Which session should I choose? A common question that both returning families as well as new families ask during the winter months. We firmly believe in the benefits of our multi-week, residential program and know that the longer a camper stays at Pemi, the more benefits he gains. The extra few weeks of our full, seven week session lead to increased development in confidence and self-management skills. 

Hear from Pemi parents why they chose Pemi’s full session:  

“His first year at Pemi, we would’ve gone with the shorter one, but Pemi gave us solid advice and we let him be the one to decide on Full. When we picked him up, first words were, ‘Best decision ever.’”

Full Experience

“He wanted to go for the full session in hopes of getting to participate in every activity that he loves at least once – especially water skiing, wood shop, swimming and various types of boating.”

Over seven weeks, Pemi campers experience all of our special events, including the Pemi Olympics, Fourth of July festivities, the trip to Whale’s Tail Waterpark, Tecumseh Day, and Pemi Week! Beyond the special events of each session, full session campers have the opportunity to experience each of our activity programs as well as dig deep into areas of passion. Time is needed to experience it all, for example; to participate in a multi-night hike, to play in intercamp sports games, to build a project in the Woodshop, to develop skill on the archery range, and to explore the wonders of our Nature Program. 

Relationships with peers

“We chose the full session to allow our boys some time to adjust to a new routine and therefore maximize their experience at camp and everything it has to offer. Also, I think the connection between the full session boys is deeper hence a better experience.”

Making new friends is our most common camper goal every summer and our full session boys have more time to meet peers. The shared experiences of living in a cabin forges meaningful relationships that continue summer after summer. About 80% of campers return each year allowing these relationships to blossom into life-long friendships. 

Screen Time / Outdoors

“We mainly wanted him to take advantage of being in New Hampshire for the summer. He needs the fresh air and no electronics.”

“We wanted to make sure he enjoys summer by being busy and active rather than spending a lot of time on a screen. He prefers to get to know one or two groups of campers rather than a new group every week.”

Being unplugged at camp is a gift. At Pemi, boys are outside all day long, enjoying fresh air and fun activities. Disconnecting from devices allows boys to be present with their peers and to experience their surroundings. It furthers the development of their social skills by engaging in ways that create more authentic connections and feelings of belonging. 

Belief in the Full Session

“I truly believe he will love Pemi. If he were to attend for the first session only, I know he would get bored at the day camp at home. I like the fact that a lot of campers attend the full session at Pemi.

The simplicity of having one singular program that provides a wide range of meaningful activities, empathetic mentorship from a dedicated staff, and positive peer experiences is an attractive concept. The camp environment is designed for a child’s development and our goal at Pemi is to inspire and support boys as they find their own distinctive paths in becoming self-reliant, caring, and engaged citizens of our diverse and ever-changing world. 

We strongly suggest that a family consider a full session, if schedule and finances allow. Financial aid is available and Pemi’s hope is that all boys who wish to attend camp will be able to. We care deeply about providing the benefits of a full session at Pemi to as many families as possible.

Be in touch to explore options!

-Kenny