youth overnight FAQ's

Can my child bunk with a friend?

Sure! Most campers come to camp by themselves and quickly make new friends - it's one of the best parts about camp! However, we are able to accommodate bunking request so long as the campers are within the same age range: Ages 7-9, 10-12, 13-15.

When is check in and check out and what does the process look like?

Check in is on Sunday from 2-4pm // check out is friday from 4:30-5:15pm.

We operate a drive thru style check in and check out procedure in our Main Parking Lot whereby campers are signed in to camp by the registrar and parents check in with the camp nurse. Campers are then shuttled down to their cabin by Golf Cart. where thier counselor and other campers will be waiting to welcome them.

Families say their goodbyes in the main Parking Lot. Caregivers wanting to view the accommodation are welcome to book in for a tour prior to their campers session start date. we are unable to faciliate tours on in-take days. Please call the camp office to book in for a tour or consider joining us for Open House where you can check out the facilities at your own leisure.

What do you do on rainy days?

We always keep this very real possibility in mind. Our Program Team have specific activities for rainy days, like garbageball, kickball, climbing wall, obtain the orbs, karaoke and crafts. Rain doesn't ever stop the fun!!

Explain the swim test and what happen if my camper doesn't pass?

The swim test is very simple. Campers will complete the following:

1. Jump feet first into deep water from the dock, recover to the surface, maintain position by treading water or floating for 1 minute, rotate one full turn
2. Swim front crawl and/or elementary backstroke for 25 yards change position and direction at buoy line and:
3. Swim elementary backstroke for 25 yards back to entry point
4. Exit the water using the dock ladder.
5. Swimmer must show the ability to follow the instructions of the lifeguard. Lifeguards test for safety not competency meaning campers do not have to show proficiency with their strokes.

Our swim level identification is:

● Swimmer - Blue wrist bands - can swim in all areas of the beach

● At Risk Swimmer - Yellow wrist band - can swim in all areas of the beach and must wear a PFD

● Non Swimmer - No wrist band - can swim in the paddle zone with a PFD.

If the camper doesn’t pass the swim test, Don’t worry! They can try again another time. Campers are not required to swim test. they are able to stick to the paddle zone with a PFD on instead.

***Note: All Swim tests will be given on Monday. If a camper chooses NOT to take the swim test on Monday, they will need to make arrangements with the Aquatics Director to take the test at another time; OR, plan to stay in the paddle zone for the week and wear PFD.

Can I pick up my child early?

If you need to pick up your child early, you are welcome to do so. Please contact the office (978) 448 5763 or email office@grotonwood.org as soon as possible with the time so that we can have your camper ready to go!

How are camp groups and cabin groups formed?

Our camper groups and cabin groups are usually formed by age, however, most activities such as meals, swim time, chapel, and evening activities are done as a whole group. We always try to make sure our overnight campers spend as much time as possible interacting with each other and making new friends. Campers are usualy grouped by the followingage groups 7-9, 10-12, 13-16.

Can we schedule a tour before we sign up?

Absolutely! We are happy to schedule tours of the facilities and to answer any questions you might have. To schedule a tour, please call the camp office (978) 448 5763 or email office@grotonwood.org. We also have a virtual tour option that you can view in the comfort of your own home. Simply click here to get started.

What is your cancellation/refund policy?

If your child is sick and cannot attend camp, please contact the camp office on 978 448 5763 so that we can notify the Unit Leader. As per our Terms and Conditions, a refund is issued on receipt of a doctor or hospital note confirming the medical reason the child is unable to attend camp. No refunds are given if the family decides not to send the child to camp for non-medical reasons or the child is ent home for behavioral issues.

How do you handle dietary restrictions and picky eaters?

We serve kid friendly meals (think pizza, cook out, mac n cheese etc). During registration, you will provide us with information about your camper’s food restrictions and any allergies. Our kitchen team will take care of preparing appropriate meals. We typically offer gluten-free, lactose-free and vegetarian or vegan options and a PBJ sandwich is always avaialable. You are also welcome to prepare meals fromm home for your child to reheat each day.

How can I prepare my child for a great time at camp?

Our goal is to provide a safe, inclusive, and positive environment that models Christian community for all campers. We find that our campers are most successful when they know what to expect. You can help your camper prepare by going over these expectations before they arrive at camp. Something that can help is to watch our videos to get an idea about our program and activities. Check here for our playlist!

What does a typical day look like at camp?

Most overnight campers can expect to keep to a similar daily schedule:

7:00am Rise and shine

8:15am Breakfast

9:30am Worship & message time

11:00am Camp Store

12:30pm Lunch-time

1:30-3:00pm Activity rotations

3:30pm Swim Time

5:45pm Dinner

6:45pm Evening Activities

8:15pm Vespers (evening reflections)

9:30pm Bedtime routines & Lights Out

Will camp contact me in the event of an emergency?

Of course! Your camper's safety is our first priority. Our staff are trained in emergency preparedness for many different situations, including thunderstorms, tornadoes, fires, incidents on- and off-site, and more. It's important to keep in mind that during an emergent event, our staff are typically busy making sure that everyone is safe. This means that answering phone calls is given second priority as it’s best to leave phone lines open for us to contact emergency services as needed. The best way to get information is to check for updates on our website and social media. We do our best to keep things up-to-date. Additionally, our leadership team, and on-site nurses are here to contact parents and guardians in the event of a medical incident. We will NOT call families with regular updates.