Nestled in the scenic landscapes of Millinocket, Maine, Camp Natarswi stands as a beacon of adventure and growth for young campers. Located in the heart of the picturesque Katahdin region, the camp offers breathtaking views of Maine’s highest peak, Mount Katahdin, and lies on the doorstep of Baxter State Park, making it an ideal spot for nature enthusiasts.

Camp Natarswi has a storied history of providing transformative camping experiences to young girls. As a part of the Girl Scouts of Maine, it was established with the mission to build girls of courage, confidence, and character, who make the world a better place. This mission permeates every aspect of the camp’s operations, guiding both the programming and the environment in which the campers learn and grow.

Designed specifically for girls from various age groups, Camp Natarswi offers a range of activities tailored to different interests and skill levels. The camp’s programming focuses on outdoor adventure, leadership development, and personal growth, encouraging campers to explore their potential in a supportive and empowering setting.

Whether it’s hiking through the rugged trails of Baxter State Park, canoeing on pristine waters, or learning valuable life skills through teamwork and outdoor living, Camp Natarswi provides a unique, enriching experience for every camper. Join us and discover the spirit of adventure and friendship in the heart of Maine’s wilderness!

Programs Offered by Camp Natarswi

Camp Natarswi offers a diverse range of programs that cater to different interests and age groups, ensuring a memorable and enriching experience for every camper. Below is a detailed overview of the programs, their duration, specialty focuses, and a glimpse into a typical day at camp.

Program Descriptions and Lengths

Explorer Sessions: These one-week programs are perfect for younger campers or first-timers who are looking to get a taste of camp life. Activities are designed to introduce campers to outdoor skills and teamwork in a fun, supportive environment.
Adventure Sessions: Lasting two weeks, these sessions are ideal for campers who are ready to dive deeper into outdoor activities and leadership development. These sessions often include more challenging hikes, advanced outdoor skills, and extended camping trips.
Leadership Camps: For older campers, these programs run throughout the summer and focus on developing leadership skills that can be applied both in and out of camp settings. Participants engage in specialized workshops, mentor younger campers and lead camp activities.

Specialty Programs

Arts: Camp Natarswi encourages creativity through arts and crafts sessions where campers can engage in activities such as painting, pottery, and nature crafts.
Sports: Emphasizing teamwork and physical fitness, the sports programs include archery, swimming, canoeing, and climbing, tailored to different skill levels.
Science and Nature: These programs are designed to spark curiosity and love for the environment through hands-on activities like wildlife studies, astronomy nights, and ecological conservation projects.

Typical Daily Schedule

A day at Camp Natarswi is structured to provide a balanced mix of activities, meals, free time, and rest. Here’s what a typical day looks like:

7:30 AM: Wake up and morning exercises
8:00 AM: Breakfast in the dining hall
9:00 AM: Morning activity session (e.g., canoeing, hiking)
12:00 PM: Lunch and some free time
1:30 PM: Afternoon activity session (specialty workshops or sports)
4:30 PM: Free time for campers to relax or engage in chosen activities
6:00 PM: Dinner
7:00 PM: Evening program (campfire, storytelling, talent shows)
9:00 PM: Return to cabins for wind-down time
10:00 PM: Lights out

Each day is carefully planned to ensure campers enjoy a full spectrum of activities while also having enough time to rest and recharge. At Camp Natarswi, the goal is to provide an unforgettable summer filled with fun, learning, and growth.

Accommodations in Camp Natarswi

Camp Natarswi provides a comfortable and safe environment, ensuring that campers enjoy their stay while participating in the various programs offered. Here’s a detailed look at the sleeping arrangements, dining options, and bathroom and shower facilities available at the camp.

Sleeping Arrangements

Campers at Camp Natarswi stay in rustic cabins that blend into the natural surroundings, providing a classic camp experience. Each cabin houses a small group of campers along with at least one counselor, ensuring supervision and safety. The cabins are equipped with bunks and mattresses, and campers are required to bring their own sleeping bags and pillows.

For older campers or those participating in specific adventure programs, there might be opportunities to sleep in tents during special camping trips or overnight hikes. This allows campers to fully immerse themselves in the outdoor experience, learning how to set up tents and live sustainably in the wilderness.

Dining Options

Meal Plans: Camp Natarswi operates a communal dining hall where meals are served three times a day. The menu is carefully planned to provide nutritious and balanced meals that energize campers throughout their active day. Each meal includes a variety of options to cater to different tastes and preferences.
Dietary Accommodations: Understanding the importance of inclusive dining, Camp Natarswi offers accommodations for various dietary needs including vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and allergies. Parents can discuss their child’s dietary requirements with the camp staff ahead of time to ensure these needs are met throughout the camp session.

Bathroom and Shower Facilities

The camp is equipped with centralized bathroom and shower facilities that are shared among campers and staff. These facilities are separated by gender and are conveniently located near the cabins and main camp areas. The bathrooms are well-maintained and cleaned regularly to ensure hygiene and comfort.

Showers are available with hot and cold water, and specific times are scheduled for shower use to manage the flow and ensure that every camper has ample time for personal care. Additionally, environmental education about water conservation is incorporated into the camp experience, teaching campers the importance of sustainable living practices.

Camp Natarswi’s accommodations are designed to enhance the camping experience, combining comfort with an authentic outdoor atmosphere, allowing campers to focus on their growth and enjoyment during their stay.

Activities in Camp Natarswi

Camp Natarswi is dedicated to providing a dynamic range of activities that cater to all interests and skill levels, ensuring every camper has an engaging and fulfilling experience. Here’s a comprehensive overview of the activities offered, along with special events, traditions, and skill development opportunities that define a summer at Camp Natarswi.

List of Activities Offered

Swimming: Summer camps can enjoy swimming sessions in natural lakes, supervised by certified lifeguards.
Hiking: With proximity to Baxter State Park, hiking is a major activity, ranging from short trails suitable for beginners to more challenging hikes for advanced campers.
Crafts: A variety of arts and crafts activities allow campers to express their creativity, including pottery, weaving, and nature crafts.
Canoeing and Kayaking: Water sports are a highlight, with instruction in canoeing and kayaking on serene waters.
Archery: Campers can learn archery from experienced instructors, practicing accuracy and safety.
Climbing: For the adventurous, there are climbing activities on natural and artificial structures.
Environmental Education: Programs designed to teach campers about local ecosystems, conservation, and sustainable living practices.
Outdoor Survival Skills: Lessons in navigation, shelter building, and campfire safety are essential parts of the curriculum.

Special Events or Traditions

Campfire Nights: Regular campfire gatherings include storytelling, sing-alongs, and marshmallow roasting, fostering a sense of community and tradition.
End-of-Session Banquet: A celebratory banquet marks the end of each session, where achievements are recognized and friendships are celebrated.
Theme Days: Special theme days, such as Pirate Day or Superhero Day, add a fun and imaginative twist to the camp routine.

Skill Development Opportunities

Leadership Training: Older campers can participate in leadership programs designed to develop skills in team management, problem-solving, and conflict resolution.
First Aid and CPR Certification: Interested campers have the opportunity to receive training in First Aid and CPR, adding valuable skills that extend beyond camp.
Environmental Stewardship: Campers engage in projects and activities that teach the importance of environmental responsibility and active stewardship.

The activities and programs at Camp Natarswi not only aim to entertain but also to educate and empower campers, providing them with skills and experiences that will benefit them long after they leave the campgrounds. Whether it’s through mastering a new craft, conquering a trail, or leading a group, every camper finds a way to grow and shine at Camp Natarswi.

The staff of Camp Natarswi

Camp Natarswi prides itself on its dedicated and highly qualified staff, who play a crucial role in ensuring that campers have a safe, educational, and enjoyable experience. The camp maintains high standards for staff selection, training, and certifications to foster an environment of safety and learning.

Staff-to-Camper Ratio

Camp Natarswi adheres to a strict staff-to-camper ratio to ensure that each camper receives adequate attention and supervision. Typically, the ratio is maintained at 1 staff member for every 6 to 8 campers. This ratio allows staff to effectively monitor and engage with campers, ensuring a personalized and supportive camp experience.

Hiring Process and Staff Qualifications

Recruitment: The camp recruits staff from a variety of sources, including local communities, colleges, and through referrals from education professionals. Many staff members are often former campers themselves, who return because of their positive experiences and a desire to contribute to the camp community.
Qualifications: All potential staff members must undergo a thorough background check and possess relevant qualifications for their positions. For example, activity leaders are often required to have specific skills and experience in areas such as outdoor recreation, arts, or education. Counselors typically have backgrounds in education, psychology, or related fields that equip them to manage and support young campers effectively.
Interviews and Selection: Candidates undergo multiple interviews to assess their skills, experience, and suitability for the camp environment. Emphasis is placed on their ability to work with children, leadership qualities, and their commitment to safety and positive camper development.

Training and Certifications

Pre-Camp Training: Before the camp season begins, all staff participate in an intensive training program that covers camp policies, emergency procedures, conflict resolution, activity planning, and child psychology. This training ensures that staff are well-prepared to handle various situations that may arise during camp.
CPR and First Aid: All staff members are required to be certified in CPR and First Aid. Regular training sessions are conducted to ensure that these certifications are current and that staff are capable of handling medical emergencies.
Specialized Certifications: Depending on their roles, some staff members may also hold additional certifications. For example, lifeguards are certified in water safety, and adventure program leaders might have certifications in areas such as wilderness first aid, climbing instruction, or boating safety.

Camp Natarswi is committed to maintaining a team of professional, caring, and skilled staff members who are not just equipped to ensure safety and learning but are also passionate about making a difference in the lives of campers. This comprehensive approach to staff recruitment, training, and retention reflects the camp’s overarching mission to provide a premier camp experience that is both fun and enriching.

Safety and Health in Camp Natarswi

Camp Natarswi is deeply committed to the safety and well-being of all campers and staff, implementing stringent safety protocols, maintaining excellent on-site health facilities, and following comprehensive policies for handling emergencies. This commitment ensures a secure environment where campers can enjoy their activities with peace of mind.

Safety Protocols and Procedures

Regular Safety Drills: The camp conducts regular safety drills, including fire drills, weather-related emergencies, and lockdown procedures, ensuring that both campers and staff are familiar with emergency protocols.
Activity-Specific Safety Briefings: Before engaging in any activity, campers are briefed on specific safety measures relevant to the activity, whether it’s swimming, hiking, or using craft tools.
Equipment Checks: All equipment used in camp activities, such as climbing gear, boats, and sports equipment, is regularly inspected and maintained to ensure it is in safe working condition.
Secure Campgrounds: The campgrounds are monitored to ensure that only authorized persons are present, and all entrances and exits are supervised.

On-site Health Facilities and Staff

Health Center: Camp Natarswi maintains a well-equipped health center staffed by qualified healthcare professionals, including nurses and/or a visiting doctor. The health center is prepared to handle minor injuries, and illnesses, and manage any ongoing medical needs of campers.
Medication Management: The health center staff is responsible for the storage and administration of medications, adhering to strict guidelines to ensure that each camper receives the correct dosage at the appropriate times.
24/7 Availability: Healthcare staff are available around the clock to address any health issues that might arise, ensuring immediate attention to medical needs.

Policies on Handling Emergencies

Emergency Response Plan: The camp has a detailed emergency response plan tailored to various scenarios, including medical emergencies, natural disasters, and other critical incidents. This plan is reviewed and updated regularly in consultation with local emergency services.
Communication Protocols: In the event of an emergency, clear communication protocols are established to inform staff, campers, and parents. The camp ensures that there are always open and efficient lines of communication.
Parental Notification: Parents are immediately notified in the event of any serious incident involving their child. The camp maintains up-to-date contact information to facilitate timely communication.
Coordination with Local Services: Camp Natarswi coordinates closely with local emergency services, such as fire departments, hospitals, and law enforcement agencies, to ensure a rapid response when external assistance is required.

Through these robust safety and health measures, Camp Natarswi ensures that the physical and emotional well-being of campers is a top priority, enabling them to focus on enjoying their camp experience in a safe and supportive environment.

Cost and Registration in Camp Natarswi

Camp Natarswi offers a range of programs at various price points, ensuring that many families can find options that fit their budgets while still providing a high-quality camp experience. Understanding the financial considerations of families, the camp also provides flexible payment plans, scholarships, and detailed policies on refunds and cancellations.

Cost of Attendance

Inclusion: The cost of attendance at Camp Natarswi typically includes all lodging, meals, activities, and equipment. This ensures that once campers arrive, there are no additional required costs for the basic camp program. Special outings or optional activities may have additional fees.
Pricing Variations: The cost can vary depending on the length of the session, the type of program, and the camper’s age group. Generally, shorter sessions (one week) are less expensive than longer sessions (two weeks or more).

Registration Process and Deadlines

Online Registration: Camp Natarswi offers an easy-to-use online registration system where parents can fill out forms, select sessions, and submit payments.
Deadlines: Registration typically opens several months before the camp season begins and remains open until sessions are filled. Early registration is encouraged to secure a spot, as some sessions fill up quickly.
Documentation: During registration, parents will need to provide medical information for the camper, emergency contact details, and any necessary consent forms.

Payment Plans, Refunds, and Cancellation Policies

Payment Plans: The camp offers payment plans that allow families to pay for camp over several months, making it financially manageable.
Refunds and Cancellation: Full or partial refunds are typically available if cancellation occurs by a specified date before the camp starts. After this date, refunds may be reduced or unavailable, except in cases of medical emergencies, for which documentation is required.
Insurance: Some families choose to purchase camp insurance to cover potential cancellation costs due to unforeseen circumstances.

Scholarships and Financial Aid

Scholarships: Camp Natarswi is committed to making camp accessible to as many children as possible. Scholarships are available based on financial need, and the application process is confidential.
Financial Aid: In addition to scholarships, the camp may offer other forms of financial assistance or work with community organizations to provide support to eligible families.
Application for Aid: Information about applying for scholarships or financial aid can be found on the camp’s website.

Camp Natarswi’s inclusive pricing, along with its supportive policies on payments, refunds, and financial aid, ensures that all families have the opportunity to consider this enriching summer experience for their children.

Parent and Camper Preparation in Camp Natarswi

Preparing for camp can be an exciting time for both parents and campers, especially if it’s the first time. Camp Natarswi provides detailed guidelines to help ensure everyone is well-prepared and understands what to expect. Here’s a breakdown of the packing list, camp rules and policies, and helpful tips for first-time campers and their parents.

Packing List

Essential Items:

Clothing: Weather-appropriate clothing including rain gear, swimsuits, hats, and sturdy footwear for hiking.
Bedding: Sleeping bag, pillow, and extra blankets for chilly nights.
Toiletries: Toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, shampoo, and sunscreen. Insect repellent is also a must.
Equipment: Flashlight, batteries, water bottle, and any specific gear related to activities (though most specialized equipment is provided by the camp).

Optional Items:

Camera: Disposable or digital, for capturing memories (if allowed, see technology use policy).
Books: For quiet time or bedtime reading.
Writing materials: Notebooks, pens for journaling or writing letters home.

Rules and Policies

Technology Use: Camp Natarswi generally encourages a technology-free environment to help campers engage fully with their surroundings and peers. Cell phones, tablets, and other electronic devices are usually not allowed or are collected upon arrival and returned at departure.
Visitation: To ensure the safety and structure of the camp program, family visits are often limited to specific visiting days or are not allowed except for special circumstances, which should be arranged with camp staff.
Behavior: All campers are expected to adhere to a code of conduct that promotes respect, inclusivity, and safety. Any form of bullying or unsafe behavior is addressed promptly by the staff.

Tips for First-Time Campers and Parents

Pre-Camp Orientation: Attend any orientation sessions offered by the camp. These sessions provide valuable information and allow parents and campers to ask questions and ease any anxieties.
Communication: Understand the camp’s communication policies, including how often and through what means you can expect updates.
Homesickness: It’s common for new campers to experience homesickness. Encourage your child to focus on making friends and trying new activities. Camp staff are trained to help children cope with these feelings.
Label Everything: Make sure all personal items are labeled with the camper’s name to prevent losses.

For Parents:

Stay Positive: Your enthusiasm about the camp experience can greatly influence your child’s perception and excitement. Discuss the fun and new skills they will gain.
Set Expectations: Talk about what camp will be like, including the activities, the daily schedule, and even the potential for homesickness, so your child feels prepared.

By following these guidelines and preparing adequately, both parents and campers can ensure a smooth, enjoyable introduction to the summer camp experience at Camp Natarswi. This preparation helps set the stage for a rewarding adventure that builds lasting memories and skills.

Camp Natarswi offers a rich and dynamic environment where girls can explore the great outdoors, develop new skills, and build lasting friendships. Nestled in the scenic Katahdin region of Maine, the camp provides a perfect backdrop for a variety of activities designed to promote physical health, personal growth, and leadership skills. With a commitment to safety, inclusivity, and education, Camp Natarswi ensures that every camper receives a high-quality experience tailored to their interests and abilities.

From swimming and hiking to arts and crafts, the camp’s programs cater to diverse interests and are led by a dedicated staff who prioritize camper safety and enjoyment. The structured environment, coupled with a supportive community, makes Camp Natarswi an ideal choice for parents seeking a meaningful and enriching summer experience for their children. Whether it’s a camper’s first time away from home or they are seasoned veterans, the camp’s commitment to creating a nurturing and empowering atmosphere helps each girl to thrive.