Camp Ramaquois COVID-19 Guide for Parents

This manual was effective in Summer 2021. For Summer 2022, please visit ramaquois.com/readmit

There is a lot of information in this guide. You might find the table of contents or the keyword search useful to jump to the areas that interest you. We've tried to keep the text as simple and straightforward as possible. In an effort to do so, many details are not included. If you have a specific question, and you can't find a detailed answer here, please give us a call at 845.354.1600. We're happy to discuss further.

The underlying assumption in this guide is that the COVID situation during the summer will be as it is today. The COVID situation is changing quickly. Therefore, it is very possible that the guidelines outlined in this document will be updated, and relaxed, before (or even during) the summer.

Table of Contents

1 Summary
2 Camp Capacity
3 Transportation
4 Camper Programs and Activities
5 Lunch and Snacks
6 Infirmary and Health Policies
7 Face Coverings
8 Cleaning and Hygiene
9 The Parent Experience
10 Odds and Ends

Summary

Letter from the Directors

This manual was effective in Summer 2021. For Summer 2022, please visit https://www.campramaquois.com/readmit .

Our goal is to be transparent about what camp will be like in 2022. Camp will be safe, fun, and rewarding for campers, staff and their families.

This guide contains a summary of what changes were made in summer 2021. Should it be necessary, we will revert to this plan for summer 2022. However, at this time, our plan for 2022 is keep activities primarily outdoors (with the exception of Woodworking and rainy day activities). Face coverings are optional for all situations. We continue to ask for parent cooperation and keep campers home when they are not feeling well. For more detailed information about our 2022 COVID-19 plans, please refer to videos on our parent website.

The rest of this guide will only become applicable if necessary.

There is a lot of information in this guide. You might find the table contents useful to jump to the areas that interest you. We've tried to keep the text as simple and straightforward as possible. In an effort to do so, some details may not be included. If you have a specific question, and you can't find a detailed answer here, please give us a call at 845.354.1600. We're happy to discuss further.

Last Update: 06/27/22 | Back to Top

Just the Highlights

Just want to know the basics? This section is for you! - Read the full document for more details.

We will have a camp season that meets Ramaquois' high standards by following the Seven Cs!

Last Update: 12/28/21 | Back to Top

Camp Capacity

Overview

Ramaquois operated at a reduced capacity in 2021. It is possible that we will again make the decision to limit the number of groups in camp to provide a safe, fun, and rewarding experience.

We have adjusted our bunk setup to provide the maximum amount of space for each group. We have converted additional buildings to bunks, and created partitions to keep groups separated.

Last Update: 12/28/21 | Back to Top

Transportation

Overview

Transportation is an integral part of every camper's daily experience. Clean, new-model low-mileage vehicles provide a safe trip to-and-from Camp Ramaquois every camp day. In a COVID-19 environment, there are updated safety procedures.

  • Campers should still expect a fun and interactive bus experience re-imagined with the highest standards of safety in mind.
  • Everyone on the bus will wear face coverings, and campers will be spaced out to maximize social distance.
  • Siblings and campers in the same camp group (cohort) may share a seat. Otherwise, each child will have his or her on bench.
  • All buses will have their windows opened to provide clean fresh air and assist in dispersing any pathogens.
  • Our air conditioning units, equipped on every bus, will operate in "fresh air mode" only (meaning air is pulled from outside of the bus and cooled.) As of now, recycled air A/C will not be used on any buses.
  • Our bus drivers are tested and screened daily for Covid-19 related illnesses.

Please be assured that all measures of safety are being put in place to provide the safest transportation possible. Please never hesitate to contact us with any questions, comments or concerns regarding your child's bus experience.

Last Update: 12/28/21 | Back to Top

Health Screenings

Every morning, each camp parent is expected to conduct a routine health screening on their child, checking for fever or any other related illness i.e. headache, stomach ache or muscle/body pain. This will be done through the Camp Ramaquois app. Please download the app from the App Store or Google Play (search for 'Camp Ramaquois').

Before a camper enters the bus in the morning, a trained bus counselor will take each camper's temperature using a no-touch laser thermometer.

A bag with essential items, such as extra batteries, additional face coverings and extra hand sanitizer will be available on every vehicle.

Please err on the side of caution. Any camper or staff member that has warning signs of COVID-19 (either symptoms or possible exposure) should not attend camp.

Last Update: 05/26/21 | Back to Top

Door to Door Transportation

Please be aware of some new safety measures that are in effect to protect both our campers and staff.

  • Masks must be worn for the entirety of the ride to and from camp. (Masks will be provided for those who forget their own that day)
  • All campers will sanitize their hands while they enter the bus and immediately take their seats.
  • All campers will have assigned seats to maximize social distance and potentially decrease the size of a contact trace.
  • All windows will be open to allow the free flow of air into the vehicle.

    Please refer to the following article regarding the safety of opening windows during the time of COVID-19. https://news.engin.umich.edu/2020/08/the-science-behind-campus-bus-changes-during-covid-19/ .

If you should have any questions, please contact our office at 845-354-1600.



Last Update: 12/28/21 | Back to Top

Express Bus Transportation

Camp Ramaquois runs Manhattan Express (Coach) Buses to select locations. The Express (Coach) Bus transportation will have similar precautions as our regular mini school buses.

  • Masks must be worn for the entirety of the ride to and from camp. (Masks will be provided for those who forget their own that day.)
  • All campers will sanitize their hands while they enter the bus and immediately take their seats.
  • All campers will have assigned seats to maximize social distance.
  • While the windows of a Coach Bus do not open like a regular school bus, each vehicle is equipped with two large rooftop openings that will remain open to provide a constant flow of fresh air into the cabin of the vehicle.

Please refer to the following article regarding the safety of opening windows during the time of COVID: https://news.engin.umich.edu/2020/08/the-science-behind-campus-bus-changes-during-covid-19/ .

Last Update: 12/28/21 | Back to Top

Bus Counselor Communication

Every Ramaquois vehicle will be staffed with at least one, and in most cases two, trained Ramaquois staff members who will serve as the bus counselor and point person for the daily ride to and from camp.

The bus counselors responsibilities include attendance taking, parent communication when necessary and keeping the campers compliant with all bus rules and regulations outlined in the Ramaquois Family Guide.

The bus counselor will also manage our "Fun on the Bus Program" which will include hand held games, lanyard and various individual activities to help keep campers engaged on the bus ride.

Every parent will have the opportunity to communicate with their bus counselor prior to their first day of camp.

Last Update: 12/28/21 | Back to Top

Fun on the Bus

Camp Ramaquois' "Fun on the Bus" program is designed to keep campers engaged and seated on the bus while providing fun games in a calming atmosphere.

Our goal is to provide non-electronic hand held games, lanyard and similar types of activities to engage campers of various age levels and promote a healthy environment on the bus.

Our staff will make sure to clean and disinfect any items after use during the course of a bus ride.
We continue to review the policies and procedures of our "Fun on the Bus" program to help ensure maximum positive engagement with the campers.

We continue to ask parents and campers to refrain from bringing any electronic internet enabled device onto the bus.

Last Update: 05/26/21 | Back to Top

Split Transportation

Split transportation (pick-up and drop-off at more than one location) makes the child in question more susceptible to having to miss camp due to contact tracing. Due to this potential issue, we are attempting to limit split transportation and bus changes to situations that are absolutely necessary.

As always, we look forward to partnering with families with the intention of giving each child the most convenient daily bus ride while keeping in mind the safety and considerations of the other campers and staff.

If you have a situation where split transportation is necessary and you have not reached out, please do so at your earliest and most convenient moment.

Last Update: 05/07/21 | Back to Top

Air Conditioning

Scientific studies have shown and continue to show the safety of non-recycled air-conditioning within the bus cabin (https://www.sustainable-bus.com/news/coronavirus-recommendationsow-to-use-the-bus-a-c-correctly/ ).

The windows on the bus will remain open for the entirety of the bus ride to allow for the free flow of air. It is not recommended to use the non-recycled air without the windows being open. According to experts, the important item to remember is the regular servicing of the air conditioning units. This involves inspecting the system for contamination and changing filters or, in the case of metal filters, cleaning those filters on a regular basis.

  • Non-recycled air-conditioning to be allowed on buses.
  • Recycled air-conditioning is currently prohibited on vehicles.
  • The air-conditioning filtration system will be cleaned and maintained regularly.
  • Windows will remain open and combined with the non-recycled air-conditioning to keep the cabin as cool as possible.

Last Update: 12/28/21 | Back to Top

Bus Changes

Due to the restrictions of COVID-19 and the difficulty of contact tracing, we strongly recommend against bus changes. In the event of an emergency, please contact the camp office to discuss possibilities.

Last Update: 12/28/21 | Back to Top

Camper Programs and Activities

Overview

At Ramaquois, our activities are designed to be fun! But we admit that we have an ulterior motive. Ramaquois activities also promote a sense of community, challenge campers to take healthy risks, and foster important values. For the vast majority of our activities, any changes will be minor, and will not affect those outcomes in any meaningful way.

There will be enhanced cleaning and disinfection. Additionally, the preference will be to conduct activities outdoors whenever possible. We have eliminated a small number of programs that can not be done safely in a COVID-19 environment. Individual elective choice will be replaced with group choice.

We are taking many steps "behind the scenes" to ensure a safe experience. Some examples of these steps include purchasing additional equipment, setting up enhanced cleaning protocols, and scheduling activities in a way that respects cohorting. Our goal is for these changes to be as invisible as possible for our campers. Please see the additional sections for more details.

Last Update: 05/26/21 | Back to Top

Outdoor Athletic Activities

Athletic activities provide our campers the opportunity to learn teamwork, sportsmanship, and healthy competition.

Outdoor athletic activities will be largely unchanged when playing within a group (cohort). At times, when social distancing can not be maintained, or in certain other instances, campers might be asked to wear face coverings as a precaution.

Additional cleaning and disinfecting of equipment will be required. All state guidelines will be followed.

Last Update: 05/26/21 | Back to Top

Non-Athletic Activities

The Ramaquois program is well-rounded, and balanced between athletic, cultural, craft, aquatic, and adventure activities. Historically, many cultural and craft activities have taken place indoors. In our COVID-19 plan, almost all indoor activities will be moved outdoors. The single exception will be Woodworking (for campers entering 4th grade and older), which would not be safe to run outdoors. The Woodworking cabin is well ventilated and has an existing air filtration system.

We have learned that virus transmission is much lower in well ventilated areas, which is why we are prioritizing outdoor activities in our COVID-19 plan.

Last Update: 05/26/21 | Back to Top

Adventure Activities

Adventure activities, such as our zip line, climbing wall, and ropes course areas will operate with only minor changes that will not impact the value of the activity for our campers. As with all of our activities, we will use enhanced disinfecting procedures on our equipment and reduce shared surfaces. Safety, teamwork, self-confidence, and taking healthy risks will remain the priorities at our adventure activities.

Last Update: 12/08/20 | Back to Top

Swim Instruction, General Swim, and Lake

Ramaquois aquatics is a mainstay of the camp program. Historically, the pools and lake were areas where groups (or cohorts) were combined. In our COVID-19 plan, cohorts will remain separate, even during water activities.

How can we accomplish this? We are very fortunate to have nine heated pools. For swim instruction, each group will have their own pool with a dedicated set of swim instructors. On average, we will have the same instructor to camper (1:2.5) ratio as in past summers.

For general swim, we will divide each pool in half, and each group will have one side of a pool dedicated for its own cohort. Cohorts will not mix.

Our lake will be divided into three regions so that three groups of campers can attend lake activities at the same time. These three groups will be kept separate on the lake by lemon lines and buoys.

Each group will have the same amount of swim instruction, general swim, and lake activities as it would in a non-COVID-19 summer.

Last Update: 01/07/22 | Back to Top

Athletic Leagues

Athletic leagues are a camp highlight for many campers, especially our oldest boys and girls who look forward to Bunt and Steal and SNAPS League. Our leagues give our campers a chance to get excited, cheer for their friends, and show off the new skills that they've learned. It is also a key component in teaching campers sportsmanship and maturity.

We anticipate being able to run athletic leagues this summer. All state guidelines will be followed, and as such, some minor changes might be implemented. We might adjust how the teams are formed, and face coverings might be required in certain situations. However, we do not feel like any of the changes would substantially diminish the camper experience.

Last Update: 12/10/20 | Back to Top

Off Campus Trips

We are currently evaluating whether it will be possible to run off-campus trips this summer. It is our hope that we can provide excursions for our older campers. It is likely that we will have a final decision in mid to late spring.

Last Update: 12/28/21 | Back to Top

Special Events

Special events are a big part of the Ramaquois program! Our special events vary from traditions that take place every year (such as Jr. Camp Snow Day, RamaGames, Song and Cheer, Land and Water Carnivals, and Legends Ceremonies) to smaller, divisional events that change each year. We know that campers look forward to these events all year long.

We have alternative COVID-19 plans for all of our special events (including RamaGames). As with all of our modifications, the changes are focused on cohorting, cleanliness, and common sense. We can do our special events safely, and in a fun and meaningful way for our campers.

Last Update: 12/28/21 | Back to Top

Rainy Days

Since many day camps are planning to close on rainy days (similar to snow days in school), some parents have asked if Ramaquois will be open during inclement weather. Yes! Ramaquois will be open on rain days!

If it is raining, we will use all of our covered areas, as well as some indoor areas. Only one cohort will use each area at a time. Face coverings will be required, and all surfaces will be sprayed with disinfectant between groups. We have seen that this combination of cleaning, cohoroting, and covering faces has been very effective in schools and will be implemented on rainy days.

Last Update: 03/30/21 | Back to Top

Heat Wave Days

Typically, there are a few days each summer when the heat and humidity deem it appropriate to run a "Heat Wave Schedule." While on this schedule, we eliminate many athletic activities, and increase the time we spend doing aquatic and sedentary activities.

Despite the COVID-19 precautions, we will be able to run a heat wave schedule that is very similar to previous summers. There will be additional water, shady, and sedentary activities. Our athletic fields and courts will be shut down.

On these days, we focus on providing fun and worthwhile activities while keeping our campers and staff safe, cool, and hydrated.

Last Update: 12/28/21 | Back to Top

Lunch and Snacks

Overview

Lunch at Ramaquois is a daily highlight, and it will continue to be this summer! Similar to transportation, there are many behind the scenes changes that will keep our staff and campers safe. Our kitchen complies with the same Department of Health regulations that are placed on restaurants. Though subject to change, we are planning for three major changes that campers will notice:

  • Outdoor Dining - We are prepared for 100% of our campers to eat outdoors, under covered awnings. Should the rate of infection fall, It is possible that we will move some or all campers indoors for a more comfortable air-conditioned dining experience during the summer.
  • Increased separation - There will be more room between and within groups/cohorts and it is likely that there will be plexiglass barriers.
  • Procedure changes - Campers might notice some changes in lunch procedures that will reduce the amount of shared surfaces and utensils. These changes will also ensure that campers are served individually, and there is no sharing of food or beverages. We don't anticipate these procedural changes impacting the experience in any meaningful way for campers.

Last Update: 01/07/22 | Back to Top

Dining Hall Seating and Experience

Our current plan is for all campers to eat outdoors, under covered awnings.


  • Barriers will be placed between groups where appropriate.
  • There will be additional space between and within groups.
  • Some traditions, such as birthday rituals, may be moved from lunch to morning or afternoon line-up.
  • Campers and staff will wash or sanitize their hands before and after lunch.

Last Update: 05/07/21 | Back to Top

Snacks

Campers will be served snack as usual. Morning and afternoon snacks are packaged in single serve portions. Staff will notice a different procedure for picking up snack in order to abide by social distancing best practices.

Last Update: 12/23/20 | Back to Top

Infirmary and Health Policies

Health Screening

All campers and staff should complete a health screening (on the Camp Ramaquois app) prior to coming onto the grounds each day. This is our first and best defense against COVID-19. If anyone in your household has warning signs (possible exposure and/or symptoms), please err on the side of caution and stay home that day. Ramaquois will be strict about enforcing this policy. We ask for your understanding in advance.

Last Update: 06/22/21 | Back to Top

COVID-19 Infirmary

In accordance with best practices, Ramaquois has prepared a second infirmary. Campers (and staff) who visit the infirmary will first be triaged outdoors. Those with routine situations, such as scrapes and bruises, will be sent to the regular infirmary. Anyone who presents with a fever or other symptoms that could be indicative of COVID-19 will be sent to the second infirmary where they will be further examined.

Our health center will be staffed with seven veteran nurses and three EMTs who are all fully trained and qualified to handle a COVID-19 situation. Infirmary staff will use appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE).

Last Update: 06/22/21 | Back to Top

Readmit Policy

The current readmit policy is that any camper or staff member that stays home due to COVID-19 symptoms can only return to camp after the symptoms are resolved, and they have received a negative test for COVID-19. This policy is subject to change, and can be viewed in more detail at https://www.ramaquois.com/summer/readmit.php

Last Update: 05/26/21 | Back to Top

Contact Tracing

Should there be a confirmed case of COVID-19 at camp, we will work with the Department of Health to implement a contact trace. Our program is set up to reduce the size of this contact trace group. Close contacts should only include campers and staff in that child's group and on that child's bus. A camper's bus driver, waiter, and swim instructor would also be included in the contact trace.

The CDC recently revised the recommendation for quarantining downward from 10 days to 5-10 days. Contact tracing rules will ultimately be enforced by the Rockland County Department of Health, and may change before or during the summer.

We are required by law to maintain the confidentiality of health information. We can not release the name of any individual who tests positive for COVID-19. We will inform parents if their child has had close contact with an individual who tests positive for COVID-19.

Last Update: 12/28/21 | Back to Top

Campers Who Display Symptoms at Camp

Any camper who displays a symptom of COVID-19 at camp must be picked up by a parent. The camper may return to camp in accordance with our readmit policy.

Last Update: 05/27/21 | Back to Top

Vaccination

We are strongly encouraging all eligible members of our community to be vaccinated before camp starts. Vaccinated individuals are subject to more relaxed guidance from the New York State Health Department.

Last Update: 06/22/21 | Back to Top

Face Coverings

Overview

The most recent New York State guidelines regarding face coverings (updated 5/24/2021) make the following points clear:

  • Vaccinated individuals do not need to wear face coverings, however staff will role model wearing face coverings for campers when appropriate
  • Children entering Kindergarten and younger do not need to wear face coverings in any situation where they can't tolerate it
  • Face coverings are not required outdoors at camp
  • Face coverings are required during transportation

We have created our face covering policy in compliance with the New York State guidelines.

Last Update: 12/28/21 | Back to Top

When will face coverings be worn?

Campers will not be required to wear a face covering when they are outdoors and interacting within their assigned group (cohort). Campers must wear a face covering when indoors*. All individuals must wear a face covering on the bus, which includes campers, staff, and drivers.

* Face coverings are not required if campers are entering their bunks for a short period of time (less than ten minutes) with individuals from their own group only.

Vaccinated staff are not required to wear face coverings. However, we will ask our staff to wear face coverings when it is required of campers, in order to role model appropriate behavior.

Please note that the guidelines also indicate that face coverings should not be worn when eating, drinking, swimming, or when there is any indication of distress.

A shorthand for when face coverings will be worn is to remember that two out of the following three statements must always be true: campers are outdoors; campers are with members of their group only; campers are wearing face coverings.

Please note that these guidelines are based upon the information for summer 2021 and are subject to change for 2022

Last Update: 12/28/21 | Back to Top

What is an acceptable face covering?

An acceptable face covering is one that meets CDC and health department guidelines. Face coverings must cover both the mouth and nose and allow the wearer to breathe as comfortably as possible. The more layers of material, the more likely it is to provide better protection. For more information, view the 'Types of Masks' section of the CDC website: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prevent-getting-sick/cloth-face-cover-guidance.html .

Please make sure that your child's face covering fits properly and is cleaned regularly. Ramaquois will have extra face coverings available for campers and staff; however, we recommend choosing a face covering that is properly fitted and comfortable for your child.

Last Update: 12/28/20 | Back to Top

Cleaning and Hygiene

Overview

In order to reduce the spread of pathogens, cleaning and hygiene protocols have been updated. The procedures focus on disinfecting shared surfaces, reducing shared equipment, and hand hygiene for campers and staff.

  • Campers and staff will sanitize or wash their hands between every activity.
  • Shared equipment will be disinfected between use.
  • Additional facility staff will clean and disinfect common areas regularly throughout the day.

NYS Guidelines also require that we maintain cleaning and disinfection logs in order to ensure compliance with the regulations.

Last Update: 05/26/21 | Back to Top

Bathrooms

Every camp group has dedicated bathroom facilities in their cabin/bunk. Campers and staff are encouraged to use the facilities assigned to their cohort. However, there will of course be times when an urgent situation makes this impossible. Therefore, our facilities team will be cleaning and disinfecting every bathroom multiple times each day.

Last Update: 12/28/20 | Back to Top

Camper and Staff Hygiene

One of the keys to controlling the spread of COVID-19 is regular handwashing. Campers and staff will clean their hands between every activity. If soap and water is not readily available, hand sanitizer may be substituted. Hands will also be cleaned before and after meals and snacks. Every camp activity will be supplied with hand sanitizer.

Last Update: 05/26/21 | Back to Top

Reducing Shared Equipment

In the past, it was considered a gesture of friendship to allow a fellow camper to borrow a rain coat, baseball glove, or tennis racket. Though we will continue to encourage acts of friendship, borrowing another camper's baseball glove or tennis racket will not be allowed this summer. We encourage all campers to bring their own baseball glove and tennis racket. Ramaquois has a limited amount of extra equipment for campers to use, if necessary. Any used equipment will be disinfected between campers.

Additionally, Ramaquois has instituted protocols to disinfect equipment that must be re-used throughout the day (such as harnesses). For any situation where such cleaning is impractical or overly burdensome, we have invested in additional equipment.

In accordance with the NYS guidelines, we are strongly discouraging campers from bringing any toys or transitional items to and from camp each day.

Last Update: 05/26/21 | Back to Top

Disinfectant

Ramaquois uses several different CDC approved disinfectants that have been shown to kill the virus that causes COVID-19. Additionally, we have multiple delivery systems that allow for efficient disinfection of large areas quickly. All staff using disinfectant sprayers will be trained in proper usage of the equipment.

Last Update: 12/28/20 | Back to Top

The Facilities Team

We are fortunate to have an incredible facilities team. The most junior member of our year-round facilities team will be spending his tenth summer at Ramaquois this summer! Our team takes great pride in keeping our camp safe, clean, and running smoothly.

We have added additional seasonal staff to our facilities team. The expanded crew will help us make sure that common areas, toilets, cabins, and surfaces are disinfected multiple times every day.

This team works tirelessly to keep Ramaquois in pristine condition. We are truly lucky to have these unsung heroes on staff!

Last Update: 12/28/21 | Back to Top

The Parent Experience

Overview

We believe that our partnership with parents is the heart of each child's individual experience at camp. Throughout the pre-camp season, your family will receive detailed information through our parent website, email communication and by phone. We value parent feedback, and promise to share with you the stories of your child's growth and achievements. Your involvement is an important component of the Ramaquois experience, and it helps us to achieve our goal that each child creates a sense of community, growth and meaningful interactions with their peers and their counselors.

This summer, we'll ask parents to work even more closely with the Ramaquois team to make sure that the summer is safe, fun, and as rewarding as possible for the children. We'll ask parents to take common-sense and state-mandated precautions to keep our community safe. We'll need parents to cooperate with daily health screenings, and to communicate any health concerns with us. We'll also ask for patience when certain procedures are a little slower than we would like due to social distancing and safety precautions.

At this time, the New York State guidelines explicitly prohibit non-essential visitors, which precludes us from offering parent visiting at this time. Should this guideline be adjusted, we will reconsider whether we can offer parent visitation.

Last Update: 05/26/21 | Back to Top

Parent Partnership

This summer, more than ever, it is important that Ramaquois and parents work together. Here are some new items that we'll likely ask from parents:

  • Complete a health screening for your camper(s) on the Ramaquois app every morning.
  • When in doubt, keep your child home. We know that children want to come to camp, but if there is any indication of illness, please err on the side of caution and keep your child home.
  • Follow state and local guidelines (as well as common sense). Please do not put your child in unnecessarily risky situations.
  • Be patient. Some procedures will take a little longer this summer. We don't ever want to compromise safety for speed or convenience.
  • Please fill out your forms (especially medical forms)! This is an incredible help to our medical team!
  • Communicate with us! We will reach out to you proactively, but the more we know about your child, the better the camp experience will be. A lot has happened this year, and every child has reacted differently. Please share that information with us so we can better serve your child.

Last Update: 05/26/21 | Back to Top

Parent Visitation

In a typical summer, parents are invited to camp for several events, including Preview Day in June (for new campers and their families), visiting days, interactive nights, and SNAPS/Bunt and Steal Night for our oldest campers.

At this time, New York State guidelines prohibit non-essential visitors. Should this guidance change, we will reconsider whether we can offer parent visitation.

Last Update: 05/26/21 | Back to Top

Parent Communication

Ramaquois prides itself on creating strong parent partnerships through ongoing communication. The camp experience influences the whole family so we encourage ongoing communication between parents and their camper's Division Leader. We call and email regularly and post hundreds of photos and videos on our parent website daily.

  • To send a note to camp during the camp season, email notes@ramaquois.com or text (845) 203-2420.
  • Please be aware that Division Leaders will return phone calls after their supervisory responsibilities cease at the end of the day. All immediate issues will be handled by Susan Sahn, the Director of Parent Communication.

Throughout the spring, we will be in contact with our camp families through emails, videos, and webinars. These communications will help prepare you, and your children, for a most successful camp season!

Last Update: 01/06/21 | Back to Top

The Ramaquois App and Parent Website

During the camp season, parents can obtain information through our Camp Ramaquois App and the Camp Ramaquois parent website.

https://www.ramaquois.com/parent

  • Submit important forms (health forms, personality profiles, transportation forms).
  • View photos and videos.
  • View announcements and upcoming events.
  • Read FAQ and view useful links and files.
  • RSVP for visiting days and interactive nights (when available).
  • View camp calendar and lunch menus.
  • View Weekly “Rama Express” newsletter.
Custom-developed app (available for Android and iOS)

  • Complete your child's daily health screening.
  • View announcements and upcoming events.
  • Read FAQ and view useful links and files.
  • Watch camp videos.
  • Browse photos (using facial recognition).
  • Contact camp.

Last Update: 12/23/20 | Back to Top

Camp Packing List

All campers are assigned a personal “cubby” to store their camp gear. Clean towels are provided for each water activity. On Fridays, children bring home any clothing worn that week in a bag provided by the camp. Please return laundered clothing on Mondays (especially swim suits and rain gear). Please do not send expensive items to camp and label each item (including face coverings) with your child's name.

  • Twelve face coverings with necklace lanyards - Additional item for this summer
  • Complete change of clothing, including spare Ramaquois shirt
  • 3 bathing suits (extra suits are advisable)
  • An extra pair of sneakers (with Velcro closures for the younger child)
  • Baseball glove
  • Tennis racket
  • Hat
  • Light jacket or sweatshirt
  • Rain gear (if brought home, please return the next day)
  • Personal sunscreen (SPF at parents' discretion)
  • Sweat/Wind pants
  • Water shoes (optional)
  • Goggles (optional)

Last Update: 12/28/21 | Back to Top

Preparing Your Campers

The past year has been unlike any other. Every child has had a different experience and reaction. We want to help reduce any anxiety that your child may have. If your child has concerns, please explain to them that we are taking every precaution to make camp safe. There may be some changes to what they remember from previous summers, but camp will be more fun than ever!
Here are a few ideas to help prepare your child:

  • Attend one of our spring events at camp. We plan to begin these as soon as the weather allows!
  • Call us and share your child's concerns. We can speak to your child with you, and explain what to expect this summer.
  • Listen to and validate your child's concerns. It is very likely that his/her concerns are different from an adult's concerns.
  • Your family's experience this past year has been unique; so each child will react differently. Please reach out to us - we are here to help.

Last Update: 12/23/20 | Back to Top

Odds and Ends

Overview

There are dozens of behind the scenes changes to prepare for a COVID-19 summer. Our goal is for these changes to be nearly imperceptible to campers and parents. However, some are worth mentioning, and they are located in this section.

Last Update: 12/28/21 | Back to Top

Signage

Additional signage will be placed around camp to encourage individuals to wash their hands, maintain social distance, and utilize face coverings whenever necessary. Although our staff will remind campers to be safe, visual reminders are always helpful!

Signage will include reminders to:

  • Reduce bi-directional foot traffic over our bridges

  • Cover nose and mouth with face coverings when appropriate

  • Properly store, and when necessary, discard PPE

  • Adhere to physical distancing instructions

  • Report symptoms of, or exposure to, COVID-19 to the infirmary

  • Follow hand hygiene and cleaning and disinfection guidelines

  • Follow appropriate respiratory hygiene and cough etiquette

  • Visibly soiled hands must be washed with soap and water

Last Update: 05/26/21 | Back to Top

Socially Distanced Line-Ups

Morning and afternoon line-ups are a vital part of our camp's culture. During line-up, we make announcements, have camper/counselor competitions, and make noise together, as a community. Typical line-ups are not socially distanced events, of course! However, this summer, we will conduct socially distanced line-ups. Line-ups are all conducted outdoors and all groups (cohorts) will be kept separated. Importantly, the traditions and spirit of our line-ups will be maintained.

Last Update: 12/28/21 | Back to Top

Traffic Flow

We will limit bi-directional foot traffic on our bridges (which are too narrow to safely accommodate traffic in both directions).

There may be certain times on select camp days where we mandate that all traffic around the lake must be 'one way only' in order to reduce congestion. This may occur on certain special event days, or immediately before or after lunch periods.

Last Update: 05/26/21 | Back to Top

Fire Drills

Ramaquois must perform fire drills to comply with Department of Health regulations. In order to do so, we will designate that groups be socially distanced from each other at the designated meeting locations. Additionally, all campers and staff must wear masks for the duration of the drill.

Last Update: 12/29/20 | Back to Top

Visitor Policy


We are currently evaluating whether visiting days and nights will be possible for this summer. It is unlikely that we will have a final decision before mid to late spring.

Typically, all parent pickups, drop-offs, and package deliveries take place at our auxiliary office (50 Mountain Road) so that no visitors come onto our grounds. Food deliveries take place in a designated location in our rear parking lot. Hand hygiene and social distancing protocols will be enforced.

Last Update: 12/28/21 | Back to Top