Where is Chestnut Lake located?

• Chestnut Lake is located in Beach Lake, PA., 2 ½ hours from NYC and Philadelphia in the Northeast Corner of Pennsylvania. We are just 40 minutes from both Monticello, NY and Scranton, PA.

How many campers are there in a group?

• There are 20-24 campers in each group in camp. Our groups are set up so that each school grade will make up an age group. We look at the grade our campers will be entering in the fall as their camp grade.

If my child goes for 3 weeks, can they extend their Chestnut Lake Experience to 6 weeks?

• Yes! If there is space available, campers can choose to extend their summer to 6 weeks.

Is the second 3 weeks the same as the first 3 weeks?

• No, the program has been designed to provide a unique experience in each of the 3-week sessions we offer. For the 3 or 6-week camper, we promise an experience that will both challenge them and leave them counting the days until they can return to their new summer home.

What is the daily schedule?

• Chestnut Lake has 5 structured periods and 1 elective period each day. The structured periods are set up so that the campers are exposed to all the exciting activities we have to offer. The elective period gives our campers the opportunity to choose an area that they want to further develop skills in or try a completely new hobby that we offer only during the elective periods.

What is the sports program like?

• We offer a full range of sports instruction during our camper’s daily structured periods. Additionally, our campers have an opportunity to enroll in our 2 and 3 day “camp within a camp” sports camps during each 3-week session. These camps have been designed to offer both the beginner and advanced athlete an opportunity to learn and grow in their favorite area. Lastly, our in-camp football league and fun competitions against other local camps provide campers with an exciting, spirited sports experience.

Can a child that isn’t an athlete succeed at Chestnut Lake?

• Definitely!  While our campers will be exposed to sports during a portion of their day we find that our environment encourages participation rather than being the best. Whether you are an athlete or an artist, Chestnut Lake is a place where we will build self esteem and allow your child to expand their horizons. There are many activities including the Crafts & Technology Center, Outdoor Adventure (high ropes, mountain biking and archery), Drama program, Cheerleading, Dance and more. Additionally, our special all-camp events are geared to the all around camper.

Who are the staff leading my child?

• The Chestnut Lake Staff is comprised of college students, teachers and coaches. In each bunk there will be 3-4 college-aged counselors (19-25 years old) that serve as the big brother/big sister and parents to our campers. All staff have completed at least one year of university/college. We feel that our two-level interview process finds the best possible staff to lead your child. We also conduct criminal background checks on all newly hired staff.

What is the food like at Chestnut Lake?

• Our dining room offers carefully designed meals and options for all types of eaters. For each meal there is a main course and a variety of substitutes. Our food is served family style by our staff waiters. As far as food allergies, our skilled staff is able to handle all special food needs.

How do I keep in touch with my child?

• Daily pictures will be posted on the secure password protected website so that you can get a window into your child’s Chestnut Lake fun.
• We have scheduled division leader phone conferences each session so that you can get a detailed report of your child.
• You may email/send letters as much as you like. Emails are printed by our staff and handed out daily after lunch.
• Through our online system, you will have the ability to schedule 2 phone calls per session with your child.

Is there a doctor on staff?

• We have a doctor and 3 registered nurses on premises 24 hours/7 days a week.  Our Health Center will administer any medicine that your child may take on a daily or as needed basis. Additionally, the Health Center will also handle all medical needs during the summer. Not to worry, we will always call and consult you in the unlikely event that your child needs medical attention.

When do siblings get to see each other?

• Chestnut Lake is the ultimate family environment. We promote the feeling of “camp family” and have designed our program to be sure that siblings, cousins and close friends have an opportunity to spend time together. Our Friday sibling cookouts are a huge hit and provide our campers with an opportunity to spend quality time together.

What else can you tell me about Chestnut Lake?

• An important aspect of the Chestnut Lake summer is providing campers with an opportunity to grow as a person. We help our campers feel good about themselves and recognize them for trying their best to develop their CLC (Confidence, Leadership and Character). Division Leaders and Counselors will recognize their campers who have excelled in their pursuit of their CLC on a daily basis at line-up awards and at our weekly awards ceremony.