Camp Sumner at Berkshire Community College

FAQ 2026: Camp Sumner @ Paterson Field House, BCC

Berkshire Family YMCA • Pittsfield, Massachusetts

CAMP DATES	CAMP HOURS	LOCATION
June 29 - August 21, 2026  8 > one-week sessions	Camp: 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.  Before Care: 7:00 - 8:30 a.m. (no cost | pre-register) After Care: 4:30 - 5:30 p.m. (no cost | pre-register)	Berkshire Community College  Paterson Field House  1350 West St., Pittsfield, MA

 

 

 

 

 

Camp Sumner provides a safe place for children to build friendships, grow confidence, learn teamwork, and enjoy a fun, active summer. The Berkshire Family YMCA is committed to providing a strong camp experience with trained staff, certified lifeguards, and daily on-site health support. 

Who is summer camp for? 

• Camp Sumner serves children entering Grades 1 through 8. 
• Campers are grouped by age so activities can be developmentally appropriate and engaging: 
• Buckaroos: Entering 1st grade Our youngest children begin the camp experience with the excitement of trying new things. Daily schedules provide a balance between active and quiet play and group and individual activities. 
• Pioneers: Entering 2nd grade Our more experienced campers will enjoy new challenges and new excitement. We emphasize increased self-confidence, encouraging others, responsibility, and team building. 
• Explorers: Entering 3rd grade & Voyagers: Entering 4th grade As the child grows, so will the camp experience. Emphasis in this unit is on increased self-confidence, encouraging others, responsibility, and team building. Campers may also choose their activities in the mornings and afternoons. 
• Trailblazers: Entering 5th-6th grades Our most experienced campers take part in leadership programs and specialized activities designed to be progressive, challenging, fun, and entertaining. As the oldest unit, campers may choose their morning and afternoon activities. 
• Pathfinders / Leaders in Training (LIT)*: Entering 7th-8th grades These campers enjoy the schedule of traditional campers with nature, arts and crafts, sports, and more. They also develop leadership and team-building skills they will value throughout their lifetime.  
  • *Pathfinders / Leaders in Training (LIT) is a leadership development opportunity for campers who demonstrate responsibility, reliability, and a willingness to assist staff and support younger campers. Campers in this age group may also participate as regular campers.  

Where is camp located? 

Camp Sumner is held at Berkshire Community College, Paterson Field House, 1350 West St., Pittsfield, MA. Just minutes from downtown Pittsfield, the campus offers a beautiful setting that feels like a true summer escape. In less than ten minutes, families travel from the heart of the city to a spacious, green campus surrounded by trees and open fields—creating the perfect environment for outdoor play, exploration, and a classic camp experience. 

Campers benefit from access to large fields, indoor recreation space, and a variety of outdoor areas, giving them plenty of room to run, play, create, and enjoy the best parts of summer camp. 

Camp Dates & Weekly Themes 

When does camp run? 

Camp runs in 8 one-week sessions from June 29 through August 21, 2026. 

Weekly Themes & Descriptions 

Each week features a special theme that shapes games, crafts, activities, spirit days, and special events. Weekly schedules are shared in advance and may adjust due to weather or staffing. 

• Week 1: June 29-July 2 (Closed on Friday the 3rd) - Community Heroes A week focused on teamwork, leadership, and learning about the people who help our communities.  
• Week 2: July 6-July 10 - Spirit Week Camp spirit takes center stage with themed days, games, and high-energy group fun.  
• Week 3: July 13-July 17 - Sports & Play Campers enjoy active recreation, group games, and traditional sports in a fun, encouraging setting.  
• Week 4: July 20-July 24 - Art Enrichment Week A creative week featuring arts, crafts, music, dance, and camper expression.  
• Week 5: July 27-July 31 - STEAM Week Hands-on discovery through science, technology, engineering, art, and math-inspired activities.  
• Week 6: August 3-August 7 - Fitness & Fun Week Movement, wellness, games, and active recreation shape this energetic week.  
• Week 7: August 10-August 14 - Color Wars Friendly team competition, camp spirit, and camp-wide challenges make this a favorite week. 
• Week 8: August 17-August 21 - End of Summer Celebration The summer wraps up with favorite activities, celebration, and time to reflect on camp memories. 

Daily Schedule & Camp Operations 

What are the camp hours? 

• Regular camp hours are 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday. 
• Before Camp Care is available from 7:00 a.m. to 8:30 a.m., Monday through Friday. 
• After Camp Care is available from 4:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m., Monday through Friday. 

Extended care is offered at no cost, but pre-registration is required. There is no bus transportation for children attending extended care. 

What does pick up and drop off look like? 

• Parent/guardian transportation to and from camp is available directly at the camp site. 
• Drop-off is at 8:30 a.m. and pick-up is at 4:30 p.m. at Berkshire Community College, 1350 West St., Paterson Field House, Pittsfield, MA. 
• Parents must accompany children into the field house or to their tent to be dropped off. 

Is there bus transportation? 

• Yes. Bus pick-up and drop-off is available at the Berkshire Family YMCA, 292 North St., Summer Street Parking Lot. 
• Bus pick-up is at 8:30 a.m. and bus drop-off is at 4:40 p.m. 
• Families must arrive 15 minutes before scheduled pick-up and drop-off times, and parents must stay with children until the bus arrives. 

Does camp run rain or shine? 

Yes! Camp programming includes both indoor and outdoor activities at Berkshire Community College. Weekly schedules may adjust due to weather or staffing. 

Are there field trips? 

Yes. Field trips are a fun and engaging part of the camp experience. Examples of past trips away from camp in recent years include visits to the Basketball Hall of Fame or a STEAM day at Bosquet in partnership with the Berkshire Botanical Garden. At other times, the fun comes to camp. Examples include performances by Berkshire Theatre Group or hands-on activities with Lego Lady. 

Special camp experiences may also include group games, arts and crafts, sports, active recreation, team building, and free/recreational swim time.  

What to Bring (and What to Leave Home) 

Campers should arrive ready for a full day of activities, outdoor play, and fun. 

Daily Essentials 

Please send your child with: 

• Labeled water bottle- no glass bottles. 
• Sneakers or closed-toe shoes suitable for running and outdoor play. 
• Nut-free lunch and snack, unless otherwise noted. 
• Comfortable clothing that can get messy during crafts, games, and outdoor activities. 
• Sunscreen (camp provides sunscreen, but families are welcome to send their own). 
• Bug spray, if desired. Permission form must be signed.  
• Swimsuit and towel. 
• Any required medications, provided to staff according to camp policy. 
• A positive spirit and readiness to participate! 

Helpful Reminders 

Label Everything 
Please label all items your child brings to camp, including water bottles, towels, clothing, and lunch containers. This helps us return items that may get misplaced during the day. 

Dress for the Weather 
Campers spend a lot of time outdoors. Please send your child dressed for the day’s weather, including layers for cooler mornings and comfortable clothes for active play that can get dirty. 

Swim  
Campers should bring a swimsuit, towel, and dry clothes. Sometimes campers get to swim twice a day. Feel free to send two suits.  

Sun Safety 
Campers should arrive with sunscreen already applied. Staff will assist with reapplication during the day as needed if permission form is signed. 

Please Leave at Home 

• Glass bottles should not be brought to camp. To prevent loss or damage, toys, valuables, and other unnecessary items from home should not be brought to camp. 
• Weapons of any kind, alcohol, drugs, tobacco, or other illegal substances are not permitted at camp. 

Are meals or snacks provided? 

Breakfast and lunch are provided by Pittsfield Public School for campers. If you’d like, you can send your child(ren) with their own lunch and/or snacks. We are peanut free.  

Activities & Swimming 

At Y Camp, every day is designed to spark curiosity, build confidence, and create unforgettable summer memories. Our counselors lead engaging, hands-on activities that encourage campers to try new things, build friendships, and develop skills that last long after summer ends. 

Campers enjoy a dynamic mix of activities, including: 

• Swimming and water fun, including recreational swim time 
• Exciting field and group games that keep campers moving and laughing 
• Creative arts and crafts where imagination comes to life 
• Sports and active play that build teamwork, confidence, and healthy habits 
• Team-building challenges that strengthen friendships and leadership skills 
• Traditional camp games and sports that campers love year after year 
• Special field trips and guest programs that bring new adventures each week 

Each day at camp is filled with opportunities for campers to explore, create, move, and grow — all while having the kind of fun that makes summer unforgettable 

Is swimming included? 

Yes. Camp Sumner includes free/recreational swim time as part of the program. Additionally, as part of the program we will work with campers on basic swim strokes and how to be safe around the water.  

What types of things will my child be doing? 

Camp Sumner offers a dynamic mix of activities, including nature exploration, weather studies, gross motor challenges, arts, dance, music, talent shows and more. We have a camp experience kids look forward to.  

Our Leaders in Training (LIT) program gives campers the chance to work alongside counselors while building confidence and leadership skills. 

For those ready to take the next step, our Counselor-in-Training (CIT) program offers an in-depth experience where participants develop leadership, teamwork, and mentoring skills while gaining firsthand experience in youth development. Interested persons should contact the camp for directions on how to apply.  

Staff, Safety & Supervision 

What is the staff-to-child ratio? 

Camp Sumner follows Massachusetts summer camp licensing requirements and supervision standards.  1:5 for younger than 7 years old. 1:10 for 7 and up.  

Are the staff trained? 

Yes. The Berkshire Family YMCA is committed to recruiting and developing an outstanding group of counselors and directors dedicated to providing the best possible camp experience. 

Many staff members are high school and college students who have been camp participants. Staff participate in 20+ hours of extensive training in youth development, emergency response protocols, and child protection policies to ensure a safe, responsive environment. All staff members are certified in First Aid and CPR and are CORI checked. 

Policies and procedures are available in the camp office or upon request. 

Are there lifeguards on duty when the children are swimming? 

Yes. Lifeguards are certified. 

Additionally, all camp staff are trained in water safety. 

What happens if my child is sick or injured? 

• Most minor injuries that occur at camp are handled on site with basic first aid by trained staff. Our team includes staff who are First Aid and CPR certified and prepared to respond quickly to common camp situations such as small cuts, scrapes, or bumps so campers can safely return to their activities. 
• If a child becomes ill or experiences an injury that requires additional care, every effort will be made to contact a parent or guardian immediately. 
• If a parent/guardian cannot be reached, we will contact one of the three emergency contacts listed on the camper’s registration form. 
• In the event of a medical emergency where a parent/guardian or emergency contact cannot be reached, your registration authorizes the program to transport your child to the nearest medical care facility to obtain necessary medical treatment. 
• For this reason, three emergency contacts are required for every camper, and it is important that these contacts are available during the camp day. 

Health, Medication & Special Needs 

What if my child needs medication during camp? 

• Proof of a medical physical and immunizations by a licensed physician within the last 12 months is required. 
• Children with allergies must include an individual health care plan and medication consent. 
• Children with chronic health conditions must include an individual health care plan and medication consent. 
• Families should provide details of their child’s sensitivities, such as food, sensory, or noise needs, along with helpful tips for staff. 
• BFYMCA staff must be authorized on the camp registration form to apply/assist sunscreen or bug spray for a child. 
• If your child has an IEP, and you think it would be helpful for their camp experience, please provide a copy. 

Behavior & Expectations 

How do you handle behavior concerns? 

At the Berkshire Family YMCA, we believe that families and staff are partners in supporting children’s growth. Our Behavior Management Framework focuses on teaching skills, preventing challenging behaviors, and supporting children with clear, consistent, and caring guidance. This agreement helps ensure that families understand our approach and can join us in creating a safe, fun, and supportive environment for every child. 

Families will be sent the parent/guardian behavior management agreement as well as Behavior Expectations Grid for detail on our framework. To participate, a signature is required that you’ve read and understood the documents.  

We believe that every child can learn the skills they need to succeed. Our approach is built on the YMCA’s core values: 

• Caring – show a sincere concern for others. 
• Honesty – be truthful of what you say and do. 
• Respect – treat each other as we like to be treated. 
• Responsibility – be accountable for your promises and actions. 
 
Children will always experience praise and recognition for positive choices. When challenges arise, our goal is not to punish mistakes, but to guide children toward better choices and provide consequences that support learning. These consequences may not always happen immediately; we wait until the child is able to reflect so the experience is meaningful. 

Registration, Changes & Refunds 

What is the refund or cancellation policy? 

Camp cost is $205 per camper per week. 

Camp fees must be paid in full by the Monday prior to the week of camp by check or automatic EFT from a bank account or credit card. Please include your child’s name on the check and submit it to any staff member at the downtown branch Welcome Center. 

If payment has not been received, you will be contacted by Monday of your child’s camp week, and your child may need to be picked up if payment arrangements are not made. 

To avoid any interruption in your child’s camp experience, we encourage families to make sure payments are completed by the deadline. Contact Liz, School Age and Camp Director for any questions- she’s happy to help! Lbaker@bfymca.org. 

Full voucher or partial voucher with parent fee is accepted. 

After the program has met twice, no credits or refunds will be issued. 

Payments are accepted at the YMCA only, not at camp. 

Make checks payable to the Berkshire Family YMCA, 292 North Street, Pittsfield, MA 01201. Please put your child’s name on the check.  

Financial assistance 

The Berkshire Family YMCA offers financial assistance for children to participate in summer day camp. Eligibility is based on household size and income. Vouchers are also accepted. 

Applications for financial assistance must be received at least two weeks prior to your first camp week. Financial aid is given on a first-come, first-served basis to qualified families. The Y reserves the right to deny or discontinue service at any time. 

Eligibility requirements: 

Families must work or reside in the Y service area. 

Assistance is granted based on financial need on a first-come, first-served basis. 

Financial assistance is for the current camp year only. 

Prior account balances must be paid in full before applying. 

How to apply: 

Applications must be filled out completely. See the full Financial Assistance Packet for details. Please refer to the Sliding Scale regarding income guidelines.  

A federal tax form and one month of current pay stubs or other proof of income (SSI, food stamps, etc.) must be submitted. 

Copies of documentation must be provided. 

The $25 registration fee is waived for summer camp applications only. 

Applicants will be notified of their award as soon as possible. 

Additional family information 

Camp Sumner campers receive a 25% discount on Berkshire Family YMCA family memberships until the end of August 2026.