Welcome to Camp Gregory, nestled in the scenic heart of Aurora, New York. Surrounded by the lush landscapes of the Finger Lakes region and situated near the iconic Cayuga Lake, Camp Gregory provides a picturesque backdrop for unforgettable summer experiences.

Founded in 1965, Camp Gregory has a storied history of offering youth a sanctuary to explore, learn, and grow. What began as a modest initiative to connect children with nature has evolved into a vibrant community where campers build life-long friendships and develop new skills through adventure and collaborative learning.

At Camp Gregory, they are guided by their mission to foster independence, curiosity, and a deep respect for the natural world. They believe in the transformative power of camp, where every child can thrive in a supportive, inclusive environment.

They cater to both boys and girls, welcoming campers aged 7 to 17. Their programs are thoughtfully designed to meet the developmental needs of different age groups, ensuring a supportive and engaging experience for all. Whether through hiking, canoeing, arts and crafts, or team sports, every activity at Camp Gregory is an opportunity to inspire and be inspired.

Join us at Camp Gregory, where summer adventures await, friendships flourish, and the joy of discovery is around every corner.

Programs Offered by Camp Gregory

Camp Gregory offers a diverse array of programs designed to cater to various interests and age groups, making each camper’s experience both enriching and memorable. Whether you’re joining us for a single week or the full summer, their programs are structured to provide engaging, fun, and educational experiences that resonate long after summer ends.

Program Descriptions and Session Lengths

Explorer Camps: Designed for their youngest campers aged 7-10, these one-week sessions introduce the basics of outdoor activities, crafts, and team games in a supportive and nurturing environment.
Adventure Camps: For campers aged 11-14, these two-week sessions dive deeper into skill development with more challenging activities, including intermediate hiking, canoeing, and survival skills.
Leadership Camps: Aimed at teenagers aged 15-17, these three-week sessions focus on developing leadership and teamwork skills through advanced camp activities and special projects that contribute to camp and the local community.
Full Summer Program: For the ultimate Camp Gregory experience, campers can join for an eight-week session that combines all elements of the shorter sessions with additional exclusive activities and guest events.

Specialty Programs

Camp Gregory is proud to offer specialty programs that focus on specific interests:

Arts Camp: Dive into creativity with workshops in painting, pottery, photography, and theater. Campers can explore their artistic talents while surrounded by inspiring natural beauty.
Sports Camp: This program emphasizes physical fitness and skill development in a variety of sports, including soccer, basketball, swimming, and archery, promoting teamwork and healthy competition.
Science Camp: For curious minds, their science camp offers hands-on experiments and explorations in environmental science, astronomy, and more, encouraging scientific inquiry and discovery.

Typical Daily Schedule

A day at Camp Gregory is thoughtfully structured to balance activity with downtime, ensuring that campers stay engaged and energized throughout their stay:

7:30 AM: Wake up and morning exercise
8:00 AM: Breakfast
9:00 AM: Morning activities (varies by program)
12:00 PM: Lunch
1:00 PM: Quiet time/rest period
2:00 PM: Afternoon activities (specialty program focus)
5:00 PM: Free time
6:00 PM: Dinner
7:00 PM: Evening activities (campfires, storytelling, night hikes)
9:00 PM: Lights out for younger campers
10:00 PM: Lights out for older campers

Every aspect of Camp Gregory’s schedule and programming is designed to foster a sense of community, encourage personal growth, and make each camper’s summer an adventure they will cherish forever. Whether through art, sports, or science, there’s something at Camp Gregory for every young adventurer.

Accommodations in Camp Gregory

Camp Gregory is well-equipped to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable stay for all campers, with facilities designed to blend seamlessly with the natural surroundings while providing modern conveniences and safety.

Sleeping Arrangements

Cabins: Their primary accommodation option consists of cozy, rustic cabins that house 8-10 campers each. Cabins are divided by age group and gender to ensure comfort and appropriateness. Each cabin is outfitted with bunk beds, and personal storage areas, and has nearby access to bathroom facilities. They are also supervised by experienced counselors who stay in adjacent quarters to provide oversight and assistance.
Tents: For specific programs like the Adventure and Leadership Camps, there are opportunities to sleep in tents during special overnight excursions. This allows campers to fully immerse themselves in the wilderness experience under safe and supervised conditions.

Dining Options

Meal Plans: Camp Gregory prides itself on its comprehensive meal plan that includes three balanced meals per day, served in their communal dining hall. The menu is thoughtfully crafted to provide nutritious, kid-friendly options that keep campers fueled and ready for their day of activities.
Dietary Accommodations: Understanding the importance of inclusive dining, they cater to various 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, ensuring that all campers have healthy and enjoyable meal options.

Bathroom and Shower Facilities

Facilities: Each cabin group has access to a modern bathroom and shower facilities located conveniently nearby. These facilities are gender-segregated and equipped with flush toilets, private shower stalls, and sinks. They are maintained multiple times a day to ensure cleanliness and hygiene.
Environmentally Friendly Practices: In keeping with their mission to respect and protect the natural environment, their facilities use eco-friendly products and practices, including water-saving fixtures and non-toxic cleaning agents.

At Camp Gregory, they strive to make every camper’s stay not just enjoyable but also comfortable, with accommodations that cater to their needs and help them feel at home. Whether resting in a cozy cabin after a day full of activities or enjoying a meal tailored to their dietary needs, campers are well cared for in every aspect of their camp life.

Activities in Camp Gregory

Camp Gregory is a hub of activity, offering a wide range of programs that cater to all interests and skill levels. Their activities are designed not only for fun but also for personal growth and learning. Here’s a look at what campers can expect during their stay:

List of Activities Offered

Outdoor Adventures: Hiking, canoeing, archery, and rock climbing.
Water Sports: Summer camps, swimming, kayaking, and fishing in Cayuga Lake.
Creative Arts: Crafts such as pottery, painting, and photography.
Performing Arts: Drama, dance, and music workshops.
Team Sports: Soccer, basketball, volleyball, and ultimate frisbee.
Nature Exploration: Bird watching, star gazing, and environmental education.
Skill Workshops: Survival skills, orienteering, and first aid training.

Special Events or Traditions

Opening Campfire: A welcoming night of songs, skits, and introductions that help set the tone for the camp season.
Color Wars: An all-camp event where teams compete in various challenges, fostering spirit, teamwork, and friendly competition.
Talent Shows: Campers showcase their talents, whether it’s playing a musical instrument, singing, dancing, or performing magic tricks.
End-of-Summer Banquet: A special dinner to celebrate the achievements of the summer, complete with awards and recognitions.
Family Day: An opportunity for families to visit, participate in activities, and see what their children have been up to at camp.

Skill Development Opportunities

Camp Gregory is committed to offering programs that not only entertain but also enrich. Each activity is an opportunity to develop specific skills:

Leadership and Teamwork: Through sports and group challenges, campers learn about leadership, cooperation, and effective communication.
Creative Expression: Arts and crafts provide a platform for creativity and innovation, allowing campers to express themselves uniquely.
Physical Fitness: Regular participation in sports and outdoor activities promotes physical health and teaches the value of staying active.
Environmental Awareness: Activities like hiking and nature exploration help campers develop a deeper appreciation for the environment and learn about conservation efforts.
Problem-Solving Skills: Programs such as orienteering and survival skills challenge campers to think critically and solve problems creatively.

At Camp Gregory, every day is an adventure filled with opportunities to learn, grow, and have fun. Whether a camper is here to improve a specific skill, make new friends, or simply enjoy the great outdoors, there’s something here for everyone.

The staff of Camp Gregory

Camp Gregory is committed to providing a safe, supportive, and enriching environment for all campers. This commitment is upheld by their dedicated staff, who are meticulously selected and trained to meet the highest standards of care and expertise.

Staff-to-Camper Ratio

General Camp Staff: They maintain a staff-to-camper ratio of 1:5, ensuring that every camper receives personalized attention and supervision.
Specialized Activities: For activities requiring more specialized skills or safety measures, such as swimming or rock climbing, the ratio is adjusted to 1:3 to ensure optimal supervision and instruction.

Hiring Process and Staff Qualifications

Recruitment: Camp Gregory recruits staff from a variety of sources, including top universities, teacher associations, and through referrals from within the camp community.
Qualifications: All staff members are required to have previous experience in child care or a related field. Specific roles, such as activity specialists or lifeguards, require relevant qualifications and proven expertise.
Background Checks: Comprehensive background checks, including criminal records and previous employment verification, are mandatory for all potential staff members.

Training and Certifications

Pre-Camp Training: Before the camp season begins, all staff undergo an extensive training program. This includes sessions on child development, emergency procedures, conflict resolution, and activity-specific safety.
Certifications: All staff members are required to be certified in CPR and First Aid. Instructors for specialized activities such as swimming and rock climbing hold additional certifications from recognized authorities (e.g., Red Cross lifeguard certification, Certified Climbing Instructor).
Ongoing Training: Throughout the camp season, staff receive ongoing training and feedback to ensure they continue to meet Camp Gregory’s standards of excellence. Regular performance reviews and opportunities for professional development help maintain high levels of enthusiasm and expertise.

Camp Gregory’s staff are not just supervisors or instructors; they are role models and mentors who play an integral role in creating a camp environment where every child can thrive. Their professionalism, combined with a genuine passion for youth development, ensures that every camper’s experience is safe, enjoyable, and enriching.

Safety and Health in Camp Gregory

Camp Gregory takes the safety and health of its campers very seriously, with comprehensive protocols and facilities in place to ensure a secure and supportive environment. Here’s how they manage safety and health at Camp:

Safety Protocols and Procedures

Regular Drills: Camp Gregory conducts regular safety drills, including fire, weather, and lockdown drills, to ensure that both campers and staff are familiar with emergency procedures.
Activity-Specific Protocols: Each activity at Camp Gregory comes with a specific set of safety protocols. For example, water activities require life jackets and are always supervised by certified lifeguards. Similarly, activities like rock climbing involve harnesses and are led by certified climbing instructors.
24-Hour Supervision: Campers are under constant supervision by camp staff, with counselors staying in or adjacent to camper accommodations and all areas of the camp being monitored for safety.

On-Site Health Facilities and Staff

Health Center: Camp Gregory is equipped with a well-staffed health center that operates 24/7. The center is staffed by licensed healthcare professionals, including a registered nurse (RN) and a paramedic or physician’s assistant (PA), capable of handling routine health issues and initial emergency care.
Health Screenings: Upon arrival, all campers undergo health screenings to identify any existing conditions or needs that may require attention during their stay. This also includes updates on any allergies or medications.
Medication Management: The health center staff is responsible for storing and administering all medications. Campers’ medication schedules are strictly managed to adhere to prescribed times and dosages.

Policies on Handling Emergencies

Emergency Response Plan: Camp Gregory has a detailed emergency response plan, which includes protocols for various scenarios, including natural disasters, medical emergencies, and other critical incidents. This plan is regularly reviewed and updated to adapt to new safety standards and situations.
Communication with Parents: In the event of an emergency, Camp Gregory has a clear communication plan to keep parents informed. This includes immediate notifications through phone calls and emails, followed by regular updates as the situation evolves.
Local Collaborations: Camp Gregory collaborates with local emergency services (fire department, police, hospitals) to ensure quick responses when external assistance is required. Regular meetings and joint drills with these services help maintain a strong partnership and familiarity with the camp’s layout and procedures.

At Camp Gregory, the safety and health of every camper are paramount. Their comprehensive measures and dedicated staff ensure that parents can rest assured their children are in a safe, caring, and professional environment.

Cost and Registration in Camp Gregory

Camp Gregory strives to make its camp experiences accessible and affordable for families, offering transparent pricing, a straightforward registration process, and financial support options. Here’s an overview of the cost, registration, and financial policies:

Cost of Attendance and What It Includes

Cost Range: The cost of attending Camp Gregory ranges from $500 for one-week sessions to $3,200 for the full eight-week summer program. Prices vary depending on the length of the session and the specific program chosen.
Inclusions: The cost of attendance includes all lodging, meals, activities, equipment, and 24-hour supervision. It also covers any special events, T-shirts, and other camp memorabilia. Transportation to and from Camp Gregory is not included but can be arranged for an additional fee.

Registration Process and Deadlines

Online Registration: Families can register their children via Camp Gregory’s online portal. The registration process includes filling out camper information, and medical history, and selecting preferred sessions.
Deadlines: Early registration typically opens in January and runs through March, offering a discount for early commitments. The final deadline for summer registration is usually at the end of May, but spaces can fill up well before then, so early registration is encouraged.
Confirmation: Once registered, families will receive a confirmation email with additional details about preparing for camp, including packing lists, arrival times, and orientation schedules.

Payment Plans, Refunds, and Cancellation Policies

Payment Plans: To assist families in managing the cost of camp, Camp Gregory offers structured payment plans. These allow the camp fees to be paid in installments leading up to the start of the session.
Refunds: Full refunds are available until a month before the session begins. After this point, partial refunds are offered on a sliding scale, depending on how close the cancellation is to the session start date. Medical cancellations are handled on a case-by-case basis with the possibility of a full refund with a doctor’s note.
Cancellations: If Camp Gregory must cancel a session due to unforeseen circumstances (e.g., extreme weather, health emergencies), full refunds or alternative session enrollments will be offered.

Scholarships and Financial Aid

Scholarships: Camp Gregory is committed to inclusivity and provides need-based scholarships to help cover the costs for families who require financial assistance. These scholarships can cover up to 50% of camp fees.
Financial Aid: Additional financial aid is available through various programs and can be applied for during the registration process. Documentation of financial need is required to ensure aid is allocated to families who need it most.

Camp Gregory aims to ensure that all children have the opportunity to experience the joy and growth that comes from attending summer camp, regardless of financial circumstances. Families are encouraged to explore all available options to support their campers in joining their vibrant community.

Parent and Camper Preparation in Camp Gregory

Preparing for a summer at Camp Gregory is an exciting time for both campers and their families. To ensure everyone is ready for a great camp experience, here are guidelines on what to pack, understand the camp’s rules and policies, and tips for first-time campers and parents.

Packing List

To help campers have a comfortable and enjoyable stay, here’s a recommended packing list:

Clothing: Pack enough for 7-10 days, including t-shirts, shorts, jeans, and layering options like sweaters or jackets. Include swimwear, a raincoat, and a sturdy pair of hiking boots or trail shoes.
Bedding: Bring a sleeping bag or sheets and blankets (check the size requirements for camp beds), plus a pillow.
Toiletries: Toothbrush, toothpaste, shampoo, soap, sunscreen, insect repellent, and a small first aid kit. Include a towel for bathing and another for swimming.
Gear: Flashlight or headlamp with extra batteries, water bottle, and optional items like a camera or binoculars.
Special Items: Musical instruments, costumes for themed events, sports equipment, and any specific items required for specialty camps.
Label Everything: Ensure all items are labeled with the camper’s name to avoid mix-ups or losses.

Rules and Policies

Technology Use: Camp Gregory aims to help campers disconnect from digital devices and connect with nature and each other. Therefore, the use of smartphones, tablets, and other electronic devices is restricted to certain times and areas, if at all.
Visitation: Parents and family members are welcome on designated Family Days, which are scheduled in advance. Outside of these days, visitations are discouraged to help campers stay focused on their camp experience.
Behavioral Expectations: Campers are expected to adhere to guidelines that promote respect, safety, and inclusivity. Bullying, violence, and the use of prohibited substances are strictly forbidden.

Tips for First-Time Campers and Parents

Pre-Camp Preparation: Discuss what camp will be like focusing on the exciting activities and new friendships. Address any anxieties by walking through the camp’s daily schedule and looking at pictures or videos of the camp.
Stay Positive: Especially for first-time campers, homesickness can be common. Parents should maintain a positive tone when discussing camp, emphasizing the fun and growth that awaits.
Communication: Understand the camp’s communication policies, including how and when campers can contact their families.
Trust and Let Go: For many parents, sending a child to camp for the first time can be challenging. Trust in the camp staff and their expertise, knowing that your child is in a safe and enriching environment.

By following these guidelines, packing appropriately, and understanding the camp’s rules, first-time campers and their parents can feel more at ease and excited about the upcoming adventure at Camp Gregory.

Camp Gregory offers a vibrant, enriching summer experience where children from ages 7 to 17 can explore, learn, and grow in the picturesque setting of Aurora, New York. With a wide array of activities, from outdoor adventures and sports to creative arts and science, Camp Gregory caters to diverse interests and fosters a spirit of discovery and camaraderie among its campers. Supported by dedicated staff, comprehensive safety protocols, and a welcoming community, Camp Gregory ensures a summer filled with fun, friendship, and personal growth.

Whether it’s a camper’s first time or they’re returning for another unforgettable season, Camp Gregory is a place where summer memories are made, and life skills are nurtured. Here, every camper is not just attending a camp; they are becoming a part of a community that celebrates the joys of childhood in the great outdoors.