Nestled in the verdant landscapes of Dummerston, Vermont, Green Mountain Camp stands as a beacon of adventure and growth for young minds. Established in the scenic region of Southern Vermont, the camp is conveniently situated near notable landmarks, offering a picturesque setting that combines natural beauty with easy accessibility.

Founded with a vision to foster independence and confidence, Green Mountain Camp has a storied history that dates back several decades, evolving from a simple outdoor retreat to a comprehensive developmental experience for children. The camp’s mission is rooted in the belief that every child deserves a summer filled with laughter, friendship, and discovery. It strives to create an environment where young individuals can explore their interests, develop new skills, and build lasting relationships in a supportive community.

Specifically designed as a girls’ camp, Green Mountain caters to various age groups, providing programs tailored to the unique needs and interests of its campers. This specialization ensures that each child receives the attention and guidance necessary to thrive during their time at the camp. With its rich tradition, stunning location, and commitment to positive youth development, Green Mountain Camp continues to be a cherished summer destination, inspiring generations of girls to reach their fullest potential.

Programs Offered by Green Mountain Camp

Green Mountain Camp offers a variety of programs designed to cater to different interests and age groups, ensuring a rich and engaging experience for every camper. Here’s an overview of the programs and what a typical day looks like at the camp:

Description of Programs

Green Mountain Camp provides a balanced mix of activities that emphasize creativity, physical activity, and exploration. The camp’s programs are crafted to enhance skills, foster personal growth, and encourage camaraderie among campers.

Length of Sessions

The camp offers flexible session lengths to accommodate the needs of different families and schedules. Options include:

One-week sessions: Ideal for first-time campers or those looking for a short-term camp experience.
Two-week sessions: Perfect for campers who wish to delve deeper into the camp’s offerings and build stronger relationships with peers.
Full summer options: For campers who want to enjoy the complete Green Mountain experience, immersing themselves in all activities and aspects of camp life throughout the summer.

Specialty Programs

Green Mountain Camp includes several specialty programs that allow campers to focus on specific interests:

Arts: This program includes activities like painting, sculpture, theater, and dance, encouraging campers to express themselves creatively.
Sports: Focused on physical fitness and teamwork, the sports program offers a variety of games and challenges, from traditional sports like soccer and basketball to camp-specific activities like archery.
Science: Designed for the curious and inquisitive, this program includes hands-on experiments, nature walks, and educational sessions that make learning fun and engaging.

Typical Daily Schedule

A day at Green Mountain Camp is structured to provide a balance of activities, meals, and free time, fostering a sense of routine while keeping excitement alive. Here’s what a typical day might look like:

7:30 AM: Wake up and morning exercises
8:00 AM: Breakfast
9:00 AM: Morning activities (campers split into groups based on the program)
12:00 PM: Lunch
1:00 PM: Quiet time/rest
2:00 PM: Afternoon activities (specialty program sessions)
5:00 PM: Free time
6:00 PM: Dinner
7:00 PM: Evening activities (camp-wide games, bonfires, storytelling)
9:00 PM: Lights out

Each day is carefully planned to ensure that campers remain engaged, learn new skills, and enjoy their summer to the fullest. Green Mountain Camp’s commitment to a structured yet flexible schedule allows each child to explore their interests, make new friends, and create memories that last a lifetime.

Accommodations in Green Mountain Camp

Green Mountain Camp provides comfortable and well-maintained accommodations, ensuring that all campers have a safe and enjoyable stay. Here’s a detailed look at the sleeping arrangements, dining options, and bathroom facilities available at the camp:

Sleeping Arrangements

Green Mountain Camp offers rustic yet charming cabin accommodations designed to blend in with the natural surroundings. These cabins:

Capacity: Typically houses 8-10 campers along with 2 counselors, fostering a close-knit community feel.
Structure: Built from sturdy wood, the cabins are equipped with bunk beds and storage areas for personal belongings.
Location: Strategically placed throughout the campgrounds to offer beautiful views of the surrounding forest and easy access to the camp’s main facilities.

Dining Options

The camp is committed to providing nutritious and delicious meals that fuel the campers throughout their active days. Dining specifics include:

Meal Plans: Three balanced meals are served daily in the communal dining hall, where campers gather to eat together, promoting social interaction and community building.
Dietary Accommodations: Understanding the importance of inclusive dining options, the camp accommodates various dietary needs, including vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and any allergies. Parents are encouraged to communicate any specific dietary requirements prior to arrival to ensure their child’s needs are met.

Bathroom and Shower Facilities

The hygiene facilities at Green Mountain Camp are designed to provide convenience and privacy:

Location: Bathrooms and showers are centrally located and easily accessible from all cabins. They are gender-segregated and regularly cleaned and maintained.
Facilities: Equipped with multiple stalls and showers, the facilities ensure minimal wait times. Private changing areas and secure storage spaces for toiletries and towels are also provided.

The camp’s facilities are carefully planned to ensure that all campers have a comfortable and worry-free stay, allowing them to focus on enjoying their summer experience.

Activities in Green Mountain Camp

Green Mountain Camp offers a diverse array of activities designed to engage campers of all interests and skill levels. This holistic approach ensures a fulfilling and memorable summer experience. Here’s an overview of the activities, special events, and skill development opportunities available at the camp:

List of Activities Offered

Green Mountain Camp provides a wide range of activities that cater to both the adventurous and the creative:

Swimming: Daily swim lessons and free swim periods in the camp’s outdoor pool.
Hiking: Guided hikes along scenic trails that explore the local flora and fauna.
Crafts: A variety of arts and crafts sessions, including pottery, beading, and woodworking.
Sports: Team sports such as soccer, basketball, and volleyball, as well as individual activities like archery and tennis.
Nature Exploration: Activities that encourage environmental awareness and exploration, such as bird watching and nature scavenger hunts.
Performing Arts: Opportunities in drama, dance, and music, culminating in performances for fellow campers.
Canoeing and Kayaking: Water-based adventures on the camp’s lake.

Special Events or Traditions

Green Mountain Camp is rich in traditions and special events that build community and create lasting memories:

Opening Campfire: A welcome event with songs, introductions, and the sharing of camp traditions.
Color Wars: A multi-day event where campers are divided into teams to compete in various fun and spirited activities.
Talent Show: An end-of-session showcase where campers can display their unique talents and new skills.
Themed Dinners and Dances: Special evenings filled with themed activities, costumes, and dances.
Closing Ceremony: A reflective campfire gathering to celebrate the session’s achievements and friendships.

Skill Development Opportunities

The camp emphasizes skill development in all its activities, with structured progressions and supportive instruction:

Leadership Skills: Older campers have opportunities to lead activities, mentor younger campers, and participate in leadership workshops.
Environmental Stewardship: Through hands-on environmental education, campers learn about sustainability and the importance of conserving natural resources.
Artistic Expression: Summer camps are encouraged to develop their artistic skills through comprehensive arts programs that offer both breadth and depth.
Physical Fitness: Sports and outdoor activities promote physical health and teach the importance of teamwork and fair play.
Confidence Building: All activities are designed to help campers build self-confidence and resilience through challenging, yet supportive experiences.

These activities and events are tailored to ensure that every camper at Green Mountain Camp not only has fun but also grows personally and socially in a nurturing environment.

The staff of Green Mountain Camp

Green Mountain Camp is dedicated to providing a safe, supportive, and enriching environment for all campers, which is reflected in their meticulous approach to staff selection and training. Here’s a detailed look at the staff structure, hiring process, and the qualifications required for the team:

Staff-to-Camper Ratio

To ensure each camper receives individual attention and care, Green Mountain Camp maintains an optimal staff-to-camper ratio. Typically, the ratio is about 1 staff member for every 5 campers. This ratio allows the staff to effectively oversee and engage with campers, ensuring a safe and personalized camp experience.

Hiring Process and Staff Qualifications

The hiring process at Green Mountain Camp is rigorous and focuses on selecting individuals who are not only qualified but also passionate about working with children in a camp setting:

Background Checks: Comprehensive background checks are a standard part of the hiring process, including criminal records and reference checks.
Experience and Skills: Preference is given to candidates with prior experience in child care, education, or specific activity areas like sports, arts, or science. A love for the outdoors and a charismatic, engaging personality are also crucial.
Interviews: Potential staff members undergo extensive interviews that assess their suitability for the role, their ability to handle various camp scenarios, and their commitment to the camp’s values.

Training and Certifications

Once hired, staff members undergo a thorough training program before the camp season begins, which includes:

CPR and First Aid Certification: All staff members are required to be certified in CPR and First Aid to ensure they can respond effectively to any health emergencies.
Activity-Specific Training: Staff leading specialized activities such as swimming, archery, or rock climbing are trained and certified in those specific areas to ensure camper safety.
Child Safety and Protection: Training on child protection laws, appropriate behavior, and how to create a safe and inclusive environment is provided.
Emergency Procedures: Staff are trained in camp-specific emergency procedures, including fire safety, weather emergencies, and lost camper protocols.

Additionally, ongoing training sessions are held throughout the camp season to ensure staff skills remain sharp and to address any emerging issues or updates in the camp policy.

Green Mountain Camp prides itself on its professional and dedicated staff, who play a pivotal role in creating a nurturing and fun environment where campers can thrive. Through its comprehensive hiring and training processes, the camp ensures that every staff member is fully equipped to provide the best possible experience for all campers.

Safety and Health in Green Mountain Camp

Green Mountain Camp places a high priority on the safety and health of its campers, implementing robust protocols and maintaining well-equipped facilities to handle any issues that may arise. Here’s a comprehensive overview of the camp’s approach to safety, health facilities, and emergency handling:

Safety Protocols and Procedures

Green Mountain Camp has established a set of rigorous safety protocols to ensure the well-being of all campers and staff:

Routine Safety Drills: The camp conducts regular safety drills, including fire drills, weather emergency practices, and mock search and rescue operations, to ensure everyone knows how to act in different scenarios.
Activity-Specific Safety Guidelines: Each activity at the camp, especially those involving physical exertion or specialized equipment (like swimming, archery, or hiking), follows strict safety guidelines. Equipment is regularly inspected, and safety gear is mandatory for activities with increased risk.
Secure Camp Grounds: The camp features controlled access to prevent unauthorized entry, and all visitors must check in at the administration office. The camp perimeter is well-defined with clear signage and fencing where necessary.

On-Site Health Facilities and Staff

To handle health-related issues effectively:

Health Center: Green Mountain Camp maintains a well-equipped health center that is staffed with qualified healthcare professionals, including nurses who are on duty 24/7. The center is prepared to manage minor injuries and common illnesses, and it is stocked with the necessary medications and first-aid equipment.
Health Checks: Upon arrival, each camper undergoes a health check to identify any existing conditions or allergies that the camp staff should be aware of. This information is kept confidential but accessible to necessary staff to ensure appropriate care.

Policies on Handling Emergencies

Green Mountain Camp has a comprehensive emergency response plan:

Emergency Medical Care: In case of a serious injury or illness, the camp has protocols in place for immediate response. The health center staff can handle initial treatment, and the camp is prepared to transport campers to the nearest hospital if more advanced care is needed.
Communication with Parents: The camp promptly notifies parents or guardians in the event of any emergencies involving their children. A clear communication plan is in place to keep parents informed about their child’s health and safety.
Partnerships with Local Authorities: Green Mountain Camp works closely with local emergency services, including fire departments, hospitals, and police, to ensure a rapid response to any serious incidents. Regular meetings and coordination drills help maintain a strong partnership.

Through these measures, Green Mountain Camp ensures a safe and healthy environment for all campers, enabling them to focus on enjoying their camp experience without worries. These protocols and facilities reflect the camp’s commitment to upholding the highest standards of safety and care.

Cost and Registration in Green Mountain Camp

Green Mountain Camp aims to provide an enriching summer experience while ensuring affordability and accessibility for families. Here are the details regarding the cost of attendance, the registration process, and financial support options:

Cost of Attendance:

Residential Camp: $1,200 per week
Day Camp: $450 per week

These fees include:

All meals and snacks (for residential campers)
Lodging (for residential campers)
Daily activities and programs
Use of camp facilities and equipment
Camp t-shirt

Registration Process and Deadlines

Early Registration: Typically opens several months before the summer season, with discounts often available for early sign-ups.
Standard Registration: Closes a few weeks before the camp session begins, or when the maximum number of campers is reached.
Online Registration: Families can register their children, where they can fill out necessary forms, choose sessions, and submit medical information.

Payment Plans, Refunds, and Cancellation Policies

Payment Plans: The camp offers flexible payment plans to help families manage the cost of attendance. These can include monthly installments leading up to the camp start date.
Refunds and Cancellations: Refunds are typically available up to a certain date before the camp session begins, minus a non-refundable deposit. After this date, refunds may be partial or non-existent, depending on the camp’s policies.
Cancellation Due to Illness or Emergency: Special considerations are usually made for cancellations due to significant illness or family emergencies, often requiring documentation for verification.

Scholarships and Financial Aid

Scholarships: Green Mountain Camp offers scholarships to help reduce the cost for families in need. These are often merit-based or need-based.
Financial Aid: Additional financial aid may be available based on family income, the number of children attending, or other special circumstances.
External Support: Families are encouraged to inquire about potential third-party sources of financial support, such as community organizations or local businesses.

Green Mountain Camp is committed to making its programs accessible to as many children as possible. Families are encouraged to contact the camp administration for detailed information on costs, financial aid opportunities, and any available assistance that could help lower the barriers to participation.

Parent and Camper Preparation in Green Mountain Camp

Preparing for a stay at Green Mountain Camp is an exciting time for both campers and their parents. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help ensure that everyone is well-prepared and informed about what to expect:

Packing List

To make sure campers have everything they need for a comfortable and enjoyable experience, the following items should be included:

Clothing: Enough clothing for the duration of the stay, including t-shirts, shorts, pants, and layers for cooler evenings. Include a rain jacket and swimwear.
Footwear: Sturdy shoes for hiking, sandals for casual wear, and water shoes if applicable.
Bedding: Sleeping bag or sheets and blankets, pillow.
Toiletries: Toothbrush, toothpaste, shampoo, soap, sunscreen, and insect repellent.
Medications: Any necessary prescription medications, clearly labeled, with instructions.
Miscellaneous: Flashlight, batteries, water bottle, hat, sunglasses.

Rules and Policies

Green Mountain Camp has established several important rules and policies to ensure the safety and well-being of all campers:

Technology Use: To promote social interaction and connection with nature, the use of personal electronic devices such as smartphones, tablets, and laptops is typically restricted or prohibited except in designated areas or times.
Visitation: Parents are usually allowed to visit on specific days to minimize disruptions to the camp program and allow campers to fully engage in the camp experience.
Behavioral Expectations: Campers are expected to follow all camp rules, show respect to peers and staff, and participate actively in scheduled activities.

Tips for First-Time Campers and Parents

Preparation: Discuss what camp will be like focusing on the fun activities and new friends to be made. Encourage your child to participate in packing.
Communication: Learn about the camp’s communication policies — how and when you can expect updates, and how your child can contact you if necessary.
Homesickness: It’s normal for some children to experience homesickness. Encourage them to stay engaged in activities and talk to staff if they feel sad.
Independence: Camp is a great opportunity for children to gain independence. Discussing this beforehand can help set expectations and build excitement.

Green Mountain Camp provides a supportive environment for first-time campers and their parents. By following these preparation tips and adhering to camp policies, you can help ensure that the experience is both rewarding and memorable for your child.

Green Mountain Camp in Dummerston, Vermont, stands out as a quintessential summer retreat that promises more than just fun and games; it offers a transformative experience for young girls. Through its picturesque location, diverse program offerings, and commitment to fostering a supportive community, the camp cultivates an environment where every camper can thrive. From the rich array of activities designed to suit all interests to the robust safety protocols and passionate staff, Green Mountain Camp ensures a balanced approach to adventure, learning, and personal growth.

The camp’s thoughtful preparation guides for parents and campers, alongside a flexible registration system and financial aid options, make it accessible and stress-free for families planning their summer. With its long-standing traditions and a focus on building lifelong skills and friendships, Green Mountain Camp is more than just a summer destination—it’s a place where memories are made, and the seeds of confidence and independence are sown. As families look towards the summer, Green Mountain Camp stands ready to offer another season of laughter, learning, and the joys of youth in the great outdoors.