Why have policies?
In a small, close-knit community like camp, everyone knows what is okay and what is not okay. With this kind of consistency, children know what to expect, and they begin to learn how to be good members of a community—not just to feel good about themselves. Our policies are set because they make sense for kids!

What is the Code of Living?
At the beginning of every summer, our campers and counselors create a “Code of Living,” a set of guidelines that will direct their actions while at Coleman Country.

What is the Tease-Free Zone?
At Coleman Country, we don’t tolerate any behaviors that hurt the feelings of others. Our program, “Don’t Laugh at Me,” is the core of our community-building agenda.

What is your phone call policy?
Parents receive a phone call from a divisional supervisor before camp begins and from a counselor after the first week of camp. We want parents to feel free to call the camp at anytime with questions or concerns. Please ask for the divisional supervisor of your child, although you may always speak to a member of the Coleman family.

What is the safe footwear policy?
“Pardners” live an active, outdoors lifestyle! Therefore, all camp footwear should be safe and stable on uneven or soft ground. That means sturdy sneakers everyday!

How do you handle transportation changes?
If you need to change a pick-up or drop-off place or time, we request that you notify us by 1 p.m. on the same day you wish to make the change.

What is your policy regarding uniforms?
Campers wear camp T-shirts. This eliminates the pressure and resulting competition that campers often feel about what to wear to camp. It also gives kids a sense of belonging. For more information, visit Parent University.

Are there choices in program?
Pardners pride themselves on being well-rounded individuals. While each group has a schedule of activities to ensure that every camper samples a little bit of everything from the large variety of camp offerings, there is still time for focus on areas of special interest. Our youngest campers benefit from a diverse schedule, adjusted to their individual and group preferences.

How much choice is there?
Depending on their age, campers have up to two choices daily. Children entering grades 2-4 select a “Club” for a weeklong cycle, which they attend every day. And, senior campers get clubs, plus an additional “Selective” period each day.

Where do most campers come from?
Campers come from just about every town on the South Shore of Long Island, border-to-border of Nassau County!

What if my camper doesn’t know anyone?
The term “fast friends” should have been invented for camp. So, don’t worry, many of our campers don’t have friends until the second hour of the first day!

How do campers get to camp?
We provide door-to-door transportation.

When is Visiting Day and how does it work?
See your child in action at Visiting Evening (for campers entering grades one and above) or on Visiting Day (for younger campers).

What is a typical day like?
There is no such thing as a typical day at Coleman Country! Check out “Our Program” to learn more.

How is the food?
Our chefs prepare nutritious, nut-free, “kid-friendly” hot lunches – served family style. We are pleased to accommodate a variety of special diets (parents should call us to discuss specific needs). The “Chow Hall,” our main dining facility, is equipped with fans, and our outdoor dining venues attract natural breezes. There is an afternoon snack of ice cream or ices, and younger campers enjoy a morning snack, too.

What if my child needs medical care?
“Wounded Knee,” our modern health center, is staffed with RNs who will call you if your child comes to visit for more than a scrape or splinter. We also have a pediatrician on call for consultation. The health center staff dispenses medication when needed, health care if indicated, and TLC all the time! Our ultimate goal is to be proactive and practice prevention by safeguarding against accidents and illness as much as possible.

How does the camp ensure the safety of campers?
Safety and security take top priority. Coleman Country is completely secluded from the surrounding area, and entrance to camp is permitted only through the main gate. All visitors must be approved by directors, and are required to check in and out, and wear nametags at all times in camp. Staff members also wear name badges and uniforms.

What if my child is homesick?
Yes, it’s possible to miss home even if you’re returning to it every night! Our staff is trained to help children adjust to being away from home – a skill that your child will be able to draw on later in life, whether for sleep-away, college, or marriage!

What is your philosophy regarding competition?
Coleman Country is a community where each member cares about, supports, and cheers on the others around him or her. With our focus on instruction, each camper is encouraged and supported to play their best. And for kids who don’t love sports, we have many other activities.

What is the ratio of campers to staff?
Every group of approximately 15-18 campers has a head counselor, an assistant counselor, and a counselor-in-training. Younger campers have an additional assistant counselor. Groups travel to activities where specialists also supervise them. Our ratio ends up being 1:3, and at swim it is 1:2.

Are there additional fees?
We are one of very few all-inclusive camps! There are no additional fees for transportation, horseback riding, 49er (5th-8th grade) trips, towel and bathing suit service, lunch and snacks, camp pictures, or video yearbook. The only added costs are suggested gratuities for group staff and bus drivers, as well as the purchase of Coleman-wear.

Do you have “Color War”?
After a summer of building a close community, the last thing we want to do is cap it off with a “war.” That’s why, in the spirit of healthy and harmonious competition, we conduct Coleman Country Olympics, based on the traditional Olympic Games.

How do I know if Coleman Country is a good fit for my child?
You should feel comfortable with the camp where you’ll be sending your child. Look closely at community and values, methods of communication, and facilities. You should also feel confident with the level of training and professionalism of the people who will be working with the campers. Ultimately, find a camp whose ideals match with yours.

Why should our family choose Coleman Country?
Our scenic location and state-of-the-art facilities speak for themselves. But what really sets Coleman Country apart is our sense of nurturing and community. At The Ranch, friendships are made, self-esteem is built, values are deep-rooted, goals are challenged and exceeded, and life lessons are learned. We have unmatched skill in child development, expertise in camp management, and the keenest desire for camper well-being. We provide the highest quality of staffing, programming, and facilities within a community that constantly strives to help each person be and do their best.