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Tamarack offers diverse programs for children aged 3-15, each tailored to the distinct physical and developmental stages of that age group. Our mission-driven approach ensures a nurturing environment where campers can develop a variety of skills and gain essential life competencies. We are committed to creating intentional opportunities for success, leading to a summer that contributes to a more confident, independent, and well-rounded individual. Beyond just acquiring new hobbies like swimming or baseball, your child will develop independence, confidence, teamwork, a willingness to try new activities, determination, social and emotional intelligence, integrity, leadership, and resilience. The Tamarack Experience is further enriched with central transportation, a comprehensive lunch program, and a 37-acre facility featuring a heated Olympic size pool, Pro-turf sports complex, air-conditioned studios, skate park, ropes course, and zip lines, all designed to foster these life skills amidst the fun and adventure of a traditional day camp.
Tamarack provides tailored programs for our youngest campers including 5-full-day, 3-full-day, and 5-half-day options within our Munchkin Division, maintaining a low camper to staff ratio for personalized attention. Our Munchkin Specialists, trained to work with 3, 4, and 5-year-olds, lead a variety of scaled-down athletic and creative activities aimed at advancing motor skills, alongside a comprehensive swimming program to ensure every child learns this vital skill. The program also emphasizes social development as children learn to interact respectfully and confidently in a group setting, with dedicated meal times and spaces to cater to their nutritional needs, all within a caring and supportive environment.
At Tamarack, the Explorer program evolves with campers, introducing 1st graders to exciting features like the Zipline and Giant Swing, and incorporating GAGA, while 2nd graders enjoy the freedom of selecting weekly activities through the CHOICE period, including a Learn to Bike Program. Explorers engage in modified traditional sports, creative arts like ceramics and drama, and a comprehensive Learn-to-Swim Program in our state-of-the-art aquatic facility. They also experience the thrill of our inspected and certified ropes courses, starting with the Confidence Course. Throughout, Explorers develop social and emotional intelligence, learning to work collaboratively and respectfully in a nurturing environment.
Junior campers at Tamarack engage in diverse creative and athletic activities, including twice-daily swims, and are introduced to advanced activities like Archery, Mountain Biking, and High Ropes. They have the autonomy to choose preferred activities through the CHOICE program to further their skills. Special events such as Junior Late Nights feature extended camp access with additional activities and a twilight campfire. Juniors participate in a wide array of sports on full-size fields, enhance their biking skills through a comprehensive program, and explore creativity in air-conditioned art studios. The state-of-the-art aquatic facility supports their swimming progression, while the ropes course offers a variety of challenges. All activities are designed to foster social skills and teamwork in a bully-free environment.
Senior campers at Tamarack enjoy a wide array of activities, including advanced sports like soccer, football, tennis, and lacrosse, as well as creative arts in air-conditioned studios such as ceramics, music, and cooking. They have access to specialized athletic and creative programs, emphasizing skill development and game play. The highlight for many is the diverse day trips, with Camelbeach being a favorite. Additionally, Senior Late Nights offer unique experiences with dinner, extra activities, and twilight campfires. Their schedule also includes swimming in a state-of-the-art aquatic facility with tailored swim lessons and free swim sessions. The comprehensive ropes course offers climbing, ziplining, and repelling for adventurous spirits. Choices extend to participating in the annual Drama Production or special Dance routines, with performances being a key feature of the camp. Throughout, the focus is on building social skills, teamwork, and personal growth in a supportive, bully-free environment.
At Tamarack, our 7th, 8th, and 9th Graders are part of the exclusive Teen Travel Program, splitting their time between exhilarating day trips and engaging camp activities. On camp days, Teens adhere to a structured group schedule, moving through activities like free swim, Ropes Courses, and various athletic and creative pursuits, all under the guidance of our counselors.
For out-of-camp adventures, Teens are required to follow the stringent Tamarack Travel Safety Protocols. Each Teen Travel camper and their parents are required to agree to our Teen Travel Behavior Contract, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone. A dedicated Division Head not only oversees the Teen Travel Programs in camp but also accompanies them on trips. Our Teen Staff receive specialized training to adeptly supervise campers in public settings and address the unique challenges of early teenage years.
For detailed information on schedules and trip specifics, please refer to our Teen Travel Calendars and Trip Information.
Camp counselors at Oak Crest lead groups through team-building challenges and competitions, fostering teamwork, support, and communication. This structured environment promotes respect and lifelong friendships. Oak Crest maintains a zero-tolerance policy for bullying and is committed to creating a caring environment where children and young teens develop essential emotional and social skills.
The Leader-In-Training (LIT) Experience at Tamarack is a dynamic program aimed at 10th graders, providing them with essential leadership skills and practical experience for their first job, college, and beyond. It serves as a bridge from camper to counselor, focusing on problem-solving, role modeling, and teamwork. LITs undertake meaningful responsibilities and receive constructive feedback to grow into successful staff members. The program includes an adventurous 6-day leadership trip with Windsor Mountain, focusing on teamwork, leadership, and responsibility, and challenging teens to step out of their comfort zones. This culminates in an enriching experience that not only contributes significantly to the camp community but also enhances their personal development and future opportunities.