Camp Otter FAQs
FAQ's and Responses from the Camp Director.
NOTE: Generally, Merrimack Valley YMCA Camping Services' policies apply to Camp Otter. However, where specific day camp policy applies, we've supplied separate in regard to Day Camp Otter.
How does Camp Otter address the needs of first-time campers?
When campers arrive at camp, they participate in an orientation that helps them find different camp facilities, meet other campers and staff, and learn how camp procedures work. Returning campers also offer new children the support that they need.
Describe the arrival process for campers.
Every day the buses arrive at 8:30 am. On Monday, campers are greeted by all of the staff at the sports field. It is there that they find out what cabin they are in for the week. The remaining days of the week, campers report directly to their cabins after arriving at camp. Campers who arrive later than 8:45 should be escorted by their parent to their cabin or the office.
What are you looking for when you hire staff?
We seek to hire staff who we believe to be excellent role models, and who share a commitment for working positively with youth. Our staff are caring, responsible individuals who represent a multitude of different background and life experiences. They come from all over the Merrimack Valley and have solid experience in their respective program areas. Many of them were campers and Counselors-In-Training in our own program. All of our staff undergo a thorough screening and interview process.
What are some of the things that make your camp unique?
We believe our camp offers a unique day camp setting, an incredible camp program, a fine staff and a careful approach toward the first time camper, all the while incorporating the character development values of the YMCA, that of caring, honesty, respect, and responsibility.
What is the philosophy of your camps, and what about their programs make them special?
We believe Camp Otter is a sustained experience which provides a creative, recreational and educational opportunity in the outdoors. We hope campers allow themselves to be challenged and develop new skills while increasing self-esteem and making friends through a variety of different activities.
What is your system for screening and training staff?
We screen our staff by our personal knowledge of them and by the serious pursuit of reference. We train staff first by offering a two year C.I.T. program, then by offering a one week orientation program at the start of each summer as well as an ongoing program of activity and cabin management supervision.
How many campers are there in a cabin, and what are the cabins like?
There are between 20 - 25 campers per cabin with at least 2 cabin counselors and 2 Counselors-In-Training. The cabins are rustic wooden buildings with benches along the walls, areas for hanging towels, storing backpacks, and spending time with cabin mates during quiet times or inclement weather. All cabins have shuttered windows and some have electricity and lighting. Each cabin is cleaned and swept at the end of each camp day.
Can I see the camp?
There are opportunities for parents to visit camp in the spring before camp opens and during the summer at our 2 family nights.
Would you classify your activities as competitive or instructional, and what is your activity emphasis?
Our activities seek to be instructional, offering challenge and growth for both beginner and advanced learners. Most importantly, they seek to be fun.
What are your medical and first-aid accommodations and capabilities?
Camp Otter has a full time Health Director/RN on staff who can assist with most medical concerns, a well equipped health center, and all staff are trained in First Aid, AED Administration and CPR for the Professional Rescuer. We can handle many illnesses and accidents on site, but have the capability of delivering a child to the local hospital in less than 20 minutes.
