May I be in the same tent as my best friend from home?
We recommend that campers from the same home town not be in the same tent. That way each of you can make four new friends right away. The daily schedule is done in such a way that you can go to activities with whomever you wish.
May I request to be with a certain counselor or a camper from last year?
We will consider your request, but cannot promise because of the tent housing arrangements. Many things are taken into consideration when setting up the tent groups including age, hometown, prior tent mates and session.
How cold is the water?
The swims after mountain trips are cold in the mountain streams. But Moose Pond is very mild. It may seem cold at first, but after a busy day on the fields or at the barn the water feels great!
May I bring my cell phone, smart phone or tablet?
We have such a busy schedule; there is no time for video games, apps or online social networks. Camp is a time to leave the video games, television, computer and phone at home! We believe the summer is a good time to get away from the phones. Your Unit Director can use the camp phone to contact your parents if there is an urgent message.
What is the food like?
The food is good with lots to choose from in our dining hall. We eat family style, everyone sitting at a table with a staff or camper waiter. Breakfast includes fresh fruit and cereals, with a hot entrée of eggs or pancakes. Lunch is the typical pizza or grilled cheese, with salad options. Dinner varies, but includes chicken and pasta with salad, vegetables and fresh breads. For those who prefer something else, PB&J, bread and fresh fruit are available at each meal. If you have a food allergy (we do have several boys with food allergies each summer), be sure to remind your parents to discuss it with Winona before your arrival at camp.
May I go to my favorite activity all the time?
The sign-up system varies by unit, but each tent takes a turn signing up first. One day you can choose your favorite activity but the next you may have to try something else. The activity counselor may also be teaching requirements which you have already accomplished.
Do I have to do an activity I do not like?
You have the choice of which activities you go to. Although it may not be your favorite, trying a new activity can be fun.
I have never done the outdoor stuff.
That’s no problem; everybody learns the basics at Winona before moving onto more advanced skills! It is a great place to learn new skills for the first time. Lots of campers (and staff) learn new skills at camp that quickly turn into passions for a particular activity.
Making new friends is hard.
That may be true at times, but at Winona everyone is immediately part of a tent group and teams. New friends are made each day at Winona, and those friends last a lifetime!
If it is a rainy summer, what activities are available?
We have lots of buildings for activities, regardless of weather conditions. Also many outdoor activities take place, too.
