Camp Chingachgook on Lake George Parent Handbook 2015

Camp Chingachgook on Lake George
Parent Handbook 2015
1
General Camp Information
Welcome to the Parent Guidebook!
Thank you for choosing YMCA Camp Chingachgook for your child’s summer experience. The information
in this guidebook will help your child take full advantage of all that Camp has to offer. If you have any
questions about your child’s upcoming Camp session, please don’t hesitate to contact us.
Table of Contents
General
Information
Summer
Camp
Adventure
trips
General Camp Information
3
Contact Information
3
Directions3
Camp Tours
3
Camp Map
4
Our Mission
5
About Chingachgook
5
Camper Code of Conduct
6
Graffiti and Property Damage 6
Necessary Forms
6
General Information About Fees6
Refund Policy
7
Trading Post
7
Spending Money
7
Gifts to Staff Members
7
YMCA World Service
7
Annual Campaign
8
American Camp Association 8
Department of Health
8
Medical Information
10
Facebook12
Photos12
Camper Yearbook
12
Phone Calls
12
Email12
Mail13
Packages Sent to Campers
13
Visitors to Camp
13
Laundry13
Lost and Found
13
Religious Services
13
Holdover Weekends
13
Meal at Camp
13
Cabin Request
14
Opening Day
14
Closing Day
15
Information for Summer Camp16
A Typical Day at Camp
17
Packing List
18
Skill Class Descriptions
20
Three Day Campouts
23
Campouts for Junior Campers 23
Campouts for Senior Campers 25
Information for Adventure Trips28
Philosophy28
Trip Leaders
28
Tripper Behavior
28
Medical Information
28
What’s Included in the Fee
29
Transportation
29
Specific Trip Information
29
Food
29
Spending Money
29
Equipment
29
Contact with Home
30
Mail
30
Photos
30
Other Chingachgook Programs31
Year-Round Programs
31
Adventure Passport
31
School Outdoor Education
32
Special Events
32
The Order of Chingachgook 32
Camp Alumni Association
33
We’ve gone INTERACTIVE!
Other
Programs
2
Look for this blue box throughout the handbook to find helpful
links to more information about your child’s summer at Camp
Chingachgook!
Camp Chingachgook Contact Information
Address
1872 Pilot Knob Road
Kattskill Bay, NY 12844
Website www.LakeGeorgeCamp.org
Contact Numbers
Office 518.656.9462
Fax 518.656.9362
After Hours/
Weekend
518.656.9462 x 4357
You may also contact:
John Lefner Ext. 6600
Executive Director
[email protected]
Billy Rankin Camp Director [email protected]
Ext. 6630
Lesley Munshower Summer Program Director
[email protected]
Ext. 6631
Dan Poole Adventure Trip Director
[email protected]
Ext. 6646
Carol Lewis Office Manager
[email protected]
Ext. 6602
John Dwyer Food Service Director
[email protected]
Ext. 6622
Directions to Camp Chingachgook
Camp Chingachgook is about 65 miles north of
Albany, NY.
Take the Northway (I-87) to Exit 20. Take a left
at the end of the exit ramp and then a right onto
Route 149 East for about five miles. Take Route
9L North (left) at the second traffic light. In
approximately four-and-a-half miles 9L reaches
Lake George; turn right on the Pilot Knob Road.
Chingachgook is approximately four miles down
the road (almost to the end) on the right.
Click for Directions
Camp Tours
There is no better way to prepare yourself and
your camper for her/his summer experience at
Camp than to join one of our directors for an
onsite tour. Camp tours are held on Sundays
throughout April, May and early June (excluding
Easter). Tours begin at 2pm. Please call our
office today to make a reservation for a tour.
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Our Mission
Camp Map
To put Christian principles into
practice through programs that build
healthy spirit, mind and body for all.
Camp Chingachgook is committed to helping each
camper experience the very best time of her/his
life while at Camp. Camp life promotes caring,
honesty, respect, and responsibility. Through
every activity, campers learn lifelong skills while
developing self-confidence, independence, and
cooperation. Camp Chingachgook welcomes
everyone, regardless of race, color, religion,
national origin, or financial standing.
Camp Chingachgook
Past, Present, and Future
Past
Camp Chingachgook was established in 1913
by the Schenectady YMCA and is one of
the oldest children’s camps in America. The
name Chingachgook (we pronounce it chinja-cook) is from the Leatherstocking Tales of
James Fenimore Cooper. The Mohican chief,
Chingachgook, paddled the waters and scouted
the shores of Lake George with his friend
Hawkeye and son Uncas in Cooper’s novel, Last
of the Mohicans. The YMCA (Camp Chingachgook)
and the Boy Scouts (Camp Rotary) jointly
operated the camp between 1921 and 1941. The
first girl campers joined Chingachgook in 1976.
Adventure Trips were started in the 1960s with
canoeing trips to Canadian wilderness areas.
In 1989, Chingachgook led the way as the first
YMCA camp in the country to host campers from
the Soviet Union.
Present
Accredited by the American Camp Association,
Camp Chingachgook serves over 2,000 boys and
girls each summer. With a camper capacity (boys
and girls) of 300, we employ over 125 staff to
provide a diverse program in the spectacular
setting of Lake George, as well as throughout the
country for teen adventure trips.
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Chingachgook serves the community yearround. We provide lodging, meals, and programs
to school groups, colleges, religious groups,
scouts, families, corporations, clubs, and
adult groups. The camp is ideal for retreats,
conferences, weddings, and outdoor education
with environmental, experiential, adventure, and
team-building programs. Y-Knot, Chingachgook’s
community sailing program, accommodates
sailors with disabilities.
Chingachgook serves over 10,000 youth, adults,
and families each year. In the past 15 years,
we have made more than $4 million in capital
improvements, including six yurts, a 52-foot
climbing tower, a program lodge, 19 cabins, a
renovated dining hall, tennis courts, baseball
park, sail and waterski boats, landscaping, road
work, and septic and water system renovations.
These capital improvements are funded through
tax-deductible contributions.
Future
The Capital District YMCA has exciting plans
for continued facility and program development
at Camp Chingachgook. Our winter programs
continue to grow as we welcome youth groups,
religious groups, schools, and families for
retreats, environmental education, team building,
outdoor recreation and rejuvenation.
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motors, boats, skis, and equipment.
Adventure Trip charges include food, lodging,
transportation from Chingachgook for activities,
permits, group gear, and admission charges
(where applicable).
Holdover Charges
There is a $100 charge for each camper staying
over the weekend between separate sessions
of Camp.
Chingachgook Camper Code of Conduct
Chingachgook campers are expected to adhere to
the following code of conduct:
YMCA Camp Chingachgook campers promise to
abide by Camp rules, and do their best to make
this a good experience for themselves and fellow
campers. Failure to live up to this promise may
result in their dismissal from Camp.
Grounds for Dismissal:
• Possession or use of drugs, alcohol, weapons
• Persistently disruptive behavior that displays
disrespect to fellow campers or staff
• Posing a danger to themselves or other
campers or staff
Adventure trippers who are dismissed will be
picked up by their parent/guardian at the time
and location determined by the Adventure
Trip Director.
Graffiti and Property Damage
Campers are responsible for their actions and
are financially liable for any property damage,
including camping gear and musical instruments,
resulting from misuse or neglect, defacing or
graffiti. The penalty for graffiti is $5 per square
inch, with a minimum charge of $25.
6
Necessary Forms
All of the necessary forms for summer camp can
be found in your online parent account, which
you can access through our website’s homepage
under “Already Registered.” If you prefer hard
copy rather forms, please call our main office.
General Information About Fees
An invoice is emailed to you. Please make sure
our office receives all payments by May 15
for June and July programs and by June 15 for
August programs. We are unable to guarantee
a place for your child if full payment is not
received on time. In fairness to everyone, we
make substitutions from the waiting list if
payment is not received by the applicable due date.
There is a $25 processing charge to change,
cancel, or drop session after the initial registration.
Members of the YMCA will receive a $40 per
week savings.
There is an additional charge for those campers
taking waterskiing classes: $77 for two-week
sessions (2, 3, 4) and $44 for one-week sessions
(1, 5,6). This charge is due on Opening Day, and
covers additional staff who provide a one-toone learning experience, including the instructor,
a driver, and a spotter. The charge also offsets
the high cost of gasoline, and the maintence of
Refund Policy
• The $300 deposit is not refundable after
February 1.
• In the case of homesickness, dismissal, or
voluntary withdrawal, there are no refunds.
• One-half of any advanced payment (excluding
deposit) is refundable if written cancellation
is received at least one month prior to the
start of the session.
• If it is deemed advisable to send a camper
home for medical reasons, the unexpired
portion of the session’s cost is refunded.
• If an adventure trip must be canceled due to
low enrollment, all charges will be returned.
We try to make those decisions one month
prior to the trip.
• Store accounts are pre-charged by credit
card, with the unspent amount (only when
above $5) refunded to the card in September.
Trading Post
The Trading Post (Camp Store) is open on
Opening and Closing Day and at scheduled times
throughout each session. Campers can purchase
souvenir clothing items, patches, postcards, as
well as stamps, pens, flashlights and batteries,
toiletries, and other sundries. Please open
a store account through your online parent
account prior to Opening Day. The items in our
store range in price from $1 to $50.
Spending Money
There is no need for spending money at Camp and
we strongly request that summer campers not
bring any money. Store account funds should be
deposited online prior to the camp session.
We do recommend that campers on Adventure
Trips bring $20 per week for spending money
away from camp, which they are responsible for.
Gifts to Staff Members
The camp will gratefully receive any gifts for the
camp as a whole. The director would be pleased
to discuss Chingachgook’s needs with you. We
insist that monetary or other gifts not be given
to staff.
YMCA World Service
Camp Chingachgook has a very strong
international emphasis. One of our major goals
is to educate children about other cultures, build
friendships around the globe, and work toward
world peace and understanding. In pursuit of
these goals, Chingachgook hires international
staff and accepts campers from around the
world. In past years, Chingachgook has welcomed
campers and staff from China, Russia, France,
Germany, Ireland, Ivory Coast, Japan, Italy,
Taiwan, India, Canada, Korea, Morocco, Norway,
Sweden, Holland, Spain, England, Venezuela,
Argentina, Denmark, Turkey, Ukraine, Egypt,
Bulgaria, Costa Rica, Colombia, Puerto Rico,
Brazil, Albania, Poland, Dominican Republic, and
Australia.
Other than “Adventure Camp” campers, those
attending Adventure Trips do not need to set up
a store account, since they will only be at Camp
on opening and closing days.
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Annual Campaign
The Y campaigns annually to raise money for
scholarships to help families send children to
Chingachgook, regardless of their ability to pay.
This year, we will support over 1,500 children
in our year-round programs including summer
camp, teen adventure trips, school outdoor
education and family camps. We appreciate your
tax-deductible donations and your referrals of
children to this program.
Click Here to Donate Today.
American Camp Association
Camp Chingachgook is an accredited member of
the American Camp Association (ACA). As part
of our membership, Camp must adhere to the
strict guidelines set by the ACA. This includes
the successful completion of regular on-site
visits and paperwork reviews. To find out more
about ACA, please visit www.acacamps.org.
Department of Health
Chingachgook is licensed by the NYS Department
of Health (DOH) and is inspected twice yearly.
Inspection reports are filed at Chingachgook and
at the NYSDOH District Office, 77 Mohican St.,
Glens Falls, NY 12801.
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9
If evidence of head lice is found, you will need to
arrange for pick-up of your child for treatment.
The camper may return to Camp programming
once treatment is complete and there is no
evidence of lice.
Emergencies
In case of an emergency occurring at camp, we
notify parents or guardians as soon as possible.
Emergency medical care is provided by the Glens
Falls Hospital. Non emergency care is provided
by The Hudson Headwaters Health Center –
Broad Street, Glens Falls, on a fee-for-service
basis. The parent is financially responsible for
any medical costs incurred by the camper while
at Chingachgook. Costs are charged to the family
insurance plan or billed to the parent.
Medical Information
Health Insurance
Camp Chingachgook carries liability insurance
only and does not provide health insurance. If
a camper requires medical care by a doctor or
hospital, the parent is financially responsible.
This includes prescription drugs, dental/
orthodontic services and eye glass repair. Health
insurance information must be provided for
each camper by the Opening Day of their camp
session in order to be able to attend Camp.
Medication
All prescription medicines that campers need to
take while at camp, on hikes, or on an adventure
trip, need to be in the original container
labeled by the pharmacy. The prescription
must also be listed on the camper’s Medication
Administration form, which needs to be signed
by their physician. According to NYS Health
Department’s guidelines, campers self-administer
their medication under the supervision of health
staff. By law, campers may not be at Camp
without a completed Health Form on file and
all medications need to be given to the nurse
on Opening Day. The law forbids campers from
to having any prescription or over-the-counter
medications (except asthma inhalers or EpiPens)
on their person, in their belongings, or in their
cabin. All medications should be picked up at
the health lodge or from trip leaders on Closing
10
Day by the parent or guardian. We dispose of all
medications remaining 48 hours after the end of
Closing Day.
Please do not send any over-the-counter
medication with your child. Chingachgook’s
health lodge stocks the following: Advil, Tylenol,
throat lozenges, antacid tablets, Pepto-Bismol,
Robitussin, Suda-Fed, Benadryl, and a variety of
first-aid creams and ointments. The nurse may
administer these medications to treat minor
illness according to the instructions on the
label. If the illness is not resolved or symptoms
intensify, parents are notified and, if necessary,
the camper is taken to Glens Falls Hospital
emergency room or a local health care facility.
Health Lodge
A resident nurse or emergency medical
technician is on duty at all times. The camp
doctor is on call and visits weekly. Health calls
are held four times a day, including after meals
and after the evening program. The health lodge
staff maintain a file of each camper’s health form
and a current medical log recording all visits.
Head Lice
We encourage parents to check their child for
head lice prior to arriving at Camp. Our trained
staff check for head lice and the presence of nits
on the first day, immediately following check-in. Emergencies on an Adventure Trip
In case of an emergency occurring on a trip, we
notify parents or guardians as soon as possible.
Parents, guardians, or a designated emergency
contact needs to be accessible by phone at all
times while your child attends camp. Emergency
medical care is provided by the nearest hospital.
The parent is financially responsible for any
medical costs incurred by the child while
participating in a Chingachgook program. Costs
are charged to the family insurance plan or billed
to the parent.
Meningococcal Disease
Meningococcal disease is a potentially fatal
bacterial infection commonly referred to as
meningitis. In July, 2003, the New York State
Public Health Law was amended to include the
requirement that overnight children’s camps
distribute information about meningococcal
disease and vaccination to parents and
guardians of all campers who attend camp for
seven or more nights.
This law requires Chingachgook to maintain a
record of the following for each camper:
• A response to receipt of meningococcal
meningitis disease and vaccine information
signed by the camper’s parent or guardian
(found online on the health form) AND
• Information on the availability and cost
of meningococcal meningitis vaccine
(MenomuneTM);
AND EITHER
• A record of meningococcal meningitis
immunization within the past 10 years; OR
• An acknowledgement of meningococcal
meningitis disease risks and refusal of
meningococcal meningitis immunization
signed by the camper’s parent or guardian.
Meningitis is rare. However, when it strikes, its
flu-like symptoms make diagnosis difficult. If not
treated early, meningitis can lead to swelling of
the fluid surrounding the brain and spinal column
as well as severe and permanent disabilities,
such as hearing loss, brain damage, seizures,
limb amputation and even death. Cases of
meningitis among teens and young adults 15 to
24 years old have more than doubled since 1991.
The disease strikes about 3,000 Americans each
year and claims about 300 lives.
A vaccine is available that protects against four
types of the bacteria that cause meningitis in
the Unites States — types A,C,T, and W-135.
These types account for nearly two thirds of
meningitis cases among this group.
To learn more about meningitis and the
vaccine, please contact your child’s physician.
You can also find information at the NY State
Department of Health website: www.health.state.
ny.us and the website of the Center for Disease
control and Prevention: www.cdc.gov/ncidod/
dbmd/diseaseinfo.
Click To Learn more about
Our Health Lodge
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Mail
Summer campers, Adventure Camp campers,
and 46er campers may receive mail regularly. Adventure Trip campers will not have
access to receive mail or packages while on
their trip. Please address your camper’s mail:
camper’s name, cabin number (if known), Camp
Chingachgook, 1872 Pilot Knob Road, Kattskill
Bay, NY 12844.
Lost and Found
Lost and Found items are displayed on a clothes
line in the middle of Camp during the session and
throughout Closing Day. Please look through
these items before leaving Camp to ensure your
camper has all her/his belongings. Personal
items without name labels that are left at Camp
are donated to a charitable organization after
one week.
Campers may purchase envelopes, postcards and
stamps at the Trading Post.
Religious Services
Camp provides transportation for summer
campers who choose to attend Catholic mass
Sunday morning. We suggest parents put any
collection money in an envelope and give it
to the Unit Director to hold, on Opening Day.
The Unit Director will return this money to the
camper before attending mass.
Homesickness can occur the first few days, and
a letter from home works wonders. How about
dropping a note in the mail the day BEFORE you
bring your child to camp? Please send any mail
before the last two days of camp.
Facebook
Camp Chingachgook maintains a Facebook page
throughout the year. During the summer this
page is used primarily to update our friends and
parents about daily events at Camp. We strive
to post updates twice daily, typically once in the
late morning and once in the evening. These
posts typically also include a photo or video
from that day at Camp.
Photos
Camp employs a Communication Specialist who
takes hundreds of photos of campers each
session. These photos are posted each day, and
available through your online parent account.
Camper Yearbook
We produce an online camper yearbook each
summer, which includes a list of all campers’
names as well as group and candid photographs.
Phone Calls
Campers are not permitted to have cell phones
or receive phone calls. Relatives’ phone calls
almost always result in camper homesickness.
The Camp Director is happy to speak with
parents/guardians about any concerns.
Campers staying over between consecutive
sessions are welcome to call home on the
Saturday of their hold-over weekend.
12
Email
Campers do not have access to send emails, but
may receive emails sent to them through your
online parent account. Through this service,
you may send emails to your camper which are
delivered daily, prior to dinner time.
Camp will also use email to contact campers’
parents for routine notices before, during, and
after each camp session. These emails include
Reminders for Check in, Reminders for Pick up,
Updates on Camp Happenings and our Summer
Camp Parent Evaluation.
Packages Sent to Campers
Please keep mailed packages small. Please don’t
send food. The NYS Health Department does not
allow food in camper cabins because of campers
with food allergies, and because food attracts
raccoons and other animals. All non-perishable
food will be confiscated and returned at the end
of the session. Perishable food is disposed of.
We suggest sending games, cards, writing and
reading material and lots of letters. Please don’t
send more than one package per camp session.
Chingachgook’s chapel services, held during
two-week sessions at camp, focus on the core
values of the Y, and are non-denominational.
Past chapel topics have been: honesty, respect,
caring, responsibility, challenging yourself, and
the importance of family and friends.
“Sealed with a Kiss” offers fun, food-free
packages: www.eswak.com or 800-888-SWAK.
Campers stay with counselors who help provide
laundry service, a phone call home and camp
activities for campers. A camp director and
nurse also provide supervision during holdover weekends. Space for hold-over weekends
is limited, with a typical enrollment capacity of
twenty campers.
Visitors to Camp
Parents are welcome to visit and tour
Chingachgook on Opening and Closing Days
of each session or trip and by appointment
any time during the year. For the safety of all
campers, we ask parents not to visit during the
summer sessions.
Laundry
Camp does not provide regular laundry service
for campers. We do provide laundry service for
special circumstances (bedwetting, etc.) We also
provide laundry services for campers staying
through consecutive sessions at Camp (hold-over
weekends).
Hold-over Weekends
Hold-over weekends are a separate program for
parents who want their children to stay at camp
during a weekend between camp sessions.
Meals at Camp
Chingachgook’s food service department
provides three well-balanced meals and one
snack each day at camp. Each meal includes
several options aside from the main course, with
nutritious, fresh food being a focus. Camp can
accommodate a variety of dietary needs and
restrictions. Please feel free to contact our Food
Service Director x 6622 with questions.
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Closing Day Procedures
All campers are to be picked up Friday evening,
the Closing Day of the session. We invite family
members to join us for a special dinner and
camper slide show.
The camp store will be open for families from
4:30 — 6:30PM.
Pick up times:
Campers ages, 7 — 12, 4:30 — 5:30PM
Campers ages, 13 — 16, 5 — 6PM
Adventure Trippers, 5 — 6PM
All Session 6 and 7 campers, 4:30 — 5:30PM
If unable to meet this schedule, parents of
summer campers may pick up and depart with
their children as early as 4:30PM. Please call the
Camp office if you need to make other arrangements.
Trip campers pick up medications from trip leaders.
Camper medications should be picked up at the
Health Lodge.
Family Dinner at the lakeside pavilion runs from
5 — 7PM.
Opening Day Procedures
Parents please provide transportation to
and from camp.
Director greets you and directs the camper to
his/her cabin. You will meet the counselor at the
cabin and be able to help your camper move in.
All campers should arrive and register in the
dining hall on Opening Day (Sunday) at the
following times:
Campers ages 7 — 12, 1:00 — 2:30 PM
Campers ages 13 — 16, 2:30 — 3:30 PM
Adventure Trippers, 1 — 2 PM
All Session 6 campers, 1 — 2 PM
Adventure trippers proceed to the Hike Center
after registering. The Adventure Trip Director will
greet you and introduce you to your trip leaders.
A family or car pool with both junior and senior
campers may arrive between 1:00 and 2:30 PM
Please do not arrive early, as our staff is not
prepared to accept campers beforehand.
Lunch is not served to campers on Opening Day.
All campers, trippers, and parents please arrive
through the front gate and register in the dining
hall, where the administrative staff is ready to
greet you and:
• Verify charges are paid
• Collect and review medical forms, if not
previously mailed, and all camper medications
• Hand out skill class schedules
Adventure Trip Slideshows run in Rotary Lodge
from 6:00 — 6:30PM.
All campers and families are asked to depart
between 7:00 and 7:15PM.
Adventure trippers are returning to camp
and cleaning up until the set pick-up time.
Please call the Adventure Trip Director if other
arrangements need to be made.
For the safety of every camper, campers are
not eleased to anyone other than the parent/
guardian or those listed on the Pick-Up
Authorization form.
Summer Camp Slideshows run in Rotary Lodge
from 6:30 — 7:00PM.
We request that parents leave camp shortly after
meeting the counselor or trip leader, as campers
and trippers have a busy schedule and long
goodbyes can be difficult.
Cabin Requests
During online registration campers have the
opportunity to request a cabin with up to TWO
campers. This request needs to be mutual and
the campers need to be within 12 months of age.
We make every effort to honor cabin requests,
but they cannot be guaranteed. If your camper
would rather not bunk with a specific person,
please call to speak with the camp director.
After checking in at the registration area, you
may proceed to your child’s unit where the Unit
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15
A Typical Day
at Camp
Information for Summer Camp
Overview of the Summer Camp Program
Chingachgook provides campers the opportunity
to become involved in a wide range of activities,
programs and educational skill classes. Every
morning, each cabin group participates in an
activity that the campers agree on, such as
nature hikes, canoeing, swimming, team sports,
crafts or individual sports.
Every afternoon features a free swim supervised
by the Waterfront Director and camp lifeguards.
Skill classes and organized recreation periods
form the backbone of each camper’s experience
at Chingachgook. There are four skill class
periods and an organized recreation period
seven times during each two-week session and
four times during a one-week session.
eligibility to participate in certain waterfront
skill classes (sailing, canoeing, etc.) Some skill
classes have additional swimming competency
requirements as noted under the skill class
descriptions. Adventure trippers who do not
pass the 440 are required to wear a life jacket at
all times when in the water.
The program staff organizes special evening
programs each night, including talent shows,
song nights, musical and drama productions,
campfires, sporting events, international
festivals, chapels, casino nights, beach parties,
dances and more.
Two-week sessions feature a three day camping
trip that takes place in the second week of the
session. We are one of the few camps in the
country where all campers have the opportunity
to learn the basics of wilderness camping.
7:15 8:00 8:30 9:00 9:50 10:45 Noon 12:30 1:35 2:30 3:30 3:40 4:30 5:30
5:45 6:15 7:00 9:00 9:30 10:00 Reveille
Click to hear the Bugles play across
Breakfast
Camp to signal assemblies, classes, etc.
Cabin Cleanup
Cabin Activity
Skill Class 1
Skill Class 2
Lunch
Due to the more limited hours of
daylight, sessions 6 includes three skill
Rest Hour
classes, and a 9:30 lights
Skill Class 3
out for everyone.
Skill Class 4
Snack
Organized Recreation
Free Swim
Vespers are a closing conversation or
activity done as a cabin at the end
Mail Call
of each day.
Dinner
Unit Time
Evening Program Junior Vespers Junior Taps and Lights Out / Senior Vespers
Senior Taps and Lights Out
The entire camp also enjoys special program
days that may include carnival day, Olympic day,
canoe races, counselor swap, international day,
color wars and other special events.
All campers will take a swim test on Opening
Day, as described on page 14 of this handbook.
A camper who successfully passes the swim
stroke test will be excused from the swimming
skill class. The distance swim determines
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Camper Packing List
These items are essential:
• Small backpack
• Swim suit
• Underwear
• Socks
• 2 pairs of sneakers
• T-shirts*
• Sweatshirt*
• Long pants
• Shorts
• Raincoat and pants or poncho*
• Sleeping bag with stuff sack
• Pillow with cover
• Sun screen*
• 2 Towels, soap, shampoo
• Toothbrush*
• Toothpaste*
• Brush
• Laundry bag
• Flashlight*
• 2 Refillable canteens or water bottles
• Paper, pen, envelopes, and stamps*
Please Label ALL Items With Your Child’s Name!
* Sold at the Trading Post
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For three-day excursions,
Sessions 2, 3 and 4:
• Frame backpack
• Two canteens or water bottles*
• Wool or fleece sweater/jacket
• Non-cotton pants (fleece, nylon)
• Wool socks
• Insulate pad or lightweight foam sleeping pad
• Hiking shoes/boots/sturdy sneakers
• Mess kit or plastic bowl, cup, spoon, mug
• 2 — 3 garbage bags
• Water shoes: sandals that strap on or aqua
socks (no flip flops)
Gilbins is a company that offers camper products
such as name labels for clothing and footlockers,
and other useful items: www.gilbin.com
or 888.529.6200.
What to Leave at Home
Camp Chingachgook is not responsible for
campers’ possessions. Please do not bring
unnecessary or valuable items.
Special Instructions
• While clothing can be packed in suitcases or
duffle bags, many campers prefer to use a
foot locker that fits at the end of their bed,
or a set of lightweight, Rubbermaid-style
drawers to place next to their bed.
• Do not send your child’s best clothing.
• Write a list of belongings and have your child
check the list before leaving camp.
• Label all clothing and personal property.This
is very important for reclaiming lost
and found items.
Campers are not permitted to bring:
• iPods
• CD players
• Cell phones
• Video cameras or any electronic devices
• Aerosol cans
• Blow dryers
• Curling irons
• Valuable jewelry
• Food
• Alcohol / illegal Substances
• Pets
Knives, spikes, chains, or any other potential
weapon is prohibited.
Other useful articles:
• Ball and glove
• Camera and film*
• Sunglasses*
• Compass and whistle for hikes
• Fishing pole, tackle
• Extra sweatshirt*
• Mask, snorkel, fins
• Tennis racquet
• Book
• Fitted sheet for plastic mattress
• Insect repellent* (cream or liquid)
• Packing list to aid your camper in packing the
last day of camp
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Canoeing
Need to pass the 220-yard swim test. Learn the
basics, explore the lake and play canoe games.
Waterskiing
Need to be at least 12 years old and pass the
440-yard swim test. There is a $77 additional
charge per two-week session and $44 per oneweek session to offset the costs of gasoline
and extra staff as well as engine, boat, and
equipment repair and replacement. This cost is
due upon arrival at Camp.
Skill Class Descriptions
The following is a list of Chingachgook skill
classes, including the requirements for
enrollment and a brief description. Classes are
co-ed and open to all ages, except where noted.
Beginner and advanced sections are formed
in some classes after the first day of class.
Campers and parents should carefully read this
list and sign up online. Camper’s exact skill class
schedule depends on timeliness of sign-up, the
results of swim checks, session enrollment, and
instructor availability. If necessary, changes may
be made once camp has started. Although there
is some flexibility, classes are filled on a firstcome, first-served basis.
Swimming
Swim Test: Under supervision of the waterfront
staff, all campers attempt a continuous 220yard (which equals 1/8 mile or nine 75-foot
lengths) swim test on Opening Day. Campers
must demonstrate two lengths each of front
crawl and back crawl, one length breast stroke,
and may swim at whatever pace is comfortable.
Campers who do not pass the swim stroke
test are required to take a YMCA swim class.
Waterfront staff evaluate campers’ swimming
abilities and assign them to the appropriate
swimming class. Campers then progress through
the aquatics program during the session.
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YMCA Progressive Swimming Program
This class emphasizes personal improvement
and campers progress at their own pace. Classes
are designed to be fun and exciting. Each skill
level has five components: personal safety, swim
stroke development, water sports and games,
personal growth and rescue. The Y progressive
levels are: Polliwog, Guppy, Fish, Flying Fish,
Shark and Porpoise.
Competitive Swimming
Qualified campers can sign up on the first day of
skill classes.
In order to participate in sailing and waterskiing,
campers need to complete a 440 yard swim test
on opening day.
Click To Learn more about
water safety at Camp!
Fishing
For juniors. Learn the basic skills of baiting,
casting, and fishing techniques from the shores
of Lake George. Campers may bring their own
fishing pole, but Camp can also provide one.
Outdoor Living Skills
Explore the dynamic natural areas of camp —
mountain, brook, wetlands, old growth forest,
and of course Lake George. Learn low-impact
camping, map and compass, knot craft, outdoor
safety and cooking.
Arts
Explore your creative abilities through crafts
including candle making, beading, tie dyeing,
nature craft, leather work, basket weaving,
and more.
Outdoor Cooking
Cooking outside is fun and an essential
wilderness survival skill. Learn to safely build,
maintain and use an outdoor fire or camp stove
for easy-to-prepare meals.
Drawing
Explore the world of sketches, storyboarding,
comics and more. This class teachs basic skills
and allows campers to explore their creative side.
Farm and Animal Care
This hands-on class teaches campers the basics
of gardening in Camp’s raised-bed garden.
Campers also learn about some typical farm
animals while working with Camp’s goats, pigs,
rabbits and chickens.
Painting
Campers learn the basics of painting using water
colors. Still-life and nature scenes provide the
chance to create a masterpiece!
Improv & Theatre
Find your niche on stage! Explore drama, theatre
performances, costumes, and other performing arts.
Dance
A great and fun way to stay fit. Learn different
types of dance and choreography.
Guitar
There’s nothing like a guitar playing at
camp. Learn the basics or practice advanced
techniques. For beginner and experienced
guitarists. Bring your own acoustic guitar, or
use one of ours!
Riflery
Need to be at least 12 years old. Learn safe
firearm operation under the supervision of
an instructor certified by the National Rifle
Association. Use Daisy BB Guns and Marlin
single-shot .22 caliber rifles.
Archery
Structured according to standards of USA
Archery. Shoot for fun, to score, and in
tournaments using traditional recurve bows.
Soccer
Practice basic soccer skills and put it all together
during scrimmages on Oliver Field, our regulation
soccer field.
Softball
Practice basic softball skills and put it all
together during games at Baxter Park, our
regulation softball field.
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Tennis
Learn basic tennis skills and rules in both singles
and doubles play. Campers may bring their own
racquets, but Camp will also provide if needed.
Yoga
Need to be at least 12 years old. Relax and
meditate while learning yoga basics, including
introductory poses, breathing techniques, and
theories. Bring your own mat if you have one,
and Camp can provide as needed.
Junior Sport Zone
For juniors. Develop new skills and have fun
every day with a different activity: Chingacrosse,
whiffle ball, kickball, soccer, basketball and more.
Water World
For juniors. It’s all about water — on it, in it,
and under it: snorkeling, paddling a war canoe,
water basketball, water volleyball, rope swing
competition and more.
Woodworking
For juniors. Create great wooden projects like
bird houses and miniature sailboats while
learning to handle and safely use hand tools.
Sailing*
Need to pass the 440-yard swim test. Learn
sailing terms and techniques on Sunfish and 14foot Capris. More advanced sailors will develop
solo skills and techniques.
High Ropes*
Need to be at least 12 years old. Experience
the challenges and thrills of negotiating the
14-element course. Safety is maintained by
wearing a seat harness, helmet and belay rope.
Mountain Biking*
Need to be at least 12 years old and bring your
own bike, helmet, bike lock, and inner tube patch
kit. Learn riding and tune-up/maintenance skills.
Explore camp roads and trails. Campers are
responsible for locking their bikes. Only campers
scheduled for this class may bring a bike to Camp.
Rock Climbing*
Need to be at least 12 years old. Experience
the challenges and thrills of rock climbing on
Chingachgook’s climbing tower and on rock
faces on our property. Learn to climb and belay.
Campers wear a seat harness, helmet, and belay
rope for safety.
Three Day Excursions
(2-Week Sessions Only)
Excursions are an integral part of each two-week
camper’s experience at Chingachgook. During the
second week of their session, two-week campers
will depart Camp for a wilderness excursion on
Monday morning and return Wednesday afternoon.
Novice campers learn camping skills on or near
Camp property. More advanced hikers may tackle
the Adirondack High Peaks, Pharaoh Wilderness
beyond. Campers who meet the swimming
qualifications may elect to go on a sailing,
kayaking or canoeing trip to one of the islands
on Lake George.
Each camping trip that leaves Camp property
includes at least two staff members, with at
least one trained in wilderness first aid. In
addition, each water-based trip includes a
lifeguard and all staff are oriented in safety
procedures and trained in activity guidelines.
While on their trips campers sleep in tents
provided by Camp. Each group is also supplied
with the necessary food and equipment for cooking.
During each two-week session, the Wilderness
Director and Cabin Counselors review all possible
options with the campers, who then select their
top three choices. The Unit Director evaluates
these choices and places campers on the
appropriate trip.
Campers devote the entire Sunday before their
campout preparing. They learn how to pack a
backpack, set up a tent, and prepare for weather
conditions and activities (staying hydrated,
preparing for rain, proper clothing, etc.).
Camping trips offer campers the opportunity to
learn how to safely have fun in the wilderness.
Campers learn to:
• Navigate the wilderness
• Travel and camp causing minimal
environmental impact
• Prepare meals in the wilderness
• Work together to create a successful community
• Appreciate and take care of their natural surroundings
Note: Please adhere to the Camper Packing List,
especially the “What to Leave at Home” list to
help ensure your camper’s safety and comfort
while on overnight trips.
Three Day Excursion Options
Options are rated by difficulty, with “A” being the
most difficult and “C” being the least. Options
are also divided by age, with Junior and Senior
campers going on different campouts.
Excursions for Junior Campers (Ages 7-12)
In the Pharaoh Wilderness
Pharaoh East / Pharaoh West: Rating A
These two trips take the same path in different
directions. Hikers camp near Grizzle Ocean, a
small remote pond near Putnam State Park. This
hike also spends a night next to spectacular
Pharaoh Lake in one of the several lean-to
sites that surround this large body of water.
Hikers summit Treadway Mountain and Pharaoh
Mountain, the two highest peaks in the Pharaoh
Wilderness Area.
Lilly Pad Pond / Oxeshoe Pond: Rating B
Lilly Pad Pond and Oxeshoe Pond are great
introductions to the Pharaoh Wilderness
Area. For both hikes, you backpack into your
respective pond site and set up camp. The next
day involves hiking either Pharaoh Mountain or
Treadway Mountain.
Buttermilk Pond: Rating B
This hike to the campsite for both nights is two
or four miles, depending on which campsite the
hike leaders choose. The second day is a hike to
Buttermilk Pond with mileage of six to nine miles,
depending on the route taken. The third day is
the same as the first. Most of the trails are flat.
* Class lasts two periods
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Excursions for Senior Campers (Ages 13-15)
In the High Peaks Region
Dix Mountain North & South: Rating A
Dix Mountain is the fifth highest mountain in
the Adirondacks. After a bus ride, campers hike
about five miles into their campsite pausing
only for a quick summit up Noonmark or Round
Mountain. The next day campers hike up Dix
Mountain. Depending on time, the group might
cross over the ridge another mile to Hough
Mountain before heading back down to the
campsite. The last day of the trip is hiking back
out to the trailhead and possibly hitting another
lesser summit
along the way.
In the Lake George Region
War Canoe to the Narrows: Rating B
Need to pass 220 swim test
The group use two of our 26-foot war canoes. They paddle about five miles north of camp to
the Narrows and camp on an island or shore
campsite. The second day is spent hiking part of
the Tongue Mtn. Range, before returning to camp
on day 3.
Sleeping Beauty North and South: Rating A
These two hikes take the same path in different
directions. The group hikes three miles with
packs on the first day to Millman Pond or hike
one and a half miles with packs to Dacy Clearing,
set up camp and then go on a short day hike. On
day two the hike takes each group over Sleeping
Beauty Mtn. The third day is reversal of the first
for each group.
Campouts Near Camp Chingachgook
Iroquois Meadow: Rating C
Campers stay at a site behind Camp, taking day
hikes on Buck Mountain.
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Eagle’s Landing: Rating BCampers stay at a site behind Camp, taking day
hikes on Buck Mountain and Pilot Knob.
Hawkeye’s Lookout: Rating BCampers stay at a site behind Camp, taking day
hikes on Buck Mountain and Pilot Knob.
Red Fox Hollow: Rating C
Campers stay at a site behind Camp, taking day
hikes on Buck Mountain.
Panther’s Lean-to: Rating C
Campers stay at a site behind Camp, taking day
hikes on Buck Mountain.
Giant: Rating A
After a bus ride the group makes a five mile hike
in to their campsite. The next day, campers
climb about two miles (2000 feet) to the summit
of Giant Mountain. From the summit of Giant,
the group traverses the Rocky Peak Ridge
admiring the spectacular view the entire time.
The last day is spent backpacking down to the
pick-up spot.
Hurricane Mountain: Rating A
After being dropped off by the bus the group
backpacks four miles up and over Hurricane
Mountain. Ridge leaving their packs behind for
a short ascent to the summit of Hurricane from
the Ridge. At the top of Hurricane they are able
to see the majority of the high peaks region and
the entire length of Lake Champlain. Picking up
their packs, they hike down the other side of
the ridge to a lean-to at remote Lost Pond. Day
two is spent day hiking around the Nun-Dagao
Ridge topping out over Weston, Little Crow, and
Big Crow Mountains before heading back to Lost
Pond. The last day is spent hiking up and over
Hurricane Ridge back to the pick-up spot.
High Peak Special: Rating A
With the help of the Hike Coordinator this trip is
planned around the Johns Brook Lodge area of
the High Peaks in the Great Range. The group
camps at a lean-to or campsite about six miles
from the Garden Trailhead and enjoys climbing
some of the popular over-4000 ft. peaks. In the Lake George Region
Shore Trail, Canoe Swap/Canoe, Shore Trail
Swap: Rating A
Need to be a strong paddler and pass the 220
swim test. This trip is done by two groups,
heading in opposite directions. Campers either
canoe to shelving rock for lunch and then north
to the narrows or hike with full packs from
camp six to seven miles along the shore to Black
Mountain. Point. On the second day the canoes
pack up camp and paddle to Black Mountain
point for gear swap with the other group and
then summit Black Mountain. The campers canoe
to their campsite and set up camp, then canoe to
Montcalm point and hike Tongue Mountain. The
third day one group returns to camp from the
narrows via canoe and the other via shore trail
with full packs.
Aluminum Canoe: Rating B+
Need to be a strong paddler and pass the
200 swim test. On Monday the group paddles
north toward the Mother Bunch Islands on Lake
George, stopping along the way on the shore or
an island to eat lunch. After setting up camp,
campers might go for another canoe excursion,
swim, or take care of other necessary camp
duties. The next day, campers canoe around the
lake, or to the shore where they go for a short
day hike up one of the spectacular Lake George
Mountains.
Tongue Mountain North and South: Rating B+
This trip is done by two groups, heading in
opposite directions. The Tongue Mountain
Range is north of Camp and Dome Island and
boasts one of the best views of Lake George.
Hikers travel the entire twelve mile ridge from
Montcalm Point to Silver Bay, or vice versa. On
the first day campers travel by power boat to
their drop off, then hike to their first campsite. Since there is little water on the top of Tongue,
the second day is spent hiking down to the
lake for a quick swim and lunch! The last day
campers hike out to the pick-up spot where the
group is ferried back to camp!
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Excursions for Junior or Senior Campers
In the Lake George Region
East Shore North and South: Rating Jr. A / Sr. AThis trip is done by two groups, heading in
opposite directions. The hikes take each group
sixteen miles deep into the woods along the
East Shore of Lake George, backpacking up
and over Buck Mountain, Black Mountain, and
possibly other summits like Sleeping Beauty.
Campsites are near Dacy Clearing and Fishbrook
Pond. There is also a boat ride to or from Black
Mountain Point.
Little Buck Bushwhack: Rating A
This hike follows a map and compass and stays
off the beaten path as much as possible. The
group backpacks up to Little Buck Mountain to
camp for the first night. The next day the group
summits Shelving Rock. On day 3 campers follow
the shore trail back to camp.
Excursions Near Camp Chingachgook
Owl’s Nest: Hike and Canoe: Rating B-
Need to pass the 220 swim test.
Campers stay at a site behind Camp taking day
hikes on Buck Mountain and Pilot Knob. This trip
also includes a day of canoeing on Lake George.
Specialty Excurions
Rock Climbing: Rating B
The group camps at Black Bear Ledge, just
behind Camp. Climbs include the Hannaford
tower, Chapel Rock, and Black Bear Ledges and
Stuart’s Ledges. The 3 days allow campers to
perfect their climbing and camping skills at the
same time.
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Kayaking: Rating BNeed to pass the 220 swim test.
On day one, campers kayak from Camp to
Shelving Rock Bay for lunch and then continue to
the narrows and their campsite. Day two includes
kayaking to Black Mountain or Montcalm Point
and day hiking. The third day is the paddle
back to camp.
Sailing: Rating Jr. B- / Sr. B-
Need to pass the 440 swim test or the 220 and
be in our swim lessons!
Sailing hikes utilize Rainbow sailboats. On
the first day the group sails to Long Island for
lunch and to establish their campsite. The rest
of the day is spent sailing near Long island and
Diamond Island. Later in the trip the group sails
to Shelving Rock for a day hike before returning
to Camp.
Black Beauty: Rating Jr. A / Sr. BCampers travel about three miles with packs on
the first day to the Black Mountain. Pond leanto. There are options to summit Black Mountain
or explore Lapland Pond or Black Mountain Pond,
as well as hiking to Black Mountain Point. This
trip usually includes swimming.
Big Boulder: Rating Jr. B+ / Sr. BThis hike leaves from Camp and hike the shore
trail to a location near Phelps Island. At this
point, the trip will bushwhack up the nearby
stream to a campsite on the side of Buck
Mountain. The next day the group either hikes
to Shelving Rock Falls or summits Buck Mountain
before returning to their campsite.
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What’s Included in the Cost
The trip cost covers all necessary food, lodging,
and transportation during the trip, admission
cost, guide services, laundry for extended trips,
and group equipment. Trip leaders carry basic
repair tools and kits, and they may make minor
repairs to trippers’ personal gear, according
to their ability and comfort level. If major or
technical repairs or replacements are needed,
Chingachgook will consult the parents.
Transportation
We transport Adventure Trip groups in
8-passenger SUVs and 7-passenger vans.
Drivers are trained, qualified and responsible
Chingachgook staff who are at least
21 years old.
Information for
Adventure Trips
Philosophy
Our Adventure Trip Program embraces the unique
potential inherent in outdoor activities. These
adventures are experienced in a small-group
setting and facilitated by outdoor professionals
to produce an appropriate level of challenge and
active reflection, which will foster interpersonal
development and intrapersonal growth.
Trip Leaders
Adventure trip leaders are hired for and trained
in leadership, safety, emergency care, counseling,
and specific adventure travel skills. Male and
female leaders guide each trip. They are mature,
skilled, compassionate adults chosen for their
experience, capabilities and camping knowledge.
Complying with Health Department regulations
and American Camp Association standards, trip
leaders have certifications in wilderness first aid,
CPR, and lifeguarding. At least one leader is 21
years old or older.
Tripper Behavior
Camp Chingachgook Adventure Trips require
mature behavior and positive attitudes as
the success of group travel depends on the
inter-relationships and contributions of all
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involved. Campers need to abide by camp
policies regarding appropriate behavior, need
to adhere to trip leaders’ guidelines and need
to be prepared for hard work and shared group
responsibilities. Trippers represent Chingachgook
wherever they go and we ask them to uphold our
fine reputation and values. If, in the opinion of
camp staff, any tripper demonstrates improper
or dangerous attitudes or behavior, that camper
may be expelled from the trip. There is no
refund given under these circumstances, and the
tripper’s parents or guardians are responsible
for picking up the tripper wherever the group is
at the time.
Medical Information
It is essential and required by law that all
trippers provide a complete and signed medical
form before attending camp. Emergency medical
care is provided by the nearest hospital. A
parent, guardian, or designated emergency
contact needs to be accessible by phone at all
times. The parent is financially responsible for
any medical costs incurred by the child while
they are in a Chingachgook program. Costs are
charged to the family insurance plan or billed to
the parent.
Specific Trip Information
Prior to their trip, each adventure tripper
receives a packet of detailed information
about his/her specific trip, including a detailed
itinerary, a complete packing list, a training plan,
additional forms to be completed and returned,
and a checklist for parents. Much of our
communication is done through emails, to more
easily include photos and videos to help in each
tripper’s preparation.
Please note that itineraries are subject to change
due to weather, travel distances, lodging and
camping constrictions, and other variables.
Food
We provide three healthy, wholesome meals
and several snacks each day to provide a wellbalanced, nutritious diet. Expect a variety of
meals, the introduction of new foods used in
outdoor travel, and simple menus that can be
prepared over a camping stove. Chingachgook
provides food that is proportioned for the
number of participants on trip. For longer trips,
we may restock fresh food en route. We ask
each tripper to complete a menu questionnaire
by June 1 so the trip leaders can accommodate
most tastes and allergies. We may ask trippers
with extensive dietary restrictions to provide
their own menu supplements; in this case, please
contact the Adventure Director at least one
month prior to the trip.
Adventure trippers are not allowed to bring junk
food items for many reasons, including: limiting
environmental impact, encouraging proper
nutritional intake, eliminating unnecessary bulk
and trash and discouraging animal interest in
personal gear.
Spending Money
Souvenirs are a great way to remember the
amazing areas we visit on a Chingachgook
Adventure Trip. We recommend bringing $20 per
week in personal spending money, which trippers
are responsible for carrying.
Equipment
Chingachgook provides all group gear and
equipment such as tents, stoves, pots, cooking
utensils, etc. The Adventure Director sends all
trippers a packing list prior to their trip. Please
use this as a checklist for packing personal
gear, keeping in mind that the items listed
are important and space is often limited for
additional items. Many items can be borrowed
or purchased second hand. Please call the
Adventure Director in advance.
Please note the mix of cotton and synthetic
clothing items. Cotton is great for warm weather,
but for cold or wet weather clothing should be
made of fleece, wool, or synthetic materials,
which will keep you warm even when wet.
Please label everything with the camper’s name!
Camp Chingachgook is not responsible for lost or
damaged items.
Please do not bring valuables, breakables,
electronic devices of any sort (including music
players, game players, and cell phones), electric
items, junk food, knives (including pocket knives)
or jewelry. Weapons, alcohol, drugs, or tobacco
products are strictly prohibited and are grounds
for dismissal. Expect gear to be tightly packed
into vans and boats.
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Contact with Home
Positive group dynamics result when leaders
are able to focus trippers on sharing their trip
experience as a small group in a unique, awayfrom-it-all environment. We ask that trippers
neither make nor receive phone calls as this
creates the potential for awkward situations
including homesickness or isolation from other
trip participants. In emergency situations, trip
leaders may arrange communication between
trippers and parents. Please do not ask trippers
to call home and do not send along a cell phone.
Mail
We do encourage trippers to write letters and
we coordinate the mailing of those letters where
possible. Only trippers on adventure camp and
the “46er” are able to receive mail during their
trip. Please address mail (letters only, please)
as follows: Trippers Name, 46er • YMCA Camp
Chingachgook • 1872 Pilot Knob Rd • Kattskill
Bay, NY 12844
Photos
Photos are a great way to capture the memories
from an adventure trip. Please label and package
cameras well. Trip leaders also take many photos
during the trip, which are used to produce a
slideshow that is shown on Pick-Up day. The
slideshow is made available to download online
in the fall.
Other Chingachgook
Programs
To find out more about any of the following
year-round opportunities at Camp, please call
our Groups Director, at 518.656.9462 x 6644.
Year-Round Programs
Why should kids have all the fun? We invite
you to join us at Camp for one of our Adult,
Family, or Women’s programs that take place
on weekends throughout the year. You can find
a schedule of events and registration on our
website: www.LakeGeorgeCamp.org. Here is a
sample of what we have to offer:
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
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Women’s Weekends: Fall, Winter and Spring
Women’s Snowshoeing
Women’s Kayaking
Women’s Sailing
Adult Sailing and Learn to Sail Classes
Family Camp during Memorial Day, Labor Day,
and Columbus Day weekends
Family Winter Wonderland
Family Fall Festival
Family Spring Fling
Mother – Daughter Weekend
We add more events each year!
Camp’s Adventure Passport
Come to any of Camp’s weekend programs and
receive your Adventure Passport. This booklet
allows you to collect stamps and earn a free
T-Shirt. The Adventure Passport is also a handy
way to keep track of our weekend program
dates so an exciting trip is always right at your
fingertips!
School Outdoor Education
Every year Camp Chingachgook hosts thousands
of students and teachers from the state of New
York as part of Camp’s commitment to Outdoor
Education. Our staff leads students in programs
developed to teach environmental education and
to facilitate better classroom cultures through
team building and leadership trainings. Schools
may choose programs that range in length from
a day trip to an entire week at Camp.
Special Events at Camp
Camp Chingachgook provides the perfect setting
for a number of special events and retreats,
including:
• Church Retreats
• Girl Scout Weekends
• Family Reunions
• Staff Retreats
• Weddings
• Thanksgiving Dinner
• Easter Brunch
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The Camp Chingachgook Alumni Association
Our mission is to support YMCA Camp
Chingachgook’s growth and progress, preserve
its history, maintain its traditional values, and
provide opportunities for alumni and friends
to stay in touch with each other and Camp
Chingachgook.
Click to Make a Donation
and help support our
next 100 years of service
The Order of Chingachgook
The Order of Chingachgook is a service
organization started in the early years of Camp’s
history and modeled after the Boy Scouts’ Order
of the Arrow.
New members to the Order of Chingachgook
are chosen from staff and alumni who have
exhibited a positive attitude, the highest level
of commitment to Camp, and who exemplify the
core values of the Y: caring, honesty, respect and
responsibility.
Order inductees are chosen from the Camp
community during a tap-out ceremony held in
the same manner as has been followed for 50
years. Though it is an honor to be tapped out,
Order membership is completely voluntary and
inductees may decline.
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Inductees begin their initiationl by sleeping
out, alone, in the woods. The following day,
they perform a service work project intended to
improve the camp. Projects include trail clearing
and marking, building campfire areas, stone
steps, and benches around camp. The project is
completed in silence, with only bread and water
for breakfast and lunch. Inductees are given
frequent opportunities to write their thoughts
in a journal. The day ends with a campfire
discussion about the experience followed by a
lobster and steak feast in the dining hall.
Serving as a member of the Order of
Chingachgook is among the most memorable
Camp experiences. Past Order members are
encouraged to participate in Order work
projects and to share their memories with
today’s campers. The camper population is also
encouraged to help with special service projects,
coordinated by Order members, throughout the
session. The Order of Chingachgook sponsors
a special appreciation award to campers who
demonstrate positive leadership and exemplify
the Y’s four core values of caring, honesty,
respect and responsibility.
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