General Information

What is Firefolk Sleep Away Camp?
Firefolk is a week-long sleep away camp hosted at Camp Manitou in Maine. It combines Manitou’s long history of outdoor adventure and youth development with a modern, small-group program designed to help campers build confidence, independence and strong friendships.

Who can attend Firefolk?
Firefolk is designed for boys and girls between the ages of 8 to 15. Families from anywhere are welcome to apply.

Where is Firefolk located?
Firefolk will be hosted in the Belgrade Lakes region of Maine at the Camp Manitou flagship properties. We will be utilizing the facilities at both of our properties so campers have access to everything we have to offer – the two properties are a 4 min walk apart.

Pickup and Drop-off Address:
7 Camp Eastwood Circle
Oakland, ME 04963
United States

Enrollment & Fees

How do I enroll my child in Firefolk?
Enrollment is completed through the official Firefolk enrollment form on our website. Once you submit the form and we confirm your child’s place, you will receive a follow up email with next steps, medical forms and payment details. Spaces are limited, so early registration is encouraged.

How much does Firefolk cost?

• Camp Tuition: $2,990 per camper

• Deposit: $290 per camper (required to secure a spot)

• Sibling Discount: $200 off per additional child after the first

• Early Enrollment Discount: $150 per camper

What is the refund policy if my child cannot attend?
If your camper is unable to attend, please reach out to the Firefolk team to discuss refund options. Refund decisions are made on a case by case basis. Please note that deposits are non refundable. The full refund policy is set out in the Firefolk Terms and Conditions.

Can my child attend with a friend?
Yes. Campers are welcome to attend with a friend. Attending camp with a familiar face can help some campers adjust more quickly. You will be able to note bunk mate requests during enrollment and we do our best to honor as many requests as possible.

Camp Experience & Activities

What activities will my child participate in?
The Firefolk program draws on a range of Manitou facilities. Campers can expect a mix of:

• Waterfront: Swimming, boating, canoeing, kayaking, paddleboarding, sailing and tubing, wake surfing
• Land sports: Basketball, soccer, tennis, pickleball, baseball and other field and court games
• Adventure: Ropes elements, group challenges and age appropriate tripss
• Creative: Photography, crafts and other creative projects
• Evening programs: Campfires, talent night, s’mores, group games and Color Clash competitions

How are campers grouped?
Campers are grouped based on age, gender and parent preference. This helps us create cabin and activity groups that feel comfortable and developmentally appropriate, while still giving campers the chance to meet new friends.

What if my child is shy or does not know anyone?
Many campers arrive not knowing anyone. Our counselors and staff are trained to help every camper feel at home. Through cabin time, icebreakers, small group activities and team based programs, campers quickly form friendships and become part of the Firefolk community.

Will my child have free time?
Yes. Each day includes scheduled downtime, where campers can relax, read, play low key games, write letters or simply spend unstructured time with friends. This balance between activity and rest is an important part of the camp experience.

Is there a special theme for the camp?
Firefolk is not built around a single theme, but the program does include signature experiences such as Color Clash, our all camp team competition, along with evening campfires and closing celebrations. The focus is on connection, adventure and personal growth rather than a theme.

Safety & Supervision

Who are the camp staff and counselors?
Firefolk is staffed by experienced, highly trained professionals from Camp Manitou and our wider resorts program team. Most staff members work at Manitou in Maine during the broader summer season.

What is the camper to staff ratio?
We maintain approximately a 1:4 camper to staff ratio, which allows for close supervision, individual attention and a strong sense of community in cabins and activity groups.

How does the camp handle homesickness?
Homesickness is a normal part of the sleep away camp experience, especially for first time campers. Our staff are trained to support campers through:

• Conversation and reassurance

• Encouraging participation in activities

• Helping them connect with peers and cabin mates

Most campers settle in after the first couple of days. If homesickness continues or escalates, we may call you to plan how best to support your child together.

What happens in case of a medical emergency?

• A camp nurse is available 24/7 to address health needs.

• Parents will be contacted if:

  • A camper stays overnight in the health center.

  • A camper has an allergic reaction or requires antibiotics.

  • A camper needs to see a doctor or visit a local clinic.

Are there lifeguards and first aid trained staff on site?
Yes. Lifeguard certified staff supervise all waterfront activities. Many staff members are trained in first aid and CPR. Water activities only run when appropriate safety cover is in place.

How does the camp accommodate food allergies and dietary restrictions?
We work with families ahead of time to understand allergies and dietary restrictions and provide appropriate options at meals and snack times. Please include all relevant details on your camper’s medical and health forms so we can plan properly.

Packing

What should my child pack?
For a detailed list of what to bring, please see the Firefolk packing list:

The packing list covers clothing, footwear, toiletries, suggested extras and items that should be left at home.

Can my child bring electronics?

• Phones: Yes, for travel. On arrival at camp, phones are collected by staff, stored safely and only made available during scheduled check ins. Phones are returned at the end of the session.

• Cameras: Yes. Simple digital or disposable cameras are welcome.

• Music players: Yes, as long as they are simple devices used only for music.

• Other electronics: No gaming devices, tablets, laptops or other screen based gadgets are allowed at camp.

The goal is to let campers be present, connect with the people and place around them and take a break from screens.

Communication & Updates

Can I contact my child?
If you need to reach your child during camp, you can contact the Camp Directors. In most cases messages will be passed on and, if appropriate, we will arrange a time for your camper to return your call or speak with you.

Will I receive updates?
Yes. We regularly upload photos to a shared folder so parents can stay connected to camp life. You will also receive email updates during the session.

Can parents visit camp?
We are super excited for parents and families to visit on arrival day and departure day when dropping off or picking up campers. We do not schedule or encourage visits during the week itself, as this can disrupt the experience for your camper and others.

Transportation

Is transportation provided?
Families are responsible for getting campers to and from camp.

Parents may:

• Drive campers directly to Camp Manitou in Maine, or

• Arrange flights so their camper can travel by air.

For campers flying:

• We recommend Portland International Jetport (PWM).

• When a group of campers travels together on the same flight, we will attempt to have a Firefolk staff member travel as a chaperone.

Full travel guidance will be shared with enrolled families before camp.