Frequent Questions Parents Have
Where is Camp Kweebec located?
Camp Kweebec is located on 200 acres in Pennsylvania’s Perkiomen Valley. We are approximately one hour west of Philadelphia, PA, and approximately two hours southwest of New York City, NY. There is one gated entrance in and out of camp, and we have no public roads going through our campus.
Where do your campers come from?
The majority of our campers come from Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Florida, Maryland and New York. We do have campers from other states, but certain geographic areas are represented more heavily than others, since many of our campers hear about Kweebec through alumni and currently enrolled campers. We also have a small representation of international campers.
Is there transportation provided to camp?
We strongly encourage our campers to arrive on our complimentary coach buses. For many campers, the excitement of the summer begins with this bus ride. Some locations do not have bus transportation, and in this case, campers can also be dropped off at camp. Campers traveling from further distances and/or by airplane will have individual accommodations arranged well before the start of camp. As always, feel free to contact us with any questions.
Where does Kweebec get its staff?
One thing that makes Kweebec so special is that many of our counselors are former campers. We also recruit counselors and specialists from both domestic colleges & universities and also via international camping agencies. Every staff member is personally interviewed by our directors to ensure that they are a good fit for Kweebec.
Is my camper required to wear a uniform at camp?
Camp Kweebec is NOT a uniform camp. We maintain a simple, “down-to-earth” environment without an emphasis on clothing. Clothing should be casual and comfortable. We send a suggested clothing and equipment list to help families pack for camp. There is a modest amount of CK “officials” required for sports games, trips, special events, etc.
Can my camper bring their cell phone or video game system to camp?
Camp Kweebec adheres to a strict no electronics policy. We strive to give our campers an “unplugged” environment for the summer, and we do not allow any electronic devices with screens and/or internet capability. Staff members are not permitted to use their cell phones in the presence of campers.
What kind of trips does camp go on?
Throughout the summer there are opportunities for campers & staff to go on trips. All of our trips are age-appropriate, and some of them change as the campers get older. We believe doing this not only keeps the trips fresh, but it also gives our campers something to look forward to as they progress through camp.
How does my camper’s laundry get done?
Laundry is done once a week by an outside company who picks it up directly from camp, washes it, and returns it the next day. Each camper’s bag is laundered individually. We ask that parents send enough clothing to get their child through the about ten days and to make sure camper names are included on all clothing, sheets, and towels.
Can I send my camper a package?
Yes. Packages are welcome as long as the items can fit in a large envelope. Examples of what to send: water balloons, magazines, books, etc. BUT, please don’t send any food (we’d like to keep the critters out of the bunks)! We find that care packages often become a competition among parents and cause unnecessary clutter in the bunk. If a camper is missing a necessity, please call the office so we can help make appropriate arrangements.
What happens if my camper isn’t feeling well while at camp?
The medical staff is available 24 hours a day, and we have two Health Center calls daily. Our Health Center maintains open communication with parents regarding health issues. The health and well-being of our campers and staff is our number one priority.
What if my camper gets homesick?
It is very normal for campers to have moments of homesickness. Most often, episodes of homesickness occur early on in the summer during the quiet times of the camp day. Our staff has many years of experience dealing with homesickness and we try our best to handle each camper’s needs on an individual basis. Any homesick campers at Kweebec will have a broad network of friends and staff to help them make a smooth adjustment to camp.
How can I communicate with my camper?
We encourage letter writing as the primary means of communication during camp. Of course, scheduled phone calls can be arranged through the office. We do, however, find that calling home tends to make campers homesick when they otherwise wouldn’t be. You may also use “Bunk Notes,” our email system, to write to your camper daily. Signing up for this feature can be completed through your Campminder portal or the Campanion app. Campers are expected to write home approximately 3-5 times a week. You are always welcome to reach out to us at any time to see how your camper is doing. With the exception of emergencies, please understand that it may take our Senior staff a bit of time to return your call as they are out and about with the campers. Please note that families of first-time campers will receive a phone call within the first 24 hours of the start of camp to touch base and let you know how your camper is doing.
What if my camper is a picky eater?
Generally this is not a major problem at Kweebec. We have buffet-style meals that include gluten free and vegetarian options and campers get to pick and choose exactly what goes on their tray. We work hard in putting together a camp menu that is not only nutritious, but one that has plenty of variety. Campers enjoy several food options at each meal, so even our pickiest eaters have choices. We also encourage our campers to try new foods and foods they may have not liked in the past.
How do I know what my camper is doing at camp?
Our goal is to give every family the opportunity to have a glimpse into their child’s experience at camp. Photos are uploaded daily by our camp photographers and can be found via password through the CampMinder portal or on the Campanion app. These photos are shared only with families currently enrolled at camp. There is also photo, video and other content posted on our social media each day.
What if my camper’s birthday is in the summer?
Having a birthday while at camp is definitely a reason to celebrate. Campers who have summer birthdays usually start their day with the entire camp singing “Happy Birthday” in our dining hall at breakfast. During lunch, campers get a special birthday cake to share with their bunkmates. For families that are interested, pizza parties can be arranged through our main office for dinner! Birthday phone calls can also be arranged with parents and/or guardians Through our main office as well.
