Established in 1952, Lotus Lake Day Camp provides a tradition of day camping to children ages 5-14 in Central Vermont. Situated in a rural setting, the camp offers a wide variety of outdoor activities. We have been called a “real Vermont camp,” and we are proud to have been voted the Times Argus’ “Best of the Best Camps” for several years in a row.
History
With more than 300 acres of diverse habitat surrounding an 16 acre lake, “Lotus Lake” (called Cutter Pond on Vermont maps) is one of the headwaters of the Lake Champlain watershed. The land supports hiking trails, playing fields, a low-ropes course, lean-to’s, a recreation barn, multiple shelters, one with bathhouses, and a winterized meeting room.
This 7th generation property was purchased as a dairy farm in the 1830’s by the Martin family. Lotus Lake Day Camp opened in 1952, and continues to serve families each summer. The camp continues under the leadership of family members who carry out the philosophy of Proctor Martin, educator and one of the founders. A family atmosphere is created by returning staff, most of whom were former campers. The family works to foster a love of and respect for the land and environment which remains natural with a diversity of habitats.
Director Emeritus Director
Dorothy M. Milne – continues the traditions of the founder and her father, Proctor Martin, in helping children develop skills by working and playing together in the outdoors. She continues to be at camp part-time helping with scheduling and evaluations and sharing her wisdom.
Beth Watson Allen – A sixth generation Martin family member, Beth is the mother of three, a former teacher, and coach at U-32 High School. She has taken on the role of director and oversees the program, staffing, and transportation. She is certified to teach CPR, First- Aid, and Lifeguard Training.
CIT Directors
Abbey Allen – A seventh generation Martin family member, Abbey is a VT certified school counselor. She is responsible for helping with the daily running of camp as well as running the CIT program. Abbey’s connection with campers and counselors is exceptional.
Tim Sanborn– A VT certified science teacher, Tim will help with the daily running of the camp program as well as running the CIT program. Tim has been with LLC for 20+ years and spreads his love for the outdoors with all.
Staff
Camp staff includes teachers, college students and high school students, a high percentage of whom have completed the LLC CIT program. Staff are trained in safety and child development and have earned certifications from national organizations in specific camp activities. Many are LLC alumni and all have a love of children and the outdoors. Staff are screened using a background check and National Sex Offender Site. The ration of staff to campers is 1:5 or less.
Mission
The camp’s goal is to help each child develop individually by providing an opportunity to:
- Improve in swimming and develop skill in other activities.
- Learn about the natural environment through outdoor experiences
- Grow in social relationships by broadening friendships and participating in group activities.
- Develop decision making skills and independence in a safe environment.