Kayak Explorers Camp 2008 at E. Islip Marina Beach

Any dispute with the town has ended and I've been assured, by the commissioner, G. Dawson, that camp will begin as scheduled without any changes from last year (6/12/2008).

Summer Camp photos       Winter Recess photos       Recess Program We've included new kayaks from Ocean Kayaks.

At Kayak Explorers Camp all our campers receive an introduction to kayak safety and correct paddling techniques. All necessary equipment is provided.

Located at the E. Islip Marina beach on the Great South Bay where opportunity is provided for all our young adventurers to kayak, swim, crab by hand or trap, fish (w/sein net) and participate in all programs. Campers are requested to leave electronics at home and it is suggested that campers bring water shoes or other footwear that may get wet, towel, sunscreen, lunch, snacks and bottled water. Additional clothing in the event of inclement weather is also a good idea.

Our science program includes owl pellet dissection and macroinvertebrate identification with microscope. Time permitting we include programs on "Insects" and/or "Reptiles and Amphibians" and/or "Carnivorous Plants".

Our programs include aquatic and terrestrial food chains and webs, proper use of compass (orienteering), metal detecting, beach volleyball, nuke 'em - for younger campers, nature hikes, sand sculpting and a party on Friday. Whenever possible we integrate quiet times with discussions on communication, geography or science. We include a weekly visit to the "Islip Clam Hatchery", and we also incorporate an extensive list of sidewalk, ballpark, and beach activities.

Our arts and crafts program may include some or all of the following: drawing, collage creation with nature as the theme, talent shows, string, lanyards, face painting, beads, kite building and flying, and other projects.

We always have many activities ongoing, rain or shine, at any given time. However, some programs are dependent on weather, and most programs are dependent on camper interest. Our beach is net enclosed with lifeguards, and we usually have an 8 to 1 child to staff member ratio.

I truly believe our 6 to 10 weeks of Summer, and Winter Camps offer the best day camping experience on the whole of Long Island, and beyond. Our popularity, and success, is born of respect for the children who attend, their parents, and our staff. I begin with the understanding that each of us is unique with interests, and ideas of fun that are diverse, and we cater to that. Other than the necessary rules governing safety and health, and introductory programs designed to broaden each childs understanding of nature, the world we live in, science, fairness, and how to have fun, I've successfully eliminated most scheduling of activities and allow the campers to decide how they wish to enjoy their time with us. All our activities (and we've more than I've seen anywhere) are child recommended (or suggested by the child within us), and proven popular. In everything we do I try to lessen the competition aspect and encourage understanding of the fun side of the activity, showing that winning really isn't everything. However, I think the most fun had is when the children engage in our Friday talent shows where each is encouraged, and given opportunity, to share their skills, talents, and silliness with each other. I believe our camps offer more than any other, and I am committed to continue providing the best, and safest fun filled camping experience in a nuturing, non-competitive environment.

To quote one of our campers "This is the best camp, period!"

And another camper commenting to his parent, "I've just spent the best week of my life!"

Each week I'm encouraged by the many happy children who voice similar positive comments.

Camp is from 9 A.M. - 4 P.M., rain or shine, and open to residents and non-residents of Islip Town. The fee: July 2-6 excluding July 4 is $160. per child. All other weeks are $200. per child (resident) per week. Fee for a non-resident is slightly higher for all weeks. For the 2008 season we will again have early registration by mail. Please watch for the Winter Newsletter or call Islip Town to obtain a copy.

Registration for non residents begins in June. Please call Islip Town at (631) 224-5425 for registration information or Bill (Camp Director) at (631) 244-8009 for information about the camp.

You can view the Recreation Newsletter by clicking here.The Mail-in Registration Form can be viewed on page 16 of the newsletter, and a printable version here. Our camp information is on page 14. To view these you may require a free Pdf Reader download available here.

Registration forms must be received, by the Town, within a specific time period or they will be returned. Forms must be postmarked between, and including March 17 and March 28 2008, and sent to Kayak Explorers, Town of Islip, 50 Irish Lane, E. Islip, N.Y. 11730. If you require further information call the Town at (631) 224-5425 or 224-5414 about registration, or call me at (631) 244-8009, for information other than registration. Or e-mail me by clicking on contact below for information specific to the camp.

View our Winter School Recess Program here. Call 244-8009 or 224-5414.