Welcome to Camp Stella Maris, a cherished summer getaway located in the scenic Livonia, New York. Nestled along the picturesque shores of Conesus Lake in the Finger Lakes region, their camp has been a beacon of joy and development for young campers since its establishment in 1926. Named after the Latin term for “Star of the Sea,” Camp Stella Maris has continuously provided a nurturing environment where children can grow both personally and spiritually.

Their mission is to challenge and develop the body, mind, and soul of their campers, staff, and the broader community within a fun, safe, and inclusive environment. They believe in fostering the values of responsibility, respect, and belief in oneself, underpinned by their strong faith-based philosophy.

Camp Stella Maris offers an experience, of welcoming boys and girls of various age groups. Through a diverse range of activities and programs, they provide every camper an opportunity to build lifelong friendships, explore new interests, and discover their potential in a supportive community setting. Join us for an unforgettable summer where adventure and personal growth await at every turn.

Programs Offered by Camp Stella Maris

Camp Stella Maris offers a vibrant array of programs tailored to cater to various interests and age groups, ensuring each camper finds something exciting and enriching during their stay. Here’s a detailed look at the programs they offer:

Traditional Camp Programs: These sessions range from one to eight weeks and are designed to give campers a comprehensive experience of summer camp life. Activities include swimming, boating, arts and crafts, team sports, and nature exploration. Campers also engage in evening activities like campfires, talent shows, and themed dances.
Specialty Programs:
- Arts Camp: Focusing on creativity, this program includes music, theater, dance, and visual arts. Sessions typically last two weeks, culminating in a showcase for fellow campers and parents.
- Sports Camp: Designed for campers interested in physical activities, this session emphasizes skill development in sports such as soccer, basketball, and volleyball. Each sports camp session lasts one week.
- Adventure Camp: For those seeking thrills, their adventure camp includes rock climbing, hiking, and wilderness survival skills. These camps usually run for two weeks, offering both introductory and advanced levels.
- Science Camp: A one-week program where campers engage in hands-on science experiments, robotics, and environmental studies, sparking curiosity and a love for learning.
Leadership Development Programs: Aimed at older campers, these programs focus on developing leadership skills through workshops, team-building activities, and mentorship roles. These typically extend over a two-week period and prepare teens for roles as future camp counselors or leaders in their communities.

Typical Daily Schedule:

7:30 AM: Wake Up & Morning Exercise
8:00 AM: Breakfast
9:00 AM: Morning Activities (session-specific)
12:00 PM: Lunch
1:00 PM: Rest Hour
2:00 PM: Afternoon Activities
5:00 PM: Free Time
6:00 PM: Dinner
7:00 PM: Evening Activities
9:00 PM: Campfire/Evening Reflection
10:00 PM: Lights Out

This structured schedule balances active periods with ample rest and free time, allowing campers to engage fully in activities while also enjoying downtime to relax and socialize. Camp Stella Maris is committed to providing a memorable and transformative summer experience that campers will treasure for years to come.

Accommodations in Camp Stella Maris

At Camp Stella Maris, they ensure that every aspect of their campers’ stay is comfortable, convenient, and catered to their needs, including accommodations, dining, and facilities.

Sleeping Arrangements: Campers are housed in cozy, well-maintained cabins that blend rustic charm with modern necessities. Each cabin is designed to accommodate between 8 to 12 campers along with 2 counselors, fostering a close-knit, family-like atmosphere. The cabins are grouped by age and gender to provide a supportive and safe environment. All cabins are equipped with bunk beds, storage space for personal belongings, and electricity.

Dining Options:

Meal Plans: Camp Stella Maris offers a nutritious and varied meal plan that includes three well-balanced meals per day, served in their communal dining hall. Their kitchen staff prepares a wide range of dishes to cater to various tastes and preferences.
Dietary Accommodations: They are committed to meeting the dietary needs of all their campers, including those with specific dietary restrictions such as vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and allergy-friendly options. Parents can discuss their child’s dietary needs prior to arrival to ensure they provide appropriate meals throughout their stay.

Bathroom and Shower Facilities: Their camp is equipped with several modern bathroom and shower facilities strategically located near the cabins. These facilities are separated by gender and are accessible 24 hours a day. Each bathroom unit is well-lit, clean, and maintained daily by their housekeeping staff to ensure hygiene and comfort. Showers offer privacy with individual stalls, and there are ample sinks and toilet facilities to accommodate the campers’ needs without delay.

At Camp Stella Maris, their goal is to create a home away from home where campers can feel safe, cared for, and comfortable throughout their summer adventure.

Activities in Camp Stella Maris

Camp Stella Maris provides an exciting and diverse range of activities designed to cater to all interests and encourage personal growth and development. Here’s a comprehensive list of activities, special events, and skill development opportunities available at their camp:

List of Activities Offered:

Water Activities: Summer camps, swimming, canoeing, kayaking, paddle boarding, and fishing.
Land Sports: Soccer, basketball, volleyball, archery, and ultimate frisbee.
Creative Arts: Crafts, painting, pottery, and drama.
Adventure and Nature: Hiking, rock climbing, ropes courses, and nature walks.
Music and Dance: Campers can participate in music classes, dance workshops, and talent shows.

Special Events or Traditions:

Opening and Closing Ceremonies: These are festive and set the tone for the session, helping to build excitement and a sense of community.
Campfires: Regular campfire gatherings feature storytelling, singing, and marshmallow roasting, fostering camaraderie and relaxation.
Theme Days: Fun and creative themed days, such as Pirate Day or Superhero Day, encourage campers to dress up and participate in specially designed activities.
Color Wars: This is a multi-day event where the camp is divided into teams that compete in various sports, puzzles, and creative contests.
Family Day: At the end of each session, families are invited to visit, participate in activities, and see what their children have been up to at camp.

Skill Development Opportunities:

Leadership Training: Older campers can participate in leadership programs that focus on teamwork, responsibility, and leadership skills, preparing them for future roles as counselors or leaders in their communities.
Environmental Education: Through guided nature hikes and ecology workshops, campers learn about local flora and fauna and the importance of environmental conservation.
Arts and Crafts Workshops: These workshops allow campers to explore their creativity and develop artistic skills in various media.
Sports Clinics: Specialized clinics help campers improve their techniques, learn new skills, and understand the values of sportsmanship and teamwork.

At Camp Stella Maris, they aim to provide a rich and engaging environment where campers can explore new activities, develop skills, and make lasting memories in a supportive community setting.

The staff of Camp Stella Maris

Camp Stella Maris is dedicated to providing a safe, fun, and enriching camp experience, which is greatly facilitated by their highly qualified and caring staff. Here’s an overview of their staff-to-camper ratio, the hiring process, staff qualifications, and the training and certifications their team members possess:

Staff-to-Camper Ratio: They maintain a low staff-to-camper ratio to ensure that each camper receives individual attention and care. Typically, their ratio is about 1 staff member for every 6 campers. This ratio allows us to provide a high level of supervision, engagement, and support for all campers across all activities and programs.

Hiring Process and Staff Qualifications:

Recruitment: They recruit staff from across the country and internationally through college job fairs, online job postings, and educational institutions. Their aim is to find individuals who are not only skilled but also passionate about working with children and contributing to their growth and development.
Qualifications: Prospective staff members must have a background in education, psychology, recreation, or a related field, or must demonstrate substantial experience in camp leadership or child care.
Background Checks: All potential hires undergo thorough background checks, including criminal record checks, reference checks, and interviews to ensure the safety and well-being of their campers.

Training and Certifications:

Pre-Camp Training: Prior to the camp season, all staff undergo an intensive training program that covers camp policies, child behavior management, emergency procedures, and activity-specific safety protocols.
Certifications: All staff members are required to be certified in CPR and First Aid. Additionally, staff leading specific activities such as swimming or rock climbing hold relevant certifications, such as lifeguarding or wilderness first responder certifications.
Ongoing Training: Throughout the camp season, they conduct regular training sessions to refresh important skills and protocols and to address any emerging issues or trends that could affect camper safety and enjoyment.

At Camp Stella Maris, their staff are not just employees; they are role models and mentors who are dedicated to creating a positive and memorable camp experience. Their expertise and enthusiasm are fundamental to fostering a nurturing environment where campers feel valued and empowered.

Safety and Health in Camp Stella Maris

At Camp Stella Maris, ensuring the safety and health of their campers and staff is their top priority. They have comprehensive safety protocols and procedures in place, along with well-equipped on-site health facilities and clear policies for handling emergencies. Here’s an overview of their approach:

Safety Protocols and Procedures:

Regular Safety Drills: They conduct regular drills to ensure that both campers and staff are familiar with procedures for fire, severe weather, and other potential emergencies.
Activity-Specific Safety Protocols: Each activity at camp, from swimming to hiking and rock climbing, follows strict safety protocols. This includes using proper gear, conducting safety briefings before activities, and ensuring that activities are age-appropriate and led by qualified instructors.
Supervision: Campers are supervised at all times, with staff members present during all activities, meals, and rest times. Their low staff-to-camper ratio ensures effective oversight and quick response to any issues.

On-Site Health Facilities and Staff:

Health Center: Their on-site health center is staffed by licensed medical professionals, including nurses and a visiting doctor. The center is equipped to handle routine healthcare needs and minor medical emergencies.
Medication Management: They have protocols in place for managing and administering medications to campers with health conditions, ensuring these are given at the prescribed times and under proper supervision.

Policies on Handling Emergencies:

Emergency Action Plans: They have detailed action plans for various emergencies, including medical emergencies, natural disasters, and other critical situations. These plans are reviewed and updated regularly.
Communication with Parents: In the event of an emergency, they have a clear communication plan to inform parents or guardians immediately, providing updates as necessary.
Training: All staff participate in emergency preparedness training, which includes first response training, understanding when to escalate medical issues, and how to maintain calm and control in emergency situations.

Coordination with Local Authorities: They maintain strong relationships with local emergency services, ensuring that additional medical support if needed, can be accessed swiftly. This coordination also includes regular updates on local health advisories, such as those related to weather or public health concerns.

With these measures in place, Camp Stella Maris is committed to providing a safe, secure, and healthy environment where campers can enjoy their activities and parents can rest assured that their children are well cared for.

Cost and Registration in Camp Stella Maris

At Camp Stella Maris, they strive to make their enriching camp experience accessible and affordable, with transparent cost structures, a straightforward registration process, and financial support options available. Here are the details regarding cost, registration, and financial policies:

Cost of Attendance:

The cost of attending Camp Stella Maris varies depending on the length of the session and the type of program selected. For example, a one-week session typically ranges from $500 to $700, while specialty camps or longer sessions may have different rates.
What It Includes: The fee covers all aspects of the camp experience, including lodging, meals, all scheduled activities, equipment, and 24-hour supervision by their trained staff.

Registration Process and Deadlines:

How to Register: Parents can register their children, where they can fill out the registration forms and submit them electronically.
Deadlines: Registration typically opens in January for the summer sessions, and it’s recommended to register early as spots fill up quickly. Deadlines for each session are usually set a month before the start date, but early registration discounts or incentives may be available.

Payment Plans, Refunds, and Cancellation Policies:

Payment Plans: They offer flexible payment plans to help families manage the cost of the camp. These plans can be customized and may allow payments to be spread out over several months leading up to the start of the camp session.
Refunds and Cancellation Policies: Full refunds are available up to a certain date, which is typically about a month before the session begins. After this date, partial refunds may be granted for cancellations due to medical reasons or family emergencies. A cancellation fee often applies to cover administrative costs.

Scholarships and Financial Aid:

Scholarships: Camp Stella Maris offers scholarships based on financial need. Families can apply for these scholarships through a separate application form, which requires documentation of income and a personal statement regarding the need for financial support.
Financial Aid: Additional financial aid may be available in the form of reduced rates for families sending multiple children or for early registration. They also occasionally partner with community organizations to offer sponsored camp placements for families in need.

Their goal at Camp Stella Maris is to ensure that no child misses out on a camp experience due to financial constraints. They encourage parents to reach out to their registration office for more information about financial assistance options and to find a solution that works best for their families.

Parent and Camper Preparation in Camp Stella Maris

Preparing for a stay at Camp Stella Maris is an exciting experience, and they aim to make this process as smooth as possible for both campers and their parents. Here’s a guide to help with packing, understanding camp rules and policies, and some tips for first-time campers and their parents:

Packing List:

Clothing: Pack enough comfortable clothing for the session, including t-shirts, shorts, pants, and swimwear. Don’t forget a jacket or sweater for cooler evenings and a raincoat for wet days.
Footwear: Include closed-toe shoes for activities, sandals, and water shoes for swimming or water activities.
Bedding and Towels: Bring a sleeping bag or sheets and blankets for the cabin bed, plus bath and beach towels.
Toiletries: Include all necessary personal items such as a toothbrush, toothpaste, shampoo, soap, sunscreen, and insect repellent.
Miscellaneous: Flashlight, water bottle, hats for sun protection, and a laundry bag.

Rules and Policies:

Technology Use: To maximize engagement and interaction, they encourage minimal use of electronic devices. Campers are allowed to bring devices but usage is restricted to certain times and areas.
Visitation: Parents and guardians are welcome to visit on designated family days, but unannounced visits are generally not permitted to ensure the safety and structure of the camp environment.
Behavioral Expectations: Respect, inclusiveness, and cooperation are core values at Camp Stella Maris. Campers are expected to adhere to these principles in all interactions.

Tips for First-Time Campers and Parents:

Preparation: Discuss what camp will be like focusing on the exciting activities and new friendships. Familiarizing your child with the camp schedule can also reduce anxiety.
Communication: Although regular contact during camp is not always possible, writing letters or sending emails can be a great way for parents to stay in touch and encourage their children.
Independence: Camp is a wonderful opportunity for children to gain independence. Encourage this growth by letting your child pack their own bag and make decisions about what to bring, guided by the packing list.
Emotional Readiness: It’s normal for both parents and children to feel nervous about being apart, especially for the first time. Discuss these feelings openly and assure your child that it’s okay to miss home while also enjoying camp life.

With this preparation, both first-time and returning campers can look forward to a memorable and enriching experience at Camp Stella Maris.

Camp Stella Maris stands as a beacon of adventure, learning, and growth, providing a unique environment where campers forge lasting friendships, discover new passions, and develop key life skills. Nestled in the serene setting of Livonia, New York, by the beautiful Conesus Lake, their camp offers a variety of programs and activities designed to challenge and inspire young minds and hearts. From water sports and wilderness adventures to creative arts and leadership training, Camp Stella Maris caters to diverse interests and encourages personal development in a safe and supportive community.

Their commitment to safety, inclusive values, and high-quality programming ensures that every camper’s experience is not only fun but also enriching. With dedicated staff, excellent facilities, and a vibrant camp spirit, Camp Stella Maris is more than just a summer camp—it’s a place where memories are made, and the foundation of character is built. Whether you’re a first-timer or a returning camper, they invite you to join us for an unforgettable summer filled with joy, learning, and adventure.