1. Important Information

Key Dates

• Arrival day: Saturday August 15, 2026

• Departure day: Friday August 21, 2026

Emergency Contacts

Reach out to Tristan or Pete for all and any camper related questions and emergencies.

• Tristan Hewat
  • Director
  • tristan@campmanitou.com
  • +1 808 987 5324

• Pete Hansen
  • Director
  • pete@campmanitou.com
  • +1 207 716 6862

2. Camper Travel

Families are responsible for arranging travel to and from camp.

Parents can:

• Drive campers directly to the facility in Maine to drop off and pick up. Parents are welcome to tour the property on arrival day and departure day.

• Arrange flights so their camper can travel by air.

For campers traveling by air:

• The closest airport to camp is Portland International Jetport (PWM).

• Once we have the details of camper arrival, we will organize pick up of campers from Portland International Jetport and will drive campers to the facility.

• When there is a large group of campers traveling together, we will have a Firefolk staff member travel as a chaperone on the flight with the campers.

3. Packing List

A complete packing list of clothing, equipment, and personal items for your camper’s week at Firefolk.

4. Life at Camp

Life at Firefolk is filled with adventure, camaraderie and personal growth. Campers live in cabins with their peers, building friendships and teamwork under the guidance of experienced staff. Each day balances exciting activities, friendly competition and meaningful traditions, creating an unforgettable summer experience.

Cabin Life

Campers are grouped by age and gender in their cozy, well-maintained cabins, which serve as their home away from home during their stay. Each thoughtfully arranged cabin houses a small group of campers and is supervised by experienced staff who create and maintain a safe, supportive and inclusive environment where every camper can feel comfortable being themselves.

Cabin Cleanliness and Sanitation

Campers and staff are responsible for keeping their cabins clean, promoting teamwork and personal responsibility. Daily tasks include making beds, organizing personal spaces and sweeping floors.

Daily Schedule

Campers will enjoy a mix of structured and free-choice activities, including:

• Morning activities: Activities like kayaking, canoeing, stand-up paddleboarding, sailing, windsurfing, fishing, speed boat tubing, ceramics, tennis, pickleball, volleyball, basketball, baseball and a thrilling zipline. Specific activities will vary each day based on the program and conditions.

• Color Clash and special events: Manitou traditions featuring team competitions and all-camp activities that build camaraderie and a sense of community.

• Evening campfires: Reflective and community-building moments at the end of the day.

Dining

The dining hall features a warm and welcoming atmosphere where we serve a diverse array of delicious, nutritious meals in a convenient buffet-style format. Each meal is thoughtfully prepared by the kitchen staff using fresh ingredients, catering to various tastes and dietary needs while offering:

• Hot breakfast options including eggs, pancakes and fresh fruit

• Varied lunch and dinner selections with vegetarian alternatives

• Healthy snacks available throughout the day at designated stations

• Dietary restrictions and allergies accommodated with special menu options

Homesickness

Homesickness is normal, especially for first-time campers. Our trained staff support campers through engaging activities, building friendships and empathetic listening. Homesickness often eases after the first couple of days as campers adjust. Parents can help by:

• Encouraging independence before camp with sleepovers or short trips away from home

• Framing camp as a fun adventure rather than something to “survive”

• Avoiding statements like “We will come get you if you are unhappy”

If homesickness continues, we may call you to plan the best way to support your camper together.

5. Special Activities

Color Clash

A cherished Camp Manitou tradition that divides campers into teams for friendly competitions, including tug-of-war, relay races, sports, bunk inspections and trivia. Points are awarded throughout the week, culminating in a final event and awards moment.

Talent Show and Closing Ceremony

Campers are invited to showcase their skills during the talent show, followed by a closing campfire or ceremony celebrating the week’s achievements and the friendships they have built.

6. Prohibited Items

We are a tech-free camp. We want campers to unplug, build confidence, and make lasting memories withe their new friends. Campers may bring phones, which we’ll securely store upon arrival. They’ll have designated times to call and check-in with you before getting their phones back at departure.

The following items are not allowed at camp:

• Electronics – No gaming devices, tablets, laptops or other screen-based gadgets.

• Food from home – Snacks will be provided, and outside food is not allowed.

• Valuables – Jewellery or sentimental items are best left at home.

7. Communication

Camper–Parent Communication

Campers will have set opportunities during their camp session to access their phones and check in with parents. Campers without phones may use a camp phone for these check-ins.

Photo Updates

Daily photos will be uploaded to a shared online folder, allowing parents to stay connected to the camp experience.

Emergency Contact

Parents can contact Tristan Hewat or Pete Hansen directly for urgent matters.

8. Health and Safety

Medical Support

The 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

Water Safety

All campers complete a water safety check at the start of the session. Lifeguard-certified staff supervise all water activities at the lakefront and the pool. The waterfront is equipped with safety gear and marked swim zones tailored to different skill levels.

Sunscreen and Hydration

Campers are reminded to apply sunscreen throughout the day, with extra sunscreen available at activity stations. Quick-dry swim shirts are encouraged to avoid sunburn. Hydration is prioritized with water available at all meals and during activity breaks.

9. Policies and Guidelines

Behavior Expectations

Before the session begins, campers will receive a behavior contract to read and sign. The contract highlights our core values of respect, teamwork and community.

We expect campers to:

• Treat others with kindness and respect

• Include others and avoid bullying or exclusion

• Follow safety instructions from staff

• Refrain from any use of drugs, alcohol, vapes or weapons

In rare cases where behavior repeatedly affects the safety or wellbeing of others, we may ask parents to collect a camper early at their own expense.

Technology Policy

Firefolk is a tech-free camp. We aim to foster creativity, human connection, and mindfulness. All phones are safely stored and only made available during scheduled parent check-ins.

• Phones brought for travel are collected on arrival and stored safely

• Phones are only made available during scheduled check-ins

• No gaming devices, tablets, laptops or other screen-based gadgets are allowed

Social Media

Camp updates, including photos and highlights, are shared on Firefolk and Camp Manitou social channels. Parents with questions or concerns about social media use should contact us before the session.

10. After Camp

Lost and Found

Items left behind will be returned when possible. Report missing items as soon as you notice something is missing. Clearly labeling clothing and gear before camp makes it much easier to reunite items with their owners.

Post-Camp Feedback

We value your input. Parents are encouraged to share feedback and testimonials after the session to help us improve and to celebrate the camp experience.

Future Enrollments

Re-enrollment for the following summer will open shortly after camp ends. Families who have attended Firefolk will receive advance notice and details about enrollment dates and availability.