive emergency response plan that outlines specific steps for handling various types of emergencies, from injuries and illnesses to natural disasters. This plan is reviewed and updated regularly.
Communication: In the event of an emergency, the camp has protocols in place for rapid communication with local emergency services, as well as with parents and guardians. The camp ensures that parents are kept informed of any significant issues affecting their children.
Training for Staff: All staff members receive training on how to respond to emergencies, including how to use the communication systems, first aid procedures, and evacuation routes. Specialized training is provided depending on the staff’s role at the camp.

Safety and health are top priorities at Camp Chewonki, with ongoing efforts to maintain an environment where campers can enjoy their activities safely and with confidence. The camp’s proactive approach to health, safety, and emergency preparedness ensures that all participants can have a rewarding and secure experience.

Cost and Registration in Camp Chewonki

Camp Chewonki provides a structured and enriching outdoor experience, with cost and registration details designed to be clear and accommodating to families. Below is an overview of the costs, registration process, and financial considerations including payment plans, refunds, and scholarship opportunities.

Cost of Attendance

Inclusion: The cost of attendance at Camp Chewonki includes all lodging, meals, activities, and equipment. It also covers any transportation provided by the camp for outings and excursions. Uniforms or special gear required for certain activities may need to be provided by the campers or purchased separately.
Varied Costs: Costs can vary depending on the length of the session, the type of program chosen, and the age of the camper. Specialized programs, such as those involving extensive wilderness trips or advanced leadership training, may have higher fees due to the additional resources required.
Camp Chewonki mentions they offer programs for ages 8-18. The cost is around $901 – $1000 per week.

Registration Process and Deadlines

Online Registration: Registration for Camp Chewonki typically opens several months before the camp season begins and can be completed online through the camp’s website.
Deadlines: It’s advisable to register early as many programs fill up quickly. Specific deadlines for registration are usually set for each session, and early registration discounts may be available.
Required Information: During registration, parents will need to provide camper information including medical history, dietary restrictions, and emergency contacts.

Payment Plans, Refunds, and Cancellation Policies

Payment Plans: Understanding that camp fees can be significant, Camp Chewonki offers structured payment plans allowing families to pay in installments over several months leading up to the summer.
Refunds: The camp typically has a deadline for cancellations with a full or partial refund, barring a non-refundable deposit. Refund policies are clearly outlined during the registration process and can vary by session.
Cancellation Policy: If a session must be canceled by the camp, such as due to unforeseen circumstances, families are usually offered a full refund or the option to transfer registration to a later session.

Scholarships and Financial Aid

Scholarship Availability: Camp Chewonki believes that financial constraints should not prevent a child from experiencing camp. As such, scholarships are available based on financial need.
Application for Financial Aid: Families seeking financial assistance are encouraged to apply early, as funds are limited and distributed on a first-come, first-served basis. The application process involves providing details about the family’s financial situation.
Support from Donations: Financial aid is often supported by donations from alumni and community members, emphasizing the camp’s commitment to accessibility.

Camp Chewonki aims to be accessible to all children and families interested in its programs, offering various options to assist with the financial aspects of registration. The camp’s comprehensive approach to costs, payment, and financial aid ensures that as many children as possible have the opportunity to benefit from its enriching camp experience.

Parent and Camper Preparation in Camp Chewonki

Preparing for a session at Camp Chewonki is an exciting time for both campers and their families. To help ensure everyone is ready for the upcoming adventure, here’s a guide on what to pack, understand the camp rules and policies, and tips for those new to the camp experience.

Packing List

Essential Clothing: Pack comfortable clothing suitable for a variety of weather conditions, including rain gear, hiking boots, and swimwear. Don’t forget a hat and sunglasses for sun protection.
Bedding and Toiletries: Include a sleeping bag or sheets and blankets, pillow, towels, and personal toiletry items.
Outdoor Gear: Depending on the program, bring items like a flashlight, bug spray, sunscreen, a water bottle, and any personal gear for specific activities (though most specialized equipment is provided by the camp).
Label Everything: Ensure all items are clearly labeled with the camper’s name to avoid losses.

Rules and Policies

Technology Use: Camp Chewonki encourages campers to disconnect from digital devices to fully engage with the environment and each other. Therefore, the use of smartphones, tablets, and other electronic devices is typically restricted or not allowed.
Visitation: Parents are usually welcome to visit on specific designated days, and these are communicated ahead of time. Regular visitations outside these times are generally discouraged to maintain the program structure and dynamics.
Behavioral Expectations: Respect, responsibility, and cooperation are key expectations at Camp Chewonki. Campers are encouraged to follow all rules regarding behavior, including those related to interaction with peers and respect for the natural surroundings.

Tips for First-Time Campers and Parents

Pre-Camp Orientation: Many camps, including Chewonki, offer pre-camp orientations or open houses. These can be invaluable for easing anxieties and answering questions about camp life.
Communication: Discuss how you’ll communicate. Camp Chewonki might have specific times and methods for campers to send letters or emails. Setting expectations about communication can help manage any homesickness.
Packing Together: Involve your child in the packing process. This not only ensures they understand what they are bringing but also helps them take ownership of their experience.
Discuss Expectations and Excitements: Talk about what they are looking forward to and any fears they might have. This open dialogue can help prepare them mentally and emotionally for camp.
Handling Homesickness: Remind your child that it’s normal to feel homesick and encourage them to talk to their counselors, who are trained to help ease their discomfort.

By preparing adequately for Camp Chewonki, campers can maximize their enjoyment and gain the most from their experience, while parents can feel secure knowing their children are well-prepared and informed about their upcoming adventure.

Camp Chewonki offers a unique and enriching experience that combines adventure, education, and personal growth in the beautiful natural setting of Wiscasset, Maine. With a wide range of activities tailored to various interests and age groups, Camp Chewonki ensures that every camper can find something to excite and challenge them, whether it’s through outdoor adventures, environmental education, or creative arts.

The camp’s commitment to safety, health, and high-quality programming is evident in its meticulous attention to detail—from the skilled and compassionate staff to the well-maintained facilities and comprehensive safety protocols. The supportive environment encourages campers to step out of their comfort zones, build lasting friendships, and develop skills that will serve them well beyond the campgrounds.