Welcome to Tamarack Camps, a vibrant and enriching summer camp experience located in the picturesque setting of Bloomfield Hills, Michigan. Nestled within this scenic suburb of Detroit, the camp boasts proximity to significant landmarks such as the beautiful Cranbrook Educational Community and the serene lakes that dot the region.

Tamarack Camps have a rich heritage, dating back to their establishment with the mission of providing memorable outdoor experiences to children and young adults. Over the years, the camp has grown in both size and reputation, fostering a nurturing environment where campers can thrive.

The philosophy of Tamarack Camps centers on the empowerment of each camper through a diverse range of activities and programs. Their mission is to create a community that builds lifelong skills and friendships, where children can grow in a safe and encouraging setting.

Tamarack Camps cater to boys and girls across various age groups, offering tailored programs that address the developmental needs and interests of each age bracket. With a focus on personal growth and community engagement, Tamarack provides an ideal setting for your child to explore the outdoors, learn new skills, and make lasting friendships.

Join us at Tamarack Camps for an unforgettable summer adventure in the heart of Michigan!

Programs Offered by Tamarack Camps

Tamarack Camps offers a diverse range of programs tailored to inspire, challenge, and engage campers of all ages. Their programs are designed to enhance the camping experience by providing opportunities for growth, fun, and learning in a supportive environment. Here’s an overview of the programs and what each entails:

General Camp Sessions

Length of Sessions: Tamarack Camps provides various session lengths to accommodate family schedules and camper readiness, ranging from one-week introductory sessions for younger campers to full summer options for the more experienced.
Activities: These sessions include a mix of traditional camp activities such as swimming, canoeing, arts and crafts, outdoor adventures, and team sports, ensuring that every camper finds something they love.

Specialty Programs

Arts: For campers inclined towards creativity, their arts program includes fine arts, theater, music, and dance. These sessions are designed to foster creativity and expression, culminating in performances and gallery displays.
Sports: Their sports programs focus on skill development, teamwork, and healthy competition. Activities range from soccer and basketball to more unique offerings like archery and climbing.
Science: The science program engages campers with the wonders of nature and technology through hands-on activities, experiments, and explorations. It’s perfect for curious minds eager to learn how things work.

Typical Daily Schedule

Morning: Campers start the day with a flag-raising ceremony, followed by a hearty breakfast. The morning typically features two activity periods where campers engage in their chosen programs.
Afternoon: After lunch, there is a rest period, followed by more activity sessions. These may include free time for campers to explore less structured activities or participate in camp-wide games.
Evening: Dinner is followed by evening programs such as campfires, talent shows, or themed nights. The day concludes with a calming bedtime routine back at the cabins.

Each day at Tamarack is thoughtfully structured to balance activity with downtime, allowing campers to recharge and reflect on their experiences. This schedule ensures that each camper not only has fun but also grows personally and socially in a safe and supportive community setting.

Accommodations in Tamarack Camps

At Tamarack Camps, they prioritize creating a comfortable and safe environment where campers can feel at home while enjoying their summer adventures. Their accommodations are thoughtfully designed to ensure that each camper’s stay is as enjoyable as it is memorable.

Sleeping Arrangements

Cabins: The primary accommodation for their campers are cabins, which are nestled in the camp’s natural woodland surroundings. Each cabin is equipped with bunk beds and storage areas for personal belongings. Cabins are grouped by age and gender to ensure a supportive and age-appropriate environment for all campers.
Tents: For specific programs, particularly those focusing on outdoor survival skills and nature exploration, campers may have the opportunity to sleep in tents. This allows for a fully immersive outdoor experience.
Dorms: Occasionally, for special retreats or specific events, campers might stay in dormitory-style accommodations which are also well-equipped and comfortable.

Dining Options

Meal Plans: All meals are provided by Tamarack Camps and are included in the camp fees. Their dining hall serves three balanced meals per day, plus snacks. Meals are served buffet-style, allowing campers to choose from a variety of options.
Dietary Accommodations: Understanding that nutrition is crucial and that dietary needs vary, Tamarack Camps offers vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and kosher options. They are committed to accommodating any other specific dietary restrictions or allergies with advance notice to ensure every camper can enjoy safe and nutritious meals.

Bathroom and Shower Facilities

Facilities: Separate bathroom and shower facilities are provided for boys and girls, strategically located near the cabins for easy access. These facilities are modern and maintained multiple times a day to ensure cleanliness and hygiene.
Privacy and Accessibility: The design of their facilities ensures privacy and dignity for all campers. Facilities are also accessible to ensure that campers with disabilities can move about comfortably and safely.

At Tamarack Camps, their goal is to provide a home away from home where campers can relax, refresh, and recharge after a day full of activities and fun. They strive to maintain the highest standards of comfort and cleanliness to ensure that every camper’s needs are met.

Activities in Tamarack Camps

Tamarack Camps offers an extensive array of activities designed to engage campers of all interests and abilities, ensuring a fun and enriching camp experience. Their activities promote physical health, creativity, teamwork, and personal growth. Here’s a glimpse into the variety of activities available and the special events that highlight the summer:

List of Activities Offered

Outdoor Adventures: Hiking, canoeing, and archery are staples, allowing campers to connect with nature and learn survival skills.
Water Sports: Swimming, kayaking, and paddle boarding take place in their safe and supervised waterfront areas.
Creative Arts: Summer camps can explore their artistic sides through crafts, pottery, painting, and woodworking.
Performing Arts: Drama, dance, and music programs culminate in performances, giving campers a stage to showcase their talents.
Sports: A variety of sports are offered, including soccer, basketball, volleyball, and softball, focusing on skill development and sportsmanship.
Science and Education: Nature explorations, astronomy nights, and science experiments make learning exciting and hands-on.

Special Events or Traditions

Color Wars: One of the most anticipated events at Tamarack, where the camp is divided into teams competing in various fun-filled activities, fostering spirit and camaraderie.
Campfires and Sing-Alongs: Evening campfires are a time for stories, songs, and bonding, creating lasting memories.
Themed Days: Special-themed days, such as “Superhero Day” or “Backwards Day,” add a whimsical twist to the routine and spark creativity.
End-of-Summer Carnival: A festive celebration with games, treats, and activities, marking the culmination of the camp season.

Skill Development Opportunities

Leadership Training: Older campers can participate in leadership programs, preparing them to be counselors or leaders in and outside of camp.
Environmental Stewardship: Through eco-friendly practices and nature conservation activities, campers learn about sustainability and the importance of protecting their environment.
Personal Growth Workshops: Workshops on topics like teamwork, resilience, and self-esteem are designed to support the personal development of each camper.

At Tamarack Camps, activities and events are thoughtfully curated to ensure that every camper not only has immense fun but also learns valuable skills, makes new friends, and builds confidence. Their rich program offerings aim to create a summer experience that campers will cherish for a lifetime.

The staff of Tamarack Camps

At Tamarack Camps, they believe that a skilled and dedicated staff is crucial to creating a safe, nurturing, and enjoyable camp environment. They are committed to maintaining high standards in hiring and training their staff to ensure the best experience for all campers.

Staff-to-Camper Ratio

General Staffing: Tamarack Camps maintains a low staff-to-camper ratio to ensure that each camper receives personalized attention and supervision. Typically, the ratio is approximately one staff member for every six campers, though this can vary depending on the age group and specific activities.
Specialized Activities: For activities requiring specific skills or heightened safety measures, such as swimming or archery, the staff-to-camper ratio is even lower to ensure maximum safety and individualized instruction.

Hiring Process and Staff Qualifications

Selection Process: Potential staff members undergo a thorough selection process that includes detailed interviews, background checks, and reference verifications. This ensures that only the most responsible and capable individuals join their team.
Qualifications: They prioritize candidates who have prior experience in childcare, education, or specific activity expertise relevant to their camp programs. Many of their staff are pursuing or have completed degrees in education, psychology, or related fields, enhancing their ability to contribute positively to their camp environment.

Training and Certifications

Mandatory Training: All staff members are required to participate in a comprehensive pre-camp training program. This training covers camp policies, child development, emergency procedures, and specific training for camp activities.
Certifications: Staff involved in health, safety, and high-risk activities are certified in CPR and First Aid. Additional certifications may include lifeguarding, wilderness first aid, and specific coaching certifications depending on the activities they will be leading.
Ongoing Development: Throughout the camp season, they provide ongoing training and professional development opportunities to ensure their staff remains knowledgeable about the latest in camp safety and educational strategies.

The combination of a rigorous hiring process, specialized training, and a commitment to maintaining an optimal staff-to-camper ratio ensures that Tamarack Camps provides a safe, educational, and fun environment for every camper. Their staff is not just employees but role models who play a significant part in fostering the development and joy of the campers in their care.

Safety and Health in Tamarack Camps

At Tamarack Camps, the safety and well-being of their campers and staff are their top priorities. They implement rigorous safety protocols and maintain on-site health facilities to ensure a secure and healthy camp environment. Here’s how they manage safety and health at their camp:

Safety Protocols and Procedures

Regular Training: All staff undergo regular safety training sessions, which include emergency response drills, behavioral management, and secure activity supervision.
Activity Safety: Each activity is overseen by staff trained specifically for that activity, with strict adherence to safety guidelines and standards. Equipment is regularly inspected and maintained.
Secure Campus: The camp is designed to be a secure environment, with controlled access and staff trained to monitor camper safety at all times. Nighttime security measures and a staff-to-camper ratio that ensures adequate supervision contribute to a safe environment.

On-Site Health Facilities and Staff

Health Center: Tamarack Camps hosts a well-equipped health center staffed by licensed healthcare professionals, including nurses and/or a camp physician available on call. The health center is prepared to handle routine health checks and manage minor injuries or illnesses.
Medication Management: Their medical staff oversees the storage and distribution of medications according to doctor’s instructions and parental consent, ensuring that campers with prescriptions receive their medications on time.

Policies on Handling Emergencies

Emergency Action Plans: Comprehensive emergency action plans are in place for a variety of scenarios, including severe weather, fire, health emergencies, and other critical incidents. These plans are regularly reviewed and updated.
Communication: In the event of an emergency, Tamarack Camps has a clear communication protocol to inform parents and guardians immediately while ensuring that the situation is being managed safely and effectively.
Training and Preparedness: Emergency preparedness is integrated into the training of all staff members, ensuring that they are equipped to handle unexpected situations professionally and calmly.

By maintaining strict safety protocols, a fully staffed on-site health facility, and clear policies for handling emergencies, Tamarack Camps ensures a safe and positive environment where campers can enjoy their activities and thrive during their summer experience. These measures are crucial in fostering a sense of security and trust among parents, campers, and staff alike.

Cost and Registration in Tamarack Camps

Understanding the financial aspects and registration details of Tamarack Camps is important for families planning their children’s summer experiences. Here is a breakdown of the cost, registration process, and financial options available at their camp.

Cost of Attendance

What’s Included: The cost of attendance at Tamarack Camps covers all camp activities, lodging, meals, and snacks. It also includes any special event costs and basic medical care at the camp’s health center. Transportation to and from the camp might be included, depending on the package selected.
Additional Costs: Additional costs may include special trips, certain specialty programs, or merchandise such as camp apparel and photographs. These will be clearly outlined during the registration process.

Registration Process and Deadlines

Registration Opening: Registration for Tamarack Camps typically opens several months in advance of the summer session. Early registration is encouraged as many sessions fill up quickly.
How to Register: Parents can register their children through an online portal available on the camp’s website. This portal will guide them through filling out necessary forms, choosing sessions, and submitting health information.
Deadlines: Specific deadlines for registration are set each year and are clearly communicated on the camp’s website and through promotional materials. Adhering to these deadlines is crucial to securing a spot.

Payment Plans, Refunds, and Cancellation Policies

Payment Plans: Understanding that families have different financial needs, Tamarack Camps offers flexible payment plans. These plans allow families to spread the cost of camp over several months, making it more manageable.
Refunds and Cancellations: The camp has a clear refund and cancellation policy, which is typically based on the proximity to the camp start date. Cancellations made well in advance of the start date may receive a full or partial refund, whereas those made closer to the date may be subject to fees or receive no refund.
Deposits: A non-refundable deposit is usually required at the time of registration to secure a camper’s spot.

Scholarships and Financial Aid

Availability: Tamarack Camps is committed to making camp accessible to all children and offers scholarships and financial aid to families who demonstrate financial need.
Application Process: Applications for financial aid can be submitted concurrently with the registration process. These applications require documentation of financial status and are reviewed confidentially to determine eligibility and the amount of aid awarded.

At Tamarack Camps, they strive to be as transparent and supportive as possible regarding the costs and registration process, ensuring that all families can plan effectively for a wonderful summer experience. They encourage parents to reach out with any questions or concerns they may have regarding financial planning or the registration process.

Tamarack Camps offers different programs with varying lengths, so the fees depend on what you choose. Here’s a breakdown of their summer camp fees:

Full Sessions (24 nights): This is their standard program with two sessions offered. The rate is $7,555 for each session.
TLV Program (First Session Only): This seems to be a shorter program. The rate is $2,500.
TLV Pro: This program requires attending the full summer. The rate is $2,500

Parent and Camper Preparation in Tamarack Camps

Preparing for camp is an exciting time for both campers and their parents. To ensure that this experience is as smooth and enjoyable as possible, here are some essential guidelines regarding what to pack, camp rules and policies, and helpful tips for first-time campers and parents.

Packing List

Essentials:

Clothing: Pack enough clothes for the camp duration, including t-shirts, shorts, pants, and sweatshirts for cooler evenings. Include swimwear, a hat, and a sturdy pair of sneakers.
Bedding: Sleeping bag or sheets and blankets, pillow.
Toiletries: Toothbrush, toothpaste, shampoo, soap, and sunscreen.
Miscellaneous: Flashlight, water bottle, insect repellent, and any necessary medications.

Optional Items:

Sports Equipment: Depending on the camper’s interests, items like tennis rackets or fishing gear might be appropriate.
Musical Instruments: For those involved in music programs.
Camera: For capturing memories (disposable or digital, depending on camp policy).

Do Not Bring:

Valuable items that could be lost or stolen, such as expensive jewelry or electronics, unless required for travel to and from camp.

Rules and Policies

Technology Use: To maximize engagement and ensure privacy and safety, the use of smartphones, tablets, and other electronic devices is typically restricted or prohibited except for specific allowed times.
Visitation: Parents are usually welcome to visit on designated days to minimize disruption to the camp schedule and allow campers to fully immerse in the camp experience.
Behavioral Expectations: Campers are expected to adhere to behavior guidelines promoting respect, safety, and inclusivity. Specific rules regarding conduct, bullying, and respect for property will be clearly communicated.

Tips for First-Time Campers and Parents

Preparation: Discuss what camp will be like focusing on the fun activities and new friends to be made. Understanding what to expect can help alleviate any anxiety.
Communication: Write letters to your camper and encourage them to write back. For many camps, traditional mail is a cherished form of communication.
Homesickness: It’s normal for some campers to experience homesickness. Encourage them to stay engaged in activities and talk to their counselors, who are trained to help.
Independence: Camp is a fantastic opportunity for children to gain independence. Encourage them to make decisions and try new things within the safe environment of the camp.

By following these guidelines and being well-prepared, parents can help ensure that their children have a positive and memorable experience at Tamarack Camps. Camp staff are always ready to assist and provide further information to support both campers and their families throughout the camp experience.

Tamarack Camps in Bloomfield Hills, Michigan, provides an exceptional summer camp experience, blending adventure, creativity, and personal growth in a safe and nurturing environment. With a wide range of activities, dedicated staff, and robust safety measures, Tamarack offers an ideal setting for children to explore their interests, develop new skills, and build lasting friendships.

Their commitment to inclusivity and accessibility ensures that all campers can enjoy the enriching experiences that Tamarack Camps have to offer. Whether through financial aid options, a diverse array of programs, or tailored accommodations, they strive to meet the needs of every family, making sure that summer memories are within reach for all.