Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Girls Summer Camp Experience Since 1951
Camp Matoaka has been dedicated to creating transformative summer experiences for girls since 1951. Our program fosters personal growth, lifelong friendships, and self-discovery in a supportive community environment. With over 35 instructional activities and a 3:1 camper-to-counselor ratio, we prioritize individual development and skill-building. Our staff, many of whom return annually, bring decades of combined camping expertise to guide campers through adventures on 150 acres of waterfront property.We emphasize balanced schedules, friendly competition, and semi-private instruction to help girls thrive. The Matoaka Experience extends beyond summer, leaving lasting memories and a sense of belonging that campers carry into their daily lives.
Services
Girls Summer Camp
Adventure Activities
Leadership Programs
Waterfront Sports
Cultural Exchange Programs
Details
- Year established: 1951
Highlights and features
- We offer 35+ instructional activities with expert guidance
- Our 3:1 camper-to-counselor ratio ensures personalized attention
- 150-acre waterfront facility with diverse outdoor programming
- 65% staff return rate ensures continuity and expertise
- Leadership programs develop lifelong personal growth skills
Services
Girls Summer Camp
Camp Matoaka provides immersive summer experiences for girls aged 6-16 through structured programs since 1951. Our 3-7 week sessions combine outdoor adventures, leadership development, and skill-building activities. With a 3:1 camper-to-counselor ratio, we ensure personalized growth in a supportive community environment that creates lasting memories and lifelong friendships.
Waterfront Sports
Our 1.5-mile waterfront on East Pond offers comprehensive water-based programming. Campers participate in sailing, kayaking, swimming, and water safety instruction. Certified staff supervise all aquatic activities across our 150-acre property. This program develops confidence through progressive skill development while emphasizing safety and environmental awareness in Maine's natural setting.
Leadership Programs
Camp Matoaka's leadership initiatives cultivate responsibility and self-confidence through structured mentorship opportunities. Older campers engage in counselor-in-training programs and peer leadership roles. Our staff with 300+ combined years of experience guides participants through team-building exercises and decision-making challenges that prepare girls for future leadership positions beyond the camp environment.
Adventure Activities
The adventure program features 35+ activities including archery, horseback riding, and wilderness exploration. Campers progress through skill levels with expert instruction in a safe, supervised environment. Our diverse terrain supports both individual challenges and team-based adventures that promote risk-taking within personal comfort zones while building outdoor competency and environmental stewardship.
Cultural Exchange Programs
Campers from 16 different countries participate in our international exchange programs that foster cross-cultural understanding. The diverse community promotes global awareness through shared traditions, language practice, and collaborative activities. This multicultural environment helps girls develop communication skills and cultural sensitivity while creating international friendships that extend beyond the summer season.
Questions
What age groups do you serve?
We accept girls aged 6-16 with age-appropriate programming across our 3-7 week sessions.
What safety measures are in place?
Our 3:1 camper-to-counselor ratio ensures constant supervision with certified staff trained in emergency protocols.
How do you handle homesickness?
Our staff uses proven techniques to help campers adjust, including personalized attention and structured engagement.
What's included in the session fees?
Fees cover accommodation, meals, all activities, and 24/7 staff support during the session period.
Can parents visit during sessions?
We offer scheduled visiting days and virtual check-ins to maintain campers' adjustment process.
What's your staff selection process?
Our 65% returning staff undergo rigorous background checks, reference verification, and specialized training.
Reviews (6)
Jodi Ross
Jan 03, 2022
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Almost Heaven, Camp Matoaka....it's true! I've spent 12 summers at camp and 2022 will be my daughter's 8th summer. We call it Matoaka Magic. It's hard to explain. Spirit, tradition, and friendships that last a lifetime. Girls become independent and confident. Matoaka creates an environment where girls can be themselves and try new things without the pressures from home. Matoaka is the greatest place on earth!
Jim F.
Jan 01, 2022
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Place was a nightmare when I was a child/young teen.
Girls were downright mean and the counselors had no training or ability to unify the group of girls. Counselors were essentially absent. Poor supervision and truly a mean group of children
Girls were downright mean and the counselors had no training or ability to unify the group of girls. Counselors were essentially absent. Poor supervision and truly a mean group of children
Samantha Bartfield
Dec 31, 2021
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Matoaka is literally magical! My girls have been campers for years and not a day in summer they are not smiling and thriving! The owners are incredible and counselors are so fun and great role models for kids! What I really was impressed with was how hands on the owners and head staff are with each and every camper, and staff alike - always making sure everyone is taken care of and safe and looked after every moment in the camp environment. Everything they have in regards to programming is advanced, organized and executed so well. The minute they get off the bus to return home they count the days
Melissa Stuchins
Sep 03, 2021
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Highly recommend Camp Matoaka! My daughters call it their 2nd home! Countdown starts the minute the get home for next summer! They run a fabulous program with so many choices of activities! My kids have made lifelong friends, came home more flexible and willing to try new things, more confident and so happy! Camp Matoaka is One Great place!
Holly Jenkins
Jan 31, 2019
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Camp Matoaka is my favorite place! I'm going back this summer for my second year as a counselor. Jason, Leslie, and the other office staff really go above and beyond for the campers, staff, and anyone else at camp. I'm not exaggerating at all when I say that working here was the best decision I ever made. If you're thinking about sending your kids here or coming to work here, definitely do it.
Aly Gordon
Jul 01, 2018
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Camp Matoaka is truly one of the most magical places in the world. I had the privilege of being a camper for 8 summers and a counselor for 2. Matoaka taught me about friendship, independence, creativity, fun, responsibility and so much more. It has shaped me into the person I am today and I cant imagine a summer going by without my visit to One Great Place. I recently spent the weekend at Matoaka and have nothing but great things to say. The facilities are top notch, the staff is wonderful and the campers are smiling from ear to ear 24/7. The owners put everything they have into this camp to
