The Ultimate Guide To Camp North Star Maine: 7 Things You MUST Know Before Booking For 2025/2026
Camp North Star Maine (CNS) is not just a summer camp; it is a long-standing institution that has shaped the lives of young people for nearly a century, and it remains a premier destination for co-ed overnight camping in New England. As of late December 2025, the camp is actively planning for its upcoming 2026 summer season, with updated rates and program details already released, making now the perfect time for prospective families to secure a spot at this highly-rated facility.
Located on 200 pristine acres in the historic town of Poland Spring, Maine, Camp North Star offers a unique blend of traditional summer camp fun with a modern emphasis on character development and 21st-century life skills. From a private 55-acre lake to natural rock climbing formations, the facilities are world-class, but it’s the camp’s core philosophy—the RICHS Value System—that truly sets it apart.
Meet the Directors: Steven and Brooke Bernstein (A Camp North Star Profile)
Camp North Star is a family-owned and operated institution, a rarity in the world of large-scale summer camps, which contributes to its intimate and values-driven atmosphere.
- Names: Steven and Brooke Bernstein
- Roles: Owners and Directors
- Background: Steven and Brooke Bernstein have dedicated their lives to the summer camp experience, having met in 1990 while working as counselors. They have spent most of their childhood and adult lives in the camp environment, bringing a deep, personal passion to their roles.
- Leadership: Steven Bernstein is also an active member of the wider New England camping community, serving on the Board of Directors for Maine Summer Camps, which speaks to his expertise and commitment to the industry.
- Philosophy: The Bernsteins emphasize creating a community where campers feel a sense of independence, resiliency, and self-confidence, ensuring every child is swept up into the "family tree" of Camp North Star.
- Availability: Their offices are staffed and open year-round, allowing families to easily connect with the directors directly.
The RICHS Value System: More Than Just an Acronym
What truly distinguishes Camp North Star from other premier Maine sleepaway camps is its dedication to a codified moral framework known as the RICHS Value System. This system is the moral fabric of the Camp North Star community, designed to teach essential life skills that extend far beyond the summer months.
The RICHS principles are woven into every aspect of the camp experience, from athletics to arts and daily cabin life. While the specific meaning of each letter is reserved for the camp community, the system’s goal is clear: to instill strong values and highlight positive qualities in every camper. This focus on character development is a key reason why many families report their children returning home with a greater sense of independence and self-confidence.
The RICHS System in Action: Traditions and Community
The RICHS philosophy fuels two of the camp’s most beloved and recognizable traditions:
- The Eco-Challenge: This tradition is a cornerstone of the camp's commitment to teamwork, problem-solving, and respect for the environment, directly reinforcing the life skills promoted by RICHS.
- Wacky Wednesdays: Recognized as the most creative tradition at CNS, Wacky Wednesdays are a testament to the camp's emphasis on fun, self-expression, and community spirit, all within the framework of their core values.
Unmatched Facilities and Unique Activities for Ages 7–17
Camp North Star is American Camp Association (ACA) Accredited, ensuring the highest standards of safety and program quality. The 200-acre property in Poland Spring, part of Androscoggin County, is a natural playground offering an array of activities unmatched by many other camps.
The Waterfront Experience
The camp boasts a private 55-acre lake, providing an idyllic and safe environment for all waterfront activities. The extensive program includes:
- Waterskiing and Wakeboarding
- Kayaking and Canoeing
- Fishing
- Swimming instruction
Adventures and Athletics
CNS is one of the few camps in the United States to feature natural rock formations on its property. This allows campers to learn and practice genuine rock climbing and rappelling on a variety of faces.
The athletic program is robust, catering to both competitive and recreational interests. Key offerings include:
- High Ropes/Challenge Course
- Mountain Biking (with 5 miles of dedicated trails)
- Inter-Camp Games (competing against nearby camps in basketball, soccer, swim, and tennis)
- Traditional sports like Baseball, Basketball, Tennis, and Soccer.
- Unique activities like Gaga and Cricket.
Creative and Media Arts
The camp is not solely focused on sports. The arts programs are equally strong, encouraging creativity and modern skill development. Campers can explore:
- Performing Arts
- Visual Arts Studios
- Media, Video, Radio, and Computer programs
- Leadership Training for older campers (CIT Program)
2025/2026 Tuition and Session Dates: Planning Your Summer
For families planning ahead, Camp North Star has released its updated tuition and date structure for the 2025 and 2026 seasons. The camp offers flexible session lengths, allowing families to choose the best fit for their child's age and experience level.
The rates reflect the comprehensive, all-inclusive nature of the program, which covers housing, meals, instruction, and all specialized activities.
Sample 2026 Session Rates for Rising 6th–11th Graders:
| Session Length | Sample Dates (2026) | Tuition Cost |
|---|---|---|
| 2 Weeks | June 28 – July 11 | $4,750 – $5,650 |
| 3 Weeks | July 26 – August 15 | $5,850 – $6,925 |
| 4 Weeks | June 28 – July 25 | $7,800 – $9,450 |
| 5 Weeks | July 12 – August 15 | $8,600 – $8,500 |
Note: Specific rates vary based on the camper's grade level and the exact year of enrollment (2025 vs. 2026). Families should consult the official Camp North Star dates and rates page for the most precise figures for their child.
Camp North Star: A Lasting Legacy
Since its founding in 1927, Camp North Star has maintained a strong commitment to its mission: to encourage campers to make new friends, develop essential life skills, and learn important values. The camp's location in Poland Spring, Maine—a region famous for its natural beauty and history—provides the perfect backdrop for this transformative experience.
With the dedicated leadership of Steven and Brooke Bernstein and a program built on the foundation of the RICHS Value System, Camp North Star continues to be a top choice for parents seeking a premier, traditional, yet forward-thinking sleepaway camp experience for their children. The camp’s high ratings and the loyalty of its returning campers, some of whom attend year after year until they age out, are a testament to the enduring quality of the "North Star experience."
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