Camp Hale Cancellation Announcement

May 26, 2020

Dear South End Community,

Over the past several weeks, we have been struggling with the decision of whether or not to open Camp Hale this summer. It is with a heavy heart and tremendous sadness that we inform you that we are cancelling the 2020 Camp Hale summer season. This has been an incredibly painful and difficult decision, and one that we hoped we would never have to make. At this time, we will reimagine Camp Hale for this summer and shift our focus to ensuring a fun, safe and healthy Camp Hale program in summer 2021.

Please know this decision was not made lightly. The Camp Hale team has worked tirelessly to examine every possible option to run Camp Hale this summer, even if under an adapted structure. At the same time, we monitored the situation with COVID-19, reviewed guidance from the CDC, and sought consultation of colleagues in the camping industry.  Throughout April, and now May, it has become increasingly clear that, regardless of the precautions we put in place, we cannot ensure that our Camp Hale community would be protected from the spread of this virus. In addition, we have to come to realize that we would not be able to provide the Camp Hale experience that we have all come to know and love given all of the changes and restrictions we would have to put in place.

As parents of Camp Halers ourselves, we realize this very difficult news comes at a time when there is a glaring feeling of needing camp this year more than ever.  We are sad and we know your children will be sad. We are working to re-imagine Camp Hale Summer 2020, and will do all we can to provide opportunities to connect with our Camp Hale community, and to stay active during the summer. Please be in touch with Karen Liberatore, Director of Program Administration and Interim Director, Camp Hale regarding options for your deposit and any tuition payments you made for this summer.

Thank you all for your patience, support and understanding throughout this process.  We have no doubt that Summer 2021 will be bigger and better as we reunite with our Camp Hale and Squam communities.

Warmly,

Maicharia Weir Lytle
President & CEO

Julia Johannsen
President & CEO Board Chair