Camp Clothing Guidelines

Everyday Attire
Camp colors are forest green and white.

• Shirts may be forest green or white with or without Wyonegonic logos (no other logos; plain white, plain forest green are permitted).
• Shorts may be tan/khaki, forest green or white (no other shades of green).
• Required Sunday grove attire is white shorts and white shirt.
• Swimsuits, pajamas and rain gear have no color requirement.
• Jeans, black/gray leggings or similar long pants in a solid neutral color are acceptable as cooler weather dictates.
• If you are not using Amerasport, make sure clothing is forest green, white and plain (without logos).
• Tank tops are ok for hotter weather (spaghetti straps and bare midriffs are not acceptable).

Laundry is gone for 48 hours each week; a ten day supply of clothing is suggested, depending on a child’s habits. A mesh laundry bag is provided by the camp.

Requirements for Swimmers
Campers are required to wear a white cap while swimming. White caps are part of our risk management plan for all swimmers in the water. Campers prefer Lycra caps and we request that you send at least two. You may order the white Lycra caps from Amerasport or purchase them in a sporting goods store.

Recommendations for Swimmers
We highly recommend brightly colored or neon colors. We prefer athletic one-piece, quick-drying, swimsuits. If your camper brings a two-piece suit, make sure it is practical for vigorous swim lessons and trips and is of appropriate design. Campers should have at least two suits to allow for drying. UV protection swim shirts are available through Amerasport. Swim goggles are recommended.

Sport Sandals must have a heel strap. Shoes or sandals that can get wet and be worn in a canoe are recommended. Tevas, Chacos or Keens are good; flip flops are not. Crocs may be worn only if the heel strap is in place.

Special Events
Special attire is permitted for a few special events each session. For first session and full season campers these include the 4th of July, and Wyo Valentines Day. For second session and full season campers these include, Wyo Holidays and Wyoween. Campers do not need an outfit for each holiday, but could pack something colorful that works for most. Red is popular and versatile.

Personal Labels for Clothing and Gear are mandatory and may be ordered through Amerasport or Oliver’s Labels (which are available through your CampInTouch Account). If you order clothing and labels through Amerasport prior to May 1 and if requested, they can attach labels free of charge. (Click on this service option under the Names Tapes & Stampers tab.)

Amerasport is Wyonegonic’s official uniform and personal equipment outfitter. Please visit their website to place an order.

• Use the Amerasport form as a guideline for your camper’s clothing supply.
• Plan ahead and allow time for ordering from Amerasport as items are customized with our camp logo.
• Amerasport services several camps. We recommend you do not order at the last minute.
• The forest green fleece jacket or hooded sweatshirt are cozy and popular. Campers enjoy using these items 12 months of the year!
• Check your camper’s measurements before you order; if an item does not fit properly, return to Amerasport with specific instructions and allow time for the exchange. Consider registering for an online sizing consultation on the website.
• International orders will be shipped directly to camp.

Requirements for Horseback Riders

Helmet
Campers are required to wear a riding helmet. The helmet must meet the American Society of Testing Materials (ASTM) #F1163-04a standard for safety. The helmet needs to bear the seal of the Safety Equipment Institute (SEI). Wyonegonic owns helmets in various sizes which can be shared by campers. A plastic disposable hair-net is provided and required for these community helmets. If your camper is a frequent rider and owns a helmet, she may bring her own properly fitted, well labeled helmet to camp. We recommend helmets that are adjustable for both proper fit and to accommodate growing children. Please also make sure helmets have not been damaged in any way or involved in a previous impact. The best way to purchase a helmet is through a local tack shop so you can try on the helmet to verify a proper fit. If a personal helmet does not bear the proper safety documentation or is deemed not to be a proper fit, your camper will be provided with a camp helmet.

Long Pants can be jodhpurs, riding tights, pants, jeans or leggings.

Riding Footwear must have heels and smooth soles that can easily come out of stirrups. Camp has a limited supply of riding boots at the stables that can be shared by campers. Like helmets, if your camper plans on riding frequently, we suggest you provide personal footwear.

Emily Mitchell, with Oak Grove Equestrian, partners with Wyonegonic. Wyonegonic horses come from her farm in Maine. The store has access to personal clothing and equipment. If you are interested in purchasing a reasonably priced beginner riding package of helmet, gloves and boots, with pants available as an add-on, please contact Emily at (207) 872-7964 or [email protected].

Additional Tack Shops and Online Riding Gear Ordering:

Beval Saddlery: Cross River NY 914-875-9418

Dover Saddlery: Littleton, MA 800-406-8204

Maryland Saddlery: Butler, MD 443-292-4684

SmartPak Equine Horse Supplier: Plymouth, MA 800-461-8898

State Line Tack Shop: Plaistow, NH 800-228-9208

Refer to your Parent Account Login for a Camper Packing List.

Please pack carefully. Less is better than more! Campers' clothes will be kept in a camp trunk/footlocker. Campers also have a shelf that holds personal items like hair care products, a toothbrush, a flashlight, and writing materials. Laundry will be done once a week and will be returned after 24-48 hours.

Camp Trunks/Footlockers are a necessary item to contain clothing and belongings. Our preferred model C&N Footlockers The Happy Camper, is available through EverythingSummerCamps. You may borrow a gently used footlocker from Wyonegonic at no fee, supplies may be limited, arrangements must be made in advance. No footlockers are shipped out of the country at the end of the season. Winter storage of footlockers and camp clothes can be arranged for a $75 storage fee.

Packing List
Please download and secure the Wyonegonic Packing Inventory List to the inside of your camper’s trunk.

Baggage Shipping
Advance planning for shipping baggage is important. We encourage you to use The Mailing Center for shipping to and from camp. Locate the Camp Forms dropdown from their homepage to sign up for the service. The mailing center service uses UPS (United Parcel Service) for delivery. This is the same system used by our brother camp Winona. There is a simple process to create an account and have your parcel picked up at home and delivered to camp. On departure, the mailing center will collect all parcels prearranged for pickup.

We furnish all bedding including sheets, wool blankets and pillows with pillow cases. Many campers choose to bring a soft fleece blanket, light comforter or throw to put on top of their beds to make it more personalized. Wyonegonic does not have the capacity to store or save any personal bedding items for the following summer. Valuable bedding should be left at home. Towels should be quick drying. We recommend that large, thick beach towels be left at home, as they are difficult to dry on our shady clothes lines.

Sundries
Complimentary replacement items such as toothbrushes, toothpaste, pens, stationery, postcards, flashlights and batteries are available during the summer.

Hand Sanitizer
Personal size hand sanitizer is optional. Wyonegonic will have plenty of hand sanitizer available throughout camp locations. We will be able to refill personal size containers from our larger supply.

Suggestions for Trips:

• Sleeping Bags: A sleeping bag that compacts into a stuff sack is recommended.
  
• Backpacks: Day packs (school sized book packs) are helpful for day hikes. For campers choosing to do extensive overnight backpacking, a sturdy frame pack that includes a hip belt is recommended. Camp has a limited shared supply of framed backpacks.
  
• Footwear: Sturdy running shoes or low top hikers are appropriate on most day hikes. Hiking boots with ankle support are necessary for backpacking and more extensive hikes. Make sure the boots are broken in before camp. These boots can also serve your child well for rainy days around camp. For canoe trips, sport sandals or water shoes with closed toes and heel support are practical such as Tevas, Keens, or Chacos.

Important Considerations:

• We require all envelopes to be white for our postage meter, envelopes must be standard size dictated by postal regulations (no larger than 11.5” L and 6.125” H).
• Leave all valuables at home – jewelry, money, cell phones, electronics, tablets, etc. Those who need money, cell phones etc. for independent travel to and from camp, are required to secure these valuables in the camp office. They are not permitted in the cabins.
• We suggest a disposable camera or camera with replaceable batteries (there is no place for campers to recharge batteries).
• Make sure your name is on everything. Bring extra name labels. Permanent black laundry marking pens are acceptable for labeling items. For items that cannot take a label such as a toothbrush or flashlight, consider a name tape wrapped in clear adhesive tape.
• All medicines including over the counter must be stored in the Health Center, under the care of the nurses.
• We are a smoke free environment. This includes any type of smoking or vaping. All staff and campers are expected to adhere to this policy.

Other items to consider bringing:

• Rest hour activities. Suggestions include books, simple portable arts and crafts, quiet games (cards), writing materials.
• Include one favorite stuffed animal for your bed.
• Musical instruments and sheet music.
• Tennis balls and racquet. Camp also has a shared supply.
• Age appropriate books to read. Please keep magazines and games in good taste and age appropriate.
• Bug repellent lotion or stick. Aerosol sprays are not permitted.

Items Not to bring:

• No electronic items; the cabins do not have electricity. There is no way to recharge any battery powered device.
• No make-up.
• No pocket knives (we have all necessary equipment in our OLS and trip department).
• Food and candy is not permitted. Please inform your family and friends that food or candy sent in the mail, will be returned to the sender or discarded. All packages are opened in the presence of a staff member.
• There is no room in the cabins for additional clutter. As parents, please monitor the packing process. We do not allow sets of drawers, posters/wall hangings or multiple stuffed animals.

Thanks for appreciating our focus on non-material things. People and the beauty of the outdoors will make your camper’s summer a valuable experience.

Camper Mail and Packages:

• Campers love receiving a letter or two each week from you in the mail.
• We ask that you send no more than one package per session.
• No food or candy is permitted within packages.
• Please pack white envelopes with your camper to use

Letters
Campers love to receive letters. Wyonegonic strongly encourages handwritten letters as a way of correspondence. There is something magical about receiving a handwritten letter in today’s fast-paced technical world. We suggest two letters per week as a guideline. (Daily letters are not recommended as they may contribute to homesickness and can create inequity.) Campers are encouraged to write home a minimum of twice per week. Be patient as mail may take up to a week for delivery in the US.

Letter Guidelines:

• Before camp, please review USPS guidelines with your camper. The correct way to address an envelope; paper only in an envelope (no bumps such as string, buttons or clasps); and use of blue or black ink.
• Please pack standard size envelopes (no larger than 11 1/2 L x 6 1/8 H inches) that are white or a light color. Our postage meter has red ink and does not show up on dark-colored envelopes. All letters must fit through our automated processing equipment, so keep these guidelines in mind.

Homesick Letter Tips
It is normal for campers to miss home, so expect homesick letters and feelings of separation in the beginning of a session. Keep in mind, campers are writing letters during rest hour or unprogrammed time. Therefore sad feelings may be magnified, but quickly diminish as they go on with their active day. Most campers are well-adjusted and the letter you are reading may be “old news.”

Parent tip: if you do receive homesick news, reply with calm and happy letters. Use words like “love” instead of “miss.” Reassure them that missing home is a normal feeling and that you believe in them. Call the directors if you feel missing home is lingering or beyond a controllable scope. They will get back to you within 24 hours. This time is needed to touch base with your camper’s counselor and/or unit director to assess your daughter’s needs.

Packages
We understand that campers like to receive packages at camp and parents love to send them! However, we request some guidelines so that Wyonegonic can continue to focus on relationships not materialistic items. Also, please help us strengthen our Wyo commitment to Reduce, Reuse, Recycle regarding packages:

• Expect an additional day of internal delivery of packages once received at camp
• Packages are limited to one package, per camper, per session. We prefer zero!
• No food or candy is permitted. Please limit packages to necessary items only. All Packages will be opened in the presence of a counselor. Any food or candy received will be sent back or donated. (Please be aware that your actions affect our living environment, cabin dynamics and could encourage wildlife into the cabins.)
• Resources are limited when processing the large amounts of daily packages coming into camp and the recycling of the packaging and boxes after the packages have been opened. Unfortunately due to market conditions, regional recycling facilities are limited and overloaded. Tips: Shop early to minimize last minute items sent to camp. Encourage friends and family to write letters rather than send packages.
• Keep in mind, some campers do not receive any packages or letters all summer. In efforts to create a sense of belonging and equity at camp, we ask you to keep the feelings of others in mind when making decisions about sending items in a package. Before buying an item on Amazon or shipping anything, ask yourself if it is necessary to be sent. Does your camper “need a new hammock, different crocs and glitter pens?” or are they requesting items for other reasons? Remember at Wyonegonic, Camp Life is Simple, we have limited storage space at camp and limited packing space for returning home.
  

Alternative to Postal Mail

CampStamps/eLetters
Although traditional letter writing is still strongly encouraged, Wyonegonic offers an electronic alternative, eLetters purchased through your CampInTouch account. Please be aware that eLetters are provided to parents as a convenience but they should not be overused. One or two a week is a maximum guideline. The daily processing of incoming and outgoing eLetters takes time and energy from our office staff. Multiple daily letters are not necessary, reasonable 3-5 day response times from your camper should be expected just like with postal mail.

You will need to purchase CampStamps, which are used as currency, to send eLetters and receive eLetter Replies. Please note your camper will not have access to a computer, she does not receive a notification of a sent letter until a printed paper copy is delivered to her at our daily regular mail delivery time in the Units. A response will not be returned the same day. Campers will hand write their eLetter Reply and the camp office will have it scanned, and through CampIntouch, you will get an email notification to view the letter. The eLetters and eLetter Replies will be treated just like postal mail in camp; printed out and distributed once a day through the Camp Office.

How do I buy CampStamps/eLetters?
Go to the Wyonegonic website and access your CampInTouch account by using your Parent Account Login. Then purchase CampStamps, which are used to send and receive eLetters and provide an eLetter Reply.

Steps
There is an account login at the top of every page on our website. Enter your email address and password (or hit Retrieve/Reset if you forgot your password). You should now be logged in to your CampInTouch account.

Scroll down to Your Account and click on CampStamps. Purchase your desired amount using a credit card. (If no credit card is on file, go down to Credit Card for CampStamps and Photos and enter your credit card number.)

Unused CampStamps rollover from year to year. Your CampStamp account is deducted once the emailed letter is sent. (Purchase on your credit card statement will say from CampMinder.)

Cost of CampStamps to Send eLetters:

• 1 Electronic email/eLetter to your camper costs 1 CampStamp
• 1 Electronic email/eLetter Reply from your camper costs 1 CampStamp

CampStamps:

• 10 for $10
• 15 for $14
• 20 for $18
• 30 for $25

When purchasing, keep in mind you will have the option to print blank eLetters Replies prior to camp (see Tip below).

To Send an eLetter
Scroll down to Online Community and click on Email. This is where you can write a letter to your camper. You can also buy eLetter Stacks for your child prior to camp (see Tip below). You will also have the option to send a eLetter Reply that will print out for your camper with your eLetter and she can then use it for the handwritten reply.

Guest Accounts
If you want to buy CampStamps for your family to use, scroll down to Guest Accounts to sign up a guest first, then back to purchase guest CampStamps, so that they may send eLetters.

Tip – eLetter Stacks!
Prior to camp, you can print out a supply of blank eLetter Replies, called eLetter Stacks, to give to your camper so she can write to you throughout the summer. Each blank eLetter Reply will have a barcode, which is attached to your account. Unused eLetter Replies that are never sent, will not be charged to your account. eLetter Stacks can benefit campers as they can write whenever they want, without having to wait for an eLetter Reply to be sent from parents first.

Wyonegonic Office: 207-452-2051 [email protected]

Off Season Communication
The Wyonegonic Administrative Team is here to help you. Monthly email newsletters will be sent to camp families as you prepare for the summer. We encourage you to contact the camp office with any questions you may have. During the off season, our office hours for phone access are generally 8:00 am – 5:00 pm.

Email contact can be sent anytime and we will try to reply within 24 hours.

Summer Communication
The camp office is staffed for phone coverage from 8:00 am – 10:00 pm.

If you have questions about your camper’s adjustment, please call the Directors. We are interacting with campers and staff in camp during much of the day. We will return calls within 24 hours if an update on your camper is requested. We often use 7:00 pm – 10:00 pm for call back times.

You may also hear from Camp Directors or our health center team as appropriate.

Campers are not permitted to use the phone, with the exception of a happy birthday phone call from family. It is best for families to call at meal-time when their birthday girl is near a phone. The cabin group will plan something special in honor of the birthday camper. We suggest gifts from family be presented before camp or after camp.

[email protected] email address is for camp business only.

Newsletters & Photos
A sampling of photos from each week of the summer will be provided through your parent account login. We also send out a weekly newsletter by email during the summer. Therefore, it is important for us to have your preferred summer email address. Please include [email protected] in your email contacts to prevent spam filters from blocking our address. In the off season we email monthly newsletters.

Wyonegonic Food Service
We take pride in providing nutritious, delicious and varied meals at camp. Our menus are planned with fresh, natural and seasonal ingredients in mind. Meals are primarily served both in the Cobb Dining Hall and sometimes in the Units.

Breakfast, lunch and dinner will be a staff served buffet, cafeteria style or served family style. At the Cobb Dining Hall campers sit at picnic tables on our wraparound covered porch or indoors at round tables of 10.

Healthy food, variety and introduction to different foods is important to us at Wyonegonic. Breakfast features a hot item, granola, yogurts, hot and cold cereals and fresh fruit. Lunch will offer healthy choices that include a warm entree, a salad and sandwich option, fruit and a soup station. Dinner will include an entree, vegetable and appropriate starch. We prepare and serve an alternative creative vegetarian option for all meals. Hand passed dessert items such as cookies or popsicles are offered at most lunch and dinners. In the interest of healthy eating, we do not use a deep fryer and limit high fructose corn syrup and trans fats.

Meals in the units may include a cookout with burgers, hot dogs, veggie burgers, chips, salads, watermelon and “congo bars” for dessert. A continental breakfast or lunch item may be delivered to the unit on occasion.

Our kitchen is staffed with a head chef, meal cooks, assistant/prep cooks and general assistants who are typically college-age staff assisting with food prep, dish-washing and sanitation. Campers and staff help set and clear tables and take turns sweeping and cleaning tables after each meal.

Special Dietary Restrictions
If your camper has any special dietary restrictions due to medical reasons it must be listed on the health history form. It is important to communicate any restrictions at time of registration. We encourage communication with Wyonegonic nurses prior to arrival and ask you to confirm restrictions with our health center staff on opening day at the health screening.

Food Allergies
Please list any food allergies on your campers health history form. Wyonegonic is not a nut free facility however, we do not use nuts in our cooking or baked goods. We also avoid purchasing pre-packaged baked goods labeled as being produced in facilities with traces of nut products. Soy or Sunflower butter may be offered with restricted access as a protein alternative at lunch. Our Trip program adjusts and modifies the food options and menu for the entire group if a food allergy will be present on the trip.

No food is permitted in the camper cabins. All food is stored in the camp dining hall and served at the camp dining hall or in the unit wiggies.

No candy or food will be permitted through mail/packages or brought into camp by campers upon arrival. Your daughter will get limited sweets as it is our practice to serve ice cream or novelties twice a week; candy once a week (with fresh fruit, granola bars, raisins, and trail mix as alternatives); and special treats at some of our traditional events

Wyonegonic Forms and Permissions
Wyonegonic uses an online form system to manage our campers’ information called CampInTouch. This system allows you to complete online forms, retrieve downloadable paper forms and access resource documents. We refer to this as our Parent Account Login.

• Returning Families: Use your email address and password to access your account. You will have an option to reset your password if needed.
• New Families: Enter your email address and click on the blue link “Retrieve/Set Password” and follow the instructions.
• Please contact the Wyonegonic Office for assistance accessing your Parent Login or if you are locked out of your account.

Required Forms and Permissions
You will receive notice in the Parent Newsletters which are emailed to families when forms are available for you to complete. Forms that you can expect include:

• Health History
• Immunization Record
• Physician Exam Form
• Health Insurance
• Camp Permissions
• Transportation
• Horseback Riding Authorization
• Letter to My Counselor (from Camper)
• Letter to my Counselor (from Parent/Caregiver)

Online Forms
The online forms will allow you to enter information into our system using your computer or mobile device.

Paper Forms
Paper forms will need to be printed, completed, and signed before you return them to our office. There are several ways to return paper forms to our office:

• Preferred method for security: The Parent Login allows you to upload scanned documents securely.
• Fax to (207) 452-2611
• Postal mail to Wyonegonic Camps, 215 Wyonegonic Road, Denmark, ME 04022
• Email with a PDF attachment to [email protected]

Resource Documents
Please use the Parent Resource as a helpful tool to prepare your camper for her summer experience.

Health Center
As part of tuition, campers are cared for by a team of professionals (Registered Nurses, Nurse Practitioner and Pediatrician) that constitute the Wyonegonic Health Center team. They are also involved with regular health screenings, communicable disease mitigation, and isolation protocols. Nurses follow written standing orders from the local area camp primary physician group affiliated with nearby Bridgton Hospital. Health Center Staff assess and dispense medication from the approved inventory. They are responsible for risk management planning, primary care of injuries, dispensing of daily prescription (RX) medications, and preparations and briefing for our Trip Leaders. They follow the accreditation standards of the American Camp Association (ACA) for Health and Wellness and Maine State Health regulations.

Health Insurance
Pre-existing conditions, prescribed medications and accidents fall under the responsibility of the family medical insurance policy. It is required that we have appropriate details of your camper’s health insurance policy on file in the Wyonegonic Health Center for our use as needed. You must provide a copy of both sides of your policy health card. You may mail this to us or scan and upload into your Parent Account Login.

Health Forms
State Health regulations and ACA accreditation standards require that all residents in camp have a health history on file.

• The Health History is completed annually online via your Parent Account Login.
• A Primary Care Physician Physical Exam:
  • Required annually if your camper has prescribed RX medications or daily OTC. The signed physician form is also required for any conditions requiring treatment, special restrictions or considerations while at camp.
  • The Primary Care Physician physical exam is required within two years if your camper does not have medications or restrictions noted above.
  • A physical exam form is available for download so that you have the option to take the form to your Primary Care Physician for completion or you can upload a standardized physical exam form from your physician’s office. Please complete and submit this form by June 1st.
• Mental, Emotional and Behavioral Health information is a crucial part of the health history form. Transparency is expected regarding mental health history, social or emotional behavioral concerns, support systems, and your camper’s current coping strategies. Collaboration is essential between camp, families, and therapists/pediatricians for the camper to have the best possible experience at camp.
• All medical forms and health information is held in confidence by the Health Center Team/Camp Directors.

Learn more about our accommodations policy here.

Immunizations Records:

• Vaccinations for communicable diseases are encouraged for all campers and staff members
• Documented last date of Tetanus/Pertussis is required by State of Maine regulations.
• All other immunizations based upon CDC schedule for the camper’s age and pediatrician's advice are encouraged. Any member of the camp resident community without immunization needs to be documented as such.
• Immunization records can be uploaded in your Parent Login/CampInTouch Account and entered in your Health History.

Arrival Health Screening:

• Camper check in will include time for a health screening, discussion of recent health, review of medications and opportunity for parents/guardians to visit with Health Center Staff.
• Please inform us if your child has been diagnosed with any communicable disease at any point during the previous year. It is especially critical to update camp health center staff with any new information that has occurred after the camper’s health form was submitted.
• Please inform us if your child has been exposed to head lice so that we may check and monitor them discreetly. If your camper arrives at camp with lice, without our prior knowledge, all associated expenses for necessary treatment will be charged to the family.

Health Center Communication to Parents
It is camp policy to inform the parent/guardian in the following instances:

• Any accident or illness that requires a visit to a doctor
• If your camper requires an overnight stay in the Wyonegonic Health Center.
• Mental health or behavioral concerns, especially those that interfere with the camper’s experience or the experience of others. Partnering with parents is often the first appropriate course of action.

Medications:

• Must come with clear instructions in English stating the name of the child, dose and schedule must be in an original labeled container. Modified packaging and/or repackaged medications will not be accepted nor administered.
• Are not permitted in camper possession or stored in camper cabins; but stored in the Health Center and administered by Health Center staff or designee.
• Will be collected on arrival day and reviewed with a Camp Nurse.
• Dispensing requirements for daily RX, OTC and as needed medication or homeopathic treatment must be included on the signed physician exam form including medication orders on or attached to the form.

Rescue inhalers (albuterol, Ventolin etc) or Epinephrine Auto-injectors
Most campers are in the category of not needing to “self carry” but do need to have access to rescue medication. The health center will collect the medication at arrival check-in and hold it in a secure location in the event there is a need. Those campers needing to “self-carry” (carry rescue meds with them at all times) require special forms which are required by Maine State Law. The camper or staff member who “self carries” must also demonstrate the ability to self administer with one of the members of the Health center team. Contact the camp office to receive the authorization form for completion. In this scenario, bring no less than two (one for your camper and one for the Health Center).

Hospital
Our nurses follow standing orders from the Bridgton Hospital Group under the Central Maine Medical Family of Hospitals and Physicians. The hospital is located 6 miles from camp. Additionally, there are three walk-in ready care clinics located within 30 minutes of Camp. We use the Bridgton Hospital Emergency Room if needed and Central Maine Medical Center in Lewiston or as directed for crisis care. In the event the parent cannot be reached, it is understood by the electronic signing of the health form in your Parent Login/CampInTouch account, that the directors and the camp nurses have the authority to act upon the recommendation of an attending physician in case of medical treatment or surgical necessity.

Health Preparation Tips from the Experts

• Alliance for Camp Health
• Prevention and Care – Your Child’s Health at Camp by Linda Ebner Erceg, RN, MS, PHN

We expect children to miss home and loved ones. We consider this a normal and healthy feeling. Most campers adapt to camp quickly as they become busy with camp activity and make new friends. Wyonegonic provides training and tools for staff to look for signs of homesickness and to mitigate ordinary cases. The more difficult cases typically pull in the Unit Directors, Camp Health Center Staff and contact to parents via Directors.

There are experiences and conversations that should occur at home in preparation for camp. We invite you to review these suggestions and utilize the resources listed below.

• Consider involving your child with the decision to attend camp as well as the before camp preparation, such as packing.
• Parents should prepare their child emotionally for the separation from home. This includes not offering the chance to change their mind or making pick-up deals. Showing your camper that you believe in them makes a world of difference!
• For the inexperienced, we suggest practice time away from home (sleep-overs).
• We suggest that you talk to your child about the normalcy of missing home and sharing with them effective coping strategies for in-camp homesickness. It’s normal to miss people you love, but it’s also ok to enjoy a new place and new friends. Campers should not feel bad about being happy and having fun without their parents and siblings.
• We suggest that you share information about the welcoming, caring camp culture and all the ways that camp staff provide warm support and exciting opportunities.
• Letters to campers should be positive and remind campers of support networks at camp. Tell them that it is ok to share feelings with trusted counselors and friends while at camp. That is part of why campers come to camp – to be away! (see blog example below).
• Essentials of Homesick Prevention: Dramatic Reductions in Homesick Intensity Depend on What You Do Before Opening Day
  • by Christopher Thurber Ph.D
• Managing Your Child’s Pre-camp Jitters: by Dr Tracy Brenner
• Parents - Managing Your Own Pre-camp Jitters: by Dr Tracy Brenner
• Homesickness Blog by Rachel Kelly Williams, former Wyonegonic Unit Director
• Tips for your Camper’s Departure: by Dr Tracy Brenner
• Resilience – by Dr. G – Dr. Debra Gilboa
• The Resilience Cycle by Dr. G – Dr. Debra Gilboa
• Prevention and Care – Your Child’s Health at Camp by Linda Ebner Erceg, RN, MS, PHN

Policy may be altered depending on the health of our camp community.

• Arrival Day Saturday June 28th and Sunday July 20th: All parents/guardians will be permitted to visit your camper’s unit and meet staff upon camper drop off. Specific opening day procedures will be shared prior to the start of the session.
• We do not offer visits for single session 3 week campers during the session
• Saturday July 19th: Full season campers may have a visit with parents/guardians. Parents of Full Season campers may plan a visit on Saturday July 19th, anytime 9:00am to 5:00pm. Please email and let the Wyonegonic office know if you are planning to visit and your anticipated timing. You are welcome to enjoy leisure time at camp, including a buffet lunch at 12:00pm. No activities for parents will be scheduled or staffed. You may sign your camper out for a local visit outside of Wyonegonic as well. All campers must return (and parents must depart) by 5:00pm. Wyonegonic will plan programming and activities for those campers that will not have a parent visiting. Visits are for immediate family only – We CANNOT accommodate requests for campers to depart camp for a visit with friends.
• Saturday Evening August 9th: Families and alumnae are invited to our outdoor closing Candlenight Ceremony – weather permitting.
• Departure Day Saturday July 19th and Sunday August 10th: All parents/guardians will be permitted to visit your camper’s unit upon camper pick up.

Travel To and From Camp
Be sure to read the 2025 Wyonegonic Transportation Resource document found in your Parent Account Login before you complete the required Transportation Form. It will provide detailed information on your camper’s travel options. Arriving or departing on alternative days is not accepted without prior Camp Admin approval. Drop off and pick up by auto is the preferred method for transportation to and from camp.

The Camp Office must know in advance how your camper is traveling to and from camp, even if you plan on driving.

2025 Season Dates:

• Session 1 Opening Day is Saturday, June 28th, drop off 10am – 3pm
• Session 1 Departure Day is Saturday, July 19th, pick up 8am – 11am
• Session 2 Opening Day is Sunday, July 20th, drop off 1pm – 5pm
• Session 2 Departure Day is Sunday, August 10th, pick up 8am – 11am

*Campers traveling via air or bus may have arrival or departure times different than the above listed auto times. Refer to the Transportation Resource document for details.

Valuables from Travel
Passports, return flight documents, cell phones, all electronics and travel money must be given to the cabin counselor upon arrival for security and safekeeping in the Wyonegonic Office.

Driving Directions
Can be found on our website. Allow extra time on summer weekends for tourist traffic. We are one hour west of Portland; three hours north of Boston; seven hours north of NYC. For online driving directions use 215 Wyonegonic Road, Denmark, Maine 04022.

Other Considerations:

• Beware of your GPS or Google Maps directions and come in the main entrance only off Route 117. Our road system accommodates one-way traffic. Please follow the directional signage and staff directions to designated drop off or pick up areas.
• Pets are not welcome in camp so please leave them in the car. You may exercise your pet in the upper fields beyond the horse barn near the canoe trailers.
• Smoking is not permitted anywhere on our property
• As stated by the American Camp Association, staff members may not accept tips or gifts from parents. Thank you for your cooperation!

Resources for Local Area Accommodations:

• Bridgton, Maine (10 minute drive)
  • Chamber of Commerce 207-647-3472
  • Lodging & Travel Directory
• North Conway, NH (40 minute drive)
  • Chamber of Commerce 603-356-3171
  • Lodging Directory
• Naples, Maine (20 minute drive)
  • Chamber of Commerce 207-892-8265
  • Accommodations
• Portland, Maine (One hour drive)
  • 207.772.5800 | [email protected]
  • Lodging Directory

Many local motels may require a minimum length stay in the summer because of demand. There are also several campgrounds available in the local area.

Wyonegonic – The name of our beloved camp founded in 1902 by C.E. Cobb. Wyonegonic is an indigenous people’s name meaning “Long Lake”.

AC – Second year of Leadership Training – “Assistant Counselor” (entering senior year of high school).

ACA – American Camp Association, professional member organization for camps and camp directors. Wyonegonic is accredited by ACA.

Brother/Sister visit – Once or twice each session, Wyonegonic sisters and Winona brothers visit after Sunday lunch

Buddy Letter – Returning campers are assigned a new camper and encouraged to write a letter in May. The intent is to help welcome a new camper by offering to answer questions.

Cabin Night – Once a week on Sunday the cabin group chooses to do something together during Evening Program (EP).

Campfire Point – A central place in camp with a natural lake facing hillside amphitheater. Camp events, such as Saturday evening campfires take place here.

Campsites – Camp owned property on Moose Pond where cabin groups may sleep out overnight: Loon Island, North Woods, Batting Cove, Nort’s Cove, Freeman’s Point, Western Wilderness.

Candyline – Each camper may choose one piece of candy once or twice a week as a special treat. Fruit, nut free and non-chocolate options are available as alternatives.

CIT – First year of Leadership Training, “Counselor in Training” (entering junior or senior year of high school).

Cobb Lodge – Our Dining hall was built in 2001. Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner are scheduled in multiple seatings and assigned times to accommodate the full camp population.

EP – Evening Program occurs after dinner. Many special events and camp traditions engage campers for an hour before bedtime in their unit. Once per week there is an all-camp EP.

Evening Circle – Campers and counselors sing every night before bedtime during evening circle. A hand squeeze is passed around the circle with a wish, and the traditional song “Kiyi Wyonegonic” is sung to close the day.

Family Camp – After the camper season in August, Wyonegonic opens for family camp sessions. Each family lives in a cabin; meals are served; and activities are supervised.

Greenie – Toilet building in camp. Located in close proximity to the camper sleeping cabins.

Grove – Pine Grove in the tall pines in the middle of camp; this is a non-denominational weekly service which is led by campers and counselors involving music, singing, skits, dance and creative writing. Weekly themes are presented and campers have opportunities to share and practice public speaking with their cabinmates.

Head Counselor – assists the Unit Director with unit communication and staff support

JMG – Junior Maine Guide; MW – Maine Woodsman; JMW – Junior Maine Woodsman. Achievement levels in an outdoor living skills program run by the State of Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife.

Kiyi and Hileo – Tradition handed down over the years that honors the local indigenous peoples’ terms used for greetings, much like Aloha. At camp, these terms are used for both hello or goodbye.

Pequawket – The Pequawket people were members of the Abenaki tribe and the larger Wabanaki Confederacy. The Pequawket formerly lived near the headwaters of the Saco River in present day Central Eastern New Hampshire and Oxford County, Maine. Pequawket is also the Abenaki name for the nearby town of Fryeburg, Maine, where the Pequawket people had a village on a bluff above the Saco. Wyonegonic is located on the lands of the Pequawket people. You can learn more from their educational resources.

Pleasant Mountain – The 2,006 foot mountain across the lake is our view shed and is protected from development by the Loon Echo Land Trust. Wyonegonic uses the mountain for hikes, overnights and beautiful views!

Program Director – Responsible for camper schedules and staff assignments.

Teams – Campers are placed on either the Stormcloud or Whirlwind team. Team activities are traditional in nature and used for EPs and games. Team emphasis is on sportsmanship not competition. Two team leaders are elected by their peer group.

Trip Shack – In the back of the Senior Wiggie. Pack out area for all canoe trips and hikes.

Unit Director “UD” – Responsible for campers, staff and program for the particular age group (Junior, Intermediate and Senior). UDs are “camp moms” for the campers and staff!

Wiggie – Main lodge in each unit – Junior, Intermediate, Senior. Used for some evening activities, rainy days and as an assembly and meeting place.

Winona – Wyonegonic’s brother camp located 5 miles north on Moose Pond. The two camps were founded by the Cobb family and are the oldest brother/sister camps in the country.