Welcome to Camp Oneka, a cherished summer retreat nestled in the picturesque Pocono Mountains near Lake Wallenpaupack in Tafton, Pennsylvania. Established in 1908, this historic camp offers a vibrant and enriching summer experience for girls aged 7 to 16. Camp Oneka stands on the shores of Fairview Lake, providing a stunning backdrop for a variety of traditional camp activities and adventures.

At Camp Oneka, they believe in fostering independence, camaraderie, and a deep appreciation for nature. Their mission is to create a supportive community where girls can grow and thrive, developing lifelong skills and friendships. They aim to provide an environment that encourages personal growth, resilience, and a sense of adventure.

As an all-girls camp, Oneka specializes in creating a safe and nurturing space where campers can explore new activities, take on leadership roles, and build confidence. Whether it’s sailing, hiking, arts and crafts, or swimming, each day is filled with opportunities to learn and grow while having fun in a beautiful, natural setting.

Programs Offered by Camp Oneka

Camp Oneka offers a dynamic range of programs designed to engage and inspire young girls through an immersive summer camp experience. Each program is thoughtfully crafted to cater to different interests and age groups, ensuring that every camper finds something they love.

Programs Description

Camp Oneka provides a diverse array of activities, focusing on outdoor adventures, creative arts, and athletic development. Campers can participate in traditional camp activities such as swimming, canoeing, sailing, and archery. There are also plenty of options for those interested in arts and crafts, drama, and music, providing a creative outlet for every camper.

Length of Sessions

Campers have the flexibility to choose the duration of their stay according to their convenience and interest. Options include:

One-week sessions: Ideal for first-time campers or those with limited summer availability.
Two-week sessions: Perfect for those looking to dive deeper into the camp experience and develop stronger skills in various activities.
Full summer sessions: The most comprehensive option, allowing campers to fully immerse themselves in the camp community and participate in all programs and special events.

Specialty Programs

Camp Oneka offers specialty programs that cater to specific interests:

Arts Program: Includes pottery, painting, and theater, encouraging creativity and artistic expression.
Sports Program: Focuses on improving skills in sports like soccer, tennis, and archery, with coaching from experienced instructors.
Environmental Science Program: Teaches campers about local ecology and sustainable practices, incorporating hands-on learning in the natural surroundings of the Poconos.

Typical Daily Schedule

A typical day at Camp Oneka is structured yet flexible, allowing campers to experience a variety of activities while also having time to relax and enjoy the camp environment. The daily schedule usually includes:

Morning: Wake-up and breakfast followed by a morning assembly and the first set of activities.
Midday: Lunch break and some free time for rest or informal activities.
Afternoon: A second set of structured activities focusing on different skills and interests.
Evening: Dinner followed by evening programs such as campfires, talent shows, or night hikes.
Night: Lights out after a day full of fun, learning, and adventure.

Camp Oneka’s programs are designed to provide a balanced mix of education, recreation, and personal growth, all while fostering a sense of community and lasting friendships among campers.

Accommodations in Camp Oneka

Camp Oneka provides a classic summer camp living experience designed to foster camaraderie and a sense of community among campers. The accommodations and facilities are crafted to ensure comfort while maintaining the rustic charm of a traditional camp setting.

Sleeping Arrangements

Campers at Camp Oneka stay in cabins that blend rustic charm with the necessary comforts to ensure a pleasant stay. Each cabin houses a specific number of campers, typically ranging from 8 to 12, depending on the size. The cabins are grouped by age and activities to foster a close-knit community feeling among campers of similar ages. They are equipped with bunk beds, and storage space for personal items, and are centrally located near bathroom and shower facilities for easy access.

Dining Options

Meals at Camp Oneka are communal times where campers gather to enjoy nutritious and delicious food prepared by experienced kitchen staff. The camp offers a variety of meal plans that include breakfast, lunch, and dinner, ensuring that all campers have the energy they need for a busy day of activities.

Meal plans: The camp’s dining hall serves a variety of hot and cold dishes that cater to a range of tastes and preferences. Meals are balanced, with a focus on healthy and hearty options to fuel the campers throughout the day.
Dietary accommodations: Understanding the importance of inclusive dining, Camp Oneka is committed to accommodating dietary needs including vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and any allergies. Parents are encouraged to communicate any specific dietary requirements before the camp session begins to ensure that their children’s needs are met.

Bathroom and Shower Facilities

The bathroom and shower facilities at Camp Oneka are conveniently located in proximity to the cabins. The facilities are well-maintained and provide:

Separate shower stalls with privacy curtains, ensure comfort and security.
Flush toilets and sinks in a communal setup that is cleaned and sanitized regularly.
Hot and cold water supply to accommodate comfortably showering regardless of the weather.

The camp prioritizes cleanliness and hygiene, with facilities regularly inspected and maintained to ensure health and comfort for all campers. This arrangement not only meets the basic needs but also teaches campers the importance of responsibility and respect for shared spaces.

Activities in Camp Oneka

Camp Oneka offers a diverse array of activities designed to cater to a wide range of interests and skill levels, providing campers with numerous opportunities to learn new skills, make friends, and build lasting memories.

List of Activities Offered

Water Sports: Summer camps, swimming, canoeing, kayaking, and sailing on the scenic Fairview Lake.
Land Sports: Archery, tennis, soccer, basketball, and volleyball.
Adventure and Nature: Hiking, camping, and orienteering through the beautiful Pocono Mountains landscape.
Creative Arts: Crafts such as pottery, painting, and jewelry making, as well as drama and dance.
Skill-building Workshops: Cooking classes, survival skills, and environmental education sessions.

Special Events or Traditions

Camp Oneka is rich in traditions and special events that enhance the camp experience and build a strong community among campers:

Opening and Closing Ceremonies: These bookend the camp sessions, fostering a sense of unity and celebration.
Campfire Nights: Regular campfires where stories are shared, songs are sung, and marshmallows are roasted.
Color Wars: A multi-day event featuring team competitions in sports, arts, and spirit challenges.
Regatta Day: A day dedicated to water-based competitions and fun on the lake.
Theme Days: Special days where activities are based around a specific theme, encouraging creativity and participation.

Skill Development Opportunities

Camp Oneka is committed to fostering personal growth and skill development in a fun and supportive environment. Here are some ways campers can develop their skills:

Leadership Training: Older campers can participate in leadership programs that prepare them for roles as counselors and leaders in and outside of camp.
Specialty Clinics: Focused sessions in sports, arts, and sciences allow campers to delve deeper into specific areas of interest.
Personal Challenge Activities: Activities like the climbing wall or solo hikes that encourage personal growth and confidence building.

Camp Oneka provides a well-rounded experience where campers can engage in physical activities, express their creativity, develop new skills, and participate in traditions that have been cherished for generations.

The staff of Camp Oneka

The staff at Camp Oneka is a crucial part of ensuring a safe, engaging, and memorable camp experience for all campers. The camp maintains high standards in staffing to foster a supportive and educational environment.

Staff-to-Camper Ratio

Camp Oneka is committed to providing attentive and personalized care for each camper. The camp maintains a low staff-to-camper ratio, typically around 1:4, which ensures that each camper receives individual attention and guidance. This ratio helps to create a safe environment where all campers feel supported and are closely supervised during all activities.

Hiring Process and Staff Qualifications

The hiring process at Camp Oneka is rigorous and designed to select individuals who are not only skilled but also passionate about working with children and contributing to a positive camp environment. Key aspects of the hiring process include:

Background Checks: Comprehensive checks are conducted to ensure the safety and security of all campers.
Experience and Education: Candidates are generally required to have prior experience in child care or education, with many staff members being educators or pursuing degrees in related fields.
Interviews and References: Prospective staff members undergo thorough interviews and must provide professional references to verify their qualifications and suitability for the role.

Training and Certifications

Once hired, staff members must undergo extensive training before the camp season begins. This training includes, but is not limited to:

CPR and First Aid Certification: All staff members are required to be certified in CPR and First Aid to respond effectively to any medical emergencies.
Water Safety: For activities involving water, staff members are trained and often certified in water safety to oversee swimming, boating, and other aquatic activities safely.
Behavior Management Training: This training helps staff manage a variety of camper interactions and ensures a positive and inclusive camp environment.
Emergency Procedures: Staff are well-versed in all camp emergency procedures, from fire safety to severe weather protocols, ensuring they can act quickly and efficiently in any situation.

Camp Oneka also provides ongoing professional development throughout the camp season to ensure that staff skills remain sharp and they are up to date on the best practices in camp management and child care. This approach not only enhances the safety and quality of the camp experience but also contributes to the professional growth of the staff members.

Safety and Health in Camp Oneka

Camp Oneka prioritizes the safety and health of all campers and staff, ensuring that everyone can enjoy a worry-free and enriching camp experience. The camp implements comprehensive safety protocols, maintains well-equipped health facilities, and has strict policies for handling emergencies.

Safety Protocols and Procedures

Safety is a cornerstone of the Camp Oneka philosophy. To ensure a secure environment, the camp employs the following protocols:

Regular Safety Drills: These include fire drills, water safety practices, and severe weather procedures to ensure that campers and staff are prepared for any emergency.
Activity-Specific Training: Staff receive specialized training for the activities they supervise, focusing on safety measures specific to each activity, such as archery safety rules or boating safety protocols.
Safety Equipment: All necessary safety equipment is provided and maintained, including life jackets for water activities, helmets for biking and climbing, and appropriate gear for sports and adventure activities.
Secure Camp Grounds: The camp maintains secure facilities with staff monitoring the entrance and exit of the camp to ensure only authorized personnel and campers are on-site.

On-Site Health Facilities and Staff

Camp Oneka is equipped with an on-site health center staffed by qualified health professionals who are available 24/7. Key features of the camp’s health care provision include:

Professional Staff: The health center is typically staffed by licensed nurses and/or a visiting doctor. These professionals are trained to handle both routine health checks and more urgent medical needs.
Well-Equipped Facility: The health center is equipped to handle a variety of medical situations, providing first aid, managing medications, and stabilizing more severe health issues before transferring to a hospital if necessary.
Health Screening: Upon arrival, campers undergo health screenings to identify any existing conditions or needs, ensuring that all campers receive appropriate care and accommodations during their stay.

Policies on Handling Emergencies

Camp Oneka has a well-defined emergency response plan designed to address various scenarios effectively. This plan includes:

Immediate Response: In the event of an emergency, trained staff members follow a specific protocol to ensure a rapid and organized response. This may involve administering first aid, contacting emergency services, or implementing evacuation procedures.
Communication: The camp has protocols for promptly communicating with parents and guardians about any significant incidents or health concerns involving their children.
Partnerships with Local Authorities: Camp Oneka maintains strong relationships with local emergency services, including fire departments, hospitals, and law enforcement, to ensure a coordinated response when external assistance is needed.

Through these comprehensive safety measures, on-site health care, and detailed emergency policies, Camp Oneka ensures a secure and supportive environment for all campers, allowing them to focus on enjoying their summer camp experience.

Cost and Registration in Camp Oneka

Camp Oneka strives to offer a transparent and straightforward cost structure and registration process to ensure that families can plan effectively for their children’s summer camp experience.

Cost of Attendance

The cost of attending Camp Oneka varies depending on the length of the session chosen. Costs typically include:

All activities: Including sports, arts, and adventure programs.
Meals and accommodation: Three meals a day plus snacks, and lodging in well-maintained cabins.
Camp gear: Including a camp T-shirt and any necessary equipment for activities.
Health services: Access to on-site health professionals and facilities.

Parents are encouraged to check the camp’s official website or contact the administration for the most current pricing information, as costs may vary each year and additional charges may apply for certain special programs or extended stays.

Registration Process and Deadlines

Registration for Camp Oneka usually opens several months before the summer season begins. Interested families are advised to:

Visit the camp’s website: To fill out an online registration form.
Submit required documents: Including health forms and, for new campers, recommendations or behavioral assessments.
Pay a deposit: A non-refundable deposit is typically required to secure a spot at the camp.

Deadlines for registration are usually set a few months before the start of the session to allow for proper planning and preparation. Early registration is recommended as some sessions may fill up quickly.

Payment Plans, Refunds, and Cancellation Policies

Camp Oneka offers payment plans to help families manage the cost of camp more easily. These plans often allow parents to split the total cost into several installments leading up to the beginning of the camp session.

Refund and cancellation policies are typically outlined at the time of registration. Generally, deposits are non-refundable, and there may be a cutoff date after which no refunds are offered. However, in cases of medical emergencies or other significant issues, exceptions can be made at the discretion of the camp administration.

Availability of Scholarships or Financial Aid

Understanding that the cost of camp can be a barrier for some families, Camp Oneka offers scholarships and financial aid to eligible campers. These financial supports aim to make camp more accessible to all children and are typically awarded based on need and availability of funds. Families interested in these options are encouraged to apply early, as funds are limited and often distributed on a first-come, first-served basis.

Parent and Camper Preparation in Camp Oneka

Preparing for a stay at Camp Oneka is an exciting time for both campers and their parents. To ensure that everyone is well-prepared and knows what to expect, here are some guidelines on packing, understanding camp rules and policies, and tips for first-time campers and their families.

Packing List

A well-thought-out packing list is essential for a comfortable and enjoyable camp experience. Camp Oneka typically recommends including:

Clothing: Enough for the duration of the stay, including items for warm days and cool evenings. Pack swimwear, athletic clothes, and a rain jacket.
Footwear: Durable sneakers, hiking boots, and flip-flops or sandals for shower use.
Bedding and Linens: A sleeping bag or sheets and blankets, a pillow, and towels for both bathing and swimming.
Toiletries: Including environmentally friendly soap, shampoo, toothpaste, and insect repellent.
Sun Protection: Sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses to protect against the sun.
Flashlight or Headlamp: Essential for evening activities and navigating the cabin area at night.
Reusable Water Bottle: To stay hydrated throughout the day.
Optional Items: Books, stationary, and a camera (non-digital for younger campers).

Rules and Policies

Technology Use: To ensure all campers engage fully with their surroundings and peers, Camp Oneka generally has a no-electronics policy. This includes smartphones, tablets, and laptops. Emergency contact with parents is facilitated through camp administration.
Visitation: Parents and family members are encouraged to visit only on designated visiting days to minimize disruptions and maintain the camp schedule and dynamic.
Behavioral Expectations: Respect, inclusivity, and cooperation are highly emphasized. Campers are expected to adhere to these principles throughout their stay.

Tips for First-Time Campers and Parents

Preparation for Separation: Discuss the upcoming experience with your camper, focusing on the exciting activities and new friendships. Encourage independence at home to ease the transition to camp life.
Communication: Write letters in advance for your camper to receive during their stay. Discuss how they can communicate with you during their time at camp.
Emotional Readiness: Make sure your camper feels ready and excited. It’s normal to have some nervousness, but open conversations about what to expect can alleviate fears.
Logistical Planning: Arrive on time for drop-off and pick-up, and ensure all forms, including medical forms, are submitted well in advance.

By following these guidelines, parents can help ensure that their campers have a smooth transition to camp life and an enjoyable, memorable summer at Camp Oneka.

Camp Oneka stands as a beacon of adventure, learning, and personal growth, nestled in the scenic Pocono Mountains. For over a century, it has been providing a nurturing and vibrant environment where young girls can challenge themselves, discover new interests, and forge lasting friendships. The camp’s commitment to fostering independence and resilience, coupled with a rich array of activities, ensures that each camper leaves with cherished memories and a stronger sense of self.

With a focus on safety, community, and fun, Camp Oneka offers a summer experience that goes beyond traditional camping by instilling the values and skills that campers carry with them long after they leave the shores of Fairview Lake. Whether it’s through paddling across the water, starring in a campfire play, or simply sharing stories under the stars, Camp Oneka is more than just a summer camp—it’s a place where young girls grow into confident and capable young women.