Frequently Asked Questions

How do I apply to camp?

Please download the application from the website and fill it out completely.  All of the information requested on this application is important for us to process the application.  All completed applications must be mailed to Camp Ruggles, PO Box 353, Chepachet, RI 02814.

What is the deadline to apply?

May 1st

How old are the campers?  Is there an age limit?

Children from ages 6 - 12 are eligible to attend Camp Ruggles.

How many kids do you accept?

Every summer we accept 60 campers.  The same 60 children attend camp for the full 5 weeks. Children are put into 6 groups of 10 based on their age.

Who are the camp counselors?  Do they have experience with kids?

The success of Camp Ruggles is directly linked to the long-term dedication of our experienced, licensed staff. Camp Ruggles is uniquely qualified to carry out this project because of the caliber of its management team. In a typical year, we have a team of 20 supervisory staff, all of whom are RI or MA licensed professionals, provide program design and supervision, management support and therapeutic care. There are 15 certified licensed educators with masters and bachelor degrees, 2 licensed Psychologists, 2 licensed Social Workers and 1registered school nurse. The balance of staff includes 9 camp counselors and 3 certified lifeguards.

Each group of ten campers will have at least three counselors: one senior counselor and two additional counselors.  All of our counselors come to work at Camp Ruggles because they love working with kids.  They have a wide range of experience and a diverse set of skills.  All counselors receive extensive and ongoing professional development in how to deal and interact with children in a positive and proactive manner.  All counselors are screened yearly by a National Background check.

What do kids do at Camp Ruggles?

We have a rotating schedule at Camp Ruggles.  Morning Activities include swimming, boating, fishing, art & crafts, music, movie time, and team building.  Campers spend the majority of their afternoon at the waterfront enjoying a recreational swim, beach activities, and other recreational games.

What if I can't get my son/daughter to camp every day?

We have two large buses that typically stop in Providence, Pawtucket, Central Falls, and Cumberland, and Warwick.  These buses do not drop off door to door, but do provide some assistance to families who are unable to transport children directly to camp.

Where is camp located?

Camp Ruggles is located in N. Scituate, RI.  Please call our camp office for specific directions.

What are the hours of camp?

Camp runs daily Monday through Friday from 8:30AM - 2:45PM. 

What are the dates for the 2024 Camp Ruggles season?

Monday through Friday, June 24 - July 26

How much does it cost to send a camper to Camp Ruggles for the full 5 week session?

For the 2023 camping season, the full cost to attend camp is $4,250 ($850per week).  However, we do offer financial aid to all that apply.  In order to be considered for financial aid, please submit all requested information.  Those who apply by May 1st will have the first opportunity for financial assistance.  

Last summer, 100% of our campers received financial awards toward the cost of Camper Fees.  Since our inception, we have prided ourselves on our ability to write grants, fundraise, and collect donations so that the cost of summer camp is more manageable for parents, families, and caregivers.  In 2022, some Financial Awards reduced Camper Fees by 75%.

What does the tuition provide for each camper?

This tuition provides over 30 staff members, including educators, psychologists, social workers, a full-time nurse, 4 lifeguards, camp counselors and various other specialized staff, enabling us to achieve a staff member to camper ratio of at least 1 to 3 at all times.  Additionally, costs are applied to therapeutic counseling by licensed staff professionals, the implementation of a camp-wide positive behavioral management system, individualized case-managed plans as necessary, and breakfast, lunch and an afternoon snack for every camper, every day.