Nestled in the scenic woodlands of Boxford, Massachusetts, in the northeastern region of the state, Camp Rotary stands as a beacon of adventure and growth for young minds. Established in 1921, this camp has a rich history of offering transformative experiences to its campers, surrounded by the natural beauty of the Harold Parker State Forest, providing a picturesque backdrop for a multitude of camp activities.

At Camp Rotary, their mission is to foster development and empowerment in a fun, safe, and supportive environment. They believe in building strong character and leadership skills through outdoor activities, communal living, and the spirit of play. Their philosophy centers on the values of teamwork, resilience, and respect for nature, which resonate throughout their programs and daily life at camp.

Camp Rotary is a residential camp, welcoming boys and girls across various age groups, typically from ages 7 to 15. Each session is designed to cater to the developmental needs and interests of these age groups, ensuring a memorable and enriching camp experience for all.

Join us at Camp Rotary, where the days are filled with exploration, learning, and laughter, all in the heart of Massachusetts’ beautiful woodland landscape.

Programs Offered by Camp Rotary

Camp Rotary offers a diverse range of programs designed to engage and inspire campers of all interests and ages. Whether you’re joining us for a week or the entire summer, each session is packed with activities that promote creativity, physical fitness, and intellectual curiosity.

Session Lengths

One-Week Sessions: These are perfect for younger campers or first-timers who are just getting a taste of the camp experience.
Two-Week Sessions: Offering a deeper dive into camp life, these sessions allow for more personal growth and development in various skills.
Full Summer Option: For the ultimate Camp Rotary experience, campers can immerse themselves for an entire summer, experiencing everything the camp has to offer and building lasting friendships.

Specialty Programs

Arts: Their arts program includes workshops in painting, sculpture, drama, and music, helping campers express themselves creatively under the guidance of expert instructors.
Sports: They offer a wide range of sports programs, including soccer, basketball, swimming, and archery, focusing on skill development, teamwork, and healthy competition.
Science and Nature: Campers can explore the natural world through science experiments, wildlife studies, and environmental conservation activities, all conducted in the great outdoors.

Typical Daily Schedule

A day at Camp Rotary is structured to provide a balanced mix of activities, meals, and free time, ensuring that every camper has a fulfilling and enjoyable experience. Here’s a glimpse into a typical day:

7:30 AM: Wake up and morning exercises
8:00 AM: Breakfast
9:00 AM – 12:00 PM: Morning activity block (campers rotate through their chosen specialty programs)
12:00 PM: Lunch
1:00 PM – 2:00 PM: Quiet time/rest period
2:00 PM – 5:00 PM: Afternoon activity block (different activities or continuation of morning programs)
5:30 PM: Dinner
7:00 PM – 9:00 PM: Evening activities (campfires, group games, talent shows)
9:30 PM: Lights out for younger campers
10:00 PM: Lights out for older campers

At Camp Rotary, they ensure that every camper leaves with not only memories and friendships but also new skills and a greater appreciation for the world around them.

Accommodations in Camp Rotary

Camp Rotary is designed to ensure that every camper feels comfortable and at home during their stay, with facilities that blend rustic charm with modern conveniences.

Sleeping Arrangements

Cabins: Their primary accommodation consists of cozy, well-maintained cabins that house 8-10 campers each. These cabins are grouped by age and gender, with campers supervised by trained counselors who stay in adjacent quarters. Each cabin is equipped with bunk beds, windows for natural light, and storage space for personal belongings.
Tents: For older campers or special wilderness programs, they offer the option to sleep in tents. This provides a more immersive outdoor experience, encouraging a deeper connection with nature.

Dining Options

Meal Plans: Camp Rotary operates a central dining hall where all meals are served buffet-style, providing a variety of options to suit every taste and appetite. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are prepared daily by their skilled kitchen staff, focusing on healthy, nutritious, and energy-boosting meals.
Dietary Accommodations: They are committed to accommodating any dietary needs, including vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and allergy-sensitive options. their kitchen staff is trained to handle special dietary requirements with the utmost care to ensure that every camper enjoys safe and delicious meals.

Bathroom and Shower Facilities

Bathrooms: Located conveniently near each group of cabins, their bathroom facilities are modern and kept clean at all times. Separate facilities are provided for boys and girls, and each is equipped with flush toilets and sinks.
Showers: Shower facilities are also separated by gender and offer privacy and modern amenities. Hot water is available, and the areas are cleaned and sanitized multiple times a day to ensure hygiene and comfort.

At Camp Rotary, they strive to make every aspect of camp life comfortable and enjoyable, allowing campers to focus on learning, having fun, and building lifelong memories.

Activities in Camp Rotary

Camp Rotary offers a broad spectrum of activities that cater to all interests and skill levels, ensuring every camper has the opportunity to try something new and exciting. Their programs are designed to enhance physical, creative, and intellectual skills while fostering a love for the outdoors and teamwork.

List of Activities Offered

Outdoor Adventures: Activities such as hiking, canoeing, and orienteering allow campers to explore the beautiful surroundings of Harold Parker State Forest.
Water Sports: Their camp includes swimming, kayaking, and fishing, with safety instructors and lifeguards always present to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience by the lake.
Arts and Crafts: Summer camps can unleash their creativity through various crafts, pottery, painting, and more, guided by experienced artists.
Team Sports: They offer a variety of team sports including soccer, basketball, volleyball, and archery, promoting healthy competition and teamwork.
Performing Arts: Drama and dance programs encourage campers to express themselves and participate in camp-wide performances.

Special Events or Traditions

Campfire Nights: Weekly campfire gatherings are a cornerstone at Camp Rotary, where campers enjoy storytelling, singing, and roasting marshmallows.
Color Wars: This camp-wide competition splits campers into teams to compete in various sports and creative challenges, fostering spirit and camaraderie.
End-of-Summer Carnival: A festival to celebrate the end of each summer session, featuring games, face painting, and performances by the campers.

Skill Development Opportunities

Leadership Training: Older campers have opportunities to take on leadership roles, helping to organize activities and mentor younger campers.
Environmental Education: Programs focused on wildlife, conservation, and outdoor survival skills teach campers to appreciate and care for their environment.
Creative Workshops: From woodworking to digital photography, specialized workshops offer skills that campers can continue to develop after they leave camp.

At Camp Rotary, activities are more than just fun; they are gateways to learning and growth. They ensure that every camper not only enjoys their time but also leaves with new skills, increased confidence, and a deeper appreciation for the community and the natural world.

The staff of Camp Rotary

At Camp Rotary, they take great pride in their dedicated and highly qualified staff, who are integral to providing a safe, educational, and enjoyable experience for all campers. They maintain a rigorous hiring process and training regime to ensure their staff is equipped to support every aspect of camp life.

Staff-to-Camper Ratio

They maintain a low staff-to-camper ratio to ensure that each camper receives personalized attention and guidance. The ratio is typically 1 staff member to every 5 campers, which allows us to closely monitor camper safety, provide individualized instruction, and effectively manage group dynamics.

Hiring Process and Staff Qualifications

Recruitment: They recruit staff from top educational institutions, leadership programs, and professional circles. Many of their staff members are former campers who are intimately familiar with the spirit and traditions of Camp Rotary.
Qualifications: All prospective staff members must have a proven track record of leadership and experience in working with children. They seek individuals with specialties that align with the diverse programs they offer at camp, from sports coaches and art instructors to environmental scientists and educators.
Background Checks: They conduct comprehensive background checks, including criminal records and previous employment verifications, to ensure the safety and well-being of their campers.

Training and Certifications

Pre-Camp Training: Before the camp season begins, all staff undergo extensive training that covers camp policies, child psychology, emergency procedures, and activity-specific skills.
Certifications: All staff members are required to hold current certifications in CPR and First Aid. Additionally, staff involved in specific activities like swimming or archery are required to have relevant professional certifications.
Ongoing Development: Throughout the camp season, they provide ongoing training sessions and professional development opportunities to keep their staff’s skills sharp and up-to-date.

The staff at Camp Rotary are more than just employees; they are mentors, role models, and leaders who inspire campers to grow and succeed. Their dedication and expertise ensure that every camper leaves with positive memories and experiences that last a lifetime.

Safety and Health in Camp Rotary

Ensuring the safety and well-being of all campers and staff at Camp Rotary is their utmost priority. They adhere to stringent safety protocols and maintain excellent health facilities to create a secure environment where campers can enjoy all camp activities worry-free.

Safety Protocols and Procedures

Activity Safety: Each activity is supervised by staff with specific training and certifications relevant to that activity, such as lifeguarding for water activities or wilderness first aid for hiking. They also conduct regular safety drills and equipment checks to ensure all gear is in top condition.
General Safety Rules: Campers are briefed on safety rules upon their arrival and are reminded of these rules regularly. These include staying within designated camp areas, using the buddy system, and adhering to all instructions given by the staff.
Weather-Related Safety: They monitor weather conditions closely and have protocols in place for severe weather, including designated safe areas and procedures for quickly moving campers to safety.

On-Site Health Facilities and Staff

Health Center: Camp Rotary is equipped with a well-staffed health center that operates 24/7 during camp sessions. The center is staffed by licensed medical professionals, including nurses and a visiting doctor, capable of handling routine health issues and initial emergency care.
Health Checks: Upon arrival, all campers undergo a health check to identify any existing medical conditions or allergies, ensuring that individual health plans are in place if needed.

Policies on Handling Emergencies

Emergency Response Plan: Camp Rotary has a comprehensive emergency response plan that includes procedures for handling various types of emergencies, from individual health crises to large-scale natural disasters.
Communication: In the event of an emergency, They have protocols in place for communicating with all camp personnel and emergency services. Parents and guardians are promptly informed according to the nature of the emergency and the need for information.
Training: All camp staff participate in emergency response training, which includes scenario-based drills and coordination with local emergency services to ensure a swift and effective response to any situation.

These robust safety and health measures at Camp Rotary ensure that their camp environment is as safe as possible, allowing campers and parents alike to feel secure in knowing that comprehensive care and safety protocols are always in place.

Cost and Registration in Camp Rotary

Camp Rotary is committed to providing an enriching and fun-filled camp experience at a reasonable cost, with options available to help make camp accessible for as many families as possible.

Cost of Attendance

Cost Details: The cost of attending Camp Rotary varies depending on the length of the session and the specific programs chosen. For example, one-week sessions typically cost less than the full summer option. The fees generally include all lodging, meals, activities, and program materials.
What’s Included: The fee covers the camper’s accommodation in cabins or tents, three daily meals plus snacks, all scheduled activities, equipment use, and 24-hour supervision by their trained staff. Additional costs might arise for special outings or optional extras not included in the standard camp program.

Registration Process and Deadlines

How to Register: Registration can be completed online through the Camp Rotary website. The process involves filling out camper details, selecting sessions and activities, and submitting medical information.
Deadlines: Registration typically opens in January for the summer session and remains open until all spots are filled. Early registration is encouraged to ensure placement in preferred sessions, as some may fill up quickly.

Payment Plans, Refunds, and Cancellation Policies

Payment Plans: They offer flexible payment plans to help spread the cost of camp over several months. These plans can be customized during the registration process.
Refunds and Cancellations: Full refunds are available up to a certain date, which is usually about one month before the session begins. After this date, partial refunds may be offered, and fees may be retained to cover the costs already incurred in preparing for the camper’s attendance.
Cancellation Policy: Specific details of the cancellation policy, including dates and refund amounts, are provided at the time of registration and detailed in the registration agreement.

Scholarships and Financial Aid

Scholarships: Camp Rotary offers scholarships to help families who need financial assistance. These scholarships are awarded based on need and funds available.
Financial Aid: In addition to scholarships, other forms of financial aid may be available to reduce the cost of camp. Families are encouraged to apply early for financial aid, as it is allocated on a first-come, first-served basis.

At Camp Rotary, they believe that all children should have the opportunity to experience the joys and benefits of camp, regardless of financial circumstances. Their pricing, scholarships, and financial aid are designed to make their programs as accessible as possible.

The summer camp fees for Camp Rotary in Boxford, MA are:

Weekly Rate: $975

Parent and Camper Preparation in Camp Rotary

Preparing for camp is an exciting time for both campers and their families. To help ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience at Camp Rotary, They provide detailed guidelines on what to pack, adhere to specific camp rules and policies, and offer tips for those new to the camp experience.

Packing List

To make sure campers have everything they need, here’s a basic packing list:

Clothing: Enough clothes for the session duration, including T-shirts, shorts, pants, undergarments, and socks. Include a jacket or sweater for cooler evenings.
Footwear: Sneakers, sandals, and at least one pair of closed-toe shoes suitable for hiking.
Bedding: Sleeping bag or sheets and blankets, and a pillow.
Toiletries: Toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, shampoo, sunscreen, and insect repellent.
Swimwear and Towel: For water activities.
Rain Gear: A durable raincoat or poncho.
Flashlight or Headlamp: With extra batteries.
Water Bottle: Durable and refillable.
Hat and Sunglasses: For sun protection.
Medications: Clearly labeled and with instructions.

Rules and Policies

Technology Use: Camp Rotary encourages a technology-free environment to help campers fully engage with their surroundings and peers. Mobile phones, tablets, and other electronic devices are discouraged and, if brought, collected upon arrival and stored safely.
Visitation: Parents and guardians are welcome to visit on designated days, typically towards the end of a session. These visitation days allow families to experience the camp environment and see what their children have been enjoying.
General Conduct: Respect for fellow campers, staff, and the environment is expected at all times. Policies regarding behavior, including guidelines for resolving conflicts and handling disciplinary issues, are clearly communicated during the registration process.

Tips for First-Time Campers and Parents

Preparation: Discuss what camp will be like focusing on the exciting activities and new friendships.
Homesickness: It’s normal. Encourage campers to write letters home and talk about the positive aspects of camp.
Communication: Understand the camp’s communication policy regarding updates and how to get in touch in case of emergencies.
Trust: Have confidence in the camp staff and the experience. Camp Rotary is dedicated to creating a nurturing and safe environment.

By following these guidelines and preparing adequately, campers and parents can look forward to a memorable and impactful summer at Camp Rotary.

Camp Rotary offers a vibrant summer experience where campers not only enjoy a variety of activities but also grow personally and socially in a supportive community. Nestled in the stunning surroundings of Boxford, Massachusetts, the camp provides a perfect setting for children to explore, learn, and develop lifelong skills and friendships.

With a strong emphasis on safety, a wide array of programs, and dedicated staff, Camp Rotary is committed to fostering an environment where all campers can thrive. The camp’s philosophy ensures that every child is respected, challenged, and given opportunities to succeed. Whether engaging in arts and crafts, participating in sports, or exploring the natural world, Camp Rotary caters to diverse interests and encourages campers to be their best selves.