Camp Marimeta is a cherished summer retreat located in the scenic northern region of Wisconsin, specifically nestled in the beautiful town of Eagle River. Known for its picturesque landscapes and proximity to the expansive Eagle River Chain of Lakes, the camp offers a backdrop of stunning natural beauty and a playground of aquatic adventures. Since its establishment, Camp Marimeta has been dedicated to fostering a nurturing environment where young girls can thrive and grow.

The camp’s philosophy is rooted in the belief that summer camp is not just a place for recreation, but a crucial developmental space for children. Camp Marimeta prides itself on creating an environment where campers can build confidence, develop skills, and form lifelong friendships through a mix of traditional camp activities and innovative programs. Their mission is to provide a safe, fun, and supportive setting where every camper feels valued and empowered.

Designed exclusively for girls, Camp Marimeta caters to various age groups, providing a tailored and age-appropriate experience for each camper. This focus allows the camp to offer a unique and transformative experience that helps young girls discover their potential and explore new interests in a supportive community setting.

Programs Offered by Camp Marimeta

Camp Marimeta offers a diverse array of programs designed to cater to the interests and developmental needs of young girls. With a strong emphasis on personal growth and skill development, the camp provides a variety of activities that encourage creativity, teamwork, and physical fitness.

Description of Programs

Camp Marimeta’s programs span a wide range of interests, from outdoor adventures to artistic expressions and sports. Activities include canoeing, archery, swimming, drama, arts and crafts, and various team sports. Each activity is designed to challenge campers in a supportive environment, helping them to build confidence and develop new skills.

Length of Sessions

The camp offers flexibility in session length to accommodate the needs of different families and campers. Options typically include:

One-week sessions for younger or first-time campers who are just getting used to the camp experience.
Two-week sessions which provide a more in-depth experience and the opportunity to participate in a wider range of activities.
Full summer sessions for those who wish to immerse themselves completely in the Camp Marimeta experience, benefiting from all the activities and personal growth opportunities the camp has to offer.

Specialty Programs

Camp Marimeta also offers specialty programs that focus on specific areas of interest:

Arts programs include workshops in painting, sculpture, and performance arts, allowing campers to explore their creative talents.
Sports programs are designed to build skills in various sports like soccer, basketball, and volleyball, emphasizing teamwork and healthy competition.
Science programs engage campers in hands-on experiments and environmental education, fostering a love for learning and exploration.

Typical Daily Schedule

A typical day at Camp Marimeta is structured to provide a balanced mix of activities, meals, and free time, ensuring that campers are engaged, active, and happy throughout the day. The schedule generally includes:

Morning: Wake up, followed by a nutritious breakfast and morning activities like swimming or hiking.
Midday: Lunch break, followed by rest time or free time for campers to relax or write letters home.
Afternoon: Scheduled activities continue with arts and crafts or sports, allowing campers to rotate through different interest areas.
Evening: Dinner is followed by camp-wide games or special events, such as campfires or talent shows.
Night: Evening wind-down activities before lights out, ensuring campers are ready for a good night’s sleep.

Camp Marimeta’s comprehensive program and structured daily schedule ensures that each camper enjoys a memorable, fun, and enriching summer experience.

Accommodations in Camp Marimeta

Camp Marimeta offers comfortable and well-thought-out accommodations designed to enhance the camp experience while ensuring the safety and comfort of all campers.

Sleeping Arrangements

Cabins: Camp Marimeta houses its campers in cozy, well-maintained cabins. Each cabin is designed to accommodate a specific number of campers, typically ranging from 8 to 12, along with one or two counselors who stay in the cabin to supervise and assist campers. The cabins are equipped with bunk beds, and storage space for personal items, and are strategically placed to foster a sense of community and ease of access to camp facilities.

Dining Options

Meal Plans: Camp Marimeta provides three well-balanced meals per day, served in a communal dining hall where campers gather to eat together, promoting a family-style dining experience. The meals are prepared by experienced staff, focusing on nutrition and the energy needs of active children.
Dietary Accommodations: Understanding the importance of catering to various dietary requirements, Camp Marimeta offers options for vegetarians, vegans, and campers with dietary restrictions due to allergies or religious beliefs. Parents can discuss their child’s specific needs with the camp staff before the session begins to ensure that appropriate accommodations are made.

Bathroom and Shower Facilities

Facilities: Each cabin group has access to modern bathroom and shower facilities, which are centrally located and easily accessible. The bathrooms are equipped with multiple stalls and showers, ensuring that there are minimal wait times and that campers can maintain their privacy and comfort.
Maintenance: Hygiene and cleanliness are top priorities at Camp Marimeta. The facilities are cleaned and sanitized regularly to maintain a healthy living environment for all campers.

Overall, the accommodations at Camp Marimeta are designed to ensure that campers have a safe, comfortable, and enjoyable stay, allowing them to focus on their growth and enjoyment throughout their summer camp experience.

Activities in Camp Marimeta

Camp Marimeta offers a wide range of activities that cater to various interests and skill levels, ensuring that every camper finds something they love while also having opportunities to try new things and develop new skills.

List of Activities Offered

Water Sports: Activities such as swimming, canoeing, and kayaking take full advantage of the camp’s lakeside location.
Land Sports: Summer camps can participate in sports like soccer, volleyball, basketball, and archery.
Creative Arts: For those interested in arts and crafts, options include painting, jewelry making, pottery, and more.
Adventure and Exploration: Hiking, camping trips, and nature walks allow campers to explore the surrounding natural beauty.
Performing Arts: Drama and dance workshops encourage campers to express themselves creatively and build confidence on stage.

Special Events or Traditions

Color War: This is a multi-day event where the camp is divided into teams that compete in various sports, arts, and intellectual challenges, fostering team spirit and camp pride.
Campfires: Regular campfire nights feature singing, storytelling, and marshmallow roasting, helping to build a close-knit community atmosphere.
End-of-Summer Banquet and Show: A special evening where campers dress up, enjoy a formal dinner, and perform skits and songs they’ve prepared, celebrating the summer’s achievements.

Skill Development Opportunities

Leadership Training: Older campers can participate in leadership programs that prepare them for potential future roles as counselors or leaders in their communities.
Specialty Clinics: These are focused sessions where campers can deepen their skills in specific areas such as advanced sports techniques, fine arts, or specialized outdoor skills.
Personal Growth: Through all activities, campers are encouraged to set personal goals, pursue excellence, and develop resilience and independence.

Camp Marimeta’s activities are designed not only for fun and engagement but also for the personal development of each camper, ensuring they leave with memorable experiences and valuable life skills.

The staff of Camp Marimeta

Camp Marimeta is committed to providing a safe, supportive, and enriching environment for all campers, and this commitment is reflected in the stringent standards set for hiring and training its staff.

Staff-to-Camper Ratio

Camp Marimeta maintains a low staff-to-camper ratio to ensure that each camper receives personalized attention and care. Typically, the ratio is around 1 staff member for every 4 to 6 campers. This ratio helps foster a close-knit community and allows staff to effectively monitor and support all campers’ needs.

Hiring Process and Staff Qualifications

Selection Process: The hiring process at Camp Marimeta is thorough, starting with detailed applications, followed by in-depth interviews and reference checks. The camp seeks individuals who are not only qualified but who also embody the camp’s values of leadership, integrity, and compassion.
Qualifications: Staff members are often college students or graduates specializing in education, psychology, recreation, or related fields. Many return year after year, bringing valuable experience and a deep understanding of the camp’s culture and traditions.

Training and Certifications

Mandatory Training: Prior to the camp season, all staff undergo a comprehensive training program that includes child safety, conflict resolution, activity leadership, and emergency response procedures.
Certifications: Staff members are required to have current certifications in CPR and First Aid. Additionally, those involved in specific activities such as swimming or boating hold relevant certifications, such as lifeguarding or water safety instructor certifications, to ensure the highest safety standards are maintained.

Camp Marimeta also emphasizes continuous professional development and provides ongoing training sessions throughout the camp season to ensure that all staff members are up-to-date with the latest in child development and camp management practices. This rigorous approach to staffing ensures that Camp Marimeta remains a place where parents can confidently entrust their children, knowing they are in capable and caring hands.

Safety and Health in Camp Marimeta

Camp Marimeta prioritizes the safety and health of its campers above all, implementing rigorous protocols and maintaining well-equipped health facilities to ensure a secure and nurturing environment.

Safety Protocols and Procedures

Routine Drills: Camp Marimeta conducts regular safety drills, including fire, weather, and lockdown drills, to ensure that both campers and staff are familiar with procedures in the event of an emergency.
Activity Safety: Each activity at camp is supervised by staff members who are specifically trained for those activities, with strict adherence to safety protocols, including the use of appropriate gear and adherence to safety guidelines.
Secure Campus: The camp maintains a secure campus with controlled access, ensuring that only authorized personnel and campers are allowed on the premises. Regular checks and monitoring are conducted to uphold this security.

On-Site Health Facilities and Staff

Health Center: Camp Marimeta is equipped with a well-staffed health center that operates 24/7 during the camp session. The center is staffed by licensed healthcare professionals, typically including nurses and occasionally a visiting doctor.
Capabilities: The health center is equipped to handle routine healthcare needs, such as dispensing medications, treating minor injuries, and managing common illnesses. It is also prepared to stabilize more serious conditions before transferring patients to a local hospital if necessary.

Policies on Handling Emergencies

Emergency Response Plan: The camp has a detailed emergency response plan that outlines specific actions to be taken in various scenarios, including severe weather, health emergencies, or security issues.
Communication: In the event of an emergency, the camp has protocols for communicating quickly and effectively with local authorities, parents, and staff. This includes using a range of communication tools to ensure messages are delivered and received as intended.
Training: All staff members receive training in emergency procedures as part of their orientation, with regular updates throughout the camp season. This training ensures that everyone knows their roles and responsibilities during an emergency, enabling a swift and organized response.

Camp Marimeta’s comprehensive approach to safety and health reflects its commitment to providing a safe environment where campers can enjoy their summer experience with peace of mind for both them and their parents.

Cost and Registration in Camp Marimeta

Camp Marimeta offers a structured registration process and clear guidelines regarding costs, payment plans, and financial assistance options, making the process transparent and manageable for families.

Cost of Attendance: Camp Marimeta offers several session options with varying costs:

Full summer session (7 weeks): $12,500
First session (4 weeks): $7,800
Second session (3 weeks): $6,200

These fees include:

Lodging and meals
All regular camp activities and programs
Camp uniform (t-shirts and shorts)
Transportation for out-of-camp trips
Basic health center services

Registration Process and Deadlines

Process: Registration for Camp Marimeta is usually conducted online, where parents can fill out forms, select session dates, and choose any additional programs.
Deadlines: Early registration is encouraged, as spaces are limited and tend to fill up quickly. Specific deadlines for registration are clearly communicated in advance, often with incentives for early sign-ups such as discounted rates.

Payment Plans, Refunds, and Cancellation Policies

Payment Plans: Understanding that the cost of camp can be significant, Camp Marimeta often offers flexible payment plans that allow families to pay in installments leading up to the start of the camp session.
Refunds and Cancellations: The camp typically outlines its refund policy, including any non-refundable deposits and the schedule for partial refunds based on cancellation timing. It’s important for families to review these policies carefully at the time of registration to understand their financial commitments.
Cancellation Insurance: Some families opt to purchase cancellation insurance to cover unforeseen circumstances that prevent their child from attending as planned.

Scholarships and Financial Aid

Availability: Camp Marimeta is committed to making camp accessible and offers scholarships and financial aid to eligible families. These opportunities are designed to assist those who may not otherwise be able to afford the full cost of camp.
Application Process: Details about how to apply for scholarships and what criteria are used for awarding them are typically available on the camp’s website. The application process may require documentation of financial need, and it is competitive, with a limited number of scholarships available each season.

By providing comprehensive information and support throughout the registration and payment processes, Camp Marimeta ensures that all families are well-informed and can plan accordingly for their child’s summer camp experience.

Parent and Camper Preparation in Camp Marimeta

Preparing for summer camp at Camp Marimeta involves more than just signing up. It’s important for parents and campers to be well-prepared with the right gear and knowledge of camp rules and policies to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience.

Packing List

Clothing: Pack enough comfortable and durable clothing for all weather conditions, including warm days and cooler evenings. Include swimwear, rain gear, and a sturdy pair of hiking boots or sneakers.
Bedding and Toiletries: Bring bedding such as sheets, blankets, and a pillow, as well as personal toiletry items. Don’t forget sunscreen and insect repellent.
Equipment: Depending on the activities your camper will participate in, specific equipment may be needed, like a tennis racket or a musical instrument.
Label Everything: Make sure all items are clearly labeled with your camper’s name to avoid losses.

Rules and Policies

Technology Use: Camp Marimeta encourages campers to disconnect from their electronic devices to fully engage with the camp experience. Usually, cell phones, tablets, and other electronic devices are either not allowed or their use is strictly regulated.
Visitation: Parents are typically welcome to visit on designated days, which are communicated ahead of time. These visits are great opportunities to meet the staff and see the camp in action.
Behavior Expectations: Campers are expected to adhere to the camp’s code of conduct, which promotes respect, responsibility, and community. Parents should discuss these expectations with their children before camp begins.

Tips for First-Time Campers and Parents

For Campers:
- Be open to making new friends and trying new activities. Camp is a safe space to explore and grow.
- Communicate with your counselors. They are there to help you have the best experience possible.
For Parents:
- Talk to your child about what to expect at camp to help manage any anxieties they might have.
- Engage with the camp staff and ask questions during the preparation phase. They can offer valuable insights and reassurance.
- Ensure your child knows that it’s normal to feel homesick and that it usually passes as they get involved in camp activities.

By following these guidelines and preparing thoroughly, both parents and campers can look forward to a positive and memorable summer at Camp Marimeta.

Camp Marimeta stands out as a premier destination for young girls seeking a summer filled with growth, adventure, and the joy of making lifelong friendships. Nestled in the picturesque settings of Eagle River, WI, the camp offers a variety of programs that cater to diverse interests—from water sports and wilderness explorations to creative arts and team sports. With a strong emphasis on personal development and community building, Camp Marimeta creates an environment where every camper feels valued and empowered.

The dedicated staff, comprehensive safety protocols, and well-maintained facilities ensure that parents can trust their children are in good hands, while the campers themselves benefit from a summer experience that is as enriching as it is fun. Whether it’s through participating in the camp’s traditions, engaging in specialty programs, or simply enjoying the beauty of the great outdoors, Camp Marimeta provides an ideal setting for girls to discover their strengths and explore their potentials.