Frequently Asked Questions

When is Camp Uncommon?

Session 1: June 25th -July 6th
Session 2: July 9th -July 20th
Session 3: July 23rd - August 3rd
Please note that camp dates are currently still subject to change based on the school calendar and facilities availability. We will provide timely updates if/when we are required to make any changes.

Where is Camp Uncommon?

Camp Uncommon takes place at Camp Powhatan, a beautiful lakeside camp facility in Otisfield, Maine. Surrounded by nature, it provides the perfect setting for adventure, learning, and community-building.

Where do Camp Uncommon campers come from?

Our campers are selected from Uncommon elementary and middle schools in Boston, Camden, Newark, New York City, and Rochester.

How will campers get to camp?

Campers travel to Camp Uncommon via luxury bus. In each Uncommon city, we have a bus pick-up location. Information on exact pick-up locations and times will be provided via email and text message approximately three days before departure. Campers travel to camp with several Camp Uncommon team members.

What are the living accommodations like at Camp Uncommon?

Camp Uncommon provides bunk-style housing in a welcoming, community-focused environment. Counselors live alongside campers, fostering a supportive and inclusive experience throughout their stay.

Families may also request gender-affinity housing, which will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis. Campers who select this option will reside in individual rooms within a mixed-gender, gender-affinity floor, wing, or building, ensuring they are fully included in all aspects of camp life. Additionally, gender-neutral bathroom spaces are available in all dorms.

For more details on our commitment to inclusivity, please see our Gender Inclusive Policy.for more information on how we strive to include all in the camp experience.

Who will be on the team at Camp Uncommon?

Camp Uncommon is staffed by Uncommon teachers and alumni as well as dedicated individuals looking to ensure campers are safe and have the time of their lives.

What will the dining situation be at Camp Uncommon and will food allergies be accommodated?

Meals at Camp Uncommon are provided by WOLFoods, a premier camp food service known for fresh, high-quality, scratch-made meals. Their diverse menu ensures that all dietary needs are met, including allergies, dietary restrictions, and vegan/vegetarian options. Each meal is thoughtfully prepared to keep campers energized and excited for their day.

How “co-ed” is Camp Uncommon?

All camp activities are co-ed and separated by age group except for intensive blocks which are comprised of boys and girls from all age groups.

How is Camp Uncommon ensuring gender inclusivity at camp?

Camp Uncommon and our parent organization, Change Summer, are committed to an anti-racist, anti-heterosexist, anti-transphobic, anti-ablest approach and provide equal opportunity for all members of our organizational family. We respect and value diverse life experiences and heritages and strive to ensure that all voices are appreciated and heard.

Housing: Campers residing in gender-affinity housing will not be excluded from any aspect of camp! Families may request gender-affinity housing for their child, which will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis. All campers will be offered this option. Campers who choose gender-affinity housing will reside in individual rooms in a mixed-gender, gender-affinity floor, wing, or building.

Restrooms: Gender-neutral bathroom spaces will be available in all dorms. To the extent possible, we will also have gender-neutral bathrooms around campus. Where not available, campers have two options: Go to the bathroom that corresponds to their sex assigned at birth, or walk with an adult to a designated gender-neutral bathroom.

Changing areas: Campers will change in a private location. If there is no private location, campers will change in the locker room of their sex assigned at birth.

Swimwear: We encourage all campers to wear appropriate swimwear that feels most comfortable to them. Please see the Camper Packing List for more information regarding this.

Please see our Gender Inclusive Policy for more information on how we strive to include all in the camp experience.

What are your COVID-19 vaccination and testing policies?

Our number one priority is the safety of our camp community. Therefore:

  • We strongly encourage all campers and team members to be vaccinated and boosted, if eligible.

  • Proof of COVID-19 vaccination is not required for campers to attend camp nor for team members to work at camp.

  • If you are experiencing any symptoms, we strongly encourage all campers and team members to complete a COVID-19 test prior to arrival to camp.

We will continue to use robust cleaning protocols, test anyone at camp if they are symptomatic, and provide safe spaces for isolation as needed. These policies are subject to change at any time due to the evolving circumstances of the pandemic. We will continue to follow CDC guidance and work with Uncommon Schools, Roger Williams University, and the local department of health to maintain the highest level of safety at camp.