Welcome to Camp Unirondack, a haven for adventure and personal growth nestled in the picturesque surroundings of Lowville, New York. Located in the heart of the Adirondack Mountains, their camp offers breathtaking views and direct access to pristine natural beauty, making it an ideal setting for exploration and discovery.

Camp Unirondack has a rich history of providing a transformative camping experience to young people since its establishment. Their mission is to foster a nurturing environment where campers can grow, learn, and have fun in a community that values respect, individuality, and connection with nature.

As a camp, they welcome boys and girls across various age groups, typically from ages 8 to 16. At Camp Unirondack, they believe in the power of camp to change lives. Their programs are designed to cultivate skills, friendships, and memories that last a lifetime, all while campers enjoy the great outdoors and engage in a wide array of activities tailored to their interests and abilities. Join us for a summer of fun, adventure, and self-discovery at Camp Unirondack!

Programs Offered by Camp Unirondack

Camp Unirondack offers a diverse array of programs designed to cater to different interests and age groups, ensuring that every camper has an enriching and exciting summer. Their programs range from traditional camp activities to specialized focuses, allowing campers to either broaden their experiences or dive deep into their passions.

Programs Offered:

General Camp Programs:
- Session Lengths: Campers can choose from one-week, two-week, or full summer sessions.
- Activities Include Swimming, hiking, canoeing, campfires, and more. These activities are designed to help campers develop teamwork and outdoor survival skills while enjoying the natural beauty of the Adirondacks.
Specialty Programs:
- Arts: This program includes workshops in visual arts, theater, music, and dance. Campers can engage in creative expression and performance, culminating in a camp-wide showcase at the end of each session.
- Sports: Focused on both traditional and unique sports, this program offers coaching in soccer, basketball, archery, and more. It emphasizes physical fitness, fair play, and sportsmanship.
- Science and Nature: Campers explore the local flora and fauna, participate in environmental conservation projects, and conduct simple experiments to learn about the ecosystem of the Adirondacks.

Typical Daily Schedule:

7:30 AM: Wake Up
8:00 AM: Breakfast
9:00 AM: Morning Activities (session specific)
12:00 PM: Lunch
1:00 PM: Rest Time
2:00 PM: Afternoon Activities
5:00 PM: Free Time
6:00 PM: Dinner
7:00 PM: Evening Program (e.g., campfires, talent shows)
9:00 PM: Return to Cabins
10:00 PM: Lights Out

Each day is structured to balance active engagement with ample time for rest and free play, allowing campers to explore their interests with enthusiasm and energy. Whether they’re crafting a piece of art, scoring a goal, or learning about local wildlife, campers at Camp Unirondack are sure to have a memorable and impactful summer.

Accommodations in Camp Unirondack

Camp Unirondack offers comfortable and accommodating facilities designed to enhance the camping experience while keeping campers connected to nature. Their accommodations and amenities ensure a safe, enjoyable, and inclusive environment for all participants.

Sleeping Arrangements:

Cabins: Their primary accommodations are rustic yet cozy cabins that house 8-10 campers each, along with at least two counselors. The cabins are equipped with bunk beds and storage space for personal belongings, ensuring a communal and friendly atmosphere.
Tents: For older campers or those participating in specific adventure programs, they offer the option to sleep in tents. This allows for a more immersive outdoor experience, typically used during special overnight hiking and camping excursions.

Dining Options:

Meal Plans: Camp Unirondack provides three nutritious meals per day, served in their communal dining hall. Meals are prepared by their skilled kitchen staff with an emphasis on healthy, energy-boosting foods that are necessary for active days.
Dietary Accommodations: They cater to various dietary needs including vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and any allergies. Their staff is trained to handle specific dietary requirements to ensure that every camper enjoys safe and delicious meals.

Bathroom and Shower Facilities:

Facilities: Separate bathroom and shower facilities for boys and girls are centrally located for easy access from the cabins and main camp areas. The facilities are well-maintained and cleaned regularly to ensure hygiene and comfort.
Eco-Friendly Practices: In line with their commitment to the environment, their facilities are designed to minimize water wastage and they encourage campers to be mindful of their water use.

At Camp Unirondack, they strive to make their accommodations part of the learning and growth experience, ensuring that campers not only have fun but also learn the value of living in a community and caring for their environment.

Activities in Camp Unirondack

Camp Unirondack offers an extensive range of activities designed to engage campers of all interests and skill levels. Their activities are focused on building skills, fostering friendships, and providing opportunities for personal growth and exploration.

List of Activities Offered:

Outdoor Adventures: Summer camps, swimming, hiking, canoeing, and archery. These activities take advantage of their beautiful Adirondack setting and teach campers about outdoor safety and environmental stewardship.
Creative Arts: Crafts, pottery, painting, and theater. These activities encourage creative expression and often result in projects that campers can take home or performances to share with the camp.
Sports: Soccer, basketball, volleyball, and ultimate frisbee. These games promote physical fitness, teamwork, and healthy competition.
Nature Exploration: Bird watching, nature walks, and star gazing. These activities are designed to connect campers with the environment and stimulate interest in science and natural history.
Water Activities: Kayaking, fishing, and paddleboarding. These provide fun and relaxation while teaching water safety.

Special Events or Traditions:

Campfires: Regular campfires offer a time for songs, storytelling, and marshmallow roasting, fostering a sense of community and tradition.
Color Wars: A multi-day event where the camp is divided into teams to compete in various fun and spirited activities, promoting camaraderie and teamwork.
End-of-Summer Carnival: A celebration of the achievements of the summer, featuring games, prizes, and a showcase of camper talents and crafts.

Skill Development Opportunities:

Leadership Training: Older campers can participate in leadership programs, where they learn to lead activities, manage small groups, and develop essential leadership qualities.
Environmental Education: Programs that teach sustainable practices, wildlife conservation, and the importance of biodiversity help cultivate a lifelong respect for the environment.
Arts and Crafts Mastery: Specialized workshops allow campers to delve deeper into specific arts and crafts, improving their skills and encouraging artistic growth.

At Camp Unirondack, each activity is more than just a pastime; it’s a pathway to learning important life skills, making new friends, and building confidence. Their aim is to ensure every camper leaves with new experiences, enhanced skills, and cherished memories.

The staff of Camp Unirondack

Camp Unirondack prides itself on a highly qualified and dedicated staff, ensuring a safe, supportive, and enriching environment for all campers. Their commitment to quality staffing is evident in their careful hiring practices, staff-to-camper ratios, and the comprehensive training their team undergoes.

Staff-to-Camper Ratio:

General Ratio: They maintain a staff-to-camper ratio of approximately 1:5, which allows their team to provide personalized attention and care to each camper, ensuring their safety and enhancing their camp experience.
Specialized Activities: For activities that require more intensive instruction or supervision, such as swimming or archery, the ratio is adjusted to ensure even greater oversight.

Hiring Process and Staff Qualifications:

Recruitment: They recruit staff from a variety of sources, including colleges, teacher recommendations, and through their network of former campers and staff. Priority is given to candidates with prior camp experience or a background in education, child development, or a related field.
Selection: Candidates undergo a thorough selection process that includes multiple interviews, background checks, and reference verifications to ensure they are well-suited for the responsibilities of camp life and aligned with their camp’s values.

Training and Certifications:

Pre-Camp Training: All staff members participate in extensive pre-camp training that covers camp policies, emergency procedures, child psychology, and specific training related to their assigned activities.
CPR and First Aid: Every staff member is required to be certified in CPR and First Aid. Additional training in lifeguarding, wilderness first aid, or other relevant certifications is required for staff involved in specific activities like swimming or hiking.
Ongoing Education: Throughout the summer, they hold periodic training sessions to refresh skills and discuss new strategies for child engagement and safety.

This robust approach to staffing ensures that Camp Unirondack not only meets but exceeds the standard expectations for safety and quality in a summer camp environment. Their staff are not just supervisors or instructors; they are role models and mentors, committed to making a positive impact on the lives of their campers.

Safety and Health in Camp Unirondack

At Camp Unirondack, the safety and health of their campers and staff are paramount. They are dedicated to providing a secure and healthy environment through stringent safety protocols, comprehensive health facilities, and a well-prepared approach to emergency situations.

Safety Protocols and Procedures:

Regular Drills: They conduct regular safety drills, including fire, weather, and lockdown drills, to ensure that both campers and staff are familiar with emergency procedures.
Activity-Specific Safety: Each activity is guided by specific safety protocols, such as the use of personal flotation devices in water sports, helmets in archery, and proper supervision during hiking. Their equipment is regularly inspected and maintained to high safety standards.
Secure Environment: The camp is monitored to ensure that only authorized personnel and campers are on-site, with controlled access points and visitor screening.

On-Site Health Facilities and Staff:

Health Center: Their on-site health center is staffed by qualified healthcare professionals, including nurses and a visiting physician. The center is equipped to handle minor injuries and illnesses and is prepared to stabilize more serious conditions until additional medical assistance can be obtained.
Medical Supplies and Equipment: The health center is stocked with necessary medical supplies and equipment, including medications, first aid kits, and emergency response tools.
Health Checks: Upon arrival at camp, each camper undergoes a health check to identify any existing conditions or allergies. This information is kept confidential and is used to tailor care to individual needs.

Policies on Handling Emergencies:

Emergency Response Plan: They have a comprehensive emergency response plan that outlines procedures for a variety of potential scenarios, from natural disasters to health crises. This plan is reviewed and updated annually.
Communication: In the event of an emergency, they have a protocol for communicating with all camp staff and contacting parents and guardians. They ensure that all communication channels are open and functional at all times.
Collaboration with Local Authorities: They maintain strong relationships with local emergency services, including fire departments, police, and hospitals. These relationships help to ensure a quick and effective response in case of a serious emergency.

Through these meticulous safety and health measures, Camp Unirondack commits to upholding the highest standards of care and preparedness, ensuring that every camper’s experience is not only fun and enriching but also safe and secure.

Cost and Registration in Camp Unirondack

At Camp Unirondack, they strive to make their unique camping experience accessible and affordable, with transparent pricing, straightforward registration procedures, and options for financial assistance.

Cost of Attendance:

Inclusive Pricing: The cost of attendance varies depending on the length of the session and the specific programs chosen, but typically ranges from $500 to $1,500 per week. This fee includes all lodging, meals, activities, and equipment use. There are no hidden charges; everything needed for a full camp experience is covered.
Additional Costs: Optional extras, such as camp merchandise or special excursion trips, may incur additional costs, which will be clearly outlined in the camp materials.

Registration Process and Deadlines:

Online Registration: Registration is conveniently handled online through their secure camp management system. Prospective campers can fill out forms, select sessions, and choose activities from their home computers.
Deadlines: Registration typically opens in January and continues until all spots are filled. They encourage early registration as some sessions and activities have limited availability and fill up quickly.

Payment Plans, Refunds, and Cancellation Policies:

Payment Plans: They offer flexible payment plans that allow families to spread the cost of camp over several months, making it more manageable. These plans can be set up at the time of registration.
Refunds and Cancellations: If you need to cancel for any reason, a full refund is available up to one month before the start of the session. After this point, refunds are prorated based on the amount of notice given, with specific details provided at registration.
Insurance: They also offer optional insurance that covers cancellation for medical and other emergencies.

Scholarships and Financial Aid:

Scholarships: Camp Unirondack provides a number of need-based scholarships each year to help cover the cost of attendance. These scholarships are awarded based on family needs and the availability of funds.
Financial Aid: In addition to scholarships, they can sometimes offer additional financial assistance depending on their yearly budget and fundraising efforts.

They believe that every child deserves the chance to experience Camp Unirondack, and they work hard to remove financial barriers that might prevent participation.

Parent and Camper Preparation in Camp Unirondack

Ensuring a smooth and enjoyable experience for both campers and their parents is a top priority at Camp Unirondack. To help prepare for an unforgettable summer, they provide detailed guidelines on packing, rules, and policies, and some helpful tips for first-time campers and their families.

Packing List:

Essential Clothing: Pack enough comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing for the session, including layers for cooler evenings. Include swimwear, a rain jacket, and durable footwear (hiking boots and sandals).
Bedding and Toiletries: Bring a sleeping bag or sheets and a blanket, a pillow, towels, and personal hygiene items (toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, etc.).
Equipment: While they provide most of the necessary equipment for activities, campers should bring their own water bottles, flashlights, and if desired, personal sports equipment like tennis rackets.
Optional Items: Books, writing materials, and inexpensive cameras are welcome. These items can enhance the camper’s experience but are not necessary.

Rules and Policies:

Technology Use: To maximize engagement and ensure all campers are present at the moment, personal electronic devices (smartphones, tablets, laptops) are not allowed during camp sessions. They encourage letter writing and provide supervised access to phones for homesickness and emergencies.
Visitation: Parents are welcome to visit during designated visiting days, which are communicated prior to the start of the camp session. Outside of these days, to ensure the security and program integrity, unscheduled visits are not permitted.
Behavioral Expectations: Camp Unirondack promotes respect, inclusivity, and kindness. They have strict policies against bullying, discrimination, and any form of harassment.

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, and highlight the personal growth that comes from stepping out of one’s comfort zone.
Communication: Set expectations about communication. Discuss how often you’ll write or call, and reassure your child that they can discuss any issues with their counselors.
Homesickness: It’s normal for first-time campers to experience homesickness. Encourage them to stay engaged in activities, make new friends, and talk to staff if they’re feeling down. Camp staff are trained to help children cope with these feelings.
Pack Together: Involve your child in packing. This ensures they know what they have brought with them and it builds excitement for the upcoming adventure.

By following these guidelines and tips, first-time campers and their parents can feel more prepared and confident about the upcoming camp experience. Camp Unirondack is dedicated to making your child’s summer not just fun, but a time of significant personal growth and learning.

Camp Unirondack stands out as a beacon of adventure, learning, and personal growth, nestled in the heart of the beautiful Adirondack Mountains. With a diverse range of programs, committed and qualified staff, and a focus on safety and inclusivity, they provide an environment where every camper can thrive and explore their potential. Their comprehensive approach ensures that from the moment of registration to the final farewell, families can feel confident and reassured about their children’s summer experience.

Whether engaging in exhilarating outdoor activities, exploring creative arts, or participating in team sports, campers at Unirondack build essential life skills, forge lasting friendships, and create memories that they will cherish for a lifetime. Beyond just a place to spend the summer, Camp Unirondack is a community that celebrates diversity, encourages respect, and fosters a love for nature and learning.