Welcome to Adirondack Camp, a storied summer retreat nestled in the serene woodlands of Putnam Station, New York. Situated in the heart of the Adirondack Mountains, this camp offers a picturesque setting by the shores of Lake George, making it an ideal location for children to explore the great outdoors.

Founded over a century ago, Adirondack Camp has a rich history of providing a safe and nurturing environment where children can learn and grow. Their mission is to foster independence, resilience, and teamwork in a supportive community. They believe in empowering campers to be their best selves, encouraging them to take on new challenges and build lasting friendships.

Adirondack Camp is a camp that caters to boys and girls aged 7 to 17. They offer a diverse range of activities that are designed to suit different interests and skill levels, ensuring a fulfilling experience for every camper. Join us for a summer of adventure and discovery in one of the most beautiful settings in the Northeast!

Programs Offered by Adirondack Camp

Adirondack Camp offers a variety of programs designed to cater to diverse interests and age groups, ensuring a well-rounded and enriching summer experience for every camper.

Description of Programs

Their programs focus on a blend of outdoor adventures, creative arts, and sports, allowing campers to explore new activities, hone existing skills, and enjoy the natural beauty of the Adirondack region. From hiking and kayaking on Lake George to arts and crafts in their lakeside studios, there is something for everyone.

Length of Sessions

Campers can choose from flexible session lengths to fit their summer schedules:

One-week sessions for a quick and immersive experience.
Two-week sessions for a deeper exploration of camp life and activities.
Full summer sessions for the ultimate Adirondack Camp experience, where campers can fully engage with the community and participate in a broad range of activities.

Specialty Programs

Their specialty programs include:

Arts: Offering everything from painting and sculpture to theater and dance, their arts programs encourage creative expression and artistic development.
Sports: With facilities for basketball, soccer, tennis, and more, campers can participate in both competitive and recreational sports.
Science: Their science programs explore the natural world, with hands-on activities in environmental science, biology, and astronomy.

Typical Daily Schedule

A day at Adirondack Camp is structured to provide a balance of activity, personal time, and community interaction:

Morning: After waking up, campers start the day with a hearty breakfast, followed by a morning assembly and the first block of scheduled activities.
Midday: Lunch is served in the communal dining hall, followed by a rest period or free time for reading, writing letters, or relaxing.
Afternoon: The second block of activities takes place in the afternoon, offering campers the chance to try different programs or continue with their morning activities.
Evening: Dinner brings everyone back together, followed by evening activities such as campfires, talent shows, or night hikes.
Night: Campers wind down with cabin time, where they can reflect on the day with their peers before lights out.

Each day is designed to foster independence, community living, and personal growth in a fun and supportive environment.

Accommodations in Adirondack Camp

At Adirondack Camp, they ensure that their campers are comfortable and well-cared for, with accommodations and facilities that blend rustic charm with modern convenience. Here’s an overview of what you can expect during your stay:

Sleeping Arrangements

Campers are housed in traditional wooden cabins that are designed to blend into the natural surroundings of the Adirondack Mountains. Each cabin houses a small group of campers, typically ranging from 8 to 12 per cabin, allowing for a close-knit, family-like atmosphere. Cabins are equipped with bunk beds and storage areas for personal belongings. They are also strategically located to offer beautiful views of Lake George or the surrounding forest.

Dining Options

Mealtimes at Adirondack Camp are an opportunity for all campers to come together and enjoy nutritious and delicious meals prepared by their skilled kitchen staff. They offer a variety of meal plans that cater to all dietary needs, including vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and any specific allergies. The dining hall is a central hub of activity where campers can enjoy buffet-style meals that include a wide range of options to ensure that all dietary preferences and restrictions are accommodated.

Bathroom and Shower Facilities

Each cabin group has access to modern bathroom and shower facilities that are conveniently located near their accommodations. These facilities are well-maintained and cleaned regularly to ensure hygiene and comfort. Separate shower areas provide privacy, with hot and cold water available.

Their goal is to make sure that all campers feel safe, comfortable, and at home throughout their stay, ensuring a positive and memorable camping experience at Adirondack Camp.

Activities in Adirondack Camp

Adirondack Camp provides an extensive array of activities designed to engage, educate, and entertain campers of all interests and abilities. Here’s a detailed overview of the activities, special events, and skill development opportunities available:

List of Activities Offered

Water Sports: Including swimming, canoeing, kayaking, and sailing on the pristine waters of Lake George.
Outdoor Adventures: Such as hiking, rock climbing, and orienteering through the scenic trails and rugged landscapes of the Adirondack Mountains.
Crafts: Offering a range of creative pursuits like pottery, woodworking, and jewelry making in well-equipped craft studios.
Performing Arts: Summer camps can participate in drama, dance, and music, culminating in performances at the camp’s open-air theater.
Sports: A variety of land sports including archery, tennis, soccer, basketball, and volleyball.
Nature Exploration: Programs that focus on environmental education, wildlife study, and survival skills.

Special Events or Traditions

Adirondack Camp is rich in tradition and hosts several special events throughout the summer, which might include:

Color Wars: A multi-day event full of team competitions across various activities.
Campfires and Storytelling: Regular evenings spent around the campfire, sharing stories and songs.
Regatta Day: A water sports competition and celebration of maritime skills.
End-of-Summer Banquet and Awards Ceremony: A festive event to celebrate the achievements of campers throughout the season.

Skill Development Opportunities

The camp emphasizes skill progression and personal growth, offering structured skill development in:

Leadership Training: For older campers, focusing on responsibility, team management, and decision-making.
Advanced Sports Training: Specialized coaching sessions to improve techniques in individual and team sports.
Artistic Mastery: Advanced classes in the arts, allowing campers to work on complex projects and performances.
Environmental Stewardship: Programs designed to foster a deep appreciation and understanding of the natural world.

At Adirondack Camp, every day is a new adventure filled with learning and fun, set in a supportive community that encourages campers to explore their interests, develop new skills, and make lasting friendships.

The staff of Adirondack Camp

At Adirondack Camp, the safety, well-being, and personal development of their campers are their top priorities. This commitment is reflected in their staffing approach, which ensures that each camper receives personalized attention and expert guidance.

Staff-to-Camper Ratio

Adirondack Camp maintains a low staff-to-camper ratio, typically around 1:5. This ratio allows their staff to effectively supervise, mentor, and engage with each camper, ensuring a safe and enriching camp experience.

Hiring Process and Staff Qualifications

Their staff are carefully selected through a rigorous hiring process that includes:

Background Checks: Comprehensive background checks to ensure the safety and security of all campers.
Interviews: Multiple rounds of interviews to assess each candidate’s experience, skills, and compatibility with their camp philosophy.
References: Verification of references to confirm the candidate’s past work and interactions with children.

They prioritize candidates who have:

Experience: A strong background in working with children, whether through educational roles, previous camp employment, or similar activities.
Education: Many of their staff are pursuing or have completed degrees in education, psychology, recreation, or related fields.
Passion and Enthusiasm: A genuine love for working with children and a passion for the activities they lead.

Training and Certifications

All staff members undergo comprehensive pre-camp training that covers:

CPR and First Aid: Every staff member is certified in CPR and First Aid to ensure they can respond effectively to any health or safety emergency.
Child Safety and Protection: Training on child protection policies and procedures to safeguard all campers.
Activity-Specific Skills: Instructors for specific activities are often certified or have advanced skills in their areas, such as lifeguarding certifications for water sports staff or wilderness first responder certifications for outdoor adventure leaders.

Additional ongoing training sessions are conducted throughout the summer to keep skills sharp and ensure the highest standards of care and instruction are maintained.

Adirondack Camp’s investment in its staff ensures that it provides a supportive, safe, and dynamic environment for every camper, helping them to thrive and grow during their time with us.

Safety and Health in Adirondack Camp

Ensuring the safety and well-being of all campers and staff is a cornerstone of Adirondack Camp’s philosophy. They implement robust safety protocols, maintain excellent health facilities, and have comprehensive policies for handling emergencies.

Safety Protocols and Procedures

Continuous Training: Staff undergo regular safety drills and training sessions, including how to handle natural disasters, missing camper protocols, and fire safety procedures.
Activity-Specific Safety: Each activity area, especially those involving water sports or adventure sports like rock climbing, has tailored safety protocols. Equipment is regularly inspected and maintained to the highest standards.
Supervision: Campers are always supervised by experienced staff members during all activities, including free time.
Security Measures: The camp is equipped with controlled access points and security personnel to ensure only authorized personnel and campers are on site.

On-Site Health Facilities and Staff

Health Center: Adirondack Camp has a well-equipped health center staffed 24/7 by licensed healthcare professionals, including nurses and a visiting doctor.
Medical Preparedness: The health center can handle routine healthcare needs and minor emergencies. It is stocked with necessary medical supplies and medications.
Allergy Management: They take special care to manage and accommodate campers with allergies, including food allergies, with specific protocols and trained staff.

Policies on Handling Emergencies

Emergency Response Plans: Detailed emergency response plans are in place for a variety of scenarios, including severe weather, health emergencies, and other critical incidents.
Communication: In the event of an emergency, there is a clear communication plan for notifying parents, staff, and local emergency services. Campers are also educated on how to respond in these situations.
Local Hospital Partnership: The camp maintains a partnership with a local hospital to ensure quick medical response and transportation if a situation exceeds on-site capabilities.
Regular Reviews and Updates: Emergency plans and health protocols are regularly reviewed and updated in consultation with health and safety experts to adapt to new challenges or improve existing procedures.

Through these measures, Adirondack Camp ensures a safe, secure, and healthy environment, allowing campers to focus on enjoying their summer experiences while parents can rest assured their children are well cared for.

Cost and Registration in Adirondack Camp

Adirondack Camp offers a transformative summer experience, and they strive to make it accessible through transparent pricing, a straightforward registration process, and financial support options.

Cost of Attendance

The cost of attending Adirondack Camp varies depending on the length of the session chosen:

One-week session: Approximately $1,000
Two-week session: Approximately $1,900
Full summer session: Approximately $7,500

These costs include:

All meals and accommodations
Full access to all camp activities and equipment
Supervision by experienced and qualified staff
Basic health services at their on-site health center

Registration Process and Deadlines

Early Registration: Typically opens in the fall for the following summer. Early registrants often benefit from reduced rates and guaranteed spots.
Regular Registration: Continues as long as spots are available. Specific deadlines for registration are usually set around the end of spring.
Online Platform: Registration can be completed through their secure online portal, where you can also track the status of your application and receive updates.

Payment Plans, Refunds, and Cancellation Policies

Payment Plans: Flexible payment options are available to spread the cost over several months, making it more manageable for families.
Refunds: A full refund is typically available until a certain cut-off date, usually about two months before the start of the session. After this date, partial refunds may be available depending on the circumstances.
Cancellation Policy: In case of cancellation, fees paid may be partially refundable or transferable to a future session, depending on the timing and reason for the cancellation.

Scholarships and Financial Aid

Scholarships: Adirondack Camp offers a limited number of scholarships each year based on financial need, merit, or both. These are intended to make the camp experience accessible to as many children as possible.
Financial Aid: Additional financial aid may be available based on family income and special circumstances. They encourage families to apply early for financial aid, as funds are limited.

Adirondack Camp is committed to providing an inclusive and accessible environment for all campers.

Parent and Camper Preparation in Adirondack Camp

Ensuring that both parents and campers are well-prepared for the camp experience is key to a successful and enjoyable summer. Below is a guide on what to pack, understanding camp rules and policies, and tips for first-time campers and their parents.

Packing List

To make the most of their Adirondack Camp experience, campers should pack:

Clothing: Weather-appropriate clothing including rain gear, swimsuits, comfortable shoes for hiking, and sandals. Include enough clothes for a week plus a few extra items.
Bedding and Towels: Sleeping bag or sheets and blankets suitable for cool nights, pillow, bath, and beach towels.
Toiletries: Toothbrush, toothpaste, shampoo, soap, sunscreen, and insect repellent.
Equipment: Water bottle, flashlight or headlamp, and a backpack for day trips.
Optional Items: Books, writing materials, and a camera (non-smartphone if possible).

Rules and Policies

Technology Use: To maximize engagement with the environment and each other, the use of smartphones, tablets, and other electronic devices is restricted. Devices, if brought, will be collected and stored safely to be used only at designated times.
Visitation: Parents are encouraged to visit only on designated visiting days to minimize disruption and allow campers to fully immerse in the camp experience.
Behavioral Expectations: Respect for others, positivity, and a willingness to participate are core values expected of all campers.

Tips for First-Time Campers and Parents

For Campers:
- Be open to trying new things and making new friends.
- Remember that it’s okay to miss home, but there are many new experiences to be excited about.
- Engage with your counselors; they’re there to help you have a great time and feel safe.
For Parents:
- Discuss what to expect at camp with your child, focusing on the positive aspects like making new friends and learning new skills.
- Ensure all forms, including medical forms, are completed and submitted before the deadline.
- Write letters or send care packages to provide comfort and a connection to home.

By preparing thoroughly and embracing the spirit of adventure, both first-time and returning campers can have a memorable and transformative experience at Adirondack Camp.

Adirondack Camp provides a unique and enriching experience that allows children to grow in a supportive, safe, and fun environment. Nestled in the breathtaking landscape of the Adirondack Mountains and by the shores of Lake George, the camp offers a diverse array of activities, specialized programs, and a community-focused atmosphere that fosters independence, resilience, and camaraderie among campers.

With comprehensive safety protocols, dedicated staff, and a commitment to personal development, Adirondack Camp is the perfect place for young adventurers to explore their potential, make lasting friendships, and build memories that will last a lifetime. Whether it’s through scaling a rock face, performing in a campfire skit, or paddling across the lake, the experiences at Adirondack Camp are designed to empower and inspire. Join us for a summer of adventure and discovery in one of the most beautiful settings in the Northeast!