CIRCLE OF TAPAWINGO
Frequently Asked Questions
- Where is Circle of Tapawingo?
Circle of Tapawingo is held on the grounds of Camp Tapawingo, on Keyes Pond, in Sweden
Maine, 52 miles northwest of Portland, between the towns of Bridgton and Fryeburg.
- What is the relationship of Circle of Tapawingo to Camp Tapawingo?
Both organizations operate on the grounds of Camp Tapawingo, but separate from each
other. Circle of Tapawingo is incorporated in the state of Pennsylvania and is a 501(c)(3) organization.
Camp Tapawingo is an independent, private girls camp.
- What is the history of Camp Tapawingo?
The camp has been in operation since
1919, continually offering a private summer-long experience to young girls
between the ages of six and 17. Tapawingo is accredited by the American
Camping Association and is a member of the Maine Youth Camping Association.
- What is the cost of Circle of Tapawingo?
Our program is free. We take care of all costs, including meals, activities and transportation to and from camp
from central points in Boston, MA and Bridgton, ME.
- How many campers do you have?
Our numbers have grown from 32 campers in 2002 to 109 campers in August 2009.
- How long is the program?
Campers spend six days at Circle of Tapawingo.
- From what areas do campers come?
Most of our campers live in the greater New England area.
- How do we choose those who attend?
We work with grief counselors and social
service agencies to identify girls who can benefit from our program.
Circle of Tapawingo has two requirements for campers: girls must be mature
enough to be away from home for one week, and must have no special medical or
emotional needs requiring significant professional attention.
- Do we have bereavement counseling?
We have several volunteer counselors who are licensed, trained professionals and are
available to offer services as needed by our campers.
- Do we have health care?
We have a Registered Nurse and nurse assistant at camp at all times.
- What do campers need to bring with them?
Our detailed Packing List includes: basic clothing that can get dirty and wet, warm clothing for cool Maine nights,
bathing suits and towels, sleeping bag and pillow, and one personal comfort
item (stuffed animal). It does not include any electronic devices.
We provide everyday toiletries including: shampoo and conditioner, toothpaste
and toothbrush, hairbrush and hair ties, lip balm, soap and washcloth, insect repellant, disposable camera,
postcards, pen and stamps, sunscreen and bug spray, flashlight and water bottle to all campers.
- Can a parent contact a child during Circle of Tapawingo?
Parents can call the camp office with concerns and/or questions.
- What activities do we have for the girls?
Activities
include campfires,cookouts, swimming, tubing, canoeing, arts and crafts, drama,
basketball, kickball, soccer and singing. Our days begin with Reveille at 7:30
a.m. and end with Taps at 9:00 p.m.
- What are the meals like at camp?
We serve well-balanced meals with emphasis on kid-friendly entrees. We offer a
salad bar and peanut butter and jelly at lunch and dinner.
- Who staffs the program?
Former campers and counselors of Camp Tapawingo, and friends of Circle of Tapawingo
are the volunteer counselors. Counselors live in the bunks with campers
and participate in all activities. Certified waterfront staff is at the lake.
