Camp Philosophy

In our safe and fun environment, we believe every camper should have the following opportunities:

• To learn new skills and make new friends
• To receive guidance and support in setting and achieving new goals
• To be accepted for who they are
• To increase self-confidence, self-reliance and self-esteem
• To expand their sense of responsibility for the shared experiences of the community
• To develop healthy, supportive relationships with peers and mentors
• To explore and appreciate nature in a beautiful outdoor setting

 

How do we do this? It all starts with our amazing staff. We hire only the most caring and talented college age adults and through our 1-2 week training further enhance their skills working with youth. Our outdoor activities encourage campers to expand their sense of their own capabilities, while helping them participate in the achievements of the group.  We also make sure our campers have tons of fun! Campfire time is filled with goofy skits, stories and sing-alongs. Campers have lots of opportunities to be adventurous during games and activity times, to play, sing, splash, and have a great time while learning valuable skills.

Why participate in a YMCA camping program?

Charles Eliot, a former President of Harvard University, once said, “I have a conviction that a few weeks spent in a well-organized summer camp may be of more value educationally than a whole year of formal school work.” There are many benefits of YMCA overnight camping, such as heightened self-esteem, increased self-confidence, skill development, opportunity for socialization and enhanced physical fitness. These are just some of the benefits of resident camping we achieve for our campers in the Berkshires.