Why should I choose a small camp for my child?

Our small size makes all the difference in the world for your child. It is akin to small classroom size in elementary school. The Director and Staff in our community will all know your child. By the end of the camping session, we will know each camper's likes and dislikes, their strengths and challenges. We have the ability to tailor the summer experience for our campers, with input from our parents. This assures that your child will get the most from their time with us. The summer camp experience is one of the most precious gifts a parent can give a child - choose a place where your child is much more than a number!

Where is Camp Berger located?

Camp Berger is located on scenic Park Pond in Winchester Center, Connecticut, and is surrounded by wooded forests, a bountiful pond and beautiful waterfront. This is in the heart of the scenic Litchfield County Region of Western Connecticut. Our Map and Directions pages offers more detail.

What are the age of the campers?

Our campers range in age from 7 to 14 years old.

How long has Camp Berger been operating?

Camp Berger has been offering summer camp programs since 1956. 2008 is our 53rd Season!

Can we visit the camp before our child attends?
 
Please come and visit Camp Berger to see why we have made a special place in the hearts of campers for over 50 years. Our OPEN HOUSE will be held on Sunday, May 18, 2008. For more information see the OPEN HOUSE page.

What should my child bring with them to Camp Berger?

Campers should pack clothing that is comfortable and suitable to the activity in which they will be participating. Do not bring food, candy or gum to camp. Food in cabins attracts animals, insects and any diseases they may carry. Also, do not bring radios, CD players, iPods, electronic games, pagers, Cell phones, etc. We will be too busy in 'nature' for such non-natural electronic items. For a more information on what to bring and what not to bring during your stay at Camp Berger, see the Camper’s Checklist page.

Does my child need to bring some money along?

Camp Berger does have a Camp Store, and campers can buy such items as camping supplies, writing materials, flashlight batteries, camp souvenirs, snacks and more. Most campers find that $30.00 per week is adequate spending money.

Can I write to my child while at Camp?

We encourage you to send letters to your child while he/she is at Camp Berger. Mail call is a fun event and children love to receive letters at camp.

Address letters to:

CAMP BERGER - YOUR CHILD’S NAME
134 Wahnee Road, P.O. Box 181, Winchester Center, CT 06094.

 

How does Camp Berger handle behavioral problems with campers?
 
Camp Berger’s program is designed for well-adjusted children who treat others with respect and value each child’s right to a fun, enriching experience at camp. Clear guidelines, positive reinforcement, positive role modeling and a cultivated sense of generosity and fair play are key components in our effort to maintain a safe and nurturing camp environment. We work hard so that every child will develop greater social skills and succeed at camp. Disrespect, violent or mean behavior, including teasing or harassment of any kind is not tolerated. If discipline problems arise, we handle each conflict on an individual basis. In most cases, a camper will receive appropriate explanations and consequences regarding the inappropriate behavior. Continued misbehavior will result in a contract between the camper, parent, and staff member. Broken behavior contracts result in the camper going home early from camp.

What if my child is homesick?

Some homesickness is normal. Our staff spends a great deal of time making each camper feel secure and a part of a group. Campers who experience homesickness are treated with sensitivity, reassurance, and a little special attention. If a situation requires further attention, the Director is called on to help and if necessary the nurse is called on to provide some TLC.

If a Camper’s homesickness is such that he/she is experiencing significant trauma or is affecting the experience of the rest of her cabin group, the Camp staff will call her parents and suggest a course of action. The course of action usually followed is to tell the camper that yes, his/her mom and dad know he/she misses them and yes, they miss him/her too, but it is important for them to finish this experience, make new friends, try new activities and stay for the agreed on session.

Homesickness is something which a child may need to experience and see through to the finish if he/she is to gain the degree of independence which you as parents desire.

Parents are advised to be positive in their approach to this camp experience, to reassure your son/daughter that you will be there to pick them up on a specific date and that you know he/she will have a wonderful time.

We remind all parents/guardians that refunds are not given for Campers who leave Camp before the end of their session due to homesickness.

How can I find out more information on Camp Berger?

We would be happy to send you a camp brochure or answer any questions you might have. Please feel free to contact us via e-mail or give us a call! For more information, complete the Brochure Request Form, or visit or Contact Info page.