Summer Camp signups for city residents now under way

The Rochester Recreation Department offers an annual summer camp for children ages six through 12. (Courtesy Photo/Rochester Rec Department)

ROCHESTER - For generations, making friends, playing outside, and making crafts at the Recreation Department's Summer Camp has been a hallmark of growing up in Rochester.

The Rochester "Rec" Department has held an affordable summer camp for city children for approximately 60 years. The annual camp has become a popular, beloved tradition among Rochester residents and families, and has fostered a strong value in community recreation throughout the city.

Children ages six (must have completed first grade) through 12 are eligible to attend the Recreation Department's Summer Camp. The camp offers eight weeks of programming, beginning the week of June 24 and ending the week of August 12. Designed to accommodate working families, the camp day runs 7:30 a.m. through 5:30 p.m. Monday through Friday.

To enroll in all eight weeks of camp, the fee for Rochester residents is $500 and $1,000 for non-residents. To enroll in four weeks of camp, Rochester residents pay a fee of $320 and non-residents pay a fee of $640. Rochester resident registration is currently open and non-resident registration opens on May 1.

In addition to outdoor activities and crafts, campers will have the opportunity to participate in theme days, four field trips to state parks and daily free swim at the Hanson Pines and East Rochester Outdoor Pools.

"Our recipe to a great summer is simple - our role model staff members keep campers outside in the fresh air, having fun, being silly and just being kids," said lifelong Rochester Resident and Recreation Supervisor Art Jacobs.

The camp will be held at two locations; the Rochester Community Center and at the Nancy Loud Elementary School Playground. In the event of inclement weather, camp will be held inside the Rochester Community Center and Nancy Loud Elementary School.

"Rochester Rec Summer Camp is a common thread that ties together generations of Rochester residents," Assistant Director Lauren Krans said. "We're so proud to offer this program. It's a great way for kids to have a fun, safe summer all while being active and making strong connections with their peers."

Space in Rochester Rec Summer Camp is limited, so community members are encouraged to sign up soon. More information on camp activities, tuition and how to register can be found online at www.RochesterRec.com or by calling the Recreation Office at 603-332-4120.