Nestled in the picturesque surroundings of Glen Spey, New York, Camp Lokanda stands as a beacon of adventure and learning. This esteemed summer camp, surrounded by the natural beauty of New York State’s scenic landscapes, provides a perfect backdrop for youth development and fun.

Founded on the principles of fostering strong personal growth and community bonds, Camp Lokanda has a storied tradition of creating lifelong memories and friendships. The camp’s mission revolves around nurturing the physical, emotional, and social development of its campers, encouraging them to explore their potential in a supportive and safe environment.

Camp Lokanda caters to boys and girls across various age groups, offering a diverse range of activities tailored to meet the interests and developmental stages of each age group. Whether it’s sports, arts, or outdoor adventure, Lokanda provides an inclusive atmosphere that promotes respect, integrity, and the courage to try new things.

As a haven for youthful exploration, Camp Lokanda not only promises an exciting and enriching summer experience but also instills values and skills that campers carry with them long after their stay. With its rich history and commitment to excellence, Camp Lokanda remains a cherished destination for young adventurers seeking the summer of a lifetime.

Programs Offered by Camp Lokanda

Camp Lokanda offers a wide range of programs designed to cater to the diverse interests and developmental needs of its campers. The camp’s programs are thoughtfully structured to ensure a balanced mix of fun, learning, and personal growth.

Description of Programs

Camp Lokanda’s programs span various disciplines and activities, allowing campers to engage in everything from sports and arts to science and outdoor adventures. This holistic approach ensures that every camper finds something they love, while also encouraging them to step out of their comfort zones and try new activities.

Length of Sessions

The camp offers flexible session lengths to accommodate the needs of different families and schedules. Options typically include:

One-week sessions for younger campers or those trying camp for the first time.
Two-week sessions that provide a deeper dive into camp life and more time for specialized activities.
Full summer sessions offer a comprehensive experience with the opportunity to participate in a full progression of skills and special events.

Specialty Programs

Camp Lokanda is particularly renowned for its specialty programs, which include:

Arts: Dedicated arts programs allow campers to explore various forms of creative expression such as painting, drama, music, and dance.
Sports: The sports program covers a wide array of activities, from soccer and basketball to more specialized sports like archery and kayaking, fostering teamwork and physical fitness.
Science: Science enthusiasts can engage in hands-on experiments and environmental education, promoting curiosity and a deeper understanding of the world.

Typical Daily Schedule

A typical day at Camp Lokanda is structured to provide a blend of activity, education, and downtime, ensuring campers are engaged yet not overwhelmed. The schedule might look something like this:

7:30 AM: Wake up and morning exercise
8:00 AM: Breakfast
9:00 AM: Morning activities (e.g., arts and crafts, science projects)
12:00 PM: Lunch
1:00 PM: Rest period
2:00 PM: Afternoon activities (e.g., sports, swimming)
5:00 PM: Free time
6:00 PM: Dinner
7:00 PM: Evening activities (e.g., campfires, talent shows)
9:00 PM: Lights out for younger campers
10:00 PM: Lights out for older campers

This daily schedule is carefully crafted to balance structured activities with ample free time, allowing campers to relax, make friends, and enjoy their summer in a meaningful way.

Accommodations in Camp Lokanda

Camp Lokanda offers comfortable and well-maintained accommodations designed to enhance the camp experience while ensuring the safety and comfort of all campers.

Sleeping Arrangements

Campers at Lokanda stay in cabins that are built to fit the natural landscape of the Glen Spey region. These cabins are divided by age group and gender, creating a supportive community environment for each cohort. Each cabin is equipped with bunk beds, storage space for personal items, and enough room to ensure comfort without sacrificing the cozy, communal feel that is a hallmark of camp life.

Dining Options

Meals at Camp Lokanda are communal times where campers and staff gather to enjoy nutritious and delicious food prepared by a team of skilled chefs. The camp offers a variety of meal plans that cater to all tastes and dietary needs, including:

Regular meal plans featuring a balanced diet with options for everyone.
Dietary accommodations for vegetarians, vegans, and those with specific food allergies or dietary restrictions. The kitchen staff is trained to handle these needs with the utmost care to ensure that every camper has healthy and enjoyable meal options.

The dining hall is a central gathering place where campers not only eat but also participate in themed dinners and special mealtime events, adding an extra layer of fun to the dining experience.

Bathroom and Shower Facilities

Bathroom and shower facilities are centrally located in the cabins, ensuring easy access for all campers. The facilities are gender-separated and maintained multiple times a day to meet high standards of cleanliness and hygiene. Showers offer privacy and comfort, equipped with individual stalls, warm water, and changing areas.

Camp Lokanda’s accommodations are thoughtfully designed to foster a safe, inclusive, and enjoyable environment. The facilities support the camp’s mission of providing a home away from home where campers can thrive both personally and in community with others.

Activities in Camp Lokanda

Camp Lokanda provides a vibrant and dynamic range of activities designed to cater to all interests and skill levels, fostering an environment where campers can develop new skills, discover passions, and build confidence. Here is a detailed look at the activities, special events, and skill development opportunities available:

List of Activities Offered

Camp Lokanda offers an extensive array of activities, ensuring that every camper finds something they love. Key activities include:

Water Sports: Summer camps, swimming, kayaking, canoeing, and water skiing on the camp’s private lake.
Land Sports: Soccer, basketball, tennis, archery, and golf.
Adventure Activities: Hiking, rock climbing, ropes courses, and zip-lining.
Arts and Crafts: Painting, ceramics, jewelry making, and woodworking.
Performing Arts: Drama, dance, and music, culminating in performances at the camp’s own theater.
Science and Nature: Environmental studies and science experiments that engage campers with the world around them.

Special Events or Traditions

Camp Lokanda is rich in traditions and special events that build community and create unforgettable summer experiences:

Color War: A multi-day event full of spirited competition across a variety of sports and creative challenges, dividing the camp into teams.
Campfires and Cookouts: Regular evenings spent around the campfire, featuring storytelling, singing, and marshmallow roasting.
Special Guest Days: Visits from artists, athletes, and educators who provide unique workshops and presentations.
End-of-Summer Banquet: A formal dinner where achievements are celebrated, and campers can reflect on their summer experiences.

Skill Development Opportunities

At Camp Lokanda, skill development is integral to the camper experience. The camp provides structured opportunities for campers to advance in various areas:

Progressive Skill Levels: Many activities have tiered skill levels, allowing campers to start at a comfortable level and advance as they improve.
Certification Programs: Opportunities for older campers to earn certifications in areas like lifeguarding, first aid, and boating.
Leadership Training: Programs designed for older campers to develop leadership skills that can be applied both at camp and in their home communities.

Overall, Camp Lokanda’s activities are designed to engage, challenge, and inspire campers in a fun, supportive, and safe environment. This rich program allows every camper to leave with enhanced skills, new friends, and memories that last a lifetime.

The staff of Camp Lokanda

Camp Lokanda prides itself on its dedicated and highly qualified staff, who play a pivotal role in creating a safe, engaging, and supportive environment for campers. Here’s a closer look at the staffing details, including staff-to-camper ratios, hiring processes, qualifications, and training programs:

Staff-to-Camper Ratio

Camp Lokanda maintains an excellent staff-to-camper ratio to ensure that each camper receives individual attention and care. The ratio is typically around 1 staff member for every 4 campers. This allows the staff to closely monitor and engage with each camper, providing a personalized experience and ensuring safety at all times.

Hiring Process and Staff Qualifications

The hiring process at Camp Lokanda is thorough and selective, with several steps designed to recruit the best candidates:

Background Checks: All potential staff members undergo comprehensive background checks, including criminal records and previous employment verifications.
Interviews: Candidates participate in multiple rounds of interviews to assess their suitability for the role, their ability to work with children, and their expertise in specific activity areas.
References: Lokanda requires and rigorously checks references to confirm each candidate’s experience and performance in previous positions, particularly those involving children.

Staff qualifications vary by role, but all are chosen for their expertise, experience, and passion for working with children:

Activity Leaders: Specialists in their fields, whether it be sports, arts, or sciences, often with professional qualifications or extensive experience in their activity area.
General Counselors: Typically college students pursuing education or related fields, with strong interpersonal skills and a love for working with kids.
Support Staff: Includes medical professionals, maintenance personnel, and kitchen staff, each with appropriate certifications and experience in their respective fields.

Training and Certifications

Before the camp season begins, all staff members undergo extensive training that includes:

CPR and First Aid Certification: Mandatory for all counselors and activity leaders, ensuring that they are prepared to handle medical emergencies.
Child Safety and Protection Training: Focused on best practices for child supervision and safety, including abuse prevention.
Activity-Specific Training: Staff receive specialized training in their specific activity areas to ensure high-quality program delivery.
Team Building and Communication Workshops: To foster a cohesive and collaborative staff team capable of effectively managing group dynamics and camper needs.

Camp Lokanda also encourages ongoing professional development throughout the camp season to ensure that staff skills remain sharp and that they are up-to-date with the latest in child education and safety protocols. This comprehensive approach to staffing ensures that Camp Lokanda is a place where campers not only have fun and learn new skills but also thrive in a caring and structured environment.

Safety and Health in Camp Lokanda

Camp Lokanda prioritizes the safety and health of its campers and staff, implementing rigorous protocols and maintaining well-equipped health facilities. This commitment ensures a safe environment where parents can feel confident about their children’s well-being during their stay at camp.

Safety Protocols and Procedures

Camp Lokanda’s safety protocols are comprehensive and meticulously followed to prevent accidents and ensure rapid response in case of emergencies:

Regular Safety Drills: The camp conducts regular drills, including fire, weather, and lockdown drills, to ensure that both campers and staff are familiar with emergency procedures.
Activity-Specific Safety Rules: Each activity offered at the camp has tailored safety guidelines that are strictly enforced. Staff are trained to oversee all activities with the highest safety standards in mind.
Nightly Check-ins: Each cabin is checked nightly, and headcounts are regularly conducted to ensure all campers are accounted for.
Security Measures: The camp is equipped with security measures, including controlled access points and surveillance systems, to ensure a safe and secure environment.

On-site Health Facilities and Staff

Camp Lokanda’s on-site health facilities are staffed with qualified medical professionals who are available around the clock to handle health needs:

Health Center: The camp maintains a well-equipped health center, staffed by licensed nurses and a camp doctor. This facility is capable of treating minor injuries and illnesses and is prepared to stabilize more serious conditions until emergency services arrive.
Medication Management: The health center staff manages and administers all camper medications according to physician instructions, ensuring that each child receives the appropriate dosage at the correct times.

Policies on Handling Emergencies

The camp has clear and tested policies for handling various types of emergencies:

Medical Emergencies: In the event of a medical emergency, trained health staff provide immediate care, and if necessary, the camp has procedures to quickly transport the camper to the nearest hospital. Emergency contact protocols ensure that parents are notified immediately of any serious incidents.
Natural Disasters: For emergencies such as severe weather, the camp has evacuation plans and safe shelters in place. Staff are trained to move all campers to these safe locations swiftly and to keep them calm and secure.
Security Incidents: In the case of a security incident, the camp’s protocols are designed to lock down the camp quickly and effectively. Communication with local law enforcement ensures that any threat is addressed promptly and that camp operations can return to normal as safely and quickly as possible.

Through these measures, Camp Lokanda ensures that safety and health are at the forefront of its operations, creating a nurturing environment where campers can enjoy their activities without the worry of safety concerns.

Cost and Registration in Camp Lokanda

Camp Lokanda offers a structured approach to registration and fees, ensuring that families can plan effectively for their summer camp experience. Here’s a detailed overview of the cost, registration, and financial policies:

Cost of Attendance

The cost of attending Camp Lokanda varies depending on the length of the session chosen and the age of the camper. However, the fees generally cover:

Accommodation: Includes lodging in well-maintained cabins.
Meals and Snacks: All meals are included, and prepared by professional chefs accommodating all dietary needs.
Activities: Full access to all camp activities and special programs.
Equipment and Supplies: All necessary equipment and materials for activities.
Transportation: Includes any in-camp transportation for outings or special events.
Health Care: On-site health care and wellness support.

Prices typically range from $1200 – $1250 per week.

Registration Process and Deadlines

Early Registration: Begins in the autumn prior to the next summer season. Early registrants often receive a discount or preferred placement in limited-space programs.
Regular Registration: Continues on a rolling basis until all spots are filled. Deadlines for each session are typically set a few months before the camp starts, but it’s advisable to register early as some sessions fill up quickly.

Payment Plans, Refunds, and Cancellation Policies

Camp Lokanda understands that families have different financial needs and offers several options to accommodate them:

Payment Plans: Families can opt for structured payment plans that allow them to pay the camp fees over several months.
Refunds: The camp typically offers a full or partial refund if cancellation occurs before a specified date, which is usually several months before the session begins. After this date, refunds may not be available, or only partial refunds may be offered depending on the circumstances.
Cancellation Policy: In the event of cancellation due to unforeseen circumstances, such as illness or family emergency, the camp tries to work with families to find the best possible solution, which may include credit towards a future session.

Scholarships and Financial Aid

Camp Lokanda believes that camp experiences should be accessible to all children and offers financial aid options:

Scholarships: Need-based scholarships are available to help cover a portion of the camp fees. Families are encouraged to apply early as funds are limited.
Financial Aid: Additional financial aid may be available based on the family’s specific circumstances and the availability of camp funds.

Parent and Camper Preparation in Camp Lokanda

Camp Lokanda aims to ensure that both parents and campers are well-prepared for their summer camp experience. Here’s a guide to help with packing, understanding camp rules, and easing the transition for first-time campers and their families.

Packing List

To make sure campers have everything they need for a comfortable and enjoyable stay, Camp Lokanda provides a recommended packing list that includes:

Clothing: Enough comfortable and season-appropriate clothing for the session, including t-shirts, shorts, pants, and swimwear. Also, include a jacket or sweatshirt for cooler evenings.
Footwear: Sneakers, sandals, and waterproof boots or shoes for outdoor activities.
Bedding: Sleeping bag or sheets and blankets, and a pillow.
Toiletries: Toothbrush, toothpaste, shampoo, soap, sunscreen, and insect repellent.
Equipment: Any specific gear required for specialty activities (though most equipment is provided by the camp).
Miscellaneous: Flashlight, batteries, water bottle, and hats for sun protection.

It’s also useful to label all items with the camper’s name to prevent loss.

Rules and Policies

Camp Lokanda has established rules and policies to ensure a safe and positive environment for all campers:

Technology Use: To encourage campers to engage fully with their environment and peers, personal electronics such as smartphones, tablets, and laptops are typically not allowed. If needed, these items can be stored safely at the camp office.
Visitation: Parents are usually invited to visit on specific visiting days, which are communicated ahead of the camp season. Outside these times, unscheduled visits are discouraged to maintain program integrity and safety.
Behavior: Camp Lokanda promotes respect, inclusion, and kindness among all campers and staff. Any form of bullying or disrespectful behavior is addressed promptly and may result in disciplinary action.

Tips for First-Time Campers and Parents

For many children and their parents, going to camp for the first time can be both exciting and daunting. Here are some tips to ease the transition:

Communication: Discuss what camp will be like focusing on the fun and new friends to be made. Understanding the daily schedule and activities can help reduce anxiety.
Practice Sleepovers: If your child hasn’t spent much time away from home, consider arranging a few sleepovers at friends’ or relatives’ houses to practice being away from home.
Pack Together: Involve your child in the packing process to give them a sense of control and to ensure they know what they have packed.
Stay Positive: On departure day, keep goodbyes brief and upbeat to set a positive tone for the camp experience.

By thoroughly preparing and understanding what to expect, campers and parents can maximize the enjoyment and benefits of their time at Camp Lokanda, creating lasting memories and building foundational skills for life.

Camp Lokanda in Glen Spey, New York, is more than just a summer camp—it’s a vibrant community where children grow, learn, and create lifelong memories. With a commitment to safety, personal development, and a wide array of activities, Lokanda offers an enriching environment that nurtures both the body and the spirit. Whether through participating in exciting outdoor adventures, engaging in creative arts, or making new friends, campers leave with enhanced skills, increased confidence, and a deeper appreciation for teamwork and community.

The camp’s thoughtful blend of tradition and innovation ensures that every camper enjoys a unique and fulfilling experience. From the meticulously planned activities and programs to the supportive, well-trained staff, Lokanda strives to provide a summer filled with fun, learning, and growth. It’s a place where parents can feel confident about the care and enrichment their children receive, and where campers can thrive in an environment designed just for them.