Not a Fat Camp - Summer Weight Loss - Catskill Mountains, NY

FAQ's

What if I don’t like the food and will I be hungry?

There are so many different kinds of food that are served from tacos, to sandwiches, to stir fry. There are so many options we are certain there will be something you like. There will be fruit choices and an all-you-can-eat salad bar offered at every meal so you never leave a meal feeling hungry. There will also be two snacks a day served between meals and even treats a few days a week!

Do I have to wear a uniform?

Absolutely not! Bring your most comfortable clothing that is appropriate for exercise and outdoor activity. If that means wearing a brightly colored Mumu with neon green stretch pants, then go right ahead, we just want everyone to be comfortable.

What do we do in the night time?

Nighttime activities are the most exciting part of the program! Each night a different event is planned that involves the whole camp and ranges in activities from scavenger hunts, game shows, movie nights, dances, swim parties, and campfires.

What is the background of the owner?

Keith Zucker has been involved with summer camps since he began attending one as a camper in 1975. After being a camper for ten years, and a counselor and director, Keith bought the camp at age 21. Keith genuinely cares for his campers and staff, and he is an active participant in many activities. He often instructs weight training and fitness classes. You will not find a more dedicated camp owner and friend than Keith. Throughout the years he has been invited as an expert on children’s health and fitness on Good Morning America, The Today Show, 48 hours, and has been featured in the life section of USA Today and Weight Watchers Magazine

How much weight will my child lose at camp?

The amount each camper loses varies with each one, depending on a multitude of factors. Our program is set up to allow a healthy weight loss of about 2-6 pounds per week. We try not to focus on a number though, because as the campers exercise and grow, they gain lean muscle mass, which not only weighs more than fat, it also burns it.

We emphasize that it is not the amount lost that is important, but rather the skills and self esteem that is gained. Camp Empire Lake seeks to endow your child with a greater sense of self worth that will outweigh any amount of weight loss. Preparing them to continue their successes after the summer is our focus

What if my child takes medication or has medical needs?

There is an on site medical station with trained nurses to see to your child’s medical needs 24/7. If your child takes medication, the nurses will administer their doses and ensure they receive their required amounts at the appropriate times. In case of emergencies there are staff trained in CPR and first aid. We can also accommodate to any child with allergies or special diets such as lactose, gluten, or peanut free, kosher, vegetarian, or vegan.

Will there be laundering facilities and what bedding should my child bring?

There is an onsite laundry room where your child’s clothing and linen will be laundered weekly by a laundry service at no extra cost to you. The cabins are equipped with twin size bunk beds which we suggest bringing two sets of sheets and a pillow. We suggest bringing a sleeping bag that can be used as a blanket and can be taken on camping trips.

What is the daily schedule like at Empire Lake?

Each day at Empire Lake is varied in activities that are exciting and engaging. Breakfast is at 8:15, and is followed by cabin cleanup time. The morning is broken up into three one-hour periods, where a camper will participate in a variety of activities. After lunch your child gets an hour and a half of rest, and then it’s off to afternoon clubs and clinics, which consist of activities that are chosen by the campers. These afternoon activities offer sports options along with more hands-on events such as arts and crafts, ceramics, wood working, photography, weight lifting, and aerobics. Every week there are special event days at Empire Lake such as International Day, as well as full camp field trips to places like the movies, bowling, minor league baseball games, and others.

What is your counselor to camper ratio and how are your counselors qualified?

The counselor to camper ratio is set at 4:1. This ensures that each camper will get the supervision, help, and attention required for a safe environment, and a home like feeling. We pride ourselves on the quality of our staff and counselors. Our counselors are hand chosen by Keith and his directors, 75% being former campers of Keith’s, each with different areas of knowledge and study to bring to the Empire Lake family. We are certain our counselors are qualified to lead by example and make your child’s experience at camp enjoyable.

How can I contact my child at camp?

Due to the busy life and continually exciting activities that go on at camp, each camper will only have time to call home once a week. You may write your camper as much as you wish, and each camper can write letters whenever they have free time as well, such as during rest hour or before bed. You can email your child through the link on our website and we will print it out and deliver it to your campers bunk. You may also visit the camp whenever you like; however, we suggest calling before you come, as to ensure your child won’t be involved in an activity. There will also be a parent’s weekend in which all parents are invited to come and visit camp and participate in your child’s adventures.

How can I help my child after camp?

This is an area in which parents often feel lost. Your child will return home with a new sense of self worth, and healthier lifestyle, which they will want to maintain. Your participation is needed to continue their success. Each campers after camp success is dependant on both the camper, your involvement, as well as ours. This is a team effort.

Empire Lake will teach new healthy eating habits. Our Chefs and Directors will put together recipes, exercise routines, and other healthy tips, which each camper will bring home with them. We encourage parents to let their children participate in meal planning and food preparation and engage in an active lifestyle along with them.

Children are more likely to maintain weight loss and continue to lose weight if they have the support of their family and the structure of a home program. A monthly news letter will be sent out which will include new recipes and ideas for fun activities to keep you and your child motivated. There will be chat rooms held monthly after camp in which the directors can answer your questions that arise in developing a healthy lifestyle for you and your camper.

How many campers do you enroll?

Empire Lake has 200 campers per session. Based on Keith’s experience of running a camp with over 350 kids at a time, it is very difficult to spend quality time with each child. With our sessions allowing only 200 kids, individual time with your child and our staff members is guaranteed which is important for after camp maintenance. This also allows our campers to participate in all of their favorite activities many times without being shut out. Allowing only 200 campers also means the campers themselves develop stronger bonds with one another, and it helps us create a friendlier atmosphere.