Villagers: Ages 3 - Entering Kindergarten

The Villagers are the youngest of the Gate Hill campers. These campers spend their day in a developmentally appropriate program. Junior sized fields and courts, as well as special program areas including, Buddy’s Playhouse (indoor play center), early childhood arts, an introductory heated pool and Teddy Town, are places where the Villagers can use their imagination, make new friends and improve physical skills. Mature adult staff are on hand at all times to care for the Villagers. Flexible schedules incorporate spontaneous fun, extra snacks, and rest periods when needed.

Pathfinders: Entering Grades 1-2

The Pathfinder program is balanced between creative and physical activities designed to foster independence and build self-esteem. At this age, campers get to choose one weekly program elective, in addition to participating in the daily group and full camp activities. Pathfinders have caring and nurturing staff members chosen for their ability to work with younger children.

Pioneers: Entering Grades 3-4

For Pioneers, Gate Hill offers the opportunity to develop relationships with summer friends and engage in new enriching experiences. At a higher athletic level, Pioneers are now able to refine their sports skills as well as develop a lifelong hobby with their two weekly electives. Counselors are now “big brother/big sister” role models and work to ensure that these campers learn teamwork, sportsmanship, and enhance self-esteem.

Mountaineers: Entering Grades 5-7

These oldest on-grounds campers are able to participate in all activities that Gate Hill has to offer. Mountaineers fully experience the freedom of a diverse summer program charged with fun and adventure. Fifth grade campers take an off-grounds trip every other week throughout the summer, while, sixth & seventh graders will travel off-grounds seven times in eight weeks, including a special one-night overnight trip at the end of the summer. Groups are led by counselors that campers can relate to, who share a wide variety of interests.

Trailblazers – Teen Travel: Entering Grades 7-9

Our teen travel program is an opportunity of a lifetime! Through a combination of day trips, one, two and three night overnight trips and special times at camp (i.e. during the Gate Hill Olympics), our Trailblazers experience adventures daily. We help them explore the larger world through carefully planned trips and events, while giving them an opportunity to show leadership, build strong friendships and develop self reliance. Trailblazers’ Staff are trained to work with teens and understand the responsibilities and significance of their role while off grounds.
Click here for the summer 2010 Trailblazers calendar

LIT: Entering Grade 10

LIT (Leader In Training) is a specially designed program for our oldest teen campers. The LIT program is divided into three varying experiences. Spending time learning to work with younger campers, having a great time with day trips, activities and swim, and learning a few skills they can take with them, such as CPR, Leadership, Peer Communication, and Game Facilitation. LIT’s are still campers, although they are trusted with a more flexible daily schedule and greater sense of responsibility.

Explorers Arts & Sciences: Entering Grades 3-9

Our Explorers program is designed for children who want to explore their interests in the creative arts and sciences, yet still want to take advantage of the offerings of a traditional camp setting. Explorers campers spend their morning in exclusive 1-2 week long workshops of their choice. These are based on 5 core categories: Science and Technology, Creative and Digital Arts, Strategic Games, Music and Theatre, and History and Social Science The balance of their day consists of two swim periods, a traditional camp elective, one group activity, and of course lunch & snack.

Click Here for an in depth look at the Explorers: Arts and Sciences program

Sparks: Tutorial Program

Our Sparks tutorial program is designed to help our active campers maintain their academic skills, while enjoying the full camp experience. A personalized program is designed for each child by his/her parents, teachers and camp provided tutors. Campers will spend a designated number of sessions per week with their tutor, and then return to their regular group to participate in all activities.