Camp Facilities

Camp Building History

Chimney Corners Camp was started in 1931 in a building called the Nest. Chimney Corners is a “sister” camp to Camp Becket which was established in 1902. Camp Becket and Chimney Corners sit on 1350 acres, with two lakes and many maintained trails through our beautiful woods.

Lodging

Camper Cabins

Lodges - IGL and the Manor

Non-cabin staff live in lodge-style housing arranged around the edge of Chimney Corners Camp. Each lodge has its own features that set it apart. Rooms vary in size from two to six bunks and feature bathroom facilities, electricity, pay phones and lounge areas or decks in certain lodges.

The AQ

The AQ or Aides Quarters, is the lodge that houses the Aides. They live with the Aides Director and other staff members.

Activity Space

Challenge Course

Our Challenge Course facilities include a low ropes course used to encourage teamwork, a three sided climbing tower used by all cabins groups, and an Alpine Tower for individual challenges. A giant swing that lets participants swing for 100 feet is our final element. These elements are designed to give participants a physical and mental challenge as a group or individual. In October of 2007, our new, cutting-edge high ropes course was completed. High ropes courses typically challenge the individual, however our new course has elements to challenge the individual and group. Our highly-trained staff ensure that all challenge activities are conducted with the highest standard of safety.

Athletic Fields and Courts

Chimney Corners is home to two athletic fields (IGL Field with a ball diamond and the Senior Ball Field), a basketball court, 6 tennis courts, a four-square court, an archery range and a sand volleyball court. Our girls can choose to participate in over 12 sporting activities. Cabin groups can challenge each other to a game of kickball or girls can learn to be archers. At Chimney Corners, we focus on skill development and good sportsmanship which usually leads to a Chimney Tie!

Smith Pond

Smith Pond was created in the 1960s allowing for swimming, canoeing, kayaking, sailing and diving on our property. In September 2002, it was dedicated in memory of Howard and Evelyn Smith. Who were the owners and directors of Chimney Corners Camp from 1941-1971. Their leadership, vision and devotion to youth have made CCC a place so special to so many people. All land surrounding the lake is owned by the Becket-Chimney Corners YMCA which creates a safe, community atmosphere. It is home to beavers, otters, Winston the Turtle and all sorts of friendly wildlife.

Brewster House

Dr. Oliver Brewster, the first physician in Becket, built this house in 1786. This historical house includes a central stone fireplace and an ornate front door as architectural features. Our unique colonial living program is based out of this house. The gardens are planted with herbs in the summer to use in traditional recipes. The Brewster Pond is located adjacent to the house.

ELC (Environmental Learning Center)

The Environmental Learning Center (ELC) has a large classroom, a sunroom and a large deck overlooking Smith Pond. The large windows in this building allow for a great view and sunlight. This building is the perfect indoor meeting space. The ELC will also be home to our new Culinary Arts program. The Chimney Corners Woodshop is downstairs.

Woodshop

Our woodshop was financed by the Mom’s Committee and is furnished with handheld and power tools that allow girls to create a masterpiece. It is also equipped with power sanders, a table saw, a jointer, a drill press and a band saw. The safe and clean work area allows 10 girls to create at the same time. Our highly trained and experienced woodshop staff ensure safety rules are followed and proper use of equipment.

Art Center

Walking into our Art Center, you will see a large auditorium for up to 400 people with a piano and a stage for our performing arts program. A well stocked prop room is located off the stage. A recent addition to Chimney Corners is a dance studio which is located upstairs. Downstairs is home to five spacious art class rooms and an operational darkroom. Each classroom is furnished with new and colorful tables and chairs. Restrooms are also located downstairs.

The Barn

The Barn is a unique and special building to Chimney Corners. This is a large indoor space with a fireplace and benches for a group to relax. The Barn is also home to historical wooden signs created by our Aides program participants and second session campers from many years past. It is a glimpse into Chimney Corners Camp’s history.

The Sauna

This new wood-burning sauna was rebuilt in the fall of 2003 with a wooden fence for privacy. It is warm and spacious inside the bright sauna, with a stack of wood waiting for the stove. The sauna is located on Smith Pond near the swimming area convenient for a refreshing dip afterwards. The sauna is used for cabin activities and waterfront activities in the summer.

Overnight Shelters

Chimney Corners Camp has four overnight shelters. These buildings are three sided Adirondack shelters with a fire ring nearby. They are nestled in the woods on the far side of Smith Pond to create a wilderness experience for the campers. In summers past, our construction cabins have built these overnight shelters to improve our program. It is our goal that every camper has an overnight experience across the lake at least once during the session.

Stables

The stables house 14 horses, food and supplies for our summer riding program. Two riding rings and a pasture are adjacent to the stable. A stable addition was transformed into our farm and classroom space in 2007. A recently installed outdoor light allows for night rides in the lit riding ring.

Chapel

Chapel is a quiet place on camp, a common favorite spot among campers and staff. Our ecumenical service is held on Sundays. This spot is also used for closing ceremonies at the end of each session. If you want to see beautiful scenery, look over Smith Pond from the Chapel.