We’ve added programs and boosted capacity on the heels of last summer’s unprecedented wait lists. Check out what’s in store, and sign up now—open enrollment for 2023 has begun and sessions are filling fast. We can’t wait to see you this summer!
Pre-Camp Programs
School’s out and it’s time to unwind! Ease into summer through a pre-camp program. Summer Sprouts adjust to life at camp, Outdoor Explorers build friendships as they swim and play games, Trailbreakers warm up hiking muscles, and Summer Send’ers knock the dust off their bikes.
Summer Sprouts (Ages 4–5)
Get ready for summer by building sandcastles, playing games, splashing in shallow water, exploring trails, and making friends. Half-days increase little kids’ comfort in the outdoors, and a 1:5 staff-to-child ratio ensures personal attention as they socialize and acclimate to Powissett Pond’s placid waterfront.
Kick off summer in style! At South Beach, older kids swim at one of Hale’s liveliest waterfronts that includes access to playgrounds, a picnic area, and modern bathrooms. Staff facilitate games on the field, help campers navigate new trails, and encourage development of friendships that continue at camp.
Eager to log miles? Trailbreakers start and end their days at South Beach, and learn about plants and wildlife as they hike throughout our acres of adventure. Every day includes opportunities to focus on building outdoor skills, as well as time to swim and enjoy Noanet Pond.
8–13-year-olds who are ready to ride can shift gears on Hale’s trails. Mountain bikers access features and brush up on skills around our ABC XYZ site, and a nearby field doubles as an outdoor classroom. Coaches help riders build endurance—there’s no better way to reach South Beach for swimming than by bike!
Hale Day Camp features traditional activities in four age-based divisions tailored to their developmental needs. For enrollment, note these are “rising” grade ranges; campers should be entering these grades next fall.
Kindercamp (Pre-K–Kindergarten)
In Kindercamp, little ones play, swim, develop new skills, and learn to be more independent. Daily schedules rotate through activities that allow for exploration. Our low 1:5 staff-to-camper ratio exceeds American Camp Association standards. Counselors even send daily “report cards” home in campers’ lunch boxes—so you’ll always know what they’re up to and how they’re doing. The only catch: They need to be toilet-trained to attend!
Lower Camp (Grades 1–2)
In Lower Camp, kids continue building skills and move beyond their comfort zones through swimming lessons, games, and more. Counselors introduce archery, canoeing, and arts & crafts. Campers begin hiking Hale’s trails, explore the property’s natural features, and learn basic outdoor skills. Facilitated teambuilding helps friendships flourish as everyone develops socially and emotionally. Personal attention is assured with a low 1:6 staff-to-camper ratio.
Middle Camp (Grades 3–5)
In Middle Camp, even more activities become available: advanced archery and group sports, to name a few. We also welcome campers to the challenge course (a.k.a. low and high ropes) for the first time. Drama, music, dance, and outdoor adventure blocks build confidence and encourage creativity—which many choose to share through our weekly talent show! A 1:8 staff-to-camper ratio sustains the personal attention Hale is known for.
Teen Camp (Grades 6–8)
Welcome to Teen Camp, where freedom, flexibility, and adventure are the name of the game. Teens and pre-teens gain autonomy by selecting afternoon activities and spending less structured time together. They build boating stamina during week one so they can paddle across Noanet Pond for a South Beach BBQ, and during week two, they camp overnight at Hale and head to Nantasket Beach the following day. After learning from each other and being informally mentored by counselors (Teen Camp boasts a 1:10 staff-to-camper ratio), many pursue their own leadership development through our Counselor-in-Training Program.
Counselor-in-Training (Grades 9–10)
Campers love Hale, but when they’re too old to be campers themselves, our Counselor-in-Training (CIT) Program teaches them to be the role models who shape our community. CITs spend 4 weeks developing leadership skills. Initially, they participate in activities and learn about expectations. By week three, they select a focus area—counseling, activities, or waterfront—and shadow staff members. As they lead routines and activities, CITs enjoy the benefits of Teen Camp (including BBQs, beach trips, and self-selected activities) as they participate in facilitated reflection about their own learning and development. Learn more and apply.
Hale Adventure Camp features five levels of challenge that build outdoor skills and include travel opportunities. Campers also enjoy traditional camp activities such as archery, boating, climbing, and swimming.
Adventure 101 (Grades 3–4)
Adventure 101 (Grades 3–4) is a two-week introduction to Hale Adventure Camp, which caters to campers interested in hiking and learning outdoor skills. Offered during sessions 1, 2, and 3, Adventure 101 teaches them to read maps, build fires, and be safe in the outdoors. Campers learn about local plants and wildlife as they enjoy traditional camp activities including archery, boating, fishing, and swimming.
Basecamp (Grades 5–6)
Basecamp (Grades 5–6) builds on Adventure 101 with an overnight experience at Hale. This two-week program (also offered during sessions 1, 2, and 3) focuses on hiking, orienteering, fishing, shelter building, and more. A field trip invites campers to hike Mt. Wachusett and refuel with lunch at the summit. After that, they return to Hale and camp overnight—and practice cooking over an open fire, setting up and breaking down tents, safely recreating in the outdoors after dark, and more. Basecampers also enjoy traditional camp activities including archery, boating, fishing, swimming, and climbing on our challenge course.
Frontcountry (Grades 6–7)
Frontcountry (Grades 6–7) builds on Basecamp with two camping opportunities—one at Hale, the other in the Berkshires or White Mountains. This two-week program (also offered during sessions 1, 2, and 3) includes an overnight during the first week of each session and a multi-day trip during the second week. The one-nighter at Hale during week one refreshes skills and builds camaraderie. The 3-day, 2-night trip to the Berkshires or White Mountains during week two puts their skills to the test: Campers ascend Mt. Greylock (at 3,491 feet, the highest peak in Massachusetts) or the moderately challenging North and Middle Sugarloafs (2,310 and 2,539 feet, respectively). Services and facilities are readily accessible during all Frontcountry trips. Campers also enjoy traditional camp activities including archery, boating, fishing, swimming, and climbing on our challenge course.
Session 1’s trip during week two summits Mt. Greylock, MA
Session 2’s trip during week two summits the Sugarloafs, NH
Session 3’s trip during week two summits Mt. Greylock, MA
Campers registering for Frontcountry must have completed Basecamp.
Backcountry (Grades 7–8)
Backcountry (Grades 7–8) appeals to experienced graduates of Frontcountry who have big appetites for adventure. Offered during sessions 1, 2, and 3, this two-week program includes an overnight during the first week of each session and a multi-day trip during the second week—but that second trip is a true backpacking experience: no services. No facilities. Just our expert guides helping campers traverse 7–9 miles of trails that ascend various 4,000-footers throughout New Hampshire’s White Mountains. Of course, campers also enjoy traditional camp activities including archery, boating, fishing, swimming, and climbing on our challenge course throughout their time at Hale, and compete in the Outdoor Skills Gauntlet at the end of each session.
Session 1’s trip during week two summits Mts. Tom and Field, NH
Session 2’s trip during week two summits Mts. Hale and Zealand, NH
Session 3’s trip during week two summits North and South Kinsman, NH
Campers registering for Backcountry must have completed Frontcountry.
Expedition (Grades 9–10)
Expedition helps aspiring guides learn the skills necessary to counsel campers and manage trips like those we run in Hale Adventure Camp’s Frontcountry and Backcountry divisions. The 4-week experience teaches participants what it takes to be a team member. Participants learn hard and soft skills in the great outdoors, spend time working with campers in younger divisions to pass on their knowledge, and pursue industry-recognized certification in Wilderness First Aid. The culmination of this experience is a 5-day backpacking trip in the White Mountains. Learn more and apply.
Hale Mountain Biking Camp focuses on skill-building and ride time. Campers execute drills, increase endurance, and learn about bike maintenance and trail stewardship in our private skills park and beyond.
MTB 101 (Grades 3–7)
MTB101 (Grades 3–7) is where mountain bikers begin. This program is for campers just starting in the sport and those who need support getting into it. With low staff-to-rider ratios, greater attention is given to the basics of mountain biking. Prior experience on a bike is required, but our team will help them grow from there. Campers will learn to mount, dismount, brake, shift, and generally improve their skills as they navigate rough terrain, steer around obstacles, and explore small features. They’ll also enjoy the benefits of camp: daily beach time, swimming lessons, and boating; teambuilding, time on the challenge course, as well as sports, arts & crafts, and more!
Intermediate MTB (Grades 4–8)
Intermediate MTB (Grades 4–8) focuses on skill development. Campers in this division receive daily instruction that focuses on specific skills and progressing those skills. The Skill of the Day block offers practice either a) on a field with features and elements to practice on, or b) on a trail with hills, bridges, and natural obstacles. Hale’s private Skills Park provides campers with opportunities to build, ride, and maintain features—led by camp staff, campers get their hands dirty and create ramps, birms, and trails throughout the area.
Advanced MTB (Grades 5–9)
Advanced MTB (Grades 5–9) sends it every summer. Designed for mountain bikers with advanced skills, riders continue developing with some of our most experienced instructors. Advanced jumping and downhill mountain biking are just a few of the adrenaline-boosting activities they pursue. Campers start their session at Hale, and during the second week, take an off-campus field trip to explore mountain biking at new locations throughout New England.
Coach-in-Training (Grades 9–10)
Our Coach-in-Training Program helps enthusiastic young riders develop as engaging leaders. They learn what it takes to be a successful coach, counselor, and mentor—both on and off a bike—and how to support campers’ social and emotional development. As they come to appreciate the inner workings of summer camp, many apply to join the ranks of our staff the following year. Learn more and apply.
Hale Day Camp’s Counselor-in-Training Program, Hale Adventure Camp’s Expedition, and Hale MTB Camp’s Coach-in-Training Program develop communication, problem-solving, and leadership skills among Hale’s next generation of leaders. Senior counselors coach aspiring role models during multi-session blocks throughout the summer. Enrollees participate in professional development, teambuilding, and challenge course activities and are embedded with groups to observe program operations in action. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis—interview have begun, apply today!
Bus Service
At Hale, every camper takes the bus! We gladly provide bus service* with stops in Brookline, Dedham, Dover, Hyde Park, Jamaica Plain, Medfield, Milton, Needham, Newton, Norwood, West Roxbury, and Westwood. To reduce traffic and enhance safety, regular drop-offs and pick-ups are not permitted on site. A local bus stop is available for campers whose parents or guardians wish to drive them to Westwood.
A camp staff member accompanies each bus for the duration of its route and ensures your camper’s safe journey to and from camp each day. Please note that you or an authorized adult must meet your camper at your designated bus stop each afternoon.
Registration for transportation will begin in January. Buses serve campers during regular camp hours (8:45 AM–3:45 PM).
Bus 1 (Yellow)
St. Mary’s Episcopal Church, 258 Concord Street, Newton 7:35 AM 4:50 PM
Eliot School, 135 Wellesley Avenue, Needham 7:50 AM 4:35 PM
Newman Elementary School, 1155 Central Avenue, Needham 8:05 AM 4:20 PM
Downey School, 250 Downey Street, Westwood 8:05 AM 4:15 PM
Westwood High School, 200 Nahatan Street, Westwood 8:25 AM 4 PM
Bus 4 (Purple)
Brookline High School, 115 Greenough Street, Brookline 7:50 AM 4:45 PM
English High School, 144 McBride Street, Jamaica Plain 8:10 AM 4:15 PM
Bus 5 (Orange)
Holy Name Parish School, 535 West Roxbury Parkway, West Roxbury 8 AM 4:30 PM
Catholic Memorial School, 235 Baker Street, West Roxbury 8:15 AM 4:15 PM
Riverdale School, 143 Needham Street, Dedham 8:25 AM 4 PM
Bus 6 (Blue)
Ellison/Parks Early Education School, 108 Babson Street, Mattapan 7:35 AM 4:50 PM
Pierce Middle School, 451 Central Avenue, Milton 7:50 AM 4:35 PM
Francis D. Martini Park, 1015 Truman Pkwy, Boston 8:05 AM 4:20 PM
Greenlodge School, 191 Greenlodge Street, Dedham 8:20 AM 4:05 PM
Bus 7 (Silver)
The Mosaic School, 3859 Washington St, Boston 7:50 AM 4:35 PM
Washington Irving Middle School, Roslindale 8:05 AM 4:20 PM
Beethoven Elementary School, Boston 8:20 AM 4:05 PM
James W Hennigan School, 200 Heath St, Jamaica Plain 7:35 AM 4:50 PM
*Please note that any camper who registers for bus service may be subject to a transportation surcharge of $130 per camper, per session should public health protocols limit passenger capacities at that time.
Enrollment
We’re pleased to once again include one Hale Annual Membership per camp family (a $120 value) with registration. Valid from Mar. 1, 2023–Feb. 28, 2024, your membership features complimentary parking throughout the year, discounts on activities, and a copy of Hale Magazine.
Registrants may choose to pay in full or opt for installment billing. This is a matter of preference; no discount is associated with one option vs. the other.
Installment billing requires a non-refundable $150 down payment (per camper) for Pre-Camp, or $300 non-refundable down payment (per camper, per session) for Summer Camps. The remainder is billed in equal monthly installments on the first of each month, starting January 2023. Campers who register after installment billing begins are responsible for however many installments would have already been billed leading up to that time.
EXAMPLE: Let’s say you’d like to enroll your camper in Session 3 of Hale Day Camp’s Lower Camp division. Full tuition is $1,495 per session, less any discounts. If you pay full tuition and opt for installment billing, you’ll make a $300 deposit (per camper, per session), and then we’ll automatically charge the balance to your credit card on the 1st of each month thereafter, starting in January. If you register now, that’s $300 today plus $239 per month starting in January. If you register after January 1, you’ll pay $539 at the time of registration ($300 down payment + one $239 installment) and then $239 per month starting Feb. 1.
Our refund policy protects those who register early. Regular payments (i.e. your total amount paid, minus non-refundable down payments) are refundable until April 30, 2023. Whether you opt for installment billing or choose to pay in full, your account balance will be settled by May so you and your camper can focus on what’s most important as summer approaches: camp!
Registration System Tips
If you’re new to Hale’s registration system, you aren’t alone! Please review the steps below. We recommend using a laptop, not a phone.
Once you access the system, you can create an account in one of two ways:
Click the “Log in” button on the top right, select “Not a Member?” and create an account.
Select the Camp & Youth Programs category on the left, select a program, and click “Enroll.” After that, click “Create Account.”
We appreciate bug reports and general feedback related to your registration experience, but please contact us at 781-326-1770 if you require assistance.
Rates & Dates
Please note that during Session 1, camps do not operate on the Fourth of July.
Special discount codes are only valid on Hale’s camps for the 2023 season and are subject to terms and conditions. Hale reserves the right, at any time and without prior notice, to modify, extend, or end promotional discounts.
Hale is committed to ensuring that our programs are accessible to children and families regardless of personal means. To that end, we maintain a fund to help families in need afford the cost of tuition. Our 2023 financial aid application for Summer Camps is now closed. Applications for our Family & Community Program continue to be reviewed on a rolling basis.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Hale's camps licensed and accredited?
Yes. Every camp must comply with the regulations of Massachusetts Department of Public Health and be licensed by the local Board of Health. Hale’s collective camps (i.e. those we own and operate, which include Hale Day Camp, Hale Adventure Camp, Hale Mountain Biking Camp, and Hale’s Counselor-in-Training Program) are proudly accredited by the American Camp Association. Learn why that’s important!
How old does my camper need to be to attend?
Age requirements vary by camp, but our youngest campers must be at least four years of age and toilet trained to attend Kindercamp.
Who will take care of my camper?
Seasonal staff members are carefully selected from the teaching profession, top college and graduate schools, and local public and private high schools. Every applicant is personally interviewed, three or more reference checks are required, and work histories are carefully reviewed. Hale also completes criminal background (CORI) and sex offender (SORI) checks on all of its hires.
Our counselors are enthusiastic, creative role models who understand children and love the outdoors. Activity specialists have extensive experience in their respective activities (and receive additional training prior to camp).
Hale Day Camp staff members are certified in CPR and First Aid. Hale Adventure Camp and Hale MTB Camp staff members often hold more advanced Wilderness First Aid, Wilderness Advanced First Aid, or Wilderness First Responder certifications, and often have many years and hundreds (if not thousands) of miles of experience hiking and riding terrain throughout New England.
What are the staff-to-camper ratios?
During a typical season, Kindercamp’s is 1:5. Lower Camp’s is 1:6. Middle Camp’s is 1:8. Teen Camp’s is 1:10. Additionally, program specialists staff every activity area. Hale Adventure Camp’s and Hale MTB Camp’s ratios are 1:6. Overall, Hale’s staff-to-camper ratio is 1:5.
What are the facilities like?
We have unparalleled access to Hale’s 1,000+ acres of adventure. Each camp boasts its own campus with amenities that include lodges, pavilions, playing fields, private beaches, changing areas, swimming zones, bathrooms, archery ranges, skills parks, and more.
How will my camper get there?
Bus transportation during regular camp hours (8:45 AM–3:45 PM) is included with camp tuition. Starting in 2023, all campers must enter and exit Hale by bus to improve traffic flow and safety. A local pickup location will be available for campers whose parents or guardians wish to bring them to the property. Campers may be dropped off late or picked up early by personal vehicle only at designated times. Hale MTB Camp permits dropoff and pickup at Noanet Landing for campers who are transporting bikes.
Can I pick up my camper later than 3:45 PM?
No, Hale does not offer an extended day option. Please ensure your camper’s transportation plans account for a timely pick-up.
What about my camper's bike?
Bikes are not permitted on buses, but locked storage at Hale is complimentary for the duration of your camper’s session. There are three options to bring your camper’s bike to Hale:
Join us at the annual Camp Family Welcome Event, date TBD. Bring your camper’s bike with you and we’ll store it until camp begins.
Drop off your camper’s bike before their session begins (Monday through Friday from 8 AM until 6 PM).
On the first day of your camper’s session, drop them off with their bike.
You may retrieve your camper’s bike after their final session by picking them up on their last day or returning to Hale the following week during business hours.
The session I wanted is full! Should I join the wait list?
Yes! Some wait lists are longer than others, but people’s plans change. We enroll as many campers as possible in the order they signed up.
With so many people on your wait lists, can't you hire more counselors and create more groups?
We wish it were that easy! Massachusetts regulations and ACA guidelines require that specific camper-to-counselor ratios be maintained and that enrollment not exceed the capacity limits of current facilities. Long term planning that includes a new lodge is underway, but it will take several years before we can accomodate a significant increase in campers.
Can I apply for financial aid?
Yes. Any family may submit a financial aid application (these are reviewed on a rolling basis, and are due no later than April 28, 2023). Sustained by private philanthropy, Hale’s campership fund closes the gap between tuition and what families are able to afford. Only under the most extraordinary of circumstances is full tuition granted.
I need to change or cancel my camper's registration. How do I do that?
To change or cancel a registration, please email Wendy Rands at wrands@hale1918.org.
I still have questions. Who should I contact?
Please contact us by phone at 781-326-1770 or by email at info@hale1918.org.
