Although it’s only February, the Recreation Department is excited to welcome campers (new and returning) for another summer of fun, learning, and making memories. Starting this year, all campers will attend camp at the Recreation Center, located at 150 Wakefield Street. 

The decision was made after careful consideration of 2022 operations and feedback from the Summer Camp Family Survey.

According to Recreation & Arena Director Lauren Krans, the consolidation allows staff the ability to funnel staffing and programming resources into one location, ensuring that every camper has the same high-quality, fun experience.

The vision for a consolidated camp can be broken down in the following ways: 

• Create a consistent, fun experience by providing all campers with the same enrichment activities.  
• Build a stronger sense of community and tradition-making through one, cohesive camp.
• Provide better access to resources and a greater variety of indoor and outdoor games, crafts, and activities.  
• Allow campers to be separated into groups by age, resulting in more targeted games and activities.  
• Create a better network of support and communication among staff, consistent training, and professional development, and more efficient and effective staffing overall. 

Staff is confident that campers and their families will agree that this move creates a better platform for families and campers to connect. The change also provides improved access to resources, experiences, and positive role models. 

“We want kids to feel like they are part of something bigger than themselves.” said Krans, “The friendships made at camp are laying the foundation for the future of the community in Rochester.” 

Information regarding the 2023 Rec. Summer Camp is now available at Rec.RochesterNH.gov.