A first sleepaway camp experience that builds confidence, belonging, and independence.
For more than 100 years, Camp Hochelaga has been a name parents can trust. We are a values-driven overnight and day camp for girls and gender-expansive youth on the shores of Lake Champlain in South Hero, Vermont. Campers learn to unplug, build real friendships, try new things, and grow into themselves in a supportive community. There’s no other place like Hochelaga.
Spots are filling for Summer 2026 — early registration recommended!
*Especially designed for first-time sleepaway campers and families looking for a supportive, confidence-building experience.
For Parents: Safety, Financial Support, and Communication
Most of our families do not pay full price!
Our staff work hard to create a safe, caring, and well-supervised environment where campers can stretch, learn, and have fun.
Families can expect:
experienced staff and thoughtful supervision
clear communication before camp begins
support for first-time campers and families
a camp culture centered on respect, inclusion, and care
We offer a simple, flexible tuition model:
Multiple pricing tiers (no application required)
Additional scholarships available
Support for first-time camp families
If your child wants to come to camp, we will work with you to make it possible.
New to Sleepaway Camp? We know this can feel like a big step.
We support families by:
providing clear preparation guidance
communicating before camp begins
giving extra support for first-time campers
ensuring we have a 1:8 counselor-to-camper ratio
You don’t have to figure this out alone.
What Makes Hochelaga Different:
A belonging-first camp community
At Camp Hochelaga, campers are known, supported, and encouraged to be fully themselves.
What makes us different:
a long tradition of community-centered camp experience
caring staff who prioritize emotional safety as well as physical safety
a beautiful Vermont setting on Lake Champlain
programming designed to help campers grow, not just stay busy
a strong focus on friendship, confidence, and leadership
Activities and Daily Life
What a day at camp includes:
swimming & waterfront time
outdoor games & exploration
arts, crafts & creative projects
camp traditions & evening programming
team-building and leadership activities
Structured, supportive, and full of connection from morning to night!
cabin time, songs, laughter & friendship
Why Families Choose Camp Hochelaga
Camp Hochelaga is not just a way to fill summer weeks. It is a place where young people build confidence, practice independence, and experience the joy of belonging.
At camp, campers:
make close friends in a welcoming, screen-free environment
learn to try new things with courage and support
build confidence through outdoor adventure, creative play, and shared community life
experience leadership, responsibility, and fun in ways that stay with them long after summer ends
They come home more confident, more capable, and more connected.
What People are Saying:
“When my all-girls book group has our annual beach trip, I feel like I’m at camp again. The songs we sang are so powerful, they stay in my heart and resonate with my soul. There was a mood at camp that was dictated by fun and mutual respect, for each other, for nature, for a higher power. I’m so happy that ‘Laga is still thriving.”
Lee Ann Soowal - Hochelaga Camper c. 1960s & 1970s“Hochelaga is just the best place in the world, and the friendships and the personal growth that occur there, are something that only people who have been there can understand."
Camila Herrera - Hochelaga Staff 2024
Summer Spots are Limited!
Still Deciding?
If you’re on this page, you’re probably wondering if this is the right fit.
Most of our families choose Camp Hochelaga because:
they want their child to grow in confidence
they’re looking for a safe, supportive first sleepaway experience
they value community, belonging, and real connection
If that sounds like your family, this is likely a great fit.
We’d love to welcome you.
Please contact our Program Director, Lyle Johnston, with any registration or enrollment questions.
Email: registration@ywcavt.org | Phone: 802.557.2059 (operational during business hours Mon-Thurs)