Nestled in the picturesque region of Strafford, New Hampshire, Camp Foss stands as a beacon of tradition and excitement for young campers. Situated amid the rolling hills and lush landscapes of New England, this esteemed camp offers a backdrop of natural beauty that enhances the camp experience. Notable landmarks such as Bow Lake add to the scenic charm, providing an idyllic setting for a variety of outdoor activities.

Camp Foss has a rich history of fostering independence and resilience in young girls. Established with the vision of creating a nurturing environment away from home, the camp has been a summer retreat where girls can explore, learn, and grow since its inception. Here, campers are encouraged to challenge themselves, embrace new experiences, and build lasting friendships.

Their mission at Camp Foss is to empower young women through enriching outdoor experiences that promote personal growth, leadership skills, and a strong sense of community. They believe in helping each camper become the best version of herself through a supportive, fun, and engaging environment.

As a girls-only camp, they cater to various age groups, offering programs specifically tailored to meet the developmental needs and interests of campers from diverse backgrounds. Whether it’s your first summer with us or you’re returning for another unforgettable season, Camp Foss promises an adventure-filled escape where every girl leaves with memories to cherish and lessons to carry forward.

Join us at Camp Foss, where every summer unfolds new stories, friendships, and adventures!

Programs Offered by Camp Foss

At Camp Foss, they offer a diverse array of programs designed to cater to the interests and passions of every camper. Their sessions vary in length, allowing families to choose what best fits their summer plans—from one-week introductions to the full camp experience to two-week deep dives and even options to stay the entire summer. Each program is crafted to ensure that every girl gains the most from her time with us, filled with learning, adventure, and fun.

Specialty Programs

Camp Foss is proud to offer specialty programs that cater to a wide range of interests:

Arts: Dive into creativity with their arts program, featuring classes in painting, pottery, and performance arts. Campers can explore their artistic talents and even showcase their work in their end-of-session camp exhibitions and performances.
Sports: For the athletically inclined, they provide a comprehensive sports program that includes everything from swimming and archery to team sports like soccer and volleyball. Their focus is on fun, teamwork, and skill development.
Science: Curious minds can indulge in their science program, where campers engage in hands-on activities ranging from environmental science to basic engineering projects. It’s a fantastic way to learn about the world around us while having fun in a collaborative setting.

Typical Daily Schedule

A day at Camp Foss is structured to balance activity with the necessary downtime, ensuring that each camper remains energized, engaged, and excited. Here’s what a typical day looks like:

7:30 AM: Wake up and prepare for the day
8:00 AM: Breakfast in the dining hall
9:00 AM: Morning activities (campers attend their chosen specialty program)
12:00 PM: Lunch break
1:00 PM: Free time for rest and relaxation
2:00 PM: Afternoon activities (a second round of specialty program sessions or elective recreational activities)
5:00 PM: Free time for campers to socialize, write letters home, or participate in light recreational activities
6:00 PM: Dinner in the dining hall
7:00 PM: Evening activities (camp-wide games, bonfires, storytelling, etc.)
9:00 PM: Wind down and prepare for bed
9:30 PM: Lights out

Their goal at Camp Foss is to provide a fulfilling experience where campers can grow, learn new skills, and make friendships that last a lifetime. Whether you’re looking to unleash your creativity, excel in sports, or discover the wonders of science, Camp Foss is the perfect summer destination. Join us and make this summer one to remember!

Accommodations in Camp Foss

At Camp Foss, they ensure that every aspect of their campers’ stay is comfortable, safe, and conducive to an enjoyable summer experience. From cozy sleeping quarters to accommodating dining options, every detail is thoughtfully designed to make their campers feel at home.

Sleeping Arrangements

Campers at Camp Foss reside in charming wooden cabins that blend seamlessly with the natural surroundings. Each cabin is designed to house a small group of campers, typically 8-10, allowing for a close-knit community feel. The cabins are equipped with bunk beds and storage areas for personal belongings, ensuring that each camper has her own space. All cabins are centrally located near common areas and activity centers, providing easy access to the camp’s facilities.

Dining Options

Mealtime is an important part of the Camp Foss experience, not just for nourishment but also for fostering community. Their dining hall serves three well-balanced meals per day, prepared by experienced kitchen staff. They offer a variety of meal options to cater to different tastes and dietary needs, including vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and allergy-sensitive alternatives. They strive to use fresh, local ingredients to provide a healthy and delicious dining experience. Campers often help in menu planning, giving them a sense of involvement and choice in their meals.

Bathroom and Shower Facilities

Bathroom and shower facilities at Camp Foss are communal, located in separate buildings centrally positioned for easy access from all cabins. These facilities are divided by gender and are well-maintained, ensuring cleanliness and privacy. Equipped with multiple stalls and shower units, the facilities are designed to minimize wait times and provide a comfortable and private environment for all campers.

Their accommodations at Camp Foss are designed to enhance the camping experience by providing a safe, comfortable, and nurturing environment. They understand the importance of a good night’s rest, nutritious meals, and clean facilities in making the camp experience enjoyable and rewarding for every camper. Join us at Camp Foss for a summer filled with fun, adventure, and the comforts of home.

Activities in Camp Foss

Camp Foss is dedicated to providing a vibrant array of activities that cater to diverse interests and encourage skill development, personal growth, and fun. Their program includes both traditional camp activities and unique opportunities that make summers at Camp Foss unforgettable.

List of Activities Offered

Swimming and Water Sports: Their lakefront location offers ample opportunities for swimming, canoeing, kayaking, and paddleboarding.
Hiking: Explore the natural beauty surrounding Camp Foss through guided hikes along trails that range in difficulty to suit all fitness levels.
Crafts: Get creative with activities like pottery, jewelry making, and painting. Their arts and crafts program allows campers to express themselves creatively and bring home personal souvenirs.
Sports: Engage in a variety of sports such as soccer, volleyball, basketball, and archery. These activities foster teamwork and healthy competition.
Nature Programs: Learn about the local flora and fauna through their environmental education sessions, which include bird watching and nature scavenger hunts.
Performing Arts: Participate in drama workshops, dance classes, and music sessions, culminating in performances for fellow campers.

Special Events or Traditions

Camp Foss is rich in traditions and special events that strengthen the camp community and create lasting memories:

Opening Campfire: A welcome event where campers and staff gather to sing songs, perform skits, and set the tone for the session.
Color Wars: A camp-wide team competition that spans several days, involving sports, arts, and problem-solving challenges.
Talent Shows: Summer camps can showcase their talents, whether it’s singing, dancing, magic tricks, or comedy, in a supportive environment.
Themed Dinners and Dances: Regular themed events add a fun and festive twist to dining and social activities.
Closing Ceremonies: Reflect on the session’s experiences and achievements, recognizing every camper’s contributions and growth.

Skill Development Opportunities

At Camp Foss, they emphasize skill development alongside fun. Their activities are designed to help campers develop in various areas:

Leadership Skills: Through leading activities, participating in group decisions, and mentoring younger campers.
Personal Responsibility: Campers learn to manage their belongings, maintain schedules, and contribute to cabin cleanliness.
Social Skills: Living and working in a community setting helps develop communication, conflict resolution, and cooperation skills.
Physical Fitness: Regular physical activities promote health and wellness, encouraging a lifelong commitment to staying active.

Camp Foss offers a nurturing environment where each girl can try new things, push her limits, and enjoy summer to its fullest. Whether you’re looking to immerse yourself in nature, develop new talents, or simply have fun with new friends, Camp Foss is the place to be. Join us for a summer filled with adventure, laughter, and learning!

The staff of Camp Foss

At Camp Foss, they pride themselves on having a passionate, skilled, and caring staff team that ensures every camper has a safe, enjoyable, and enriching experience. Understanding the importance of supervision and guidance, they maintain a staff structure that supports their campers effectively throughout their stay.

Staff-to-Camper Ratio

They maintain a high staff-to-camper ratio to ensure that every camper receives personalized attention and care. Typically, their ratio is one staff member for every five campers. This ratio allows us to provide a secure environment where campers feel supported while engaging in activities and exploring new interests.

Hiring Process and Staff Qualifications

Their staff are carefully selected through a rigorous hiring process that includes thorough background checks, multiple interviews, and reference checks. They prioritize candidates who have experience in child care, education, or related fields. Additionally, many of their staff members are former campers themselves, who bring a personal understanding and love for the camp’s traditions and values.

Qualifications for their staff include:

A proven track record of working effectively with children.
Educational background in relevant fields, such as education, psychology, or recreation.
Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
A commitment to fostering a positive, inclusive, and safe camp environment.

Training and Certifications

All staff members undergo comprehensive pre-camp training that covers a wide range of topics essential for maintaining the health, safety, and well-being of all campers. This training includes:

CPR and First Aid Certification: All staff members are required to be certified in CPR and First Aid to respond effectively to any medical emergencies.
Safety and Emergency Procedures: Staff are trained in emergency response procedures, including fire safety, severe weather protocols, and waterfront safety.
Behavior Management Techniques: They equip their staff with strategies to manage a variety of behaviors positively and effectively, ensuring a supportive environment for all campers.
Activity-Specific Training: Staff leading specialized activities receive additional training relevant to their program area, such as sports coaching certifications, art instruction, or environmental education techniques.

Their commitment to extensive training and high standards for staff qualifications ensures that every camper at Camp Foss is in good hands. With a team that is not only qualified but also passionate about youth development and outdoor education, Camp Foss provides a setting where campers can thrive and parents can feel confident in the quality of care and supervision provided. Join us for a summer of fun, learning, and adventure, supported by the best!

Safety and Health in Camp Foss

At Camp Foss, the safety and health of their campers and staff are their top priorities. They have established comprehensive safety protocols and maintain excellent health facilities to ensure a secure and supportive environment for everyone at camp.

Safety Protocols and Procedures

Camp Foss is committed to maintaining a safe environment for all campers and staff. Their safety protocols include:

Regular Safety Drills: They conduct regular drills to prepare their camp community for a variety of emergencies, including fire, severe weather, and lockdown situations.
Supervised Activities: All activities are closely supervised by trained staff members who are equipped to handle both routine oversight and any potential emergencies.
Secure Camp Grounds: The camp is equipped with security measures that include controlled access points and nighttime security staff to ensure the safety of all campers and personnel on-site.
Water Safety: They adhere to strict lifeguarding standards at their aquatic facilities, with certified lifeguards on duty during all swimming and water sports activities.
Activity-Specific Gear and Training: All sporting and adventure activities are conducted with proper equipment and safety gear, and staff are trained to ensure that all equipment is used correctly.

On-site Health Facilities and Staff

Camp Foss is equipped with an on-site health center staffed by licensed healthcare professionals, including nurses and/or a visiting doctor. The health center is equipped to handle minor injuries and illnesses and is prepared to respond to medical emergencies. The health center facilities include:

Examination Rooms: Fully equipped for assessing and treating a range of health issues.
Medication Storage and Management: Secure storage and careful management of medications for campers who require them.
Isolation Areas: Designated areas to isolate any campers with contagious conditions to prevent the spread of illness.

Policies on Handling Emergencies

In the event of an emergency, Camp Foss has clear, well-practiced protocols to ensure the safety and well-being of all campers and staff:

Immediate Response: Their staff are trained to assess situations quickly and respond appropriately, ensuring that immediate care is provided and that the situation is stabilized.
Communication with Parents: They maintain open and prompt communication with parents in the event of an emergency, providing updates and information as necessary.
Professional Medical Support: They have arrangements with local hospitals and emergency services to provide immediate professional medical intervention when required.
Emergency Transportation: Camp Foss is equipped with vehicles designated for emergency use, ensuring rapid transportation to medical facilities if needed.

The safety and health measures at Camp Foss reflect their commitment to providing a secure, healthy, and enjoyable camping experience. They continually evaluate and update their protocols and practices to adhere to the highest standards of safety and care in the industry. At Camp Foss, parents can rest assured that their children are in a safe environment where their well-being is always the primary focus.

Cost and Registration in Camp Foss

Camp Foss strives to provide an enriching summer camp experience at a reasonable cost, including comprehensive services and amenities. They also offer a streamlined registration process and various financial support options to ensure that their camp is accessible to families from diverse backgrounds.

Cost of Attendance

The cost of attending Camp Foss varies depending on the length of the session and the specific programs selected. Generally, the fees cover:

All lodging and meals throughout the stay.
Participation in all regular camp activities and specialty programs.
Use of all camp facilities and equipment.
Health and wellness services are provided by their on-site medical staff.
Camp apparel and a memorabilia pack, including a t-shirt and a camp photo.

Registration Process and Deadlines

Registration for Camp Foss is conducted online through their website. The process involves:

Completing the registration form, which includes providing camper information, selecting session dates, and choosing preferred activities.
Submitting medical forms and dietary needs information.
Paying the registration deposit to secure the camper’s spot.

Deadlines for registration are typically set a few months before the start of the summer sessions. Early registration is encouraged as spaces in popular sessions and specialty programs can fill up quickly.

Payment Plans, Refunds, and Cancellation Policies

To accommodate different family needs, Camp Foss offers flexible payment plans that allow families to spread the cost of the camp over several months. Their refund and cancellation policies are designed to be as accommodating as possible:

Full refunds, minus a nominal administrative fee, are available up to a month before the session begins.
Partial refunds are offered up to two weeks before the session start date.
In the event of cancellation due to medical reasons, full or partial refunds may be available with proper medical documentation.

Scholarships and Financial Aid

Camp Foss believes that every child should have the opportunity to experience the joy and growth that come from attending summer camp. They offer a range of scholarships and financial aid options based on need and merit:

Need-based scholarships can cover a significant portion of camp fees for families who qualify.
Merit-based awards are available for campers who excel in areas such as academics, arts, or community service.
Special grants may be available through partnerships with local organizations and businesses to further support access to their camp programs.

Camp Foss Strafford NH offers two main session lengths for their overnight summer camp:

One Week: $1,450
Two Weeks: $2,450

Parent and Camper Preparation in Camp Foss

To help their campers and their parents prepare for an unforgettable summer at Camp Foss, they provide detailed guidance on packing, rules, and helpful tips for first-time campers and their families. Their goal is to make the preparation process as straightforward and stress-free as possible.

Packing List

Preparing the right items is key to a comfortable camp experience. Their recommended packing list includes:

Clothing: Enough clothes for the session including undergarments, socks, t-shirts, shorts, and long pants. Include a sweater or jacket for cooler evenings and a raincoat for wet days.
Footwear: Sturdy sneakers, sandals, and waterproof boots if participating in hiking.
Bedding: Sleeping bag or sheets and blankets, pillow, and a sleeping pad if required.
Toiletries: Toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, shampoo, sunscreen, and insect repellent.
Other Essentials: Flashlight, water bottle, hats for sun protection, and a small backpack for day trips.
Optional Items: Books, writing materials, and a disposable camera (if desired, as smartphones are discouraged).

Rules and Policies

Camp Foss has established rules and policies to ensure a safe, respectful, and inclusive environment for all campers:

Technology Use: To maximize engagement and interaction, the use of smartphones, tablets, and other electronic devices is restricted. Devices may be used at specific times and locations as determined by camp staff.
Visitation: Parents are encouraged to visit only on designated visiting days to help campers adjust to and engage fully with the camp experience.
Behavior: They promote a culture of respect and kindness. Bullying, disrespectful behavior, or exclusion is not tolerated and will be addressed promptly.
Health and Safety: Campers must adhere to all health and safety guidelines provided during orientation and throughout their stay at camp.

Tips for First-Time Campers and Parents

For those new to the camp experience, they offer the following tips to ensure a positive and memorable time:

Discuss Expectations: Talk about what camp will be like focusing on the fun activities and new friendships to be made.
Practice Independence: Encourage your child to take on responsibilities at home to ease the transition to camp life.
Stay Positive: Focus on the exciting opportunities and adventures waiting at camp, rather than what might be missed at home.
Communication: Explain how you will communicate (e.g., letters, emails) during their time at camp to help manage any homesickness.

For parents:

Stay Informed: Read all materials provided by Camp Foss thoroughly and attend any pre-camp meetings or orientations.
Pack Together: Help your camper pack to ensure they have everything they need and are comfortable with their belongings.
Set a Communication Plan: Discuss how and when you’ll communicate during their stay to help set expectations.

By following these guidelines and preparing properly, campers and parents can ensure that their experience at Camp Foss is enjoyable and memorable from start to finish. They look forward to welcoming you to their community and providing an enriching summer adventure that will be cherished for years to come!

As you prepare to embark on the journey of a lifetime at Camp Foss, rest assured that every aspect of the camp experience is crafted with care, passion, and a deep commitment to enriching young lives. Nestled in the scenic landscapes of Strafford, New Hampshire, Camp Foss is more than just a summer camp—it’s a community where girls can explore their interests, develop new skills, and forge friendships that last a lifetime.

With a diverse array of activities, from swimming and hiking to crafts and science, Camp Foss offers something for every camper. Their dedicated staff ensures that all campers receive the support and guidance needed to thrive in a safe and nurturing environment. The carefully designed programs and activities promote personal growth, leadership, and a love for the great outdoors.