Welcome to Camp Bonim, nestled in the picturesque surroundings of Waymart, Pennsylvania. Located in the scenic northeastern region of the state, this camp offers a serene setting near key natural landmarks, providing an ideal backdrop for adventure and learning.

Founded with the vision of fostering growth and friendship among its campers, Camp Bonim has a rich history of building lasting memories and skills. Their mission is to create a nurturing environment where young people can explore their potential, develop self-confidence, and form enduring friendships. At Camp Bonim, they believe in the power of community and the transformative nature of summer camp experiences.

Camp Bonim is a gender-inclusive camp welcoming boys and girls across various age groups. They cater to children and teenagers looking to enjoy a mix of traditional camp activities and innovative, educational programs designed to challenge and inspire. Whether it’s through sports, arts, or outdoor adventures, each camper finds a way to connect, grow, and enjoy unforgettable summers with us. Join us at Camp Bonim for a summer filled with fun, learning, and adventure in the heart of Pennsylvania.

Programs Offered by Camp Bonim

Camp Bonim offers a diverse array of programs tailored to provide enriching experiences for campers of all interests and ages. Their sessions vary in length to accommodate different needs and preferences, ranging from one-week intensives to full-summer immersions. Here’s a closer look at what they offer:

Programs Description

Camp Bonim provides a well-rounded selection of activities including:

Outdoor Adventures: From hiking and canoeing to archery and rock climbing, their campers enjoy the great outdoors while learning about environmental stewardship.
Arts and Crafts: Creative expression is encouraged through painting, sculpture, woodworking, and various other craft workshops.
Sports: They offer a range of sports programs including soccer, basketball, swimming, and tennis, focusing on skill development, teamwork, and healthy competition.
Performing Arts: Campers can explore drama, dance, and music, culminating in performances at the end of each session.
Science and Nature: These programs spark curiosity about the natural world with hands-on activities, experiments, and exploration.

Length of Sessions

One-Week Sessions: These short sessions are perfect for younger campers or first-timers who are just getting a taste of camp life.
Two-Week Sessions: Offering a deeper dive into camp activities and community building.
Full Summer: The ultimate Camp Bonim experience, allowing campers to fully immerse themselves in activities, friendships, and personal growth.

Specialty Programs

Leadership Training: Designed for older campers, this program focuses on developing leadership skills, team management, and problem-solving abilities.
Environmental Science Programs: These sessions include specific ecological studies, conservation projects, and sustainability workshops.
Advanced Arts Workshops: For campers with a serious interest in arts, these workshops offer advanced techniques and project-based learning.

Typical Daily Schedule

7:30 AM: Wake up and morning exercises
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/Free time
2:00 PM: Afternoon activities session 1
3:30 PM: Afternoon activities session 2
5:00 PM: Free time or optional workshops
6:00 PM: Dinner
7:00 PM: Evening activities (campfires, talent shows, etc.)
9:00 PM: Back to cabins
9:30 PM: Lights out

At Camp Bonim, every day is structured to maximize engagement, learning, and fun, ensuring that each camper goes home with new skills, friendships, and wonderful memories.

Accommodations in Camp Bonim

At Camp Bonim, they ensure that their accommodations are comfortable, safe, and designed to enhance the overall camp experience. Here’s an overview of their facilities:

Sleeping Arrangements

Cabins: The primary accommodation at Camp Bonim is their cozy, rustic cabins. Each cabin houses 8-10 campers along with 2 counselors, fostering a close-knit group dynamic. The cabins are equipped with bunk beds, and storage space for personal items, and are strategically placed to offer beautiful views of the surrounding nature.
Tents: For specific programs or adventure trips, campers may have the opportunity to sleep in tents. This allows for a full immersion into the wilderness experience, teaching practical outdoor skills.

Dining Options

Meal Plans: Camp Bonim provides three well-balanced meals per day, prepared by their skilled kitchen staff. Meals are served in their communal dining hall, where campers gather to eat and share their daily experiences. Their menus are crafted to be kid-friendly while ensuring nutritional balance.
Dietary Accommodations: Understanding the importance of catering to various dietary needs, they offer vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and allergy-friendly options. Parents are encouraged to discuss their child’s dietary requirements with us before the session begins to ensure they can accommodate them properly.

Bathroom and Shower Facilities

Facilities: Each cabin cluster has its own centrally located bathhouse, which includes multiple toilets, sinks, and private shower stalls. Their bathhouses are divided by gender and are regularly cleaned and maintained to ensure hygiene and comfort.
Accessibility: They strive to make their facilities accessible to all campers. Accessible bathroom and shower facilities are available for those who need them.

At Camp Bonim, they prioritize a setting that not only provides for the basic needs of their campers but also enhances their camping experience by keeping them comfortable and well cared for throughout their stay.

Activities in Camp Bonim

Camp Bonim is dedicated to offering a wide range of activities that cater to all interests and promote skill development, teamwork, and personal growth. Here’s a detailed look at the activities and special elements that make their camp experience truly unique.

List of Activities Offered

Swimming: Supervised swimming lessons and free swim times in their on-site pool.
Hiking: Guided hikes along scenic trails around the camp and nearby natural reserves.
Crafts: A variety of arts and crafts activities including pottery, beadwork, painting, and more.
Sports: Soccer, basketball, volleyball, tennis, and other team sports.
Performing Arts: Opportunities in drama, dance, and music, including camp-wide performances.
Outdoor Skills: Lessons in camping, orienteering, and wilderness survival.
Water Sports: Summer camps, canoeing, kayaking, and paddleboarding on the nearby lake.
Archery: Instruction and practice in safe and controlled environments.
Science and Nature Exploration: Activities that focus on environmental education and hands-on science experiments.

Special Events or Traditions

Opening/Closing Ceremonies: These bookend the camp sessions, celebrating the start and conclusion of the campers’ journey.
Campfire Nights: Regular evenings spent around the campfire, featuring storytelling, singing, and marshmallow roasting.
Color Wars: An annual multi-day event where the whole camp is divided into teams to compete in various fun and spirited activities.
International Day: A celebration of different cultures where campers and staff share their heritage through food, dance, and stories.
Talent Shows: Campers showcase their talents and skills, fostering a supportive environment for self-expression.

Skill Development Opportunities

Leadership Programs: For older campers, focusing on developing skills in leadership, teamwork, and problem-solving.
Advanced Sports Clinics: Campers interested in developing specific athletic skills, coached by experts.
Artistic Development: Advanced workshops in visual and performing arts for budding artists.
Environmental Stewardship: Programs designed to educate campers on sustainability and conservation practices.

At Camp Bonim, they ensure that every camper has the opportunity to try new things, polish existing skills, and enjoy their summer to the fullest in a supportive and dynamic environment.

The staff of Camp Bonim

At Camp Bonim, they are committed to maintaining a high standard of safety, supervision, and guidance for all their campers. This commitment is reflected in their staff hiring, training, and the overall camper-to-staff ratio.

Staff-to-Camper Ratio

General Ratio: They maintain a staff-to-camper ratio of 1:5, ensuring that each camper receives ample attention and supervision.
Specialty Areas: For activities requiring specialized skills or heightened safety measures, such as swimming or archery, the ratio is adjusted to 1:3 to ensure maximum safety and individualized instruction.

Hiring Process and Staff Qualifications

Recruitment: Their staff is carefully selected through a rigorous hiring process. Candidates undergo thorough interviews, background checks, and reference verifications.
Qualifications: They seek individuals who are not only skilled in their specific activity areas but also have strong interpersonal skills and a passion for working with children. Many of their staff members are pursuing or have completed degrees in education, child psychology, or related fields.
Diversity: Camp Bonim values a diverse staff body that can bring various cultural perspectives and talents to the camp environment, enriching the experience for all.

Training and Certifications

Mandatory Training: Before the camp season begins, all staff members participate in an intensive training program. This training covers camp policies, emergency procedures, child behavior management, and activity-specific safety.
CPR and First Aid: All staff members are required to be certified in CPR and First Aid. Certifications are kept up-to-date, and refresher courses are conducted each year.
Specialized Certifications: Depending on their roles, staff may also hold additional certifications. For example, swimming instructors are certified lifeguards, and those leading hikes or outdoor expeditions have wilderness first aid and other relevant outdoor certifications.

Continuous Professional Development

Ongoing Training: Throughout the camp season, they hold regular staff meetings and training sessions to review procedures, share feedback, and refine practices.
Feedback System: A robust feedback system allows for continuous improvement, with input from campers, parents, and fellow staff members considered to enhance the camp experience.

At Camp Bonim, their staff’s expertise and dedication are crucial to creating a safe, engaging, and enjoyable environment that allows their campers to thrive and have an unforgettable summer.

Safety and Health in Camp Bonim

Safety and health are top priorities at Camp Bonim, where they have comprehensive protocols and facilities in place to ensure the well-being of every camper and staff member. Here’s an overview of their safety measures and healthcare provisions:

Safety Protocols and Procedures

Routine Drills: Regular safety drills, including fire, weather, and emergency evacuations, are conducted to ensure everyone knows how to act in an emergency.
Activity-Specific Safety: Each activity, especially those involving physical risk (like swimming or climbing), follows strict safety guidelines. Proper gear and safety equipment are always used, and activities are supervised by staff with specific training in those areas.
Secure Campus: The camp is monitored to ensure only authorized personnel and campers are on the premises. Check-ins and check-outs are tightly controlled.

On-site Health Facilities and Staff

Health Center: Camp Bonim is equipped with a well-staffed health center that operates 24/7. It is staffed by licensed healthcare professionals, including nurses and a visiting doctor.
Facilities and Equipment: The health center is equipped to handle a range of medical needs, from minor injuries and illnesses to more urgent medical situations. It includes beds for observation and rest, essential medications, and first aid supplies.
Accessibility: The health center is centrally located to ensure it is quickly accessible from any part of the camp.

Policies on Handling Emergencies

Emergency Response Plan: Camp Bonim has a detailed emergency response plan that outlines the steps to take in various scenarios, including medical emergencies, natural disasters, and other critical incidents. This plan is regularly reviewed and updated.
Communication: In the event of an emergency, there is a clear protocol for communication with campers, staff, and parents. Parents are immediately notified in the event of any serious incident involving their child.
Training: All staff members receive training on how to handle emergencies, including the use of communication tools, first aid, and the execution of emergency plans.

Partnership with Local Services

Local Hospitals and Clinics: Camp Bonim maintains strong relationships with nearby hospitals and emergency services. Arrangements are in place for rapid transportation and communication in case of a serious medical emergency requiring hospital care.
Mental Health Resources: Recognizing the importance of mental health, counselors trained in emotional and psychological support are available to address and assist with any camper’s mental health needs.

The comprehensive safety and health measures at Camp Bonim ensure that parents can feel confident about their children’s well-being while they enjoy a fun and enriching camp experience.

Cost and Registration in Camp Bonim

At Camp Bonim, they strive to provide an accessible and transparent registration process, along with various financial options to accommodate families of different backgrounds. Here’s a breakdown of the cost, registration details, and financial support options:

Cost of Attendance

Cost: The cost of attending Camp Bonim varies depending on the length of the session and the specific programs chosen. Generally, a two-week session costs approximately $1,200, which includes all lodging, meals, activities, and equipment. Full summer sessions have a different pricing structure and additional benefits.
What It Includes: The fee covers all basic camp activities, three meals a day, snacks, accommodation, 24/7 health services, and camp T-shirts. Extra costs may arise for special outings or certain specialty programs.

Registration Process and Deadlines

Online Registration: Families can register their children via their online portal, which allows them to fill out necessary forms, choose sessions, and select specific activities.
Deadlines: Registration typically opens in January for the upcoming summer, with early bird specials available until the end of March. Regular registration closes by the end of May, but late registrations may be accepted based on availability.
Required Documentation: During registration, parents need to submit health forms, emergency contact information, and any applicable dietary or special needs information.

Payment Plans, Refunds, and Cancellation Policies

Payment Plans: Understanding that families have different financial needs, Camp Bonim offers flexible payment plans. Parents can choose to pay in installments leading up to the camp session.
Refunds: Full refunds are available up to one month before the start of the session, minus a non-refundable deposit. Partial refunds may be available up to two weeks before the session starts. Within two weeks of the session, refunds are typically not provided unless under exceptional circumstances.
Cancellation Policy: Cancellations must be communicated in writing. The policy is designed to be as accommodating as possible while allowing the camp to adequately plan for staffing and resources.

Scholarships and Financial Aid

Scholarships: Camp Bonim offers a limited number of scholarships each year based on financial need. These scholarships can cover up to 50% of the camp fees.
Financial Aid: Additional financial aid is available and is determined based on family income, number of children attending, and other special circumstances. They encourage families in need to apply early, as these funds are limited and distributed on a first-come, first-served basis.

At Camp Bonim, they are committed to making their camp experience as inclusive and accessible as possible. They encourage families to reach out directly with any questions or special circumstances regarding financing their camp experience.

Parent and Camper Preparation in Camp Bonim

Preparing for a stay at Camp Bonim is an exciting time for both campers and their parents. To ensure everyone is ready for a fantastic summer experience, they provide detailed guidelines on packing, their camp rules, and some helpful tips for first-timers.

Packing List

To help campers have a comfortable and enjoyable stay, they recommend packing the following items:

Clothing: Enough comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing for the session, including long pants, shorts, t-shirts, sweatshirts, and a rain jacket.
Footwear: Sturdy shoes for hiking, sandals for showering, and athletic shoes for sports.
Bedding: Sleeping bag or bed linens for a twin bed, and a pillow.
Toiletries: Toothbrush, toothpaste, shampoo, soap, sunscreen, insect repellent, and any necessary personal items.
Swimwear: At least two swimsuits and a beach towel.
Water Bottle: A reusable water bottle to stay hydrated throughout the day.
Flashlight or Headlamp: With extra batteries.
Optional Items: Books, writing materials, and a camera (non-smartphone).

Rules and Policies

Technology Use: To maximize engagement and interaction, personal electronic devices such as smartphones, tablets, and laptops are not allowed. They provide cameras for photography activities and encourage handwritten letters for communication.
Visitation: Parents are welcome to visit on designated days, typically mid-session, to minimize disruptions and allow campers to settle into camp life. Detailed visitation policies and schedules are provided ahead of the session.
Behavioral Expectations: Respect for fellow campers, staff, and the environment is crucial. They enforce a strict policy against bullying and inappropriate behavior to maintain a safe and positive camp environment.

Tips for First-Time Campers and Parents

For Campers:
- Be open to making new friends and trying new activities. Camp is a great place to learn and grow!
- Remember that it’s okay to feel homesick. Most campers feel this at some point, and it’s completely normal.
For Parents:
- Prepare your child by discussing what camp will be like focusing on the exciting activities and opportunities.
- Stay positive and enthusiastic; children often pick up on parental anxieties.
- Write letters in advance to your child. They can deliver these throughout their stay to make them feel connected and supported.

Ensuring that both campers and parents are prepared for the camp experience helps set the stage for a successful and memorable summer at Camp Bonim. They are dedicated to making every camper’s experience positive and enriching.

Camp Bonim stands as a beacon of growth, adventure, and community in the heart of Pennsylvania. With a focus on safety, diverse programming, and a nurturing environment, Camp Bonim is more than just a summer camp—it’s a place where lifelong memories are made and lifelong skills are developed. From their carefully structured activities and comprehensive safety protocols to their passionate staff and inclusive community, every element is designed to ensure that each camper has a fulfilling and enjoyable experience.

At Camp Bonim, they believe in the power of camp to transform lives. They invite your family to join us for a summer filled with discovery, learning, and fun, where your children will not only enjoy themselves but also grow in confidence and character. Come be a part of their community this summer and experience the magic of Camp Bonim!