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FAQs

FAQs for Parents

 

As a parent, you may have many questions about sending your son to summer camp. We will address many common questions here. If your question is not below, please get in touch with us.

What are the dates of camp?

Camp begins on June 21 and ends on August 11, 2025.

How will my son get to camp?

There are many options for your son to get to camp. A few campers are driven by their parents and the vast majority of Campers take one of the chartered busses that leave from New York City, Westchester and Boston. We also provide pick up service from both Boston and Portland Airport.

What is the staff to camper ratio?

Camp Winnebago has a 2.5:1 ratio of campers to counselors.

How many counselors are in each bunk?

In the youngest age group (8-9 year olds) there are 2 counselors and 6 campers plus a female staff member, who does not sleep in the cabin. In the other age groups, there is one counselor and 4-5 campers in each cabin.

What are the cabins like?

The cabins are made of wood and each camper has their own bed, drawers and shelves. The cabins have screens and flaps that can be lowered if it is very windy and/or rainy. Each morning, campers led by their counselors, clean and tidy the cabin in preparation for the day.

What electronics are allowed at camp?

Devices without screens are allowed at camp. Cell phones, tablets, laptops, IPods, etc. are not allowed.

How often do the boys shower?

Boys are required to take showers every other day and are permitted to take more if desired.

How are medications administered?

The medical staff generally distributes medications in the morning and evening. In the event that a different schedule is required, necessary accommodations are made.

What happens in the case of an emergency?

Andy makes contact with the parents informing them of any emergency involving their son. We have a pediatrician as well as two nurses at camp.

Are special dietary needs accommodated?

Yes, our kitchen staff accommodates most dietary needs including, but not limited to allergies, vegetarian diets, kosher and other food sensitivities. The food at camp is healthy, delicious and varied. We are nut free.

What will I know about my son’s counselor?

Camp Winnebago posts a short biography and picture of each counselor on our website at the beginning of the summer.

How can I find out how my son is doing?

Andy is always available to answer your questions about how your son is doing.

How often can I speak with my child?

Parents can schedule two phone calls during the summer. One during the first four weeks and one during camp’s second half. An extra phone call is allotted on a camper’s birthday. In addition, campers write letters to their parents 3x/week throughout the summer.

What if my son’s birthday is during camp?

Campers who have a birthday at camp enjoy a rousing Winnebagan version of Happy Birthday sung to them by the staff in the dining room. They also can receive a phone call from their parents.

What if my child is homesick?

Homesickness is a relatively common issue that usually lasts no more than a few days. Our staff is trained to deal with homesickness by acknowledging it and then helping boys adapt to the Winnebago routine through a variety of methods. We do our best to keep homesick campers busy and well supported by staff and other friendly faces. We look at homesickness as an opportunity for boys to build and realize their developing resilience while adapting to a new and dynamic environment.

How do you handle bullying?

Camp Winnebago takes bullying very seriously. Because we are a relatively small camp, and a community that is open and trusting, we find out about things quickly. When a conflict arises between campers, we strive to nip it in the bud through honest and direct communication. Campers are encouraged in various manners to communicate with staff or administration any time they feel unsafe. Emotional and physical safety is our #1 priority!

Is there a big brother program?

All first-year campers 12 and under are assigned Big Brothers in May. Big Brothers are 13-15 year olds and veteran campers. Many Big and Little Brothers will at least talk, if not meet, before camp and then again at camp where the Big Brother shows his “camp sibling” around and introduces him to his friends. It is normal that this special relationship will persist throughout the summer and perhaps for years to come.

How do you integrate second session campers into camp?

Second session campers arrive at camp and hit the ground running. They are welcomed by their cabin mates, placed on a Brown and Green team and are shown camp by their peers, camp Big Brother and counselor. The counselor helps the newly arrived camper with adjusting to camp while observing for any signs of difficulty in their transition.

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