Nestled in the heart of the Northeast Kingdom of Vermont, Hosmer Point in Craftsbury Common offers a picturesque setting for youth to explore, learn, and grow. Situated near the serene Great Hosmer Pond and surrounded by lush forests, this camp provides a natural retreat that fosters an appreciation for the outdoors.

Established with a commitment to nurturing the physical and emotional well-being of children, Hosmer Point aims to create an environment where campers can build confidence, cultivate friendships, and develop life skills through a variety of outdoor activities. The camp’s philosophy centers on personal growth and community building, guided by the belief that every child deserves a place to feel valued and understood.

Hosmer Point is a summer camp that welcomes boys and girls aged 9 to 15. It offers a diverse array of programs that encourage children to challenge themselves and embrace new experiences, all within a supportive and inclusive community. Whether through sailing, mountain biking, or arts and crafts, Hosmer Point provides a backdrop for adventure and self-discovery in one of Vermont’s most beautiful regions.

Programs Offered by Hosmer Point

Hosmer Point offers a range of programs designed to cater to various interests and age groups, allowing campers to enjoy a fulfilling and adventurous summer experience. Each program is thoughtfully structured to maximize learning and fun in a safe, supportive environment.

Programs Description:

Traditional Camp – This program forms the core of Hosmer Point, where campers engage in a variety of activities including swimming, canoeing, archery, and crafts. It emphasizes personal development through outdoor adventure and team activities.
Leadership Training – Aimed at older campers, this program focuses on developing leadership skills through advanced camp responsibilities, peer mentoring, and special projects that benefit the camp community.
Adventure Trips – These excursions take advantage of the natural landscapes around Vermont, including hiking trips in the Green Mountains and canoe journeys on the Northern Forest Canoe Trail.
Specialty Camps – These include focused sessions on arts, sports, and science, allowing campers to delve deeper into their areas of interest with expert instruction and specialized equipment.

Length of Sessions:

One-week sessions are perfect for younger campers or those new to the camp experience, offering a taste of what Hosmer Point has to offer.
Two-week sessions provide a more immersive experience, with more opportunities for skill development and deeper relationships.
Full Summer Options are available for families looking for a comprehensive summer camp experience, where campers can truly embed themselves in the camp culture and community.

Specialty Programs:

The Arts Program includes pottery, painting, and performance arts, helping campers explore their creativity.
Sports Program focuses on physical activities like soccer, tennis, and water sports, promoting teamwork and physical fitness.
The Science Program offers hands-on experiments and environmental education, highlighting the rich ecosystems of Vermont.

Typical Daily Schedule:

Morning:
- Wake-up call
- Breakfast
- Morning Assembly
- Activity Session 1
Afternoon:
- Lunch
- Rest period
- Activity Session 2
- Activity Session 3
Evening:
- Dinner
- Evening Program (campfire, talent show, etc.)
- Bedtime routine

Each day at Hosmer Point is structured to provide a balance of activity, social interaction, and personal time, ensuring that campers remain engaged and energized throughout their stay. Whether choosing a one-week introduction or a full summer adventure, Hosmer Point delivers a memorable and transformative camp experience.

Accommodations in Hosmer Point

Hosmer Point ensures that the accommodations are comfortable, safe, and conducive to the camp experience, allowing campers to focus fully on their activities and friendships.

Sleeping Arrangements:

Cabins: Campers at Hosmer Point typically stay in cabins that are designed to blend into the natural surroundings. Each cabin houses a small group of campers, generally grouped by age and gender, to foster a close-knit community. Cabins are equipped with bunk beds, storage space for personal belongings, and easy access to bathroom facilities.
Tents: For specific programs or adventure trips, campers may also have the opportunity to sleep in tents. This allows them to fully immerse themselves in the natural environment and learn practical outdoor living skills.

Dining Options:

Meal Plans: Hosmer Point provides three well-balanced meals each day, prepared by a dedicated kitchen staff. Meals are served in a communal dining hall, where campers gather to eat and socialize. The dining experience is designed to be a time for community building, with campers and staff eating together.
Dietary Accommodations: Understanding the importance of catering to various dietary needs, the camp offers vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and allergy-friendly options. Families are encouraged to communicate any specific dietary requirements prior to arrival to ensure that all campers’ needs are met.

Bathroom and Shower Facilities:

Central Facilities: Hosmer Point is equipped with central bathroom and shower facilities that are shared among campers in nearby cabins. These facilities are maintained with high standards of cleanliness and are checked regularly to ensure they meet health and safety standards.
Private Facilities: In some newer cabin areas, there are en suite bathrooms that provide additional privacy and convenience for campers.

The accommodations at Hosmer Point are thoughtfully designed to enhance the camping experience, ensuring that all campers have a comfortable, safe, and enjoyable stay. These facilities foster an atmosphere where campers can relax, refresh, and ready themselves for each exciting day at camp.

Activities in Hosmer Point

Hosmer Point offers a dynamic and diverse range of activities that cater to all interests and skill levels, promoting both personal growth and community engagement among campers.

List of Activities Offered:

Water Sports: Summer camps, swimming, canoeing, kayaking, and sailing on the beautiful Great Hosmer Pond.
Outdoor Adventures: Hiking, mountain biking, and orienteering through the scenic trails and landscapes around the camp.
Creative Arts: Crafts such as pottery, painting, and woodworking allow campers to express their creativity.
Team Sports: Soccer, basketball, and volleyball games encourage teamwork and physical fitness.
Nature Exploration: Environmental education sessions include wildlife spotting, plant identification, and sustainability practices.
Archery: Campers can learn and refine their archery skills in a safe and supervised environment.

Special Events or Traditions:

Opening and Closing Ceremonies: These are pivotal moments at camp, where the community gathers to celebrate the beginning and end of the camp season.
Campfire Nights: Regular campfire gatherings include storytelling, singing, and s’mores, fostering a sense of camaraderie and tradition.
Color Wars: A multi-day event filled with various competitive activities that promote spirit, teamwork, and friendly competition among campers.
End-of-Session Talent Show: Campers showcase the talents and skills they’ve developed over the session, whether in the arts, sports, or other personal achievements.

Skill Development Opportunities:

Leadership Programs: Older campers can participate in leadership training, where they take on roles that involve mentoring younger campers and managing camp projects.
Skill-specific Clinics: These are offered for various activities such as sailing, advanced art techniques, and specialized sports training.
Personal Goal Setting: Campers are encouraged to set personal goals at the beginning of their stay and work towards achieving them, supported by their counselors and peers.

At Hosmer Point, activities are designed not only for enjoyment but also for the development of valuable life skills such as leadership, teamwork, resilience, and creativity. The camp’s rich array of programs ensures that every camper can find something that excites and challenges them, all while creating lasting memories and friendships.

The staff of Hosmer Point

Hosmer Point is dedicated to providing a safe, nurturing, and enriching camp experience, which is largely facilitated by a highly qualified and attentive staff. The camp takes great care in selecting staff members who are not only skilled in their respective areas but also passionate about working with children and fostering a positive camp environment.

Staff-to-Camper Ratio:

Hosmer Point maintains a low staff-to-camper ratio to ensure personalized attention and superior supervision. Typically, the ratio is about 1 staff member for every 5 campers. This allows staff to effectively monitor and engage with each camper, ensuring safety and a supportive atmosphere for personal growth.

Hiring Process and Staff Qualifications:

Recruitment: Hosmer Point recruits staff from a variety of sources, including university programs, leadership academies, and international staffing agencies. The goal is to find individuals who are enthusiastic about youth development and outdoor activities.
Qualifications: Prospective staff members must have prior experience in camping or youth programs, a clean background check, and relevant skills pertinent to their role at the camp. For roles that require specific expertise, such as lifeguarding or outdoor education, appropriate professional certifications are required.
Interview Process: Candidates undergo a rigorous interview process that assesses their experience, skills, and suitability for working in a dynamic camp environment. This process often includes scenario-based questions to gauge their problem-solving and decision-making abilities.

Training and Certifications:

Pre-Camp Training: Before campers arrive, all staff participate in a comprehensive training program that covers camp policies, child behavior management, emergency procedures, and specific activity safety protocols.
Certifications: All staff members are required to have current certifications in CPR and First Aid. Additional certifications, such as lifeguarding or wilderness first aid, are required for staff involved in specific activities such as swimming or adventure trips.
Ongoing Professional Development: Throughout the camping season, staff receive ongoing training and support to refine their skills and adapt to evolving camp dynamics or challenges.

This meticulous approach to staffing ensures that all campers at Hosmer Point receive high-quality care and instruction, making their camp experience as safe, educational, and fun as possible.

Safety and Health in Hosmer Point

At Hosmer Point, the safety and health of campers and staff are paramount. The camp implements comprehensive safety protocols and procedures and is equipped with appropriate health facilities to handle a variety of situations, ensuring a secure environment for all.

Safety Protocols and Procedures:

Activity Safety: Each activity at the camp is guided by strict safety protocols, which include proper equipment checks, safety briefings, and close supervision by trained staff. Activities are structured to match the age and skill level of the campers to prevent accidents.
Regular Drills: Hosmer Point conducts regular safety drills, including fire, weather, and emergency evacuation drills, to ensure that both campers and staff are familiar with procedures in the event of an emergency.
Secure Campus: The camp maintains a secure environment with controlled access to ensure that only authorized personnel and campers are on the premises. Staff are trained to monitor for any unusual activity and manage visitor protocols.

On-site Health Facilities and Staff:

Health Center: Hosmer Point has a well-equipped health center staffed by qualified medical professionals, including nurses who are on duty 24/7. The center is prepared to handle routine medical care, first aid, and stabilization of more serious conditions until further medical help can be accessed.
Medical Staff Qualifications: All medical staff are required to have appropriate medical certifications and experience in pediatric and emergency care. They are well-versed in managing common issues such as allergies, asthma, and minor injuries, as well as more serious health emergencies.

Policies on Handling Emergencies:

Emergency Response Plan: The camp has a detailed emergency response plan that outlines specific actions to be taken in different scenarios, including natural disasters, medical emergencies, and other critical incidents. This plan is regularly reviewed and updated.
Communication Protocol: In the event of an emergency, there is a clear communication protocol to inform all relevant parties, including staff, local emergency services, and parents. The camp ensures that communication lines are always operational, and backup systems are in place.
Parental Notification: Parents are immediately notified in any situation where their child’s health or safety is at risk. The camp maintains up-to-date contact information for this purpose and has procedures for ongoing updates if required.

Through these stringent safety measures and health policies, Hosmer Point commits to providing a safe and supportive environment where campers can enjoy their activities without undue risk, and parents can feel secure about their children’s well-being.

Cost and Registration in Hosmer Point

Hosmer Point offers a structured cost and registration framework designed to be transparent and accommodating for families, ensuring that the camp experience is accessible to as many children as possible.

Cost of Attendance:

Cost Details: The cost of attending Hosmer Point varies depending on the length and type of session selected. Generally, prices include all activities, meals, accommodation, and any special events or programs. Costs typically range from $500 for one-week sessions to around $1,500 for two-week sessions, with full summer options costing more.
What It Includes: The fee covers lodging, three daily meals, all program materials, professional instruction, and the use of all camp facilities and equipment. Additional costs may apply for certain specialty programs or extended trips.

Registration Process and Deadlines:

Online Registration: Registration for Hosmer Point can be completed online. Prospective campers are required to fill out a registration form, which includes health information and any special requirements.
Deadlines: Registration typically opens several months in advance of the camp season, with early registration discounts offered. Deadlines are set for about a month before the start of each session, but late registrations may be accepted if space is available.

Payment Plans, Refunds, and Cancellation Policies:

Payment Plans: Hosmer Point offers flexible payment plans to help families manage the cost of camp. These plans can include monthly installments leading up to the camp start date.
Refunds: Full refunds are usually available until a month before the session begins, except for a non-refundable deposit required at the time of registration. Partial refunds may be available closer to the start date depending on the circumstances of cancellation.
Cancellation Policy: In the event of cancellation by the camp, such as due to health advisories or extreme weather, full refunds are provided. If families need to cancel for personal reasons, the refund amount may vary based on how close the cancellation is to the session start date.

Scholarships and Financial Aid:

Scholarships: Hosmer Point offers a number of scholarships each year to assist families who need financial support. These scholarships can cover partial or full costs of the camp, depending on the family’s financial situation.
Financial Aid Application: Families seeking financial assistance are encouraged to apply early, as funds are limited and allocated on a need basis. Applications for scholarships usually require submission of financial information and a personal statement.

Hosmer Point’s inclusive financial policies ensure that more families have the opportunity to send their children to camp, fostering a diverse and enriching camp environment. This accessibility aligns with the camp’s mission to provide meaningful and transformative outdoor experiences for all children.

Parent and Camper Preparation in Hosmer Point

Preparing for a stay at Hosher Point is an exciting process for both campers and their parents. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help ensure that everyone is ready for the adventure.

Packing List:

To ensure campers have everything they need for a comfortable and enjoyable experience, here’s a suggested packing list:

Clothing: Pack enough for the session length, including weather-appropriate gear such as raincoats and swimwear. Don’t forget a jacket for cooler evenings.
Footwear: Durable sneakers, hiking boots, and flip-flops or sandals for showers.
Bedding: Sleeping bag or sheets and blankets, and a pillow.
Toiletries: Toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, shampoo, and sunscreen.
Insect Repellent: To protect against mosquitoes and ticks.
Flashlight or Headlamp: Essential for evening activities.
Water Bottle: To stay hydrated throughout the day.
Medications: Clearly labeled, with instructions.
Optional Items: Books, stationary, and a camera (non-smartphone).

Rules and Policies:

Technology Use: To maximize engagement and interaction, Hosmer Point has a no-electronics policy for campers. This includes smartphones, tablets, and laptops. Emergency contact will be routed through the camp office.
Visitation: Parents are encouraged to visit only on designated visiting days to minimize disruptions and help campers adjust to camp life.
Behavioral Expectations: Respect for others, participation in scheduled activities, and adherence to camp safety guidelines are required of all campers.

Tips for First-Time Campers and Parents:

For Campers:
- Stay Open: Try new activities even if they seem challenging at first.
- Pack a Personal Item: A familiar item from home can help ease any initial homesickness.
- Communication: Write letters home to share experiences and stay connected.
For Parents:
- Stay Positive: Your enthusiasm about the camp experience will help your child feel excited and less anxious.
- Pack Together: This helps ensure that nothing important is forgotten and gives you a chance to discuss each item’s use.
- Discuss Expectations: Talk about making friends, trying new things, and the fun of camp life to set a positive outlook.

These preparations will help ensure that both parents and campers are well-informed and ready for a rewarding summer at Hosmer Point, fostering an environment where lasting memories and valuable life skills are developed.

Hosmer Point offers a quintessential summer camp experience that combines adventure, learning, and personal growth in the beautiful setting of Craftsbury Common, Vermont. With its wide range of activities tailored to various interests and skill levels, the camp fosters an environment where every camper can thrive. The supportive and qualified staff ensure safety and nurturing, allowing campers to explore new challenges and build lasting friendships in a community that feels like a second home.

From the comprehensive programs and detailed safety protocols to the inclusive financial aid options and the thoughtful preparation guidelines for campers and parents, Hosher Point is dedicated to providing an unforgettable summer experience. Whether a camper is returning for another summer or stepping into the camp life for the first time, Hosmer Point promises a journey of discovery, laughter, and adventure in the heart of Vermont’s wilderness. It’s more than just a place—it’s a community where children grow, learn, and come into their own, surrounded by nature and nurtured by a team that truly cares about their development and happiness.