Camp is unique. We live in a wooded country setting and have an opportunity to appreciate the beauty and serenity of our natural surroundings. We also relate closely to one another in a very active social environment.

 

To enable campers to get the most out of camp, we follow a well established philosophy. We believe you have the right to know our expectations so we are listing them below. Please think them over before you decide to become a camper at Surprise Lake Camp.

 

CURFEW

The camp day is different than the schedule you ordinarily live by. We ask our Teens to be back in the sleeping units by approximately 10:00 PM. On special occasions, the time may be changed at the discretion of the supervisory staff. Once campers return to their units for the night, they may not leave without express permission.

 

PRIVACY

Every camper has a right to privacy. To protect this right, the camp requires that living quarters be limited to those who live there. Boys and girls may not visit each other’s living quarters, and teens who have boyfriends or girlfriends are expected to keep physical intimacy within age appropriate boundaries. You will be able to visit and socialize with your friends, but only in designated areas.

 

LIVING ROUTINES

We encourage personal cleanliness but discourage the use of make-up and hair styles that are impractical in an outdoor setting. We require that campers share responsibility for keeping common areas and equipment clean.

 

LIVING IN THE CAMP COMMUNITY

We have an Honor Code that requires campers to respect other campers and staff members and personal and camp property. Behavior that violates this principle (fighting, bullying, stealing, vandalism, etc.) is not acceptable at Surprise Lake Camp. Families will be billed for damage to any camp property, including graffiti.

 

OUT OF CAMP

We expect campers to be on their best behavior on trips out of camp and to respect the rules and property of the bus company and the places we visit.

 

PARTICIPATION IN ACTIVITIES

All campers are required to participate in all activities. Although there are frequent opportunities to socialize, the main purpose of camp is to involve you in activities that are fun and rewarding. We find that these activities work best when everybody participates as an active member of the group. Sitting out is only permitted for medical reasons.

 

SELF-DESTRUCTIVE BEHAVIOR

Camp cannot serve campers who refuse to eat, cause themselves to be sick, or physically harm themselves or state an intent or likelihood that they may do so.

 

SMOKING

We do not permit campers to smoke.  Smoking is not only dangerous to your life, but it also runs the risk of endangering camp property and the health of others at camp.

 

ALCOHOL

 

DRUGS

 

(A SINGLE INFRINGEMENT OF ANY ITALICIZED RULE AT ANY POINT IN THE SUMMER (i.e., one puff on a cigarette) WILL RESULT IN A CAMPER BEING SENT HOME WITHOUT A SECOND CHANCE. INFRINGMENT OF OTHER RULES WILL BE CAUSE FOR NOTIFICATION OF PARENTS AND MAY RESULT IN A CAMPER BEING SENT HOME. THERE IS NO REFUND UNDER ANY CIRCUMSTANCES FOR A CAMPER WHO IS SENT HOME FOR VIOLATING CAMP RULES.)