Nestled in the serene surroundings of Cumberland, Rhode Island, Camp Ker-Anna offers a picturesque retreat for youth seeking a blend of adventure, relaxation, and personal growth. Positioned in a lush region known for its natural beauty, this camp is easily accessible yet feels a world away from the hustle of city life, making it an ideal backdrop for camping activities.

Founded with a vision to foster a supportive environment where young people can explore their potential, Camp Ker-Anna has been a beacon of youth development in the area. Its mission is to provide a safe, inclusive, and vibrant community that encourages healthy living, environmental stewardship, and lifelong learning.

Camp Ker-Anna is a summer destination that welcomes boys and girls across various age groups. Through a diverse array of programs ranging from outdoor sports to arts and crafts, the camp aims to cater to the interests and developmental needs of every camper, ensuring a memorable and enriching summer experience.

Programs Offered by Camp Ker-Anna

Camp Ker-Anna offers a diverse array of programs designed to cater to different interests and age groups, providing a rich and engaging summer experience for all campers. Here’s a breakdown of the programs, their durations, and specialties:

1. Session Lengths

One-Week Sessions: Ideal for younger campers or first-timers, these sessions provide a snapshot of the full camp experience.
Two-Week Sessions: These allow for a deeper exploration of activities and more profound social connections.
Full Summer Option: For the most immersive experience, campers can stay the entire summer, enjoying a comprehensive program that builds skills and friendships.

2. Specialty Programs

Arts: This program includes a range of creative pursuits such as painting, sculpture, drama, and music, encouraging campers to explore their artistic talents in a supportive environment.
Sports: Focused on physical education and teamwork, this specialty offers activities like soccer, basketball, swimming, and archery, catering to all skill levels.
Science and Nature: Campers engage in hands-on learning experiences that might include biology, ecology, and environmental science, promoting curiosity and respect for the natural world.

3. Typical Daily Schedule

Morning: After breakfast, campers typically engage in a structured activity related to their chosen specialty program. This could be a team sport, a science experiment, or an arts and crafts project.
Midday: Lunch is followed by a quiet period for rest or free time, allowing campers to recharge or engage in less structured social activities.
Afternoon: The second activity session of the day provides an opportunity to continue developing skills in the morning’s specialty or to participate in a different activity, ensuring variety and broad exposure to all the camp offers.
Evening: After dinner, campers enjoy group activities such as campfires, storytelling, or themed nights, which foster community and teamwork.

By offering structured yet flexible programming, Camp Ker-Anna ensures that every camper can find something that piques their interest, all while fostering an environment of learning and growth.

Accommodations in Camp Ker-Anna

Camp Ker-Anna provides campers with comfortable accommodations and thoughtful amenities, ensuring a pleasant and convenient stay for all participants.

1. Sleeping Arrangements

Cabins: Campers typically stay in well-maintained cabins that are designed to blend into the natural surroundings. These cabins are grouped by age and gender, with each cabin housing a small number of campers to foster a close-knit atmosphere. They are equipped with bunk beds, storage space for personal belongings, and are close to central bathroom facilities.
Tents: For older campers or special wilderness programs, there may be opportunities to sleep in tents. This option provides a more rugged, authentic camping experience, allowing campers to connect closely with nature.

2. Dining Options

Meal Plans: Camp Ker-Anna offers a full meal plan that includes breakfast, lunch, and dinner, prepared daily by experienced kitchen staff. Meals are served in a communal dining hall where campers gather to eat and socialize, enhancing the community feel of the camp.
Dietary Accommodations: Understanding the importance of catering to all campers’ needs, the camp provides options for various dietary restrictions, including vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and allergy-sensitive meals. Parents can communicate any specific dietary requirements prior to the camp session to ensure their child’s needs are met.

3. Bathroom and Shower Facilities

Facilities: Bathroom and shower facilities are centrally located for easy access from the cabins and tent areas. Separate facilities for boys and girls are well-maintained and equipped with multiple stalls and showers to accommodate the needs of all campers without significant wait times.
Hygiene Standards: The camp prioritizes cleanliness and hygiene, with facilities cleaned multiple times a day by staff. There are also protocols in place to teach and encourage campers to maintain personal and shared hygiene, ensuring a healthy living environment for everyone.

Camp Ker-Anna’s accommodations are designed to enhance the camping experience, combining comfort with the rustic charm of outdoor living, all while ensuring the safety and well-being of every camper.

Activities in Camp Ker-Anna

Camp Ker-Anna offers a wide variety of activities that cater to the diverse interests and abilities of its campers, ensuring that each day is filled with fun, learning, and adventure. Here’s an overview of the activities, special events, and skill development opportunities available:

1. List of Activities Offered

Swimming: Daily swim lessons and free swim periods are provided in the camp’s pool or lake, depending on the location.
Hiking: Guided hikes through local trails offer campers the opportunity to explore the natural landscape and learn about local flora and fauna.
Crafts: A range of creative arts and crafts activities, including pottery, beadwork, and painting, allow campers to express their creativity and bring home personal souvenirs.
Sports: A variety of team sports like soccer, basketball, and volleyball encourage teamwork and physical fitness.
Archery: Summer camps can learn and practice archery under the supervision of certified instructors, focusing on safety and skill development.
Canoeing and Kayaking: Water-based activities provide fun and challenging experiences for campers, teaching them basic paddling techniques and water safety.
Nature Programs: Educational sessions on local wildlife and ecosystems enhance campers’ environmental awareness and appreciation.

2. Special Events or Traditions

Campfire Nights: Regular campfire gatherings include singing, storytelling, and marshmallow roasting, fostering a sense of community and tradition.
Color Wars: This camp-wide competition splits campers into teams to compete in various sports and activities, promoting spirit and camaraderie.
End-of-Summer Carnival: A carnival with games, prizes, and food booths serves as a celebratory close to the summer, allowing campers to enjoy a festive atmosphere with their friends.

3. Skill Development Opportunities

Leadership Training: Older campers have opportunities to take on leadership roles, such as cabin leaders or activity assistants, helping to plan events and guide younger campers.
Environmental Stewardship: Through participation in conservation projects and eco-friendly practices, campers learn the importance of preserving and respecting nature.
Personal Growth Workshops: Workshops on topics such as teamwork, communication, and confidence-building are integrated into the camp schedule to aid personal development.

Camp Ker-Anna’s comprehensive activity program ensures that every camper can find something they enjoy, while also providing ample opportunity for personal growth and skill development in a fun and supportive environment.

The staff of Camp Ker-Anna

Camp Ker-Anna is dedicated to providing a safe, educational, and enjoyable environment for all campers, supported by a well-trained and qualified staff team. Here’s an overview of the staff structure, qualifications, and training:

1. Staff-to-Camper Ratio

General Staffing: Camp Ker-Anna maintains a low staff-to-camper ratio to ensure that each camper receives adequate attention and supervision. Typically, the ratio is about one staff member for every six to eight campers, which enhances safety and allows for more personalized interaction and guidance.

2. Hiring Process and Staff Qualifications

Recruitment: The hiring process at Camp Ker-Anna involves a rigorous selection procedure to ensure that all staff members are well-suited for their roles. This includes background checks, reference checks, and interviews to assess candidates’ experience and aptitude for working with children.
Qualifications: Staff members often come from diverse backgrounds including education, sports, arts, and science, and many are pursuing or have completed higher education related to their roles. Specific roles, such as activity specialists or healthcare providers, require relevant qualifications or experience in their respective fields.

3. Training and Certifications

Mandatory Training: Prior to the camp season, all staff undergo comprehensive training that covers camp policies, emergency procedures, behavior management techniques, and activity-specific safety protocols.
Certifications: All staff members are required to hold current certifications in CPR and First Aid. Additional certifications may be required for special roles; for example, lifeguards must have lifeguarding and water safety certifications, and those involved in high-adventure activities like rock climbing or canoeing are trained and certified in those specific areas.

4. Continuing Education

Ongoing Training: Throughout the camp season, there are opportunities for staff to participate in ongoing training sessions and professional development to enhance their skills and stay updated on best practices in youth development and camp management.

The commitment of Camp Ker-Anna to maintaining a highly qualified and well-trained staff ensures that the camp operates smoothly and safely, providing an enriching experience for all campers.

Safety and Health in Camp Ker-Anna

Camp Ker-Anna prioritizes the safety and health of all its campers and staff, implementing comprehensive protocols and maintaining robust facilities to ensure a secure and supportive environment.

1. Safety Protocols and Procedures

Regular Drills: Camp Ker-Anna conducts regular safety drills, including fire, weather, and lockdown drills, to ensure that both campers and staff are familiar with procedures in various emergency situations.
Activity Safety: Each activity is overseen by trained staff members who ensure that all equipment is safe and that safety protocols are followed. For example, swimming areas are always supervised by certified lifeguards, and equipment used in sports and adventure activities is regularly inspected.
Secure Environment: The camp is equipped with controlled access points to prevent unauthorized entry, and there is a clear visitor policy in place to ensure that all visitors are monitored.

2. On-Site Health Facilities and Staff

Health Center: Camp Ker-Anna features a well-equipped health center staffed by qualified healthcare professionals, including nurses and, at times, a visiting doctor. The health center is prepared to handle routine health issues and minor injuries.
Medication Management: The health staff is responsible for the storage and administration of medications for campers who require them, ensuring that they are given accurately and on schedule.

3. Policies on Handling Emergencies

Emergency Response Plan: The camp has a detailed emergency response plan that outlines specific steps to take in the event of various emergencies, such as natural disasters, health crises, or accidents.
Communication: In case of an emergency, there are protocols for communicating swiftly and effectively with local emergency services, parents, and camp staff. The camp ensures that all communication lines are open and functional at all times.
Training: All staff are trained not only in CPR and First Aid but also in emergency response techniques specific to the kinds of challenges that might arise while at camp. This training is regularly updated to reflect current best practices.

Through these measures, Camp Ker-Anna ensures a camping experience where safety and health are at the forefront, allowing campers and parents alike to feel secure in the knowledge that comprehensive care and preparedness are always maintained.

Cost and Registration in Camp Ker-Anna

Camp Ker-Anna aims to provide a transparent and accommodating registration process, along with clear information about costs, financial options, and support to ensure that as many children as possible can enjoy their programs. Here are the details regarding cost, registration, and financial support:

1. Cost of Attendance

What It Includes: The cost of attending Camp Ker-Anna typically covers all basic needs, including lodging, meals, activities, and equipment. The fees also include any special events or trips that are part of the camp program.
Pricing Structure: Costs can vary depending on the length of the session, the age of the camper, and the type of program selected.

2. Registration Process and Deadlines

How to Register: Parents can register their children, where they fill out necessary forms and providing any required medical and dietary information.
Deadlines: Registration typically opens several months in advance of the camp season, with early bird rates available up to a certain date. It’s advisable to register early as spots can fill up quickly, and some programs may have limited availability.

3. Payment Plans, Refunds, and Cancellation Policies

Payment Plans: Understanding that the cost of camp can be a significant investment, Camp Ker-Anna offers structured payment plans allowing families to pay in installments over time, making it more manageable.
Refunds and Cancellation Policies: The camp provides a detailed refund policy which usually includes full refunds up to a certain date, with partial refunds or credit towards future camp sessions as the camp start date approaches. Cancellation due to extenuating circumstances, like medical issues, is often handled on a case-by-case basis.

4. Scholarships and Financial Aid

Availability: Camp Ker-Anna is committed to accessibility and provides scholarships and financial aid opportunities for families who demonstrate financial need.
Application Process: To apply for financial aid, families typically need to submit an application that may include financial information, a personal statement, and occasionally recommendations. These applications are reviewed confidentially to determine eligibility for aid.

By providing a variety of financial options and support, Camp Ker-Anna ensures that its enriching summer experiences are accessible to a wide range of families, helping to build a diverse and inclusive camper community.

Camp Ker-Anna offers different fees depending on whether you choose their day camp or overnight camp option:

Day Camp (ages 5-13): Their day camp program is priced at $150 per week.
Overnight Camp (ages 9-14): For their overnight program, you can expect to pay $200 per week

Parent and Camper Preparation in Camp Ker-Anna

Preparing for a stay at Camp Ker-Anna involves understanding what to bring, the camp’s rules and policies, and having some tips for navigating the camp experience, especially for first-timers. Here’s how parents and campers can get ready for their adventure:

1. Packing List

Essential Clothing: Pack comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing including t-shirts, shorts, pants, and a jacket for cooler evenings. Include swimwear, a sun hat, and sturdy shoes for hiking and sports.
Bedding and Toiletries: Bring a sleeping bag or bed linens and a pillow, along with personal toiletries such as a toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, and shampoo.
Other Essentials: Don’t forget sunscreen, insect repellent, a water bottle, and a flashlight with extra batteries.
Optional Items: Consider packing stationery, a camera, books, and any sports equipment that might be useful, like a tennis racket or a baseball glove.

2. Rules and Policies

Technology Use: Camp Ker-Anna encourages a technology-free environment to help campers engage fully with their surroundings and fellow campers. Devices such as smartphones, tablets, and laptops are typically not allowed, or their use is restricted to certain times and places.
Visitation: Parents are welcome to visit on designated visiting days, which are usually scheduled during longer camp sessions. Outside of these days, visits are discouraged to help maintain the camp schedule and dynamics.
Behavioral Expectations: Respect, inclusivity, and safety are paramount. Campers are expected to adhere to camp rules, participate in scheduled activities, and respect both peers and staff.

3. Tips for First-Time Campers and Parents

For Campers: Engage actively, try new activities, and be open to making new friends. Remember, it’s okay to feel homesick; talking to a counselor or new friends can be very helpful.
For Parents: Prepare your child by discussing what camp will be like focusing on the exciting activities and opportunities. Make sure your child knows how to contact you if necessary and understands when and how they will be able to communicate with you during their stay.
Communication: Set up a plan for staying in touch through letters or the occasional call, as allowed by the camp’s policies. This can help ease the transition for both campers and parents.

By following these guidelines, both campers and their parents can ensure that the camp experience is enjoyable, comfortable, and enriching, making the most of what Camp Ker-Anna has to offer.

Camp Ker-Anna stands out as a nurturing haven where children can immerse themselves in a diverse range of activities tailored to foster personal growth, cultivate new skills, and encourage lasting friendships. Nestled in the scenic landscapes of Cumberland, Rhode Island, the camp provides a perfect backdrop for adventures and learning, supported by a dedicated staff committed to creating a safe, inclusive, and dynamic environment.

From the structured activities and specialty programs to the emphasis on safety, community, and personal development, Camp Ker-Anna is dedicated to delivering a summer experience that enriches young lives. The camp’s thoughtful approach to camper engagement, along with its robust safety protocols and health facilities, ensures that parents can trust their children are in good hands, while campers themselves enjoy unforgettable experiences.