How do campers get to camp?
There are a few different options for transportation. Please visit our Transportation page for details.
How do Camp Lawrence and Camp Nokomis address the needs of first-time campers?
Before a camper arrives at camp, parents fill out and mail to camp a “Let’s Get Acquainted” form. This questionnaire is reviewed by the Camp Director and appropriate cabin staff and is used to identify the needs, interests, and expectations of campers. When campers arrive at camp, staff spend a lot of time with them…
When will I be able to see the camp and meet the director?
Each spring we host tours at the camps and in the Merrimack Valley YMCA’s service area. For more information, visit our events page. The Camping Services Office will also notify families about the details of these events.
What are your medical and first aid arrangements?
Each camp has two full-time nurses on staff. Both camps have well-equipped health centers, and a large percentage of our staff are certified in First Aid, CPR, and AED, in addition to being certified lifeguards. Lakes Region General Hospital is located a short drive from the Y-Landing Marina.
What is your staff like?
Our staff are young adults, many of whom grew up in our camps and completed our Counselor-in-Training program. All complete thorough pre-season training and the Redwoods Child Abuse Prevention Course. They have been selected for maturity, leadership ability, activity skills, positive and friendly attitudes, commitment to young people and a genuine love for camp. Each…
What are the policies and practices regarding religion and worship at camp?
We hold non-denominational services each Sunday that all campers and staff attend. These services are traditionally conducted by our staff and tend to focus on the core values of the YMCA: caring, honesty, respect, and responsibility. We respect the religious perspectives of all campers and staff.
How many campers are in a cabin, and what are the cabins like?
Our cabins house between eight and twelve campers as well as two staff members. Campers enjoy adequate personal space and sleep in wooden bunk beds with guard rails. Cabins are wood-frames with window screens. Cabin assignments are based on age and school grade. The directors place campers in specific cabin groups with attention to the…
If my camper attends camp with a friend, or a group of friends, can they be in placed in the same cabin?
Cabin assignments are made on the basis of grade. It might seem logical to try to guarantee a happy camp experience by requesting a specific cabin mate for your child. Experienced Camp Directors universally agree that these requests frequently create more problems than they solve. In addition, our camps do not schedule daily activities or…
Do you consider your activities to be competitive?
Our camps offer activities that are instructional and meaningful, offering challenges and growth for both beginning and advanced learners. We focus our attention on ensuring that our activities are both safe and fun.
Where do most of your campers come from?
Our campers come from all over New England, the United States and around the world. Some of our staff and campers have traveled from areas in Europe, Australia, Asia and South America.