Policy and Guidelines

  • Safe. Structured. Supportive.

    At Camp Atwater, your child’s safety comes first. For over a century, we’ve provided a trusted environment where young people can grow, explore, and thrive.

    Our Safety Promise

    We focus on:

    • Prevention – proactive planning and training

    • Supervision – constant oversight

    • Response – immediate, effective action

    Every staff member shares responsibility for your child’s safety.

    What Families Can Expect

    Qualified Staff

    • Background-checked (CORI/SORI)

    • Certified in First Aid, CPR, and AED

    • Trained in youth development and safety

    Constant Supervision

    • Staff supervision at all times

    • Strong staff-to-camper ratios

    • Line-of-sight monitoring and regular headcounts

    Health & Wellness

    • 24/7 on-site Health Center

    • Secure medication management

    • Daily physical and emotional wellness support

    Safe Programs & Facilities

    • Age-appropriate, safety-designed activities

    • Certified lifeguards and swim instruction

    • Regular facility inspections and weather monitoring

    Positive Camp Culture

    • Respectful, inclusive environment

    • Clear expectations for behavior

    • Immediate response to concerns

    Emergency Preparedness

    We are ready to respond quickly to any situation, including medical needs, severe weather, fire safety, and missing camper protocols.

    Family Communication

    We keep families informed, accessible, and engaged—because safety is a partnership.

    A Foundation for Growth

    At Camp Atwater, children feel safe, supported, and empowered—building confidence, independence, and lifelong memories.

  • Since the camp is intended to be a developmental and independent experience for campers, we discourage incoming and outgoing camper calls. This does not apply in case of emergency. If we think a call to or from home will enhance the experience of a camper, we will certainly not hesitate to use this avenue. For calls concerning applications and financial matters, dial: (413) 739-7211 Ext. 102. Leave a voice mail and a staff member will return your call. Non-business calls while camp is in session dial: (508) 867-6916.

  • During July and August all camper mail should be sent to Camp Atwater, 20 Shore Road, North Brookfield, MA 01535. Prior to June 28 and after July 25 all mail should be properly addressed to Camp Atwater c/o Urban League of Springfield, Inc., One Federal Street, Building 111-3, Springfield, MA 01105.

  • Sundays are designated as Visitors’ Day between the hours of 11 a.m. and 5 p.m. All visitors must register at the campus office. Campers will not be permitted to leave the camp grounds with any visitor(s) without written or telephone approval from a parent or guardian.

  • Luggage should be limited as much as possible. Parents are responsible for making arrangements for luggage to and from the camp. Parents should identify specific carriers for luggage, and arrangements must be made and pre-paid prior to delivery or pick-up. Please address luggage to campers c/o Camp Atwater, 20 Shore Road, North Brookfield, Massachusetts 01535 and notify the camp office.

Celebrating 100 Years of Service