Welcome to Camp Mah-Kee-Nac, a picturesque summer haven for boys nestled in the heart of the Berkshires in Lenox, Massachusetts. Founded on the serene shores of Stockbridge Bowl, near notable landmarks like Tanglewood and the Norman Rockwell Museum, Camp Mah-Kee-Nac offers a rich tapestry of nature and culture, making it a unique destination for young adventurers.

Since its establishment in 1929, Camp Mah-Kee-Nac has been dedicated to fostering a supportive and dynamic environment where boys can explore their interests, develop skills, and build lasting friendships. The camp’s history is deeply rooted in traditions that celebrate growth, teamwork, and the joys of youthful exploration.

Their philosophy is centered on the belief that every boy is unique, with his own set of strengths and potentials. They strive to nurture these qualities through a personalized approach that addresses each camper’s individual needs and aspirations. This mission is encapsulated in Their motto, “Building Character Through Adventure,” which reflects Their commitment to developing resilient, compassionate, and confident young men.

Camp Mah-Kee-Nac serves boys ranging in age from 7 to 16 and offers a broad array of activities that cater to diverse interests—from sports and outdoor adventures to arts and technology. Each session is designed to empower campers, encouraging them to push their boundaries, embrace new challenges, and grow both personally and socially in a safe, fun-filled environment.

Join us at Camp Mah-Kee-Nac this summer for an unforgettable experience where the adventures are endless, and the friendships last a lifetime.

Programs Offered by Camp Mah-Kee-Nac

Camp Mah-Kee-Nac offers a diverse array of programs designed to cater to the varied interests and developmental needs of boys aged 7 to 16. Whether your child is looking to engage deeply in a particular specialty or explore a wide range of activities, Camp Mah-Kee-Nac provides the flexibility and support to ensure a rich and rewarding summer experience.

Programs and Session Lengths

Traditional Camp Program: This is the core of the Mah-Kee-Nac experience, available in two, four, or full summer (seven weeks) sessions. Campers participate in a well-rounded schedule that includes sports, arts, adventure, and team-building activities.
Rookie Camp: Specifically designed for first-time campers, this short-term, one-week session provides a taste of the Mah-Kee-Nac experience. It’s a perfect way to introduce younger boys to summer camp life.

Specialty Programs

Camp Mah-Kee-Nac excels in offering specialty programs that allow campers to focus on specific areas of interest:

Arts Program: Includes creative endeavors such as painting, sculpture, woodworking, and performance arts. Campers are encouraged to express themselves creatively and develop their artistic skills.
Sports Program: Offers intensive coaching and practice in sports like soccer, basketball, baseball, tennis, and lacrosse. The emphasis is on skill development, teamwork, and healthy competition.
Adventure Program: Focuses on outdoor skills such as hiking, canoeing, rock climbing, and survival skills. It’s designed to build confidence and leadership through challenging and exhilarating experiences.
Science and Technology: Engages campers in activities like robotics, coding, and science experiments, fostering a curiosity about how things work and innovation.

Typical Daily Schedule

A day at Camp Mah-Kee-Nac is structured to provide a balance of activity, personal development, and fun. 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 rotate through their scheduled activities)
12:00 PM: Lunch
1:00 PM: Rest hour
2:00 PM: Afternoon activities (specialty program sessions)
5:00 PM: Free time
6:00 PM: Dinner
7:00 PM: Evening activities (camp-wide games, talent shows, etc.)
9:00 PM: Back to cabins and lights out

Each day is thoughtfully planned to ensure that campers remain engaged, learn new skills, and most importantly, have fun. Whether it’s mastering a new art technique, scoring a goal, or conquering a high ropes course, every day at Camp Mah-Kee-Nac is about building character and making memories.

Accommodations in Camp Mah-Kee-Nac

At Camp Mah-Kee-Nac, the accommodations are thoughtfully designed to promote camaraderie, comfort, and a sense of belonging among the campers. Here’s an overview of the accommodations, dining options, and facilities available at the camp.

Sleeping Arrangements

Camp Mah-Kee-Nac offers traditional camp living with cabin-style accommodations. Each cabin houses between 8 to 12 campers along with two to three counselors, ensuring close supervision and a supportive environment. The cabins are rustic yet comfortable, equipped with bunk beds and storage space for personal belongings. They are strategically placed to foster a community feeling while providing easy access to the camp’s main areas and facilities.

Dining Options

The dining experience at Camp Mah-Kee-Nac is designed to be both nutritious and enjoyable, accommodating the energy needs of active campers throughout their stay:

Meal Plans: The camp offers a structured meal plan that includes three well-balanced meals per day, served in the communal dining hall. This setting not only provides nutritious food but also fosters a sense of community as campers and staff share meals together.
Dietary Accommodations: Understanding the importance of inclusive dining options, Camp Mah-Kee-Nac caters to various dietary requirements including vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and allergy-specific meals. The camp’s kitchen staff is trained to handle different dietary needs, ensuring that all campers have healthy and safe meal options.

Bathroom and Shower Facilities

The camp is equipped with modern bathroom and shower facilities that are conveniently located near the cabins. These facilities are separated by age groups to provide appropriate privacy and convenience. Bathrooms and showers are maintained with high standards of cleanliness and hygiene, with regular cleaning scheduled multiple times a day.

These practical and well-maintained facilities at Camp Mah-Kee-Nac help ensure that campers can live comfortably and focus on enjoying their camp experience to the fullest, with their physical needs safely and effectively met.

Activities in Camp Mah-Kee-Nac

Camp Mah-Kee-Nac boasts a comprehensive array of activities designed to engage, challenge, and entertain campers of all interests and abilities. Alongside these activities, the camp is enriched with special events and traditions that have become a cherished part of the Mah-Kee-Nac experience. Additionally, there are numerous opportunities for campers to develop various skills, ensuring a rewarding and enriching summer.

List of Activities Offered

Campers at Mah-Kee-Nac can participate in a wide range of activities, including:

Water Sports: Summer camps, swimming, canoeing, kayaking, sailing, and water skiing on the beautiful Stockbridge Bowl.
Land Sports: Soccer, basketball, baseball, tennis, golf, lacrosse, and archery.
Adventure Activities: Rock climbing, rope courses, hiking, and camping trips.
Creative Arts: Crafts, ceramics, woodworking, drama, and music.
Individual Skills: Cooking classes, photography, and robotics.

Each activity is guided by experienced instructors and designed to cater to different skill levels, ensuring that every camper finds something that excites and challenges them.

Special Events or Traditions

Camp Mah-Kee-Nac is home to several special events and long-standing traditions that define the camp culture, including:

Color War: A multi-day event filled with various competitive activities where the camp splits into teams to foster spirit, teamwork, and camaraderie.
Council Fires: Weekly gatherings where campers and staff share stories, perform skits, and celebrate achievements.
Visiting Day: When families visit campers, participate in activities, and observe the vibrant camp life.

These events and traditions create a sense of community and belonging among campers and staff, making the summer experience even more memorable.

Skill Development Opportunities

A key component of the Mah-Kee-Nac experience is the focus on skill development across all activities. The camp provides:

Personalized Skill Tracks: Campers can choose to focus on developing specific skills within their areas of interest, with progressive levels of difficulty and achievement.
Leadership Training: Older campers have opportunities to take on leadership roles within the camp, helping to guide younger campers and manage activities.
Competitive Sports and Arts Showcases: Opportunities for campers to engage in friendly competitions and showcases, encouraging them to refine their skills and perform under supportive conditions.

These elements of skill development are integral to the camp’s philosophy of fostering growth and confidence in every camper, ensuring they leave Camp Mah-Kee-Nac with new abilities, enhanced self-esteem, and lifelong memories.

The staff of Camp Mah-Kee-Nac

The staff at Camp Mah-Kee-Nac are a crucial part of the camp’s success, providing supervision, guidance, and mentorship to the campers. They are carefully selected and extensively trained to ensure the highest standards of safety, care, and engagement in all camp activities.

Staff-to-Camper Ratio

Camp Mah-Kee-Nac maintains a low staff-to-camper ratio to ensure that each camper receives personalized attention and support. The typical ratio is approximately 1 staff member for every 4 campers. This ratio allows staff to effectively supervise and interact with campers, ensuring a safe and nurturing environment.

Hiring Process and Staff Qualifications

The hiring process at Camp Mah-Kee-Nac is thorough, with multiple steps designed to select the best candidates:

Application and Interview: Prospective staff members must complete a detailed application and participate in one or more interviews to assess their qualifications, experience, and fit for the camp environment.
Background Checks: All staff undergo comprehensive background checks, including criminal record checks and reference verifications, to ensure the safety and security of the campers.
Specialized Skills: Staff members are often hired for specific skills or expertise, such as sports coaching, art instruction, or wilderness training. This specialization ensures that all camp activities are led by knowledgeable and capable leaders.

Training and Certifications

Camp Mah-Kee-Nac requires all staff to have appropriate training and certifications relevant to their roles, including:

CPR and First Aid: All staff must be certified in CPR and First Aid to respond effectively to any medical emergencies that may arise.
Lifeguard Training: Staff involved in water-based activities are certified lifeguards, ensuring water safety for all swimming and boating activities.
Specialty Certifications: Depending on their areas of responsibility, staff may also hold additional certifications, such as in climbing instruction, wilderness first aid, or coaching.

Continuous Professional Development

In addition to these prerequisites, staff at Camp Mah-Kee-Nac participate in a comprehensive pre-camp training session that covers:

Camp Policies and Procedures: Ensuring all staff are familiar with camp rules, emergency procedures, and the daily schedule.
Child Development and Behavior Management: Training on how to handle various age-appropriate behaviors and foster a positive camp environment.
Activity-Specific Training: Detailed instructions and practice in the specific activities they will be leading or supervising.

This extensive preparation ensures that the staff are not only qualified but also confident and capable in their roles, creating a supportive and enriching environment for all campers at Mah-Kee-Nac.

Safety and Health in Camp Mah-Kee-Nac

Safety and health are paramount at Camp Mah-Kee-Nac, where stringent protocols and comprehensive facilities are in place to ensure the well-being of all campers and staff. The camp’s approach to safety and health is proactive, with clear policies and a well-equipped medical team ready to handle any situation that may arise.

Safety Protocols and Procedures

Camp Mah-Kee-Nac is committed to maintaining a safe environment through a variety of measures:

Regular Safety Drills: The camp conducts regular safety drills, including fire, weather, and emergency lockdown drills, to ensure that both campers and staff are familiar with procedures in the event of an emergency.
Activity-Specific Safety Rules: Each activity at camp has its own set of safety rules, which are rigorously enforced by staff. For example, all water activities are supervised by certified lifeguards, and protective gear is mandatory for sports and adventure activities.
Supervision: Campers are under constant supervision by trained staff members, whether during activities, in cabins, or during free time, to ensure safety and appropriate behavior.
Secure Campus: The camp facilities are designed to be secure, with controlled access points and regular patrols to ensure the safety of all on-site.

On-site Health Facilities and Staff

Camp Mah-Kee-Nac’s health and wellness are supported by excellent on-site facilities and professional medical staff:

Health Center: The camp has a fully equipped health center staffed by licensed professionals, including nurses and on-call physicians. The health center is prepared to handle routine illnesses and injuries and is stocked with the necessary medications and medical equipment.
Health Checks: Upon arrival, all campers undergo a health check to identify any existing conditions or medications that the medical staff should be aware of. This helps in managing individual health needs throughout their stay at camp.

Policies on Handling Emergencies

The camp has well-established policies for handling various types of emergencies:

Medical Emergencies: For any serious injury or illness, the camp’s medical staff provides immediate care, and if necessary, campers are transported to the nearest hospital. Parents or guardians are notified immediately in such cases.
Natural Disasters: In the event of a natural disaster, such as severe weather, the camp has plans in place to move all campers and staff to designated safe areas.
Security Incidents: The camp maintains strict protocols for any security incidents, including unauthorized access to the campgrounds. These measures include immediate lockdown procedures and communication with local law enforcement if needed.

By adhering to these robust safety and health protocols, Camp Mah-Kee-Nac ensures a secure environment where campers can enjoy their activities with peace of mind, and parents can feel confident about the safety of their children.

Cost and Registration in Camp Mah-Kee-Nac

At Camp Mah-Kee-Nac, the cost of attendance and registration process is designed to be transparent and straightforward, ensuring that families can plan effectively for their child’s summer camp experience. The camp offers a variety of payment options and financial support to accommodate different needs.

Cost of Attendance

The cost of attending Camp Mah-Kee-Nac varies depending on the length of the session and the specific programs chosen. Generally, the cost includes:

All camp activities: Sports, arts, adventures, and specialty programs.
Accommodation and meals: Comfortable cabin lodging and three nutritious meals per day, along with snacks.
Health services: Access to on-site medical professionals and health facilities.
Transportation: On arrival and departure days within designated areas.

The camp aims to provide comprehensive pricing that covers most aspects of the camp experience, ensuring that there are no hidden costs.

Registration Process and Deadlines

Online Registration: Parents can register their children through the Camp Mah-Kee-Nac website, where they will find an online application form.
Early Registration: Early registration is encouraged, as it often comes with a discount and ensures a spot before sessions fill up.
Deadlines: Specific registration deadlines are set each year and are available on the camp’s website. It’s important to note these deadlines to avoid missing out.

Payment Plans, Refunds, and Cancellation Policies

Payment Plans: Camp Mah-Kee-Nac offers flexible payment plans that allow families to spread the cost of camp over several months, making it more manageable.
Refunds and Cancellations: The camp provides a structured refund policy, where the amount refundable decreases as the start of the session approaches. Details of this policy, including specific cutoff dates for partial refunds, are clearly outlined at the time of registration.
Cancellation Insurance: Families are encouraged to consider cancellation insurance to cover unforeseen circumstances that may require them to cancel their registration.

Scholarships and Financial Aid

Scholarships: Camp Mah-Kee-Nac offers scholarships based on merit and financial need. These scholarships can significantly reduce the cost for families who qualify.
Financial Aid: The camp also provides financial aid options. Families in need are encouraged to apply early, as funds are limited and allocated on a first-come, first-served basis.

Camp Mah-Kee-Nac is committed to making its camp experience accessible and affordable to as many families as possible, ensuring that all children have the opportunity to enjoy a rewarding summer experience.

Cost:

Full Session – $14,425
First Session – $9,600
Second Session – $8,200

Parent and Camper Preparation in Camp Mah-Kee-Nac

Preparing for a stay at Camp Mah-Kee-Nac is an exciting time for both campers and their parents. To ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience, it’s important to be well-prepared and informed about the camp’s packing list, rules, and policies, as well as to receive some tips, especially for first-time campers and their families.

Packing List

For a comfortable and convenient camp experience, Camp Mah-Kee-Nac recommends including the following items in your packing:

Clothing: Enough comfortable clothing for the session (t-shirts, shorts, jeans, sweaters), including layers for cooler evenings. Also include a rain jacket, swimwear, and a hat for sun protection.
Footwear: Sneakers, sandals, and waterproof boots or shoes for outdoor activities.
Bedding and Towels: Sleeping bag or sheets and blankets, pillow, bath and beach towels.
Toiletries: Toothbrush, toothpaste, shampoo, soap, sunscreen, and insect repellent.
Equipment: Sports gear specific to the camper’s activities (though the camp provides most equipment).
Miscellaneous: Flashlight, water bottle, laundry bag, and any required medications.

Label all personal items with the camper’s name to avoid losses.

Rules and Policies

Technology Use: Camp Mah-Kee-Nac aims to offer a technology-free environment to encourage social interaction and outdoor activity. Cell phones, tablets, and other electronic devices are generally not allowed, or their use is restricted to specific times and places.
Visitation: Parents are welcome to visit on designated visiting days, which are communicated ahead of the camp session. These visits help to bridge the gap for campers staying for longer sessions.
Behavioral Expectations: The camp maintains strict rules regarding respect, bullying, and inclusion. All campers are expected to treat each other and the staff with respect and kindness.

Tips for First-Time Campers and Parents

Familiarization: Discuss what the camp experience will involve, focusing on the exciting activities and opportunities to make new friends. This can help alleviate any anxiety.
Practice Sleepovers: For campers not used to being away from home, practicing sleepovers at friends’ or relatives’ homes can ease the transition to camp life.
Communication: Discuss how you will communicate (letters, emails, etc.), reassuring your child that they can share their experiences and feelings while away.
Emotional Preparation: Encourage independence in your child by practicing self-care routines and decision-making skills.
Packing Together: Involve your child in packing to give them a sense of control and anticipation for the adventures ahead.

By preparing thoroughly and following these tips, both parents and campers can feel more comfortable and excited about the upcoming camp experience at Camp Mah-Kee-Nac. This preparation not only helps in adjusting to camp life but also maximizes the enjoyment and growth that come from this wonderful summer adventure.

Camp Mah-Kee-Nac in Lenox, Massachusetts, stands out as an exceptional destination for boys seeking a summer filled with growth, adventure, and lifelong memories. With its stunning location in the heart of the Berkshires, a diverse range of activities, and a strong emphasis on character development, the camp provides a nurturing environment where campers can thrive. The comprehensive approach to safety, health, and staff training ensures that every camper is in good hands, while the traditions and community spirit of Mah-Kee-Nac foster a sense of belonging and teamwork.

Whether your child is returning for another summer or experiencing camp for the first time, Camp Mah-Kee-Nac is dedicated to offering a fulfilling experience that balances fun, learning, and personal development. By embracing the camp’s values and immersing themselves in the supportive community, campers leave with enhanced skills, increased confidence, and friendships that last a lifetime. Camp Mah-Kee-Nac is not just a place to spend the summer—it’s a place to grow and a place to become part of a continuing legacy of young men who are ready to face the world with courage and kindness.