Nestled in the heart of the Pocono Mountains near Stroudsburg, Pennsylvania, Camp Pocono Trails stands as a beacon of adventure and personal growth. Surrounded by the natural beauty of northeastern Pennsylvania and notable landmarks like the Delaware Water Gap, their camp provides a picturesque setting for transformative experiences.
Founded with a vision to foster health, fitness, and self-esteem, Camp Pocono Trails has evolved into a premier destination where campers can embrace positive lifestyle changes. Their mission is clear: to empower each camper to achieve personal growth and confidence through a structured program of fitness, nutrition, and self-care activities.
As a co-educational facility, they cater to boys and girls aged 7 to 17, offering them an inclusive environment where they can explore their potential. At Camp Pocono Trails, they believe in the power of individual attention and tailored experiences, ensuring that each camper’s journey is as unique as they are.
Join us at Camp Pocono Trails, where new adventures await amidst the serene landscapes of Pennsylvania, providing a backdrop for a summer of fun, learning, and personal development.
Programs Offered by Camp Pocono Trails
At Camp Pocono Trails, they pride themselves on offering a diverse array of programs tailored to meet the interests and needs of each camper. Their programs are designed to engage campers in activities that promote fitness, health, creativity, and learning in a fun and supportive environment.
Program Description
Each of their programs is focused on building healthy habits, with structured activities in fitness, nutrition, and personal well-being. Campers participate in a variety of physical activities like swimming, hiking, and various sports, alongside workshops on healthy eating and emotional health.
Length of Sessions
- One-week introductions: Perfect for first-timers who want a taste of camp life.
- Two-week sessions: These allow for deeper exploration of camp activities and more personalized growth.
- Full summer option: A comprehensive experience lasting several weeks, where campers fully immerse themselves in the camp lifestyle and have the opportunity to make lasting changes and friendships.
Specialty Programs
- Arts: Includes creative writing, drama, dance, and fine arts.
- Sports: Features a range of sports including tennis, soccer, basketball, and archery, catering to all skill levels.
- Science and Nature: Explores the local ecology, sustainability practices, and basic scientific principles through hands-on activities.
Typical Daily Schedule
- 7:30 AM: Wake up and morning jog/stretch
- 8:00 AM: Healthy breakfast
- 9:00 AM: Activity Block 1 (e.g., sports, arts)
- 11:00 AM: Activity Block 2 (e.g., swimming, fitness classes)
- 1:00 PM: Lunch and rest period
- 2:00 PM: Educational workshop (nutrition, wellness)
- 3:00 PM: Activity Block 3 (e.g., hiking, science exploration)
- 5:00 PM: Free time
- 6:00 PM: Dinner
- 7:00 PM: Evening activities (campfire, talent show)
- 9:00 PM: Lights out
This structured yet flexible schedule ensures that each day at Camp Pocono Trails is full of opportunities for growth, learning, and fun, all within the stunning natural landscape of the Pocono Mountains.
Accommodations in Camp Pocono Trails
At Camp Pocono Trails, they ensure that their campers feel comfortable and at home throughout their stay. Their accommodations are designed to promote camaraderie and community, while also providing a comfortable and safe environment.
Sleeping Arrangements
- Cabins: Their primary accommodation consists of well-constructed cabins that house 8 to 12 campers each. The cabins are gender-segregated and grouped by age to ensure camaraderie and safety. Each cabin is equipped with bunk beds, storage space for personal items, and windows to allow natural light.
- Dorms: For older campers, they offer dormitory-style accommodations that foster a more mature atmosphere while still providing all the necessary amenities.
- Tents: For special outdoor overnight experiences, campers have the opportunity to sleep in tents under the stars. These are supervised events designed to give campers a taste of classic camping.
Dining Options
- Meal Plans: Their dining hall serves three balanced meals per day, crafted by nutritionists to ensure they are healthy, delicious, and energizing. They emphasize whole foods and offer a variety of options at each meal to suit all tastes and preferences.
- Dietary Accommodations: They cater to a range of dietary needs including vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and any allergies. Their kitchen staff is trained to handle special dietary requirements with the utmost care to ensure that all campers have nutritious and satisfying meal options.
Bathroom and Shower Facilities
- Facilities: Each cabin cluster has its own centrally located bathhouse, which includes multiple showers, toilets, and sinks. These facilities are separated by gender and are regularly cleaned and maintained to ensure hygiene and comfort.
- Privacy and Accessibility: Privacy is a priority in their design, with individual shower stalls and changing areas. The facilities are also equipped to be accessible to campers with mobility needs.
At Camp Pocono Trails, they strive to provide a living environment that not only meets all the basic needs of their campers but also enhances their camping experience by ensuring comfort, safety, and a sense of community.
Activities in Camp Pocono Trails
Camp Pocono Trails offers a broad range of activities designed to cater to all interests and skill levels, ensuring every camper has the opportunity to engage, learn, and grow. From outdoor adventures to creative arts, their programs are designed to enhance physical fitness, creativity, and personal development.
List of Activities Offered
- Outdoor Adventures: Summer camps, swimming, hiking, kayaking, and fishing.
- Sports: Tennis, basketball, soccer, volleyball, archery, and more.
- Fitness Programs: Aerobics, yoga, and tailored fitness classes.
- Creative Arts: Crafts, painting, drama, dance, and music workshops.
- Wellness and Self-care: Nutrition classes, cooking workshops, and mindfulness sessions.
- Technology and Learning: Photography, video production, and basic coding.
Special Events or Traditions
- Color Wars: A camp-wide team competition that spans several days and includes a variety of sports and challenges.
- Talent Show: Campers showcase their talents in front of peers and staff in a supportive and celebratory environment.
- Campfire Nights: Regular evenings spent around the campfire, featuring storytelling, s’mores, and singing.
- End-of-Summer Gala: A formal event to celebrate the achievements of all campers, including awards and recognitions.
Skill Development Opportunities
- Leadership Training: Programs designed to enhance leadership skills through team-leading activities and peer mentoring.
- Personal Growth Workshops: Sessions focused on building self-esteem, conflict resolution, and effective communication.
- Specialty Clinics: For those interested in advancing specific skills in sports, arts, or technology, specialized clinics are available to provide intensive training and improvement.
- Environmental Stewardship: Educating campers on sustainability practices and the importance of preserving natural surroundings.
Each activity at Camp Pocono Trails is not only fun but also incorporates elements of learning and personal growth, ensuring that campers leave with enhanced skills, new friends, and lasting memories.
The staff of Camp Pocono Trails
At Camp Pocono Trails, their staff are carefully selected and trained to provide a safe, educational, and enjoyable experience for all campers. They pride themselves on their dedicated team of professionals who are passionate about youth development and outdoor education.
Staff-to-Camper Ratio
- Their commitment to individual attention and safety is reflected in their favorable staff-to-camper ratio of 1:4. This ensures that each camper receives personalized guidance and supervision, maintaining a secure and supportive environment.
Hiring Process and Staff Qualifications
- Selection Process: Candidates undergo a rigorous selection process that includes background checks, multiple interviews, and reference checks to ensure they are not only qualified but also aligned with the camp’s values and mission.
- Qualifications: Their staff members typically have backgrounds in education, psychology, sports, or arts. Many are pursuing or have completed higher education degrees related to their roles. Prior experience working with children in a supervisory capacity is a must.
Training and Certifications
- Pre-Camp Training: Before the camp season begins, all staff attend a comprehensive training program that covers camp policies, child behavior management, emergency procedures, and activity-specific safety protocols.
- CPR and First Aid: All staff members are required to be certified in CPR and First Aid. Additional training in wilderness first aid is provided for those involved in more remote or physically demanding activities.
- Specialized Certifications: Depending on their roles, staff may also hold certifications relevant to their specific activities, such as lifeguarding, coaching, or art education.
Their staff are the backbone of Camp Pocono Trails, dedicated to creating an environment where campers can thrive. Their training and expertise ensure that they not only meet but exceed the expectations of safety, care, and quality in all aspects of the camp experience.
Safety and Health in Camp Pocono Trails
Ensuring the safety and well-being of their campers is their top priority at Camp Pocono Trails. They have established comprehensive safety protocols and health facilities to manage any situation that may arise during camp.
Safety Protocols and Procedures
- Routine Practices: Daily safety briefings, regular headcounts, and strict adherence to activity-specific safety gear and protocols.
- Training: All staff undergo extensive safety training, including emergency response drills and scenario-based training exercises.
- Facility Safety: Regular inspections and maintenance of all camp facilities and equipment to ensure they meet safety standards.
- Secure Campus: The camp is monitored 24/7 with staff always available and vigilant to provide a secure environment for all campers.
On-site Health Facilities and Staff
- Health Center: Their on-site health center is staffed with licensed nurses and a consulting physician available 24 hours a day. The center is equipped to handle routine medical care and minor emergencies.
- Mental Health Support: They also have counselors available who are trained to support campers’ mental and emotional well-being, addressing homesickness, peer interactions, and other personal concerns.
Policies on Handling Emergencies
- Emergency Action Plans: Specific plans are in place for a variety of scenarios, including severe weather, fire, injury, and other potential emergencies. These plans are regularly reviewed and updated.
- Communication: In case of an emergency, there is a clear protocol for communication with parents and guardians. This includes immediate notifications and ongoing updates as the situation evolves.
- Evacuation Procedures: The camp has designated safe zones and evacuation routes, which are practiced with campers and staff during the initial days of camp and periodically throughout the season.
- Partnerships with Local Authorities: They coordinate closely with local emergency services to ensure a quick response time and support for any complex emergency situations.
These measures are in place to ensure that every aspect of Camp Pocono Trails is aligned with the highest safety and health standards, allowing parents and campers alike to feel confident and secure during their stay at camp.
Cost and Registration in Camp Pocono Trails
Camp Pocono Trails is committed to providing a memorable and enriching camp experience, with transparent and straightforward registration and payment policies. Here’s everything you need to know about the cost, registration, and financial options available.
Cost of Attendance
- Fees: The cost of attendance varies depending on the length of the stay and the type of program selected. Generally, fees cover all lodging, meals, activities, and equipment use. Additional costs may be applicable for specialty programs or extended sessions.
- Inclusions: The fee includes accommodation, three meals per day plus snacks, all standard activities, and round-the-clock supervision and care by their qualified staff.
Registration Process and Deadlines
- Process: Registration can be completed online. New families are encouraged to create an account where they can fill out all necessary forms, choose session dates, and select any preferred activities or specialty programs.
- Deadlines: They typically have early bird registration which offers a reduced rate, closing about three months prior to the start of the summer session. Regular registration continues up to one month before the camp starts or until all spots are filled.
Payment Plans, Refunds, and Cancellation Policies
- Payment Plans: Flexible payment plans are available to help spread the cost of camp over several months leading up to the session. Plans can be tailored during the registration process.
- Refunds and Cancellations: Full refunds are offered up to a certain date, which is usually a few months before the camp begins. After this date, partial refunds are available, decreasing as the camp start date approaches. Specific details are provided during registration.
- Cancellations due to Illness or Emergency: Special considerations are taken into account for cancellations due to illness or significant family emergencies, with documentation required for processing.
Scholarships and Financial Aid
- Scholarships: They offer a limited number of scholarships each year to families needing financial assistance. These are awarded based on need and merit.
- Financial Aid: Financial aid applications can be submitted alongside the registration forms. These applications are reviewed on a case-by-case basis to offer partial or full support depending on the family’s financial situation.
At Camp Pocono Trails, they strive to make their camp experience accessible and manageable for families through various financial options and support, ensuring that every child has the opportunity to enjoy a summer filled with growth and fun.
Cost:
Session 1 (7 weeks) – $11,990
Session 2 (6 weeks) – $10,690
Session 3 (5 weeks) – $9,590
Session 4 (4 weeks) – $8,190
Session 3 (3 weeks) – $6,590
Parent and Camper Preparation in Camp Pocono Trails
Preparing for camp is an exciting time for both campers and their parents. At Camp Pocono Trails, they provide detailed guidelines and tips to ensure that both new and returning campers are ready for a summer of fun and adventure. Here’s a guide to help you prepare:
Packing List
To make sure campers have everything they need for a comfortable and safe experience, here’s a suggested packing list:
- Clothing: Pack enough for 1-2 weeks, including t-shirts, shorts, jeans, sweaters, and a rain jacket. Don’t forget swimwear, a hat, and a sturdy pair of hiking boots or shoes.
- Bedding: Include a sleeping bag or sheets and blankets, a pillow, and a mattress cover if preferred.
- Toiletries: Bring along all necessary personal items, including a toothbrush, toothpaste, shampoo, soap, sunscreen, and insect repellent.
- Miscellaneous: Flashlight, water bottle, laundry bag, and any necessary prescription medication (to be handed to camp health staff).
- Optional Items: Books, a journal, and a camera (non-smartphone).
Rules and Policies
- Technology Use: To maximize engagement and connection, personal electronics such as smartphones, tablets, and laptops are not allowed. Cameras for photography may be permitted.
- Visitation: Parents are encouraged to visit only on designated visiting days to help campers adjust to and engage fully with the camp environment.
- Behavior: Respect, cooperation, and positivity are expected from all campers. Bullying, possession of contraband, and disrespect towards staff or peers will not be tolerated.
Tips for First-Time Campers and Parents
- For Campers: Embrace the experience! Try new activities, make new friends, and be open to learning. Remember, everyone is a bit nervous at first, but these feelings are normal and part of the adventure.
- For Parents: Communicate any of your child’s needs or concerns to the camp staff before arrival. Trust the process and the trained professionals at camp. It’s also a great idea to write letters to your child ahead of time for them to receive throughout their stay.
- Set Expectations: Discuss what camp will be like focusing on the exciting activities and opportunities. This can help ease any anxieties and build excitement.
By following these preparation tips and understanding the camp’s guidelines, both parents and campers will be well-prepared for an unforgettable summer at Camp Pocono Trails.
At Camp Pocono Trails, they are dedicated to providing a summer experience that is as enriching as it is enjoyable. Nestled in the scenic Pocono Mountains and equipped with comprehensive programs and facilities, their camp offers a unique opportunity for youth to grow in confidence, skills, and friendships. From the variety of activities and specialty programs to the committed and caring staff, every aspect of Camp Pocono Trails is designed to foster personal development and a sense of community.
They understand the importance of a supportive environment where campers can explore new interests, challenge themselves, and create memories that will last a lifetime. Whether it’s your first time sending a child to camp or you are a returning family, they are here to ensure a smooth, safe, and spectacular summer experience. Join us at Camp Pocono Trails and discover the joy of summer camp, where every day is an adventure and every camper leaves with a strengthened sense of self and enduring friendships.
