Welcome to Camp Echo, located in the scenic surroundings of Bloomingburg, New York. Nestled within the picturesque region of the Hudson Valley, their camp is not only surrounded by natural beauty but is also conveniently close to significant landmarks, including the Shawangunk Mountains, known for their breathtaking views and serene environment.

Established with a commitment to fostering a nurturing and vibrant community, Camp Echo has been a home away from home for many since its inception. Their mission is to provide a safe, engaging, and fun environment where campers can explore new activities, cultivate friendships, and grow both personally and socially.

At Camp Echo, they specialize in summer programs for boys and girls across various age groups. Their camp is designed to cater to children and teenagers, offering a range of activities that encourage both physical and intellectual growth. Whether it’s through sports, arts, or outdoor adventures, each camper finds a space to thrive under the guidance of their dedicated staff.

Join us at Camp Echo, where summer memories last a lifetime and every camper leaves with a sense of accomplishment and a heart full of joy.

Programs Offered by Camp Echo

Camp Echo offers a diverse array of programs designed to meet the interests and needs of every camper. Their sessions vary in length, allowing families to choose from one-week, two-week, or full summer options. This flexibility ensures that every camper can experience the magic of Camp Echo, no matter their schedule.

Specialty Programs

At Camp Echo, they believe in providing a well-rounded experience that nurtures all aspects of a child’s development. Their specialty programs include:

Arts: Their arts program encourages creativity through activities like painting, sculpture, drama, and dance. Campers have the opportunity to showcase their talents during camp-wide arts and crafts shows.
Sports: They offer a wide range of sports programs including soccer, basketball, swimming, and archery, promoting teamwork and physical fitness.
Science: For the curious and budding scientists, their science program includes nature walks, astronomy nights, and hands-on experiments that make learning fun and engaging.

Typical Daily Schedule

A day at Camp Echo is structured to provide a balance of activity, creativity, and downtime, ensuring that all campers have a fulfilling and enjoyable experience.

7:30 AM – Wake Up
8:00 AM – Breakfast
9:00 AM – Morning Activities (Session 1)
10:30 AM – Morning Activities (Session 2)
12:00 PM – Lunch
1:00 PM – Rest Hour
2:00 PM – Afternoon Activities (Session 1)
3:30 PM – Afternoon Activities (Session 2)
5:00 PM – Free Time
6:00 PM – Dinner
7:00 PM – Evening Activities (campfires, talent shows, etc.)
9:00 PM – Lights Out for younger campers
10:00 PM – Lights Out for older campers

This schedule is crafted to promote a healthy balance of active engagement and relaxation, ensuring that every camper goes to bed with stories to tell and adventures to look forward to the next day. Join us at Camp Echo for an unforgettable summer filled with growth, learning, and fun!

Accommodations in Camp Echo

At Camp Echo, they strive to make every camper’s stay comfortable and enjoyable with well-thought-out accommodations and facilities that cater to their needs.

Sleeping Arrangements

Camp Echo offers cozy and well-maintained cabins as the primary sleeping arrangements for their campers. Each cabin is designed to house a small group of campers, typically ranging from 8 to 12 individuals, promoting a close-knit atmosphere and fostering friendships. The cabins are divided by age group and gender to ensure comfort and appropriateness. They are equipped with bunk beds and storage spaces for personal belongings, providing a homey and communal living experience.

Dining Options

Nutrition is key to keeping their campers energized and healthy throughout their stay. Camp Echo provides three well-balanced meals a day served in their communal dining hall, where campers gather to eat and share their daily experiences. Their meal plans are crafted by professional nutritionists and chefs who ensure that each meal is both nutritious and delicious.

They are fully equipped to accommodate various dietary needs including vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and any allergies. Parents can inform us of their child’s dietary requirements before the beginning of the camp session to ensure that they provide the appropriate meals.

Bathroom and Shower Facilities

Each cabin area is equipped with modern bathroom and shower facilities, shared among a small number of campers. These facilities are gender-segregated and strategically located close to the cabins for easy access. They are maintained multiple times a day by their housekeeping staff to ensure cleanliness and hygiene. Hot and cold running water is available, along with private stalls for showers and toilets, ensuring privacy and comfort for all campers.

By providing these essential comforts, Camp Echo ensures that every camper’s basic needs are met with care and attention, allowing them to focus on enjoying their camp experience to the fullest.

Activities in Camp Echo

Camp Echo provides a wide array of activities designed to engage campers of all interests and skill levels. Their goal is to offer fun, educational, and character-building experiences through diverse and exciting activities.

List of Activities Offered

Swimming: Supervised by certified lifeguards, their swimming activities include free swimming, instructional swimming, and water games in their on-site pool.
Hiking: Explore the natural beauty surrounding their camp with guided hikes tailored to various fitness levels.
Crafts: From pottery and beadwork to scrapbooking and painting, their arts and crafts workshops allow campers to express their creativity.
Sports: They offer a variety of sports including soccer, basketball, volleyball, archery, and tennis, catering to both casual play and competitive spirits.
Performing Arts: Summer camps can participate in drama, dance, and music sessions, culminating in performances at the end of the session.
Outdoor Skills: Learn survival skills, orienteering, and environmental stewardship through practical, hands-on activities.
Science and Nature: Engage in activities like star gazing, wildlife studies, and experimental projects that make learning about science fun.

Special Events or Traditions

Camp Echo is rich in traditions and hosts special events that are highlighted for many campers:

Color War: This multi-day event splits the camp into teams to compete in various sports, arts, and intellect-based activities, fostering teamwork and camp spirit.
Talent Shows: A chance for campers to showcase their skills, whether it’s playing a musical instrument, dancing, or performing a comedy skit.
Themed Dinners and Campfires: Special evenings filled with themed activities, meals, and stories around the campfire, strengthening the sense of community.

Skill Development Opportunities

Their activities are not only fun but also designed to help campers develop valuable skills:

Leadership Training: Older campers can take part in leadership programs that prepare them for roles as future counselors or leaders in their communities.
Team Building: Many activities are designed to promote cooperation, communication, and problem-solving.
Personal Growth: Through challenges and supportive guidance, campers enhance their self-confidence, resilience, and independence.

Camp Echo is committed to providing an enriching camp experience that fosters lifelong memories and skills. Whether through exciting outdoor adventures, creative arts, or special events, every camper finds something to love at Camp Echo.

The staff of Camp Echo

Camp Echo is committed to ensuring a safe, supportive, and enriching environment for every camper. Their staff play a crucial role in making this possible, and they are diligent about hiring and training individuals who are not only qualified but also passionate about youth development.

Staff-to-Camper Ratio

To provide personalized attention and maintain a high level of supervision and safety, Camp Echo maintains a low staff-to-camper ratio. Typically, they operate with a ratio of one staff member for every five campers. This ratio allows their staff to effectively monitor and engage all campers, ensuring a safe and supportive atmosphere.

Hiring Process and Staff Qualifications

Camp Echo’s staff are carefully selected through a rigorous hiring process that includes:

Background Checks: Comprehensive background checks to ensure the safety and security of their campers.
Interviews: Multiple rounds of interviews to assess candidates’ experience, skills, and fit with the camp’s culture and values.
References: Verification of professional references to confirm candidates’ past performance and suitability for working with children.

Their staff typically consists of education professionals, experienced camp counselors, and college students pursuing degrees in education, recreation, or related fields. They prioritize candidates who have prior experience in camp settings or with child care, and who display a genuine passion for working with youth.

Training and Certifications

Once hired, all Camp Echo staff undergo extensive training to prepare them for the summer ahead. This training includes:

CPR and First Aid Certification: All staff members are required to be certified in CPR and First Aid.
Child Safety and Protection: Training on child protection policies and best practices for ensuring camper safety.
Emergency Procedures: Instruction on handling emergencies, including natural disasters, health emergencies, and other urgent situations.
Program-Specific Training: Staff leading specific activities receive additional training relevant to their area, such as aquatic safety for swimming instructors or specific sport coaching techniques.

Camp Echo also conducts ongoing training sessions throughout the camp season to ensure that staff skills and knowledge are refreshed and updated. This commitment to high-quality staff and comprehensive training ensures that all campers have a safe, enjoyable, and enriching experience at Camp Echo.

Safety and Health in Camp Echo

At Camp Echo, the safety and health of their campers and staff are their top priorities. They have developed comprehensive protocols and maintain well-equipped facilities to ensure a secure and healthy camp environment.

Safety Protocols and Procedures

Camp Echo is dedicated to maintaining a safe environment with the following protocols:

Regular Safety Drills: Conduct regular drills for fire, weather emergencies, and other potential threats to ensure that both campers and staff know how to respond in various situations.
24-Hour Security: Employing trained security personnel who monitor the campgrounds around the clock to ensure safety and respond to any incidents.
Strict Check-In/Check-Out Procedures: Implementing stringent procedures for camper check-ins and check-outs to manage who enters and leaves the camp, enhancing child safety.
Activity-Specific Safety Gear and Rules: Providing appropriate safety gear for activities like swimming, archery, and hiking, and enforcing strict adherence to safety rules during all activities.

On-Site Health Facilities and Staff

Camp Echo features a well-equipped on-site health center staffed by qualified medical professionals, including:

Licensed Nurses or Nurse Practitioners: Available 24/7 to manage health needs, administer medications, and provide first aid.
Visiting Doctors: Regular visits from licensed physicians who oversee the health protocols and provide medical care as needed.
Isolation Areas: Designated areas to isolate any campers with contagious illnesses to prevent the spread of disease.

Policies on Handling Emergencies

Camp Echo has detailed emergency response policies to effectively manage potential crises:

Immediate Medical Response: Their medical staff are trained to quickly assess and respond to health emergencies, ensuring that appropriate medical care is provided without delay.
Emergency Evacuation Plans: Comprehensive evacuation plans for natural disasters or other major incidents, with clear routes and procedures established to safely evacuate campers and staff.
Communication with Families: Establishing clear lines of communication with families, ensuring that they are promptly notified in the event of an emergency affecting their child.
Collaboration with Local Authorities: Maintaining strong relationships with local emergency services (fire, police, medical) to ensure a coordinated response when external assistance is needed.

These policies and facilities are regularly reviewed and updated to adapt to new challenges and ensure that Camp Echo remains a safe and nurturing environment for all campers and staff.

Cost and Registration in Camp Echo

The cost of attending Camp Echo varies depending on the length of the session and the specific program chosen. Generally, fees for their summer camp cover all necessary costs to ensure a complete and enriching camp experience. This includes:

Lodging in their comfortable cabins
All meals and snacks, which are nutritious and cater to dietary restrictions
Participation in all activities, including specialized programs like arts, sports, and science workshops
Access to all camp facilities and equipment
Supervision and guidance from their trained staff
Basic health services at their on-site health center

The total cost for a summer at Camp Echo would be $18,500.
They also have additional trip costs for older campers (grades 8-11) that range from $385 to $$1395.

Registration Process and Deadlines

To register for Camp Echo, families should follow these steps:

Visit the Camp Website: All registration can be handled through their website where you can access the registration forms and additional information.
Choose a Session: Select the desired session length and preferred dates.
Complete the Registration Form: Fill out the camper’s information, including any medical or dietary needs.
Submit Payment Information: Payment can be completed online through their secure portal.

Registration typically opens in January and they encourage early registration as spaces fill up quickly. Deadlines for each session are usually set for one month prior to the start date, but early registration may qualify for discounts.

Payment Plans, Refunds, and Cancellation Policies

Camp Echo offers flexible payment plans to help families manage the cost of camp:

Payment Plans: Options to split the payment into monthly installments.
Refunds: Full refunds are available until one month before the camp session begins. After this, partial refunds are available depending on the time of cancellation.
Cancellation Policy: In the event of a cancellation by the camper’s family, fees may be partially refunded based on the proximity to the camp start date. If Camp Echo must cancel a session due to unforeseen circumstances, full refunds will be issued.

Scholarships and Financial Aid

Camp Echo believes every child should have the opportunity to experience camp, regardless of financial background. They offer a range of scholarships and financial aid options:

Needs-Based Scholarships: For families who require financial assistance, available by application.
Merit Scholarships: Offered to campers who excel in certain areas such as arts, sports, or academic achievements.
Payment Assistance Programs: Special arrangements can be made to assist families who may not qualify for traditional scholarships but still need financial assistance.

Parent and Camper Preparation in Camp Echo

Preparing for a summer at Camp Echo is an exciting time for both campers and their parents. To ensure everyone is ready for the adventure, here are some guidelines on what to pack, important rules and policies of the camp, and helpful tips for first-time campers and their families.

Packing List

To help campers have a comfortable and enjoyable experience, here’s what they should bring to Camp Echo:

Clothing: Enough comfortable clothing for the session (including items for warm days and cool evenings), pajamas, swimsuits, rain gear, and a sturdy pair of hiking boots or sneakers.
Bedding: Sleeping bag or sheets and blankets, pillow.
Toiletries: Toothbrush, toothpaste, shampoo, soap, sunscreen, insect repellent, and a towel.
Miscellaneous: Flashlight, water bottle, hats, sunglasses.
Optional Items: Books, writing materials, and small games or sports equipment like a frisbee or soccer ball.

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

Rules and Policies

Camp Echo has established several rules to ensure the safety and well-being of all campers:

Technology Use: To maximize engagement and interaction, Camp Echo is a technology-free zone for campers. Cell phones, tablets, and other electronic devices are not allowed. Campers will have access to a phone to call home if needed.
Visitation: Parents are encouraged to visit on designated visiting days only, which are typically set in the middle of a session. This helps campers adjust to camp life and fosters independence.
Behavior: Respect for fellow campers, staff, and camp property is expected at all times. Bullying, violence, or any form of disrespect is not tolerated.

Tips for First-Time Campers and Parents

For those new to the summer camp experience, these tips can make the transition smoother and more enjoyable:

For Campers:
- Be open to making new friends and trying new activities. Camp is a great place to learn new skills and discover new interests.
- Communicate with your counselors. They are there to help you have the best experience possible.
For Parents:
- Discuss what camp will be like well before your child departs to set the right expectations and address any anxieties.
- Send a note or care package midway through the session to give your child a boost and a little reminder of home.
- Trust the process. It’s normal to feel a bit anxious about sending your child to camp but remember, it’s an opportunity for growth and independence.

By following these guidelines and preparations, campers and parents can ensure that the time spent at Camp Echo is both fun and fulfilling.

Camp Echo offers a unique and memorable summer experience where campers can thrive in a safe, nurturing, and fun environment. With a wide range of activities, specialized programs, and dedicated staff, Camp Echo provides an ideal setting for children and teens to explore their interests, develop new skills, and build lasting friendships. Their commitment to safety, combined with comprehensive training and health facilities, ensures that every camper enjoys a rewarding experience filled with adventure and personal growth.

They understand the importance of each camper’s summer experience and strive to make it enriching and enjoyable. Whether you are a returning family or new to the Camp Echo community, they look forward to welcoming you and providing an unforgettable summer that your child will cherish for years to come. Join us at Camp Echo, where summer isn’t just a season—it’s a chance to grow, learn, and have fun under the sun!