Why should I send my camper to Camp Pocono Ridge?

Camp Pocono Ridge has proudly been in the business of camping for 50 years. We are educators, parents and caring adults who love camp and feel blessed in what we do. We provide a safe and wonderfully fulfilling program that prides itself on meeting the needs of the individual.  We care very much about providing every camper and parent the best possible camp experience.

You have chosen an ACA accredited camp for your child, and as such we voluntarily subject ourselves to follow numerous policies and regulation, some of which are far greater that the local or state authorities, as they are created as standards for the camping industry nationwide.  These policies have been developed for the safety of each and every child.

Camp Pocono Ridge campers:

·         Develop lasting friendships,

·         Grow as individuals and,

·         Realize a sense of community within our camp community .

Campers have fun, have access to a wide variety of activities, realize their own potential and are safe within the grounds of our camp facility.

How long are the sessions?

We have both two-week sessions that allow more flexibility for hectic summer schedules, and extended stay sessions for traditional camping families.

Where will my camper live?

Campers live in large bedrooms in our camp houses.  Each group consists of campers of approximately the same age/grade along with their counselors. Groups range from 8 to 10 campers with the youngest campers having smaller group sizes. All of our living areas have bathroom/shower facilities with hot & cold water, electricity, and real/working screens & windows. Campers sleep in both singles and bunk beds. The walls are paneled and the floors are wood.  We suggest a small area rug for their bedside.

Can my camper be in the same cabin as his/her friends or relatives?

Campers can request to bunk with friends or relatives of the same age and/or grade by listing that person or persons on the camper application form. It is pleasure to make children happy so we do our very best to honor requests that are made by both parties.

Is there electricity and hot water in the cabins?

Yep, it’s just like being at home.

Can I bring my cell phone?

We’ve tried for years to fight cell phones however as they become more reliable in everyday life, and provide a sense of connection between parents and children, we do allow for cell phone use in the evening hours.  We simply ask that should any problems occur, campers and parents first give us a chance to address the situation, before expecting parents, some hundreds of mile away, to try to fix the situation.  Camp is a chance for campers to become independent, and self-reliant and we look forward to helping them achieve these goals, but not when mom or dad is used to “fix” everything in a single telephone call.  We allow cell phones, but ask that we are allowed to do what we do best, for the children’s sake.

Can I bring my iPod?

Yes, however Camp Pocono Ridge does not accept any responsibility for personal property, equipment and devices brought into camp.  Music is important and helps create memories, but children also need to be responsible for there own belongings. If they are old enough to have it in camp, then they are old enough to be responsible for it.  Ipods may not be worn around camp and are exclusive to the bunk.

How’s the food?

It’s great! Really, it’s great. We do not use institutional food services; all of our food is made fresh everyday with fresh ingredients, no cans.

How does my child get to camp?

Parents may opt to use Camp Pocono Ridge Transportation.  We offer a variety of pick-up/drop-off locations, including airports, for a nominal fee which includes pick-up of your camper’s luggage.  We highly recommend this option as we feel campers more quickly acclimate to camp.

Where do your counselors come from and what are your screening/interviewing procedures?        

Staff members are college students or educators. Their experience, commitment and love for working with young people makes them energetic, enthusiastic, and playful, while remaining responsible, reliable and compassionate.            

Our American staff, many of whom were once campers and who continue as counselors, come from around the United States although the majority are from within PA, NY, NJ and MD. They have been chosen after successfully completing an extensive leadership training program, and/or staff orientation. Many return year after year and are well versed in all areas of preparation for our campers. After applying, regardless of their history with us, staff members are screened and interviewed by a member of our administration. International staff members are hired through a small group of professional cultural exchange services whose screening and visa procedures are as required by the United States Immigration Services.

Our staff selection is the most critical element of providing campers and their families a safe, positive and fun-filled camp experience. We work hard to build the best team possible at the start of each camp season.

Do you offer scholarships?

Each year private donors offer a limited number of camperships; the criteria for these scholarships vary in   requirement and percentage. Applications are required for all and should be completed before April 1. A committee reviews all completed application and awards scholarships accordingly.  Please call us if you would like to donate to this fund or if you are interested in receiving an application for your camper.