Child 1 Age 7 - 16 (Female)
Program(s) focused in Traditional (multi activity)
Child 2 Age 7 - 13 (Female)
Program(s) focused in Traditional (multi activity)
(5) Overall experience
Both of my daughters were nervous and apprehensive about going to camp the first time. After the first year, I will never forget picking them up and one of them didn't really want to come home! That was tough to fathom at first, but then the Director of the camp at the time said that that was actually a really good sign of a well-adjusted kid! That meant a lot, knowing that they were happy, had fun, and were safe. I would definitely send both kids back to camp!!
(4.5) Reason for choosing the camp
My sisters both went to this camp and my niece has gone for many years and is now the assistant director!! This camp has long-standing family memories for us so the choice was easy. We now see it as a place with incredible facilities, a beautiful location, and caring staff. This camp was definitely worth the investment!!
(5) Program quality and activities
This camp is perfectly aligned with both of my daughter's interests - there are water-based activities, a good selection of creative arts, and wilderness canoe-tripping opportunities as well. They have put a great deal of effort into improving and refreshing many of the cabins and activities over the last few years, which has been very apparent and appreciated - the camp looks great!
(4.5) Social dynamics and experience
Both girls have made new friends over the years and these friendships have grown and evolved over the years. It's been incredible to see how camp friends can become such great friends, even when you only see them for a month or [once per] year. There have never been any issues related to bullying or inclusion as I think the staff pay particular attention to any potential issues before they arise. The staff are very in tune with the personal dynamics, which is wonderful to see.
(5) Skills and growth
This camp puts a great deal of emphasis on hard skills, particularly swimming and canoeing. They also have wonderful arts programs including pottery, special arts, drama, and arts & crafts. I think the canoe tripping and leadership (CIT) programs at this camp are really important at taking kids out of their comfort zones and teaching them important skills such as teamwork, responsibility, initiative, and resilience.
(4.5) Staff/Instructors/Counsellors
The Counsellors at this camp are nothing short of wonderful. They care about the kids and they prioritize having fun, being safe, and making sure everyone is included. Communication to parents was succinct and effective. There weren't too many emails, which was appreciated. We get nice handwritten notes throughout the year and they encourage letter writing from the kids!
(4.5) Preparation and packing
The packing list that the camp sends out is actually perfect. It's just the right amount of stuff, not too much and not too little. I would certainly recommend labelling everything you pack, as things get lost, and also packing some old clothes that you don't mind getting paint on or getting stained!!
(5) Advice and tips
I think camp is really beneficial for kids. It's important for them to step out of their daily mode and be able to immerse themselves in an environment outside of home. It's good for parents and it's good for kids to have some time away from each other. My advice would be to let them have fun, be independent and grow. Don't send them too many letters and don't tell them you miss them. They're having fun, they don't want to feel guilty!! Enjoy it!!
Our daughter has been attending Camp Oconto for over a decade both as a camper and staff member. Summer is her favourite time of year. The traditional camp skills she has gained such as expertly paddl...
