FAQ's
How does my child get to camp?
Chaperoned, chartered buses or flights into Boston or Portland are the most popular ways for campers to arrive at Camp Mataponi. Group flights from major cities are always accompanied by adult staff members. Campers who fly are met at their respective airline arrival gates and are taken directly to camp by bus. Luggage arrives separately, generally a week before camp begins. It is sent by private carrier or by UPS. Parents may also drive their daughter(s) directly to camp.
How about staff qualifications?
The staff consists of university and graduate students and certified teachers. A 3:1 camper-to counselor ratio is maintained. The minimum staff age is 18. Junior Counselors must have prior Mataponi camper experience. Thorough screening and reference checks are conducted on each staff member.
What is the weather like in Maine?
Camp days are filled with humid-free, comfortable 80+ temperature. Evenings may require a sweatshirt.
Are the owners part of the daily operations at camp?
Our sole responsibility during the summer is to ensure that the needs of our campers are met. To achieve this objective, it is crucial to have "hands-on" involvement in the daily schedule from sunrise to "lights out". As active directors, we observe the program and have daily, one-on-one contact with the campers.
What do you do about homesickness?
During a five-day, pre-camp orientation, staff members receive intensive training to handle many situations. They are coached to be alert to homesickness and are educated on how to help campers adapt to the camp routine. We are particularly sensitive to our first-time campers. Throughout the camp season, letter writing is strongly encouraged by both campers and parents. Our combined years as campers, staff and now as owners, have taught us that a varied and interesting program, together with a caring and sensitive staff, will minimize homesickness.
How much time is allocated to each activity?
Each activity period is one hour in length and consists of either an individual elective or group activity. Campers travel to these activities with their cabin mates or with children in their age group
How does my daughter's luggage arrive to camp?
To best prepare for your daughter's arrival at Camp Mataponi, the luggage must arrive to camp prior to opening day. There are two recommended options for shipping; Camp Baggage or UPS. Camp Baggage is our primary trunk delivery service. Camp Baggage arranges to pick up the luggage at your home approximately one week before camp begins and returns the luggage to your home at the end of the camping season. The other option is to ship the luggage UPS and that would be through your nearest UPS depot.
